As the festive period arrives, Romanian cinema offers an eclectic and compelling mix of films, from joyful Christmas-themed comedies to thoughtful historical narratives and classics that resonate with the winter spirit. Whether you’re winding down with family or looking to explore fresh international cinema, here are six standout titles that deserve a spot on your holiday watchlist.
Crăciun cu Ramon / Christmas with Ramon
Director: Jesús del Cerro
Starring: Pavel BartoÈ™, Anastasia Haiducu, Andreea Vasile
Genre: holiday comedy
A new Romanian Christmas comedy starring Pavel Bartoș as Ramon, a devoted husband and soon-to-be father who finds himself on an unexpected mission to reunite with his partner’s lost niece just in time for the holidays. Warm-hearted, funny, and family-friendly, this film captures the festive spirit with plenty of laughs and genuine moments. Currently in cinemas.
Anul Nou care n-a fost / The New Year That Never CameÂ
Director: Bogdan Mureșanu
Starring: Adrian Văncică, Nicoleta Hâncu, Emilia Dobrin
Genre: historical tragicomedy
For viewers seeking depth beyond seasonal cheer, this 2024 drama blends personal stories on the eve of Romania’s 1989 Revolution. Written and directed by Bogdan Mureșanu, it premiered at the Venice Film Festival and received critical acclaim. The film weaves different lives together in a tale balancing gravity and humor against a backdrop of political upheaval and its currently on Netflix
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Ho Ho Ho – O comedie românească de Crăciun
Director: Jesús del Cerro
Starring: Ștefan Bănică Jr., Pavel Bartoș, Bogdan Iancu
Genre: holiday comedy classic
Nothing says festive like a good Christmas comedy. Ho Ho Ho, a 2009 Romanian seasonal favorite, brings classic holiday humor in a tone local audiences cherish. Whether revisiting it or discovering it for the first time, it’s a light, accessible choice to enjoy with family. Full movie available on Youtube.
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Marți după Crăciun / Tuesday After Christmas
Director: Radu Muntean
Starring: Mimi Brănescu, Maria Popistașu, Mirela Oprișor
Genre: romance / drama
This slower, more reflective title is perfect for post-holiday evenings. A story of relationships and emotional nuance set around the period after Christmas, the film draws you into intimate character moments and human connection, a different but rewarding tone for the season.
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Amintiri din Epoca de Aur / Tales from the Golden Age
Directors: Cristian Mungiu, Hanno Höfer, Constantin Popescu, Ioana Uricaru
Starring: Alexandru Potocean, Teodor Corban, Luminița Gheorghiu
Genre: satirical anthology / black Comedy
This cult classic anthology revisits urban legends from late-communist Romania with sharp wit and bracing humour. Although not a traditional holiday film, its ironic look back at social absurdities makes it an excellent cultural pick as the year ends.
Whether you’re curating a film marathon, recommending titles to international friends, or simply exploring new cinematic horizons, these Romanian films deliver both entertainment and cultural resonance during the holiday period.