As the year winds down, Christmas movies prove to be a prolific and beloved category in global entertainment, especially on Netflix. Netflix has once again leaned into family-first viewing, curating titles that bring a household together during the holiday break. Particularly, animated movies dominate year-end engagement as parents look for safe, festive options.

On Netflix alone, the platform highlights around 28 Christmas films. This includes classics, seasonal originals, and family-oriented animated tales like The Star. In 2025, it is finding a younger audience more than ever. 

A good Christmas movie feels like a warm cup of hot chocolate on a cold evening. Released in 2017, The Star captures the same feeling. It retells the Nativity story from a refreshingly playful perspective. With a focus on Bo, a small donkey who carries big dreams, to tell the story of the first ever Christmas.

While the movie is available on Netflix in certain regions, unfortunately, it has still not arrived on Netflix USA.

Alongside a group of unlikely animal companions, Bo embarks on an adventure that runs parallel to the biblical tale. The result is a story that balances faith, friendship, and family appeal. So what makes the movie so special? 

The voice cast also plays a major role in its charm and popularity. The cast features Steven Yeun, Keegan-Michael Key, Aidy Bryant, Ving Rhames, Tyler Perry, and many other exciting names. Their performances add personality and emotional depth among younger viewers. This approachable storytelling is a key reason the film resonates across age groups.

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A high-profile voice cast brought initial attention, yet The Star’s real success came later. 

When The Star first arrived in theaters in November 2017, it had a worldwide gross of approximately $62.8 million on a $20 million budget. This includes about $40.9 million domestically, making it a modest financial success for a holiday-themed animated film. 

Critics were mixed. The movie holds a roughly 45 percent critics’ score. However, audiences responded more warmly. CinemaScore polling gave it an A grade, and viewer reactions consistently praised its humor and family-friendly tone. In fact, the 2017 movie is now earning comparisons with an upcoming Andy Serkis adaptation as well, featuring a popular Stranger Things actor.

The contrast between its early modest critical scores and strong audience metrics underscores why and how the film has endured. Its continued visibility during the holiday season is driven by measurable viewer approval and long-term audience scoring patterns.

It is the classic way in which a long lost movie finds its audience again through streaming via Netflix. For Netflix subscribers, it remains a reliable way to kick off Christmas movie nights.

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Looking for a wholesome holiday watch the whole family can enjoy? The Star is ready to shine again on Netflix this Christmas season.