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| Best Movies Like Ebenezer. |
If Johnny Depp's dark reimagining of Ebenezer (2026) has left you wanting more supernatural mysteries, gothic horror and stories about people getting a rather uncomfortable visit from their past, there are plenty of films worth adding to your watchlist. Based on Charles Dickens' beloved novella A Christmas Carol, the Paramount Pictures production combines Victorian atmosphere, ghostly encounters, psychological tension and a journey towards redemption.
Its combination of Christmas storytelling and unsettling fantasy gives it a rather distinctive appeal. Fortunately, you don't have to wait for another Christmas miracle to find something similar. From haunted Victorian streets and supernatural visitors to deeply flawed characters confronting their darkest decisions, these 21 films offer plenty of familiar ingredients without simply repeating Scrooge's story.
Best Movies Like Ebenezer
1. Scrooge (1970)
Albert Finney stars as Ebenezer Scrooge in this musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic Christmas tale. The film follows the familiar miser as he encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come, forcing him to reconsider the way he has treated everyone around him. Its Victorian setting, supernatural visitors and examination of greed make it one of the closest companions to Ebenezer. The musical numbers give it a different personality, but the underlying story remains wonderfully dark. If you enjoy watching a miserable businessman discover that money cannot solve absolutely everything, this is an obvious starting point.
2. A Christmas Carol (1984)
George C. Scott delivers a memorable performance as Scrooge in this television adaptation of Dickens' famous novella. Set in Victorian London, the film follows the wealthy businessman as he receives unexpected visits from Jacob Marley and three Christmas spirits. Its atmospheric cinematography, gloomy streets and traditional supernatural storytelling make it particularly suitable for viewers attracted to Ebenezer's darker presentation. Rather than relying entirely on festive cheer, the adaptation takes its central character's emotional journey seriously. It also captures the uncomfortable idea that sometimes the biggest obstacle in someone's life is the person staring back at them in the mirror.
3. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Don't let the colourful puppets fool you. The Muppet Christmas Carol is one of the most enjoyable adaptations of Dickens' story, with Michael Caine playing Scrooge alongside the familiar Muppet characters. It follows the same supernatural journey through Christmas Past, Present and Future, exploring the consequences of selfishness and the importance of compassion. Although considerably lighter than Ebenezer, it shares the same narrative foundation, Victorian atmosphere and ghostly encounters. Caine also approaches his character with surprising seriousness, which makes the comedy work even better. It is proof that even a group of singing puppets can deliver a surprisingly effective lesson about human behaviour.
4. Scrooged (1988)
Bill Murray takes the central role in this modern comedy inspired by A Christmas Carol. He plays Frank Cross, a wealthy television executive whose unpleasant personality has made him increasingly unpopular with the people around him. During Christmas Eve, he receives visits from three supernatural figures who attempt to change his perspective. The contemporary setting makes it quite different from Ebenezer's Victorian world, but the central themes of greed, regret and personal transformation are practically identical. The film also brings a sharper comedic edge to the familiar story. If you enjoy supernatural encounters with a generous helping of sarcasm, this one deserves your attention.
5. The Others (2001)
Nicole Kidman stars in this gothic supernatural thriller about a mother living with her children in an isolated mansion. Strange occurrences begin disturbing their supposedly peaceful home, while the arrival of unfamiliar servants makes the situation increasingly unsettling. The film shares Ebenezer's interest in atmospheric storytelling, psychological uncertainty and supernatural encounters. Its period setting and shadowy interiors also create a similar sense of isolation. Rather than depending on constant scares, The Others gradually builds its mystery through carefully controlled tension. It is an excellent choice for viewers who appreciate ghost stories that leave their characters questioning everything they believe about the world around them.
6. Sleepy Hollow (1999)
Tim Burton's gothic mystery follows Ichabod Crane, a New York investigator sent to investigate a series of mysterious deaths in the village of Sleepy Hollow. Johnny Depp plays Crane, who discovers that local residents believe a supernatural horseman is responsible. The film's fog-covered forests, gloomy Victorian-inspired surroundings and disturbing supernatural imagery make it particularly appealing to Ebenezer viewers. Both productions lean heavily into gothic visual storytelling, although Sleepy Hollow adds considerably more mystery and action. Its combination of historical atmosphere, strange characters and supernatural horror is exactly what makes it such an entertaining watch. Depp's involvement is another welcome reason to add it to the list.
7. Crimson Peak (2015)
Guillermo del Toro's gothic romance centres on Edith Cushing, a young woman who moves into a deteriorating English mansion after marrying the mysterious Thomas Sharpe. However, her new home holds secrets that gradually become impossible to ignore. Featuring Tom Hiddleston, Mia Wasikowska and Jessica Chastain, the film combines supernatural horror with an elaborate period setting. Its decaying architecture, ghostly appearances and gloomy atmosphere make it a natural recommendation for anyone drawn to Ebenezer's visual style. Both films understand that a beautifully decorated Victorian house can become considerably less inviting when supernatural visitors start appearing. Crimson Peak simply takes that idea to another level.
8. The Woman in Black (2012)
Daniel Radcliffe stars as Arthur Kipps, a young solicitor who travels to a remote English village to settle the affairs of a recently deceased woman. His investigation leads him to an isolated house surrounded by unsettling rumours and unexplained events. The film shares Ebenezer's Victorian setting, supernatural storytelling and emphasis on the relationship between the living and the dead. Its cold landscapes and oppressive atmosphere also make it particularly suitable for fans of gothic horror. Rather than offering a cheerful Christmas adventure, The Woman in Black delivers a much more unsettling experience. Consider it an excellent choice when you want your period drama with considerably fewer happy neighbours.
9. The Green Knight (2021)
Dev Patel leads this fantasy adventure inspired by the medieval Arthurian legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. The story follows a young knight who accepts a mysterious challenge and embarks on a dangerous journey that tests his courage, identity and understanding of mortality. Although its historical setting is considerably earlier than Ebenezer's Victorian London, both films explore the consequences of personal decisions and the uncomfortable reality of facing one's own shortcomings. The Green Knight also features strange supernatural encounters, dreamlike imagery and a deeply atmospheric visual style. It is a particularly strong recommendation for viewers who enjoy fantasy that prefers psychological questions over straightforward answers.
10. The Pale Blue Eye (2022)
Christian Bale plays Augustus Landor, a detective investigating a mysterious death at the United States Military Academy in 1830. He receives assistance from a young cadet named Edgar Allan Poe, played by Harry Melling, as the investigation uncovers increasingly disturbing details.
The film shares Ebenezer's period atmosphere, dark visual presentation and interest in psychological mystery. Both productions also use historical settings to create an environment where secrets and unsettling encounters feel completely at home. While The Pale Blue Eye focuses more heavily on detective work than supernatural fantasy, its gothic storytelling makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for another atmospheric period thriller.
11. The Wolfman (2010)
Benicio del Toro stars as Lawrence Talbot, a man who returns to his family estate after receiving news about his missing brother. His arrival coincides with a series of disturbing events that gradually expose a terrifying supernatural secret. Set against a bleak Victorian-era backdrop, The Wolfman shares Ebenezer's fascination with gothic horror, historical environments and characters struggling against forces beyond their understanding. Its gloomy landscapes, old-fashioned architecture and supernatural mythology make it particularly suitable for viewers who enjoy darker period productions. The film also explores family relationships and personal identity, proving that complicated family histories are rarely improved by adding a werewolf.
12. The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018)
Jack Black and Cate Blanchett star in this fantasy adventure about a young boy who moves into his mysterious uncle's house following the death of his parents. He soon discovers that the building contains magical secrets, including a hidden clock with potentially dangerous consequences.
The film combines supernatural elements, eccentric characters and a period-inspired setting, making it a lighter alternative to Ebenezer. Both productions use mysterious houses and unusual visitors to introduce their fantasy elements. However, The House with a Clock in Its Walls offers more humour and family-friendly adventure. It is a good option when you want something supernatural without spending the entire evening hiding behind a cushion.
13. The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Gerard Butler stars as the mysterious Phantom in this musical adaptation of Gaston Leroux's famous novel. Set in nineteenth-century Paris, the story follows a mysterious figure who lives beneath an opera house and becomes obsessed with a young singer named Christine. Its gothic architecture, dramatic lighting and themes of loneliness, obsession and emotional isolation make it an interesting companion to Ebenezer. Both films explore troubled characters whose past experiences influence their present behaviour. The Phantom of the Opera also offers an elaborate period setting and a memorable supernatural atmosphere, although its musical storytelling gives the experience a rather different rhythm.
14. The Brothers Grimm (2005)
Matt Damon and Heath Ledger play two travelling brothers who make a living investigating supposed supernatural occurrences. Their latest assignment takes them to a mysterious village where local children have disappeared under strange circumstances.
Directed by Terry Gilliam, the film combines dark fantasy, folklore, comedy and supernatural adventure. Its historical setting and collection of unsettling creatures make it a suitable recommendation for viewers attracted to Ebenezer's mixture of period drama and fantasy. Both films also explore the relationship between reality and the supernatural, although The Brothers Grimm takes a much more adventurous approach. Expect strange encounters, unusual characters and considerably more trouble than an ordinary family Christmas gathering.
15. The Witch (2015)
Robert Eggers' historical horror film follows a family living on an isolated farm in seventeenth-century New England. Their fragile existence begins to unravel after a series of mysterious events creates tension and uncertainty within the household. The Witch shares Ebenezer's interest in historical atmosphere, psychological tension and supernatural storytelling.
Its bleak landscapes, carefully constructed period details and unsettling imagery make it particularly appealing to fans of darker historical productions. Both films also examine the consequences of fear, guilt and difficult personal relationships. The Witch is considerably more intense, however, so viewers expecting a comfortable Christmas fantasy should probably adjust their expectations.
16. A Christmas Carol (2009)
Robert Zemeckis directs this animated adaptation featuring Jim Carrey as Ebenezer Scrooge, alongside Gary Oldman, Colin Firth and other notable performers. Using performance-capture animation, the film brings Dickens' supernatural Christmas story to life with elaborate visuals and dramatic sequences.
Its depiction of Jacob Marley and the three Christmas spirits makes it especially relevant to Johnny Depp's Ebenezer. Both versions explore Scrooge's past, his present behaviour and the possible consequences of continuing down the same path. The 2009 production also embraces a darker visual style than many traditional Christmas adaptations. If you want another version of the original story with plenty of supernatural spectacle, this is an easy recommendation.
17. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
Mackenzie Foy stars as Clara, a young girl who discovers a mysterious world while searching for a special key. Her journey takes her through magical kingdoms filled with unusual inhabitants, unexpected dangers and extraordinary surroundings.
The film shares Ebenezer's Christmas setting, fantasy elements and elaborate visual presentation. Both productions also use supernatural experiences to explore personal growth and emotional connections. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms is considerably more colourful and family-oriented, but its combination of period-inspired costumes, magical visitors and festive fantasy makes it worth considering. It is a suitable alternative when you want the Christmas atmosphere without quite so much Victorian misery.
18. Spirited (2022)
Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell star in this musical comedy that gives A Christmas Carol a contemporary twist. The story follows the Ghost of Christmas Present, who works with other supernatural figures to help people reconsider their lives. However, his latest assignment becomes more complicated than expected.
Like Ebenezer, Spirited examines personal responsibility, regret and the possibility of changing one's behaviour. Its supernatural structure also revolves around Christmas spirits guiding a character through different stages of their life. The modern comedy and musical performances make it considerably lighter, but the familiar themes remain. It is an entertaining choice for anyone who enjoys seeing the traditional ghost story receive a fresh makeover.
19. A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
This fantasy adventure follows a young boy named Nikolas who travels through a magical winter landscape in search of his father. Along the way, he encounters unusual characters, mysterious creatures and unexpected challenges that shape his understanding of kindness and hope.
Although its story is considerably more family-friendly than Ebenezer, both films use Christmas as the backdrop for journeys involving personal growth and important life lessons. The wintry landscapes and elaborate fantasy environments also provide plenty of visual appeal. A Boy Called Christmas is a particularly good option for viewers who enjoy the magical side of festive storytelling rather than the darker consequences of greed and regret.
20. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1999)
This television adaptation of Washington Irving's classic tale offers another supernatural mystery rooted in historical storytelling. The story centres on Ichabod Crane and the terrifying legend of a headless horseman haunting a small American community. Its period setting, folklore-inspired narrative and ghostly appearances make it a fitting recommendation for viewers who enjoy the supernatural elements of Ebenezer.
Both stories use familiar historical environments to create a sense of mystery and unease. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow also explores the influence of fear and local superstition on an isolated community. It may not feature Christmas spirits, but it certainly understands the value of an unsettling visitor after dark.
21. The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017)
Dan Stevens stars as Charles Dickens in this historical fantasy drama about the author's creative process while writing A Christmas Carol. The film follows Dickens as he develops the characters and story that would eventually become one of the world's most recognisable Christmas classics. Christopher Plummer also appears as Ebenezer Scrooge, bringing the fictional miser into the author's imaginative world.
Its connection to Dickens' original novella makes it particularly relevant to Johnny Depp's Ebenezer. Both productions explore the themes of compassion, personal transformation and the importance of human connection. It is an especially interesting choice for viewers who want to understand the creative origins behind the story rather than simply watch another adaptation.
There is something particularly enjoyable about gothic Christmas films, especially when they combine supernatural mysteries with characters who desperately need to reconsider their life choices. Ebenezer has an interesting foundation because it brings together Dickens' familiar redemption story, a Victorian setting and a darker cinematic approach. However, the films on this list demonstrate that the combination of ghosts, historical drama and personal transformation has plenty of possibilities.
Some offer traditional Christmas storytelling, others explore psychological horror, while several take audiences into completely different fantasy worlds. Personally, The Others, Crimson Peak and The Woman in Black are among the strongest choices for viewers who enjoy atmosphere over constant action. Meanwhile, Scrooge and the 2009 A Christmas Carol remain essential viewing for anyone interested in the original material. The best recommendation ultimately depends on whether you prefer supernatural mystery, gothic horror or a little festive humour.
If Ebenezer has made you interested in exploring more films with ghostly visitors, complicated characters and atmospheric historical settings, this list should keep your watchlist busy for quite some time. Which of these 21 films would you watch first? Do you think another gothic fantasy or Christmas supernatural film deserves a place on the list? Share your favourites and let other viewers discover their next watch.