52 Best New Year’s Movies to Kick Off 2025 in Style
Celebrate the new year with this curated list of movies spanning comedy, drama, romance, and more—perfect for any New Year's Eve movie marathon.
52 Best New Year’s Movies to Watch & Ring in 2025
The close of one year and the dawn of another inspires reflection, celebration, and change. Whether you’re hosting a glittering New Year’s Eve party, enjoying a quiet evening with loved ones, or indulging in self-care solo at home, a well-chosen movie can set the perfect tone for this annual milestone. This handpicked list of the best New Year’s movies covers every mood, from light-hearted comedies to soul-stirring dramas, feel-good romances to a dash of horror. Prepare your favorite snacks, pop the bubbly, and dive into cinematic stories sure to usher in 2025 with style.
Why Watch New Year’s Movies?
Movies are a classic way to mark transitions. A great New Year’s film can spark nostalgia, laughter, hope, or even resolve to change. They bring friends and families together—or offer comforting company when you ring in midnight solo. From stories that revolve entirely around New Year’s Eve to films that feature unforgettable countdown scenes, these movies are iconic for their connection to this time of year.
How We Curated This List
- Diverse Genres: Comedy, romance, drama, action, and even a hint of horror.
- Streaming Availability: Where possible, suggested streaming platforms so everyone can join the fun.
- Iconic NYE Scenes: Many movies here feature legendary New Year’s Eve moments, making them a natural fit for this celebration.
- Audience Favorites & Critically Acclaimed: The list mixes beloved classics, cult favorites, hidden gems, and recent releases.
Must-Watch New Year’s Movies for 2025
1. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
An unbeatable romantic comedy that stands as the gold standard for New Year’s Eve movies. The iconic midnight scene—”I came here tonight because tonight, when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody…”—has become a tradition for many. Available on: Hulu, Max
2. New Year’s Eve (2011)
A star-studded ensemble cast weaves together different storylines all converging in New York City on New Year’s Eve. Think of it as the NYE answer to “Love Actually.” Available on: Hulu, Max
3. The Apartment (1960)
This Billy Wilder classic delivers humor, heartbreak, and hope. Set partly on New Year’s Eve, it is a moving romantic dramedy starring Shirley MacLaine and Jack Lemmon. Available on: Prime Video, Apple TV+
4. Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
Kicking off and closing around New Year’s Eve, this charming rom-com follows Bridget’s vices, victories, and resolutions—and, of course, her evolving love life. Available on: Netflix, Prime Video
5. Ocean’s 11 (1960 & 2001)
Both the original and the remake take place around the holidays—including a big heist on New Year’s Eve. If you’re seeking a slick caper movie to watch with friends, this is it. Available on: Netflix, Max
6. About Time (2013)
A heartfelt romantic fantasy about love, time travel, and second chances, with a touching New Year’s scene. Available on: Netflix
7. Holiday (1938)
Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant shine in this witty and ahead-of-its-time romantic comedy, which features New Year’s Eve as a pivotal plot point. Available on: Amazon Prime
8. Ghostbusters II (1989)
Nothing says New Year’s quite like the Ghostbusters battling supernatural slime beneath Times Square as the city prepares for the biggest party of the year! Available on: Apple TV+, Prime Video
9. Trading Places (1983)
The Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd comedy favorite unspools around the holidays and climaxes with a New Year’s Eve party aboard a train. Available on: Prime Video, Hulu
10. The Godfather, Part II (1974)
For those who appreciate a dramatic twist, the infamous Havana New Year’s Eve sequence in this mafia masterpiece delivers both spectacle and emotion. Available on: Paramount+, Prime Video
More Essential New Year’s Movies to Consider
- 11. 200 Cigarettes (1999): This all-in-one-night comedy sees a group of interconnected New Yorkers navigating love, mishaps, and friendship as midnight approaches.
- 12. Sleepless in Seattle (1993): Ending with a New Year’s resolution-inspired scene, this film is classic Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks.
- 13. While You Were Sleeping (1995): A charming rom-com with Sandra Bullock, set during the holidays and featuring a key New Year’s moment.
- 14. Waiting to Exhale (1995): Follows a group of women as they ring in the new year, offering friendship, strength, and empowerment.
- 15. Happy New Year, Charlie Brown! (1986): For families, this Peanuts special is nostalgic and great for both adults and kids.
- 16. Rent (2005): Musical fans will appreciate the energy and hope infused into this adaptation, which opens on New Year’s Eve in NYC.
- 17. The Poseidon Adventure (1972): A disaster film set during a New Year’s Eve cruise gone awry—tense and unforgettable.
- 18. Snowpiercer (2013): Begins on New Year’s Day and launches into a class-clash sci-fi adventure.
- 19. Forrest Gump (1994): The holiday season montage includes an emotional New Year’s sequence with Forrest and Lt. Dan.
- 20. Phantom Thread (2017): The film’s mysterious New Year’s Eve ball sets a haunting tone for this drama.
Additional Notables (Entries 21-52):
- The Age of Adaline (2015)
- Sunset Boulevard (1950)
- High School Musical (2006)
- Money Train (1995)
- A Lot Like Love (2005)
- Into the Night (1985)
- Four Rooms (1995)
- The Hudsucker Proxy (1994)
- The Holiday (2006)
- Sex and the City: The Movie (2008)
- The Gold Rush (1925)
- After the Thin Man (1936)
- Sunset:
- Entrapment (1999)
- Balls of Fury (2007)
- In Search of a Midnight Kiss (2007)
- Go (1999)
- Holiday Inn (1942)
- About a Boy (2002)
- Fanny and Alexander (1982)
- A Long Way Down (2014)
- An Affair to Remember (1957)
- Morvern Callar (2002)
- Someone like You (2001)
- Father Time (1929)
- Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist (2008)
- Holiday Engagement (2011)
- Better Luck Tomorrow (2002)
- Commitment (2013)
- Just Friends (2005)
- Teen Wolf Too (1987)
- New Year’s Evil (1980) (Horror pick!)
Top Genres for New Year’s Movies
| Genre | Recommended Titles |
|---|---|
| Romantic Comedy | When Harry Met Sally, Bridget Jones’s Diary, About Time, While You Were Sleeping |
| Drama | The Apartment, Forrest Gump, The Godfather Part II, Phantom Thread |
| Comedy | 200 Cigarettes, Trading Places, Ghostbusters II |
| Musical | Rent, High School Musical, Holiday Inn |
| Thriller/Horror | New Year’s Evil, The Poseidon Adventure, Entrapment |
Pro Tips: How to Host the Ultimate New Year’s Movie Night
- Build a Cozy Atmosphere: String up fairy lights and scatter plush blankets and pillows.
- Snack Smart: Offer popcorn, festive appetizers, and themed drinks (champagne mocktails or cocktails).
- Create a Movie Marathon: Choose films spanning different genres to suit every guest’s taste.
- Interactive Fun: Prepare NYE bingo or trivia based on popular holiday movie moments.
- Countdown Together: Pause at midnight for celebration and then resume the cinematic fun.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why are New Year’s movies so popular?
A: New Year’s movies capture the spirit of new beginnings, reflection, and celebration, making them relatable and uplifting for audiences as they transition into a new year.
Q: Can I find New Year’s movies on streaming platforms?
A: Yes, most titles are available on popular platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Apple TV+, and Max, making it easy to watch your favorites at home.
Q: Are there family-friendly New Year’s movies?
A: Absolutely. Options like “High School Musical” and “Happy New Year, Charlie Brown!” are family-oriented and suitable for all ages.
Q: What’s a good horror pick for New Year’s Eve?
A: For those who savor a fright, “New Year’s Evil” (1980) is a cult-favorite slasher film set during an NYE countdown.
Q: Any suggestions for New Year’s movie traditions?
A: Many viewers revisit “When Harry Met Sally” or “The Apartment” every year, while others enjoy marathon nights or host themed parties featuring several NYE-centric films.
New Year’s Movie Resolutions: Expand Your Watchlist in 2025
This year, refresh your New Year’s traditions by exploring genres you usually skip, discovering overlooked classics, or introducing friends to something new. Whether you watch solo or with a house full of revelers, let these movies inspire laughter, nostalgia, and hope as 2025 begins.
