15 of My Favorite Movies to Watch on New Year’s Eve
For many, New Year’s Eve is a time of reflection and renewal—a hopeful (or slightly ominous) bridge into the next chapter. Movies have long captured this mix of optimism and peril, serving up tales of romance, tragedy, and transformation. Here are 15 standout films perfect for ringing in the new year.
1. The Substance (2024)
In this darkly satirical arthouse horror, Demi Moore shines as Elisabeth Sparkle, a middle-aged celebrity who discovers "The Substance," a product that lets her manifest a younger version of herself. As a chilling commentary on society’s obsession with youth, the film’s New Year’s Eve climax spirals into chaos.
2. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
A timeless rom-com that culminates on New Year’s Eve. It’s a perfect blend of witty banter, heartfelt emotion, and the eternal question: can men and women really just be friends?
3. The Apartment (1960)
This Billy Wilder classic is equal parts romance and cynicism, with a memorable New Year’s Eve moment that reinforces the power of love over loneliness.
4. Trading Places (1983)
A sharp social satire wrapped in holiday cheer. Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd bring laughs and chaos to a New Year’s Eve masquerade that changes their lives.
5. Boogie Nights (1997)
New Year’s Eve serves as a dramatic turning point in this gripping tale of the adult film industry’s rise and fall in the late ’70s and early ’80s.
6. About Time (2013)
This heartfelt drama about time travel and love reminds us to cherish the moments that matter, including a touching New Year’s celebration.
7. Ocean’s 11 (2001)
Clooney and crew pull off an unforgettable New Year’s Eve heist in this stylish, high-stakes caper.
8. 200 Cigarettes (1999)
A star-studded comedy chronicling a chaotic New Year’s Eve in New York City, where everyone’s plans go hilariously awry.
9. Phantom Thread (2017)
Paul Thomas Anderson’s sumptuous period drama includes a tense and pivotal New Year’s Eve scene that underscores the film’s themes of power and intimacy.
10. Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
This modern rom-com begins and ends on New Year’s Eve, bookending Bridget’s hilariously messy journey of self-improvement and romance.
11. Sunset Boulevard (1950)
New Year’s Eve takes a dark turn in this noir masterpiece, reflecting themes of faded glory and desperate ambition.
12. Ghostbusters II (1989)
The Ghostbusters save New York City from supernatural chaos just in time for the New Year, proving it’s never too late for a fresh start.
13. Are We There Yet? (2005)
Ice Cube stars here alongside Nia Long, Jay Mohr and Tracy Morgan in a family-friendly movie about a New Year's Eve trip to the airport.
14. The Poseidon Adventure (1972)
When a luxury cruise ship capsizes on New Year’s Eve, passengers fight for survival in this disaster movie classic.
15. Rent (2005)
This musical drama features a poignant New Year’s Eve sequence, marking a turning point in its story of love, loss, and living for today.
