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As the year comes to a close, it's only natural to say goodbye to the past 12 months and welcome a fresh start witha true celebration. Whether you're hosting a lavish party or cozying up under a blanket to watch the ball drop, there's nothing quite like turning on a movie centered around New Year's Eve to elevate your spirits and set a positive tone for the upcoming year.
Luckily, there are a number of New Year's Eve-themed watches that are more than perfect for the occasion. Think belovedHollywood classicslikeSunset BoulevardandRent orsome ofour favorite seasonal rom-comslikeWhen Harry Met SallyandWhile You Were Sleepingto channel your inner hopeless romantic. Even better, thesefestive picksare available to watch on a range of streaming platforms—so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and tune into your film of choice—with hopefully a bowl of grapes or a coupe of champagne in hand. No matter the genre, we've rounded up the best New Year's Eve movies to watch come January 1.
Bridget Jones's Diary(2001)
This relatable rom-com kicks off with Bridget Jones, played by Renée Zellweger, who decides to take control of her life—and to do so, she begins to document her days in her diary. Over the course of a year, she pens her wishes in the notebook, and it happens to include a New Year's Party, and a memorable fling (or two).
Ocean's Eleven(2001)
The action-packed film includes an ensemble cast of George Clooney, Matt Damon, Brad Pitt, and many more, who set out to rob a casino at midnight on New Year's Eve. Criminal? Maybe. Iconic? Absolutely.
Sleepless in Seattle(1993)
When it comes to romantic films, there's no better option thanSleepless in Seattle. The 1993 rom-com stars Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan—and it's a tear-jerker, to say the least. The film is studded with major New Year's moments, like when Hanks' character has a conversation with his late wife on the holiday.
New Year's Eve(2011)
It's only right to include a NYE-named film in your holiday queue. The movie features a powerhouse ensemble, including Halle Berry, Jessica Biel, and Jon Bon Jovi as they reenact every iteration of classic New Year's storylines, from being trapped in an elevator to giving birth to a child. They're all connected in some way, and trust us, you'll be entertained.
When Harry Met Sally(1989)
When Harry Met Sally, one of the most popular romantic comedies of all time, follows two longtime friends as they navigate their relationship while residing in New York City. It includes slow burns, romantic monologues, and, of course, an incredible New Year's Eve party scene that ensures this movie made our watch list.
Money Train(1995)
This action-packed thriller has Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson playing cops who plan to rob subway fares, and features Jennifer Lopez in one of her early, formative roles. It's not the most NYE-coded movie on our list, but it has a New Year's Eve heist that makes it worth watching.
Mermaids(1990)
This 1990 movie stars Cher as Rachel Flax, a single mother who relocates to Massachusetts with her two daughters, Charlotte (Winona Ryder), and Kate (Christina Ricci). The charming coming-of-age dramedy explores themes of teen angst and family bonding. Plus, its most famous scene takes place at a New Year's Eve costume party. Unfortunately, there are no mermaids involved, but there are tons of moments that will make you laugh well into the new year.
Sunset Boulevard(1950)
There's a reason this 1950s-era noir film is deemed one of the greatest movies of all time. This American classic features Gloria Swanson as its titular character and features a glamorous New Year's Eve scene.
Waiting to Exhale(1995)
New Year's isn't just about romance. TakeWaiting to Exhale, a heartwarming film that highlights the friendship among four women in their 30s as they navigate their careers, families, and relationships. While there are significant plot points centered around love, like when Angela Bassett's character, Bernadine, is dumped before the ball drops, the best part is when her friends come to her rescue.
While You Were Sleeping(1995)
This rom-com has it all: Sandra Bullock, two potential love interests, and an unexpected New Year's Eve proposal. We won't spoil too much, but let's just say, our main star will fall for the man we've been rooting for all along.
Carol(2015)
This romantic period drama—starring Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara, and Sarah Paulson—is filled with forbidden longing, with our love interests sharing a first kiss on New Year's Eve. Be warned: this film is emotional and bittersweet, but also offers a slice of hope.
Eat Pray Love(2010)
Looking for a movie about starting over? Look no further thanEat Pray Love. In this movie adaptation of the bestselling book of the same name, Julia Roberts plays Elizabeth Gilbert, a newly divorced woman who leaves her life behind in New York to travel the world. As aptly mentioned in the title, our protagonist visits Italy to eat and heads to an ashram in India to delve into the power of prayer. As for the love part? Well, you'll have to tune in to see what unfolds.
The Great Gatsby(2013)
A new year calls for celebration, so we're looking to the Jazz Age socialites ofThe Great Gatsby, who spend every day like it's a holiday. When you're Jay Gatsby and have a never-ending supply of money, illegal champagne, and mansion-like venues, we suppose there's every reason to live it up like there's no tomorrow.
Rent(2005)
This musical-to-film adaptation follows the lives of residents occupying New York's East Village. There's a major January 1 scene, a festive song about the New Year's, and a timely theme about spending quality time with your loved ones.
The Godfather: Part II(1974)
Want some adventure on New Year's? Tune intoThe Godfather. The three-part series isn't festive on the surface, but the sequel features an epic scene that takes place at a New Year's Eve party. It's a must-watch.
Holidate(2020)
While technically not a New Year's movie, this rom-com is too good to pass up. In this Netflix film, Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey play a pair of singles who decide to attend every holiday together as a way to avoid going with bad dates. The best part? The two kick off their experiment at a New Year's Eve party.
Someone Like You(2001)
Arguably an underrated romance, Ashley Judd plays Jane Goodale, a production assistant who's trying to pinpoint reasons for her constant bad luck with men. No spoilers, but it has a pivotal New Year's Eve moment that gives our protagonist some much-needed clarity.
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