As we usher in a brand-new year, there's no better way to relax and reflect on the past while looking forward to the future than by watching a great movie. Whether you're recovering from a late night, spending the day with family, or just seeking a good film to mark the occasion, we've rounded up the 10 best New Year’s Day movies that will help you ring in the new year with some cinematic magic. From classic comedies to heartfelt dramas, these films will offer comfort, joy, and a bit of reflection to start 2024 on the right note.
1. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Director: Rob Reiner
Starring: Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan
One of the most beloved romantic comedies of all time, When Harry Met Sally has become a New Year’s Eve and Day tradition for many. The film’s iconic scene in New York, its hilarious and heartfelt moments, and the sweet resolution of Harry and Sally’s relationship make it a perfect watch for New Year’s Day. As the characters reflect on love, friendship, and new beginnings, it feels just right for the occasion.
Why Watch It: It’s witty, charming, and the perfect blend of romance and humor, with memorable moments that will leave you feeling warm inside.
2. The Apartment (1960)
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama
Director: Billy Wilder
Starring: Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine
Set against the backdrop of New York City during the holiday season, The Apartment is a bittersweet tale about love, ambition, and loneliness. Jack Lemmon’s character, C.C. Baxter, lets his bosses use his apartment for extramarital affairs, but when he falls for Shirley MacLaine’s character, Fran, everything starts to change. The film’s themes of reinvention and starting over make it an excellent New Year’s Day choice.
Why Watch It: A classic with timeless themes of love, personal growth, and redemption, The Apartment is both funny and poignant.
3. New Year’s Eve (2011)
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Ensemble Cast
Director: Garry Marshall
Starring: Ashton Kutcher, Jessica Biel, Halle Berry, Robert De Niro, and many more
A modern classic for New Year's celebrations, New Year’s Eve features an ensemble cast whose intertwining stories take place on the night of New Year’s Eve in New York City. From resolutions to second chances, the film offers multiple heartwarming moments and resolutions for the characters involved, making it a fitting film to start the new year with.
Why Watch It: If you're looking for a festive, star-studded film full of romantic and feel-good moments, this is your pick.
4. Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama
Director: Nora Ephron
Starring: Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan
Set in the heart of winter, Sleepless in Seattle is a perfect film for those cozy New Year’s Day moments. Following the story of a widowed man (Tom Hanks) whose son calls into a radio show to find him a new wife, this film is a heartwarming exploration of love, fate, and new beginnings. The scene set during New Year's Eve and its timeless message of love makes it ideal for a reflective New Year's Day watch.
Why Watch It: The emotional journey, paired with beautiful performances and a lovely sense of hope for the future, makes it a New Year’s Day favorite.
5. Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Director: Sharon Maguire
Starring: Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant
New Year’s resolutions play a major role in Bridget Jones’s Diary, which chronicles the life of Bridget as she attempts to improve herself throughout the year. The opening scenes, including a New Year’s Eve party, set the tone for the humorous and heartfelt story that is packed with both laughter and lessons about self-worth and love. Bridget’s resolutions to change and grow make it a fitting choice to start the year.
Why Watch It: It’s funny, relatable, and perfect for those who want a fun, lighthearted film that still has emotional depth.
6. The Godfather (1972)
Genre: Crime, Drama
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Starring: Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan
While not the most obvious New Year’s movie, The Godfather has a significant New Year’s Day moment in its opening scene, which takes place during a New Year’s Day celebration. This epic saga of the Corleone crime family is a cinematic masterpiece that explores power, family loyalty, and betrayal. Watching The Godfather gives a sense of reflection on the past and what the future holds, making it an excellent, albeit intense, pick.
Why Watch It: For those who enjoy powerful storytelling and classic cinema, The Godfather is a gripping, timeless masterpiece.
7. Ghostbusters II (1989)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Comedy
Director: Ivan Reitman
Starring: Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver
New Year’s Day can often be a quiet time, and if you're in the mood for something fun and light, Ghostbusters II is a quirky, offbeat choice. The movie begins with a New Year’s Eve celebration where the Ghostbusters are called to save the city once again. With its mix of comedy, supernatural action, and nostalgic charm, this is the kind of movie that brings fun and a sense of adventure to the start of the year.
Why Watch It: It’s a funny, nostalgic pick that doesn’t take itself too seriously—ideal for a light start to your year.
8. The Holiday (2006)
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Director: Nancy Meyers
Starring: Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Jack Black
A feel-good movie for the holidays and beyond, The Holiday features two women who swap homes to escape their respective romantic problems, only to find new love and healing along the way. Set during Christmas and New Year’s, the film captures the magic of fresh starts and self-discovery, making it perfect for New Year’s Day.
Why Watch It: With heartwarming performances, beautiful locations, and a story about embracing new beginnings, it’s an ideal watch for the occasion.
9. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Genre: Drama
Director: Gabriele Muccino
Starring: Will Smith, Jaden Smith
Based on a true story, The Pursuit of Happyness tells the inspirational tale of Chris Gardner, who fights through homelessness to build a better life for himself and his young son. This New Year’s Day, the movie serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance and hope can lead to great things, no matter how difficult life may seem. It’s about starting over, overcoming obstacles, and setting your sights on a brighter future.
Why Watch It: It’s emotionally moving and provides a powerful reminder of the importance of determination and hope as you embark on a new year.
10. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001)
Genre: Fantasy, Family
Director: Chris Columbus
Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
While not explicitly a New Year’s movie, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is filled with themes of new beginnings. The arrival of Harry Potter at Hogwarts marks the beginning of an incredible journey, and the sense of wonder and possibility is perfect for the New Year. The magic and adventure will bring a smile to your face, making it a delightful choice for a family-friendly start to the year.
Why Watch It: It’s magical, uplifting, and a great way to start the year with wonder and imagination.
The movies listed above capture the spirit of New Year’s Day through themes of new beginnings, love, personal growth, and reflection. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic comedy, an inspiring drama, or a fun family film, these 10 films will offer something special to help you start the year on a high note. So grab your snacks, cozy up on the couch, and let these films set the tone for a wonderful 2025.
Last updated on: December 23, 2024