As the world prepares to welcome the year 2026, movie lovers can embrace the festivities by revisiting films that capture the spirit of New Year’s Eve. This curated list features 20 movies that either revolve around the holiday or feature memorable scenes set on this iconic night. From classic dramas to light-hearted comedies, there is something for everyone to enjoy as we bid farewell to 2025.
Celebrating New Year’s Through Cinema
Whether you prefer a film focused on the celebrations, like New Year’s Eve, or want to experience a classic scene such as the memorable countdown in When Harry Met Sally, these selections showcase the diversity of storytelling associated with the holiday. The films are ranked according to their Tomatometer scores, ensuring that viewers can choose from critically acclaimed options.
Among the standout titles is Ronald Neame’s The Poseidon Adventure, released in 1972. This disaster film has earned its place in cinematic history, often hailed as one of the best in its genre. It follows a group of survivors aboard the S.S. Poseidon, which is capsized by a tidal wave on New Year’s Eve. With a Tomatometer score of 82%, it continues to captivate audiences with its compelling characters and breathtaking special effects.
Another iconic film on the list is Rob Reiner’s When Harry Met Sally…, which features an unforgettable New Year’s Eve scene. The film, released in 1989, explores the complexities of friendship and romance, exemplified by the dynamic performances of Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. This romantic comedy set a high standard for the genre and remains a favorite among viewers.
A Mix of Genres and Timeless Classics
This list showcases a broad range of films, including beloved sequels like The Godfather Part II and Ghostbusters II, as well as light-hearted romantic comedies such as Bridget Jones’s Diary and Holidate. Oscar nominees like Phantom Thread and classic hits like Sunset Boulevard also feature prominently.
1. **Sunset Boulevard**: This film is often described as the quintessential Hollywood tale, blending noir, black comedy, and a character study. It traces the life of an aging silent film star who refuses to accept her fading fame.
2. **The Godfather Part II**: This sequel, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is renowned for its powerful performances and complex narrative, delving deep into the lives of the Corleone family.
3. **Phantom Thread**: Daniel Day-Lewis delivers a riveting performance in this film about a renowned dressmaker navigating love and ambition in 1950s London.
4. **Ocean’s 11**: This stylish heist film, featuring a star-studded cast, is known for its witty dialogue and slick execution, making it a perfect choice for a festive evening.
5. **Bridget Jones’s Diary**: A charming romantic comedy that chronicles the ups and downs of a single woman navigating love and self-acceptance.
6. **Sleepless in Seattle**: Another film starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, this classic showcases the power of fate and love across distance.
7. **Forrest Gump**: This iconic film interweaves American history with the life of a man with a kind heart and simple view of the world, highlighting significant events through his eyes.
8. **The Poseidon Adventure**: As mentioned, this film is a thrilling narrative of survival against the odds, set against the backdrop of New Year’s Eve.
9. **Y2K**: This comedy captures the chaos of the turn of the millennium, focusing on two high school juniors who find themselves in a series of misadventures during the New Year’s Eve countdown.
10. **New Year’s Eve**: This ensemble film brings together multiple intertwined stories of love and hope, set in the bustling atmosphere of New York City.
As you prepare to celebrate the onset of 2026, consider diving into this eclectic mix of films that promise to entertain and evoke nostalgia. While you may not have time to watch them all, trailers and clips are available to rekindle memories and set the mood for a festive night in.
