If you’re like me, you probably prefer to stay home with the family and watch a good movie on New Year’s Eve. For those of you who aren’t sure which movie to watch this New Year, look no further than Netflix. The streaming giant has so many films in its extensive library that December 31st will be a movie night to remember.
Choosing just one movie is a challenge in itself, as there is a wide selection of movies available on Netflix that were released in 2025 or previous years. However, if you want to ring in the New Year in style, you should watch at least one of these five films on Netflix.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (2025)
Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is back and better than ever in his brand new crime thriller from writer-director Rian Johnson. Wake up, dead man follows the legendary detective as he investigates the “miraculous” murder of Msgr. In a small town church with their new priest, Rev. Jud (Josh O’Connor), Wicks (Josh Brolin) uncovers dirty secrets about Wicks and his most devout followers.
Just like its predecessors in the Knives Out series Wake up, dead man features a great ensemble cast in a gripping crime thriller that achieves the right level of haunting drama and humor. Although it’s not a traditional New Year’s Eve film, its deep exploration of religion and emphasis on love, forgiveness, and supporting others will leave you with a sense of renewal that will help you enter 2026 feeling stronger.
Regard Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Crime Mystery on Netflix.
Phantom Thread (2017)
Long before he thrilled the audience with it One battle after anotherDirector Paul Thomas Anderson delivered this prestigious period drama. Phantom thread follows domineering tailor Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis) in 1950s London as he begins a dysfunctional love affair with Alma (Vicky Krieps). Although Alma is made Reynolds’ muse, the couple’s power dynamic changes when the former rebels against her controlling other half.
Their codependent relationship reaches an emotional peak at a legendary New Year’s Eve party, but things only get more toxic from there, and I mean that literally. Reynolds and Alma may not be your couple’s 2026 goals, but their story is Phantom thread makes for captivating cinema.
Regard Phantom thread on Netflix.
Forrest Gump (1994)
With every year that passes, another chapter is written in the history books. Forrest Gump flips through the pages of the story through the eyes of its titular protagonist (Tom Hanks). In this classic dramedy from Robert Zemeckis, we follow Forrest from his humble beginnings as he grows into a college football star, a Vietnam War veteran, a professional table tennis player and a successful shrimp fisherman.
Over the course of his incredible life, he crossed paths with figures such as Elvis Presley, John Lennon and Richard Nixon, who unknowingly had a huge impact on American history. The highlight of this film, however, is Forrest’s turbulent relationship with his childhood sweetheart Jenny (Robin Wright) and former platoon leader Lt. Dan (Gary Sinese). Although we’re not sure what to expect in the new year, Forrest Gump reminds its viewers to embrace life, no matter how random or challenging it is.
Regard Forrest Gump on Netflix.
Groundhog Day (1993)
After such an eventful 12 months, many of you may be hoping for a fresh start in the new year. Phil Connors (Bill Murray), on the other hand, always has to force a fresh start Groundhog Daywhile a mysterious time loop traps him in Punxsutawney, PA on the same day.
While there’s plenty to laugh about in this iconic comedy, the thought-provoking story may make viewers think about their own lives. Some viewers can even relate to Phil, as each day feels more monotonous and meaningless. However, his bow is in Groundhog Day reminds us to make the most of every day, which should inspire viewers in 2026.
Regard Groundhog Day on Netflix.
Stand By Me (1986)
Many of us are still reeling from the shocking deaths of director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele in December of this year. Following this tragic event, fans of Reiner have honored him by looking back at his many beloved films, including Stand by Me. An adaptation of Stephen King’s novella, The bodyThis coming-of-age film is about four friends in the 1950s who head into the woods to search for a body, encountering obstacles such as a junkyard dog, a speeding train, leeches and local bullies.
Stephen King is said to have hugged Reiner right after watching the film, and it’s clear why. Stand by Me is a nostalgic, heartfelt journey through childhood that captures the challenges of growing up and the beauty of friendship. Growing up with each passing year may be difficult for some, but this film reminds us that we are not alone in this struggle.
Watch Stand By Me on Netflix.
