The New Year is more than just flipping the calendar—it’s a fresh start, a blank slate, and your best chance to finally take that leap you’ve been wanting. But where does one find the spark to begin?
Sometimes, all it takes is the right story. Thankfully, Disney+ has your back with a lineup of movies and shows that are all about big energy for making significant life changes.
Whether you’re chasing a passion, rewriting your story, or simply daring to be yourself, these titles will inspire you to take the first step toward a brighter, bolder 2025. It’s time to go full glow-up mode—new year, new slay. Let’s do this!
The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty
“To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other and to feel. That is the purpose of life,” writes Sean O’Connell, a daring photojournalist, to Walter Mitty, a timid magazine employee trapped in a monotonous routine. Inspired by Sean’s words, Walter embarks on a global adventure to track down both a missing photograph and the courage he never knew he had. Along the way, he uncovers the wonder of truly living and the joy of stepping out of his comfort zone.
Sean’s message is a powerful reminder that life’s purpose lies in turning the mundane into magnificent and embracing every opportunity for connection and growth.
Nomadland
“I’m not homeless. I’m just houseless. Not the same thing, right?” Fern explains to a friend early in her journey in Nomadland, capturing her perspective on life as a modern-day nomad. After losing everything in the Great Recession, Fern sets out on the road in her van, embracing a lifestyle of resilience, adaptability, and freedom.
Her story shines a light on the beauty of unconventional paths and finding purpose in new beginnings. Fern’s words remind us that home isn’t just a place—it’s a state of mind—and inspire us to embrace change with courage and grace.
Reply 1988
“Life isn’t just about reaching your dreams; it’s about cherishing the people by your side,” reflects Sung Deoksun in a heartfelt moment from Reply 1988. Set in a tight-knit neighborhood in South Korea during the late 1980s, the series follows Deoksun and her friends as they navigate the highs and lows of adolescence, love, and family life.
Her words underscores the importance of balancing personal ambitions with nurturing relationships. In a world that often emphasizes individual success, Reply 1988 is a touching reminder to treasure the people who support and uplift us along the way.
The Devil Is A Part-Timer!
“Success isn’t about the size of your title; it’s the size of your hustle,” declares Sadao Maou, the former Devil King, as he flips burgers at MgRonald’s in ‘The Devil is a Part-Timer!’. This anime follows Sadao after he’s forced to flee his world and ends up on Earth with no powers, working part-time at a fast-food chain to make ends meet. Despite his fall from power, Sadao’s determination and work ethic shine through, proving that success is about effort, not status.
His journey is a humorous yet inspiring reminder that no matter where you start, hard work and grit can lead you to new heights.
Poor Things
“To be truly alive, one must constantly be evolving,” declares Bella Baxter, a woman on a journey of self-discovery and reinvention, in Poor Things. Raised from the dead by an eccentric scientist, Bella embarks on a whirlwind adventure across continents, challenging societal norms and embracing her newfound independence and womanhood. This line encapsulates her fearless spirit and reminds us of the power of change and growth.
Bella’s story encourages us to shed limitations, explore the unknown, and continually evolve—an inspiring mantra for anyone seeking to reinvent themselves.
The Royal Tenenbaums
“Life is not a game of chess where everyone knows their next move,” muses Royal Tenenbaum, as he reflects on the complexities of his fractured family relationships in The Royal Tenenbaums. The film follows the eccentric Tenenbaum family, each member a former prodigy whose life hasn’t turned out as planned. As Royal attempts to reconcile with his estranged children, the family slowly begins to rebuild.
This line tells us that life’s unpredictability can be daunting, but it also offers opportunities for fresh starts. The Tenenbaums’ story inspires us to accept imperfection and believe in the possibility of second chances.
The Big Year
“You can’t always control your circumstances, but you can control your attitude toward them,” says Stu Preissler, a retired CEO pursuing his passion for birdwatching, in The Big Year. The film is about three men, including Stu, as they compete in a year-long quest to spot the most bird species in North America. Along the way, they face personal and professional challenges, learning to live with the unpredictability and adapt to setbacks.
Stu’s words are a powerful reminder that while life may throw curveballs, a positive mindset can make all the difference. It’s an inspiring nudge to persevere and adapt as you chase your goals in the New Year.
The Eyes Of Tammy Faye
“Don’t be afraid to show the world who you really are,” embodies the spirit of Tammy Faye Bakker in The Eyes of Tammy Faye. The film explores the rise and fall of the controversial televangelist known for her unwavering faith, resilience, and unapologetic authenticity. Despite facing public scrutiny and personal challenges, Tammy Faye remained true to herself, becoming a symbol of boldness and self-acceptance.
Her story inspires us to stop hiding behind masks and embrace our individuality. If you’ve been holding back, let 2025 be the year you let your true colors shine.
The New Year presents everyone with hope, possibilities, and reinvention—a chance to redefine who you are and where you’re headed. Whether it’s embracing change like Bella Baxter, cherishing relationships like Deoksun, or stepping out of your comfort zone like Walter Mitty, Disney+ offers a wide variety of stories that resonate with the journeys we all face. Let these characters and their experiences remind you that growth, resilience, and boldness are always within reach.
So, as you step into 2025, turn to these inspiring tales for the spark you need to make this year your best yet. Ready? Press play on Disney+.
