30 Best Movies of the 2000s
The 2000s, like the good old 90s, is the decade that is missed by many because of its phenomenal cinematography. The beginning of a brand new millennium offered a brand-new take on various topics, cinematic effects leveled up, and new trends prevailed. All in all, this decade was one of a kind. We gathered the classics of the sweet 2000s era, and you are very welcome to dive in.
Inglorious Basterds
"Inglorious Basterds" is a movie about war by Quentin Tarantino. It came out at the end of the decade (in 2009). Tarantino successfully managed to propose a different version of WWII with a dream cast: Brad Pitt, Michael Fassbender, Diane Kruger, Christoph Waltz and many more.
There Will Be Blood
"There Will Be Blood" is considered one of the greatest movies of this century. It came out in 2007 and received one of the greatest critical responses. Daniel Day-Lewis received an Oscar for his outstanding performance, and the movie received eight nominations.
Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
"Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" is one of the best movies in the series (if not the best). All 3 "Lord of the Rings" movies achieved unbelievable success in the 2000s, and we can argue which one was the best and why, but these phenomenal movies clearly have defined that decade.
The Pianist
"The Pianist" is worth watching solely because of Adrien Brody's magnificent acting. The movie came out in 2002. Its plot is based on a true story, which makes it even thousand times more emotional.
Catch Me If You Can
"Catch Me If You Can" is a comedy-drama directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 2002. It is one of those films that is fresh, funny and touching. And the acting of young Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio is a treat to watch.
Kill Bill
The 2000s was a great time to have been alive just because we were blessed with "Kill Bill: Volume 1" (2003) and "Kill Bill: Volume 2" (2004). "Kill Bill" is many people's favorite classic. Tarantino never disappoints the audience when it comes to offering an original, fresh perspective.
The Dark Knight
"The Dark Knight" was released in 2008. Having Heath Ledger, Christian Bale, and Gary Oldman in a movie is already a huge success. Their performances, the plot, and the message that the director Christopher Nolan wanted to share are fascinating.
V for Vendetta
"V for Vendetta" is a classic 2000s thriller that carries a significant message about the freedom of society. Hugo Weaving (V) and Natalie Portman (Evey) were perfectly cast. Given the current political climate and what we have learned from the past decade, such movies will never lose their relevance.
Gladiator
"Gladiator" is an unusually successful historical drama. It was released in 2000 and immediately became a worldwide sensation. Russell Crowe, who played "Maximus", was brilliant and managed to win an Oscar. The movie received unbelievable 5 Oscars in total.
Donnie Darko
"Donnie Darko" is not only one of the memorable movies of the 2000s but also a huge step forward for Jake Gyllenhaal in his career. The main character (Donnie Darko) is a teenager that is so relatable and, at the same time - distant. Watching this movie for the first time is an unforgettable experience.
Memento
Christopher Nolan's "Memento" was based on a short story, "Memento Mori", by Jonathan Nolan. This mystery thriller came out in 2000 and intrigued various audiences since it was such an original take on self-deception.
The Prestige
Finding another masterpiece by Christopher Nolan on this list should not be a surprise at this point. He managed to show that obsession can be a true vice. Overall "The Prestige" is a pleasure to watch and makes you question your behavioral patterns (as every good movie should be).
Million Dollar Baby
"Million Dollar Baby" (2004) is a sports drama that received 7 Academy Award nominations and won in 4 categories. Hilary Swank received praise from various critics and even got an Oscar for "Best actress".
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
The 2000s was a great time to be alive simply because a new Harry Potter movie came out almost every year. The ultimate favorite has to be "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" (2001). It has probably the most homely feel out of all movies in the series.
To see the Harry Potter cast then and now, click here
Requiem for a Dream
"Requiem for a Dream" - a psychological drama that came out in 2000 is an unforgettable movie. Ellen Burstyn's performance simply left every critic of the time speechless. And the portrayal of addiction issues was widely praised and appreciated.
City of God
"City of God" is a Brazilian sensation released in 2002. The movie becomes even more touching once you learn that it is based on a true story and that such violence and corruption were very much part of everyday life. There is a movie called "City of God: 10 Years Later" where you can learn how the actors' lives have changed after the movie.
American Psycho
Compared to other horror movies, "American Psycho" is not even that terrifying. However, at the time of its release in 2000, it shocked audiences all over the world. It checks all the boxes for a great horror movie but also has a certain level of class that makes it stand out even after so many years.
Into The Wild
The heartbreaking drama "Into the Wild" is a biographical movie that came out in 2007. Christopher McCandless was a real-life adventurer, and "Into The Wild" paid tribute to his name and adventures.
Avatar
When we talk about the box office hits, "Avatar" (2009) is part of the conversation. It grossed more than $2 billion and became one of the greatest science fiction films of our century.
Batman Begins
Another masterpiece by Christopher Nolan, "Batman Begins" came out in 2005. It is considered one of the best superhero movies of our time. And after so many years, Christian Bale is still numerous fans' favorite Batman.
Iron Man
"Iron Man" is the best out of the series. It is the first MCU movie that came out in 2008 and received praise all over the world. Robert Downey Jr. has played other memorable roles, but for many movie buffs, he will always be their beloved Iron Man.
The Last Samurai
"The Last Samurai" was a big box office hit in 2003 and even got 4 Oscar nominations. It is a great-watch for action drama lovers or for those who love watching Tom Cruise's outstanding performances.
The Notebook
"The Notebook" (2004) is undoubtedly one of the best romantic drama movies ever made. The connection between Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling is unmatched. And let's admit, it is impossible to watch this movie without crying.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
"Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" (2004) received so much praise and is loved deeply because of its originality. It is not your next typical romantic movie from the 2000s. It is a romantic science fiction film that awakens memories and lets us explore their significance.
300
The magnificent story of 300 Spartans and their bravery in the battle of Thermopylae is depicted beautifully in "300". The movie came out in 2006 and was a huge box office hit. In 2014 a sequel "300: Rise of an Empire" came out. It was also successful but did not receive as much praise as "300".
The Fast and the Furious
The 2000s was the decade of "The Fast and the Furious" with the first film released in 2001. All four movies that came out in the 2000s were super successful. All movies had such an interesting take on something illegal and stimulating. And also offered a look into dear friendships and relationships.
Love Actually
The 2000s is known for its amazing romcoms. "Love Actually" is a cozy Christmas romcom with eight different plots that do not lose relevance year after year. This lovely movie came out in 2003 and ever since has embellished many frosty evenings all over the world.
Devil Wears Prada
The fashion lovers' favourite movie of the 2000s is clearly "Devil Wears Prada" (2006). Anna Wintour was the inspiration for Meryl Streep's Character. And Streep was praised for how she managed to offer an unexpected, original approach to her role.
Legally Blonde
Our beloved "Legally Blonde" (2001) and "Legally Blonde 2: Red, White and Blonde" are gems of the 2000s'. Reese Witherspoon portrayed a feminine character that can achieve anything she wants. And the movie opened up a conversation about such an important topic as women's ability to be feminine but also successful and smart.
Bridget Jones's Diary
"Bridget Jones's Diary" (2001) is a modern version of Jane Austen's novel "Pride and prejudice". The pressure of finding a man and getting married was very much actual back then as it is now. Renee Zellwegger is known for playing Bridget Jones since it's one of her best roles.
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