20 Best Movies of the 2000s

In a decade packed with cinematic gems vying for the title of greatest of all time, the 2000s delivered a slew of unforgettable films that have left an indelible mark on pop culture. From heart-wrenching dramas to mind-bending thrillers, these movies have cemented their status as timeless classics. Let’s dive into the top 20 films that have defined the cinematic landscape of the 2000s, according to MarkMeets prestigious ratings and cinephiles worldwide.

20. The Prestige (2006)

Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Synopsis: In 1890s London, two rival stage magicians, Robert Angier (Hugh Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Christian Bale), engage in a bitter battle of one-upmanship, pushing boundaries and resorting to dangerous tactics to outdo each other and achieve ultimate prestige. This mind-bending film explores obsession, ambition, and the lengths people can go to achieve success.
Key Points:
- Stellar performances by Jackman and Bale.
- Twisty and suspenseful plot with a surprising twist.
- Raises questions about illusion, reality, and the cost of obsession.
- Visually stunning and atmospheric period setting.
Fun Fact: The film’s ending and secrets continue to be debated and analyzed by fans.

19. WALL-E (2008)

Genre: Animation, Sci-Fi, Romance
Synopsis: Lonely robot WALL-E, tasked with cleaning a polluted Earth, falls in love with sleek robot EVE, sent to investigate the planet. They embark on a galactic adventure facing danger and beauty. This beloved Pixar film explores environmentalism, love, and the importance of curiosity.
Key Points:
- Stunning animation and a heartwarming story.
- Thought-provoking depiction of environmental neglect.
- Themes of love, companionship, and finding purpose.
- Charming robot characters with distinct personalities.
Fun Fact: WALL-E stands for “Waste Allocation Load Lifter – Earth-Class.”

18. 3 Idiots (2009)

Genre: Comedy, Drama
Synopsis: Rancho, a brilliant but unorthodox student, challenges the rigid education system at India’s prestigious Imperial College of Engineering. Along with his friends Farhan and Raju, they navigate academics, societal expectations, and the pursuit of their passions. This cult classic features hilarious moments, heartwarming friendships, and social commentary on education and following your dreams.
Key Points:
- Hilarious and heartwarming with iconic characters.
- Explores education, friendship, and following dreams.
- Critiques rigid education systems and encourages independent thinking.
Fun Fact: “3 Idiots” refers to the protagonists being labeled as “idiots” for their unconventional methods.

17. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2003)

Delving into the complexities of love and memory, “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” unravels a mesmerizing tale of romance amidst technological innovation. Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet deliver captivating performances as Joel and Clementine, navigating the labyrinth of their erased memories. This visually stunning film explores the intricacies of human relationships with unparalleled depth and emotional resonance.

16. Oldboy (2003)

Venturing into the realm of South Korean cinema, “Oldboy” emerges as a tour de force of visceral storytelling and breathtaking action. Park Chan-wook’s masterful direction immerses viewers in a gripping narrative of vengeance and redemption. With its mind-bending twists and unforgettable performances, “Oldboy” stands as a testament to the power of international cinema to captivate audiences worldwide.

15. 3 Idiots (2009)

Breaking barriers and winning hearts, “3 Idiots” transcends cultural boundaries to deliver a universal message of friendship and self-discovery. Rajkumar Hirani’s comedic masterpiece follows the misadventures of three friends as they navigate the rigors of higher education. With its blend of humor and heart, “3 Idiots” strikes a chord with audiences, earning its place as a beloved classic of Indian cinema.

14. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Quentin Tarantino unleashes his trademark flair for dialogue and suspense in “Inglourious Basterds,” a riveting reimagining of World War II. Led by an ensemble cast including Brad Pitt and Christoph Waltz, the film weaves together multiple storylines against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied France. Tarantino’s audacious vision and razor-sharp wit make “Inglourious Basterds” a cinematic tour de force that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats.

13. WALL-E (2008)

Pixar’s animated masterpiece “WALL-E” transports viewers to a dystopian future where humanity’s fate hangs in the balance. Through the eyes of the lovable robot WALL-E, audiences embark on a breathtaking journey across the cosmos in search of hope and redemption. Andrew Stanton’s visionary storytelling and stunning animation elevate “WALL-E” to a realm of cinematic brilliance that transcends age and genre.

12. Memento (2000)

Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending thriller “Memento” challenges conventional storytelling with its non-linear narrative and thought-provoking premise. As protagonist Leonard grapples with short-term memory loss, audiences are drawn into a labyrinth of deception and intrigue. With its groundbreaking structure and powerhouse performance by Guy Pearce, “Memento” remains a cinematic puzzle that continues to captivate audiences.

11. Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father (2008)

Kurt Kuenne’s deeply affecting documentary “Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father” is a poignant tribute to love and loss. Through intimate interviews and personal footage, Kuenne crafts a heartbreaking yet ultimately uplifting portrait of friendship and resilience. As the film unfolds, viewers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster that resonates long after the credits roll.

10. The Prestige (2006)

Christopher Nolan’s mesmerizing thriller “The Prestige” dazzles audiences with its tale of rivalry and obsession in the world of stage magic. Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman deliver powerhouse performances as rival magicians locked in a deadly game of one-upmanship. With its intricate plot twists and spellbinding visuals, “The Prestige” casts a spell that lingers in the minds of viewers.

9. The Departed (2006)

Martin Scorsese’s electrifying crime drama “The Departed” immerses viewers in a world of deception and betrayal on the streets of Boston. Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon deliver powerhouse performances as two men on opposite sides of the law, caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse. With its gripping storyline and unforgettable characters, “The Departed” stands as a modern masterpiece of the genre.

8. Gladiator (2000)

Ridley Scott’s epic historical drama “Gladiator” transports audiences to ancient Rome for a tale of vengeance and redemption. Russell Crowe delivers a tour de force performance as Maximus, a fallen general seeking justice against the corrupt emperor Commodus. With its breathtaking action sequences and stirring score, “Gladiator” captivates audiences with its spectacle and emotion.

7. The Pianist (2002)

Roman Polanski’s haunting drama “The Pianist” offers a harrowing glimpse into one man’s struggle for survival amidst the horrors of the Holocaust. Adrian Brody delivers a career-defining performance as Wladyslaw Szpilman, a Jewish pianist fighting to retain his humanity in the face of unimaginable suffering. With its stark realism and unflinching honesty, “The Pianist” remains a timeless testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

6. Spirited Away (2001)

Hayao Miyazaki’s enchanting masterpiece “Spirited Away” invites viewers into a whimsical world of magic and adventure. Through the eyes of the young heroine Chihiro, audiences are transported to a fantastical realm populated by gods, spirits, and mythical creatures. With its breathtaking animation and rich storytelling, “Spirited Away” captivates audiences of all ages with its timeless charm.

5. City of God (2002)

Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund’s gritty crime drama “City of God” offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of life in the slums of Rio de Janeiro. Through the eyes of two young men on divergent paths, the film explores themes of poverty, violence, and redemption. With its visceral storytelling and powerhouse performances, “City of God” leaves an indelible impression on viewers long after the credits roll.

4. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

Peter Jackson’s epic fantasy adventure “The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” continues the saga of Frodo and his companions as they journey ever closer to Mount Doom. With its sweeping vistas and epic battles, the film transports audiences to the richly imagined world of Middle-earth. With its groundbreaking visual effects and stirring storytelling, “The Two Towers” stands as a monumental achievement in cinematic history.

3. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

Peter Jackson’s cinematic adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s literary masterpiece “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” introduces audiences to a world of hobbits, wizards, and dark forces. With its epic scope and richly drawn characters, the film sets the stage for an unforgettable journey across Middle-earth. With its timeless themes of friendship, courage, and sacrifice, “The Fellowship of the Ring” remains a beloved classic of fantasy cinema.

2. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

Peter Jackson’s epic conclusion to his “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, “The Return of the King,” delivers an awe-inspiring climax to Frodo’s quest to destroy the One Ring. With its breathtaking battles and emotional crescendos, the film brings Tolkien’s epic saga to a triumphant close. With its sweeping scope and unparalleled grandeur, “The Return of the King” stands as a towering achievement in cinematic storytelling.

1. The Dark Knight (2008)

Christopher Nolan’s groundbreaking superhero epic “The Dark Knight” revolutionized the genre and redefined audience expectations. With its electrifying performances and morally complex narrative, the film transcends its comic book origins to become a modern-day classic. Heath Ledger’s iconic portrayal of the Joker remains one of the most indelible performances in cinematic history, elevating “The Dark Knight” to legendary status.

Synopsis:

Gotham City thrives under the watchful eye of Batman (Christian Bale), but a new threat emerges – the Joker (Heath Ledger), a sadistic anarchist who revels in chaos and aims to test Batman’s moral boundaries. As the Joker orchestrates elaborate schemes and pushes society towards anarchy, Batman must grapple with his own sense of justice and make impossible choices. Meanwhile, Lt. James Gordon (Gary Oldman) and District Attorney Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart) struggle to maintain law and order in the face of escalating violence, their ideals challenged by the Joker’s twisted games.

Why it’s a masterpiece:

Groundbreaking storytelling: Director Christopher Nolan crafted a superhero film that transcended genre norms, exploring themes of morality, chaos, and the struggle for good in a corrupt world. The narrative’s complexity resonated deeply with audiences, blurring the lines between hero and villain and raising difficult questions about justice and sacrifice.
Heath Ledger’s iconic performance: Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker remains an unforgettable tour de force. His unhinged energy, unsettling charisma, and unpredictable nature redefined the character for a generation, earning him a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Tense and thrilling action: Nolan masterfully blended action sequences with the film’s thematic core, creating pulse-pounding moments that served the narrative rather than being purely spectacle. Scenes like the bank robbery and the hospital siege remain iconic examples of superhero action done right.
Impactful performances: Bale delivers a nuanced portrayal of Batman, showcasing his internal struggle and vulnerability. Oldman and Eckhart offer grounded performances as Gordon and Dent, adding depth and emotional weight to the story.
Legacy and impact: “The Dark Knight” redefined superhero cinema, demonstrating its potential for complex storytelling and social commentary. It influenced countless films and TV shows, leaving a lasting impact on pop culture and the superhero genre.

Fast Facts:

Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Written by: Christopher Nolan & Jonathan Nolan
Starring: Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Gary Oldman, Aaron Eckhart, Maggie Gyllenhaal
Released: July 18, 2008
Box office: $534.8 million (domestic), $1 billion (worldwide)
Awards: 8 Academy Award nominations (including Best Picture & Best Director), winning 2 (Best Supporting Actor & Best Sound Editing)
Ranked: #1 on IMDb’s Top 250 Movies of All Time as of February 23, 2024

Additional Points to Consider:

The film’s portrayal of the Joker has been the subject of much debate, with some praising its complexity and others criticizing its potentially harmful influence.
The film’s ending remains open to interpretation, prompting discussions about ambiguity in superhero narratives.
“The Dark Knight” is considered a key part of the “Dark Knight Trilogy”, which includes “Batman Begins” (2005) and “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012).

Conclusion

From intimate dramas to epic adventures, the 2000s produced a diverse array of cinematic masterpieces that continue to captivate audiences around the globe. Whether exploring the depths of human emotion or venturing into fantastical realms, these films have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the 21st century. As we look back on the best movies of the 2000s, we celebrate their enduring legacy and the boundless creativity of the filmmakers who brought them to life.