The 2000’s had a lot going on, Y2K, September 11th, foreign conflicts along with a shift in rock/alt music. But perhaps the biggest mark the 2000’s left on me, was at the movie theater (or on VHS). Of course, every decade has its highlights in cinema although I think this might be the best decade of movies period. I could probably have put another 50 movies that were worthy of a watch on this list. I made some super tough decisions eliminating some exceptional movies to give you all the top 23 movies that I deem to be an absolute must watch from that decade. This list is a mixture of my favorite movies and the greatest movies I have ever seen from this span of time.
I’ll explain in detail throughout this story why I picked the film that I did. This list is not ranked or in any particular order, just 23 movies that absolutely should be seen if they haven’t already. I tried to include several genres to appeal to all movie fans out there. I have seen every single one of these movies 5 plus times with only one exception. Read on to find out which movie you should watch for the 100th time or possibly the first this week.
Gladiator (2000)
“Gladiator” Starring Russell Crowe, is tied for my personal all-time #1 favorite movie ever. If you’re a fan of war movies, cunning political schemes, lust for power and the classic quest for revenge, this is the movie for you. One of the reasons this movie is my favorite and made this list is because it’s atypical. As a movie buff, I get tired of the same old story day in and day out. Where the good guy has something taken from them, followed by a long trek to get back what is theirs. Of course, ending with the good guy winning and living happily ever after. “Gladiator” breaks that mold, the entire climax of this movie is a fight for an idea. The honorable General Maximus will not sacrifice his beliefs and in the end he ultimately achieves his goals, however he pays the ultimate price. There is a lesson in politics embedded within this film in regards to how corruption can and will run rampant causing an entire system to crumble in the process.
The Dark Knight (2008)
“The Dark Knight” may not be my favorite movie ever, although it’s on that list. This film is one of the best things I have ever seen grace the big screen. From start to finish this is an incredible cinematic masterpiece that everyone should view at least once. Even if you aren’t a fan of superhero movies, this one has to be your exception because it’s that good. Neither the villain or the hero in this movie have any actual powers, therefore if you are one of those people who just hate superhero movies because it’s unrealistic this is still a good watch. The movie has dark undertones with a violent and corrupt city where the gangs truly run everything, however Batman makes true efforts to change that and the Joker looks to seize control and let anarchy run throughout. It’s a beautifully scripted game of cat and mouse between the two where neither character is willing to kill the other. If none of this motivates you to watch, perhaps possibly the greatest on-screen performance by any actor with Heath Ledger as The Joker could convince you otherwise. Ledger brought a twisted evilness to the role that makes you feel uncomfortable in a way you didn’t know was possible. Highly recommend watching “The Dark Knight”.
Avatar (2009)
James Cameron’s “Avatar” was a global phenomenon for good reason. The movie was so visually spectacular that someone could fear the story wouldn’t live up to the graphics right? Wrong.. This is such an amazing watch although long. We get the great tale of a disabled marine who experiences walking again with the natives of the moon Pandora. He learns their ways, follows their teachings and gains their trust. Eventually, he also falls in love with the chief’s daughter along with the people and the forest itself. If you haven’t already watched this film, put it on the top of your list immediately.
Million Dollar Baby (2004)
I have only seen this movie starring Clint Eastwood, Hillary Swank and Morgan Freeman a handful of times, yet it made an incredibly strong impression. A great rags to riches story about a grumpy old boxing coach and an iron-willed woman striving to achieve greatness. They connect and form a unbelievable bond, get the tissues out though, as you have tough ending in store for this special movie.
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of The Black Pearl (2003)
The good ole days where Johnny Depp was a cunning yet slightly moronic Pirate who ruled the seas. Personally, Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow is my favorite role of his. He brings such personality to the role that very few actors could have brought. “The Curse of The Black Pearl” is worth a watch or ten, as you get to experience an unforgettably entertaining adventure and share a few laughs in the process.
300 (2006)
Talk about your awesome action movies with history attached to it. “300” Starring Gerard Butler is a must watch movie for 2 reasons, it follows the epic history of the last stand by the legendary King Leonidas of Sparta. It’s also another movie that breaks the cliché of the good guy always winning (sorry for the spoiler).
Zombieland (2009)
Funny, action packed, and filled with helpful zombie survival tips, “Zombieland” is easily one of the most entertaining watches from the 2000’s. You go on a journey with 2 travelers trying to survive a zombie outbreak.
Kung Fu Panda (2008)
Kids, no kids, kid at heart whatever you have to use as the cover story, Kung Fu Panda can be loved at any age. Filled with adult humor and a strong storyline, Kung Fu Panda follows the plot of an unlikely citizen being chosen to be the next savior of Kung Fu being named the “Dragon Warrior”.
Seven Pounds (2008)
“Seven Pounds” was a movie that hit me in the soul. I don’t want to give any spoilers away, but this movie follows a man who promises to change the lives of Seven strangers to make up for his guilty conscience. This is one of those movies that just stick with you. It’s gut wrenchingly good and puts a lot of things in perspective.
Shrek 2 (2004)
Introducing what I believe to be the greatest sequel ever made. “Shrek 2” from start to finish is gold. I can’t make a single critique about anything in this movie. If you haven’t seen this film, get off your ass and see it, or I guess sit down rather…
Transformers (2007)
Many of you may be surprised to see “Transformers” appear on this list, but I blame the horrible continuation of the series for that feeling. The franchise should have stopped after the 2nd movie but that’s a different story for another day. The first “Transformers” movie is perfect. It’s actually filled with a ton of surprising laughs along with iconic action scenes and quotes. Somehow the alien robot Optimus Prime inherited the ability to be the greatest motivational speaker Earth has ever seen in this one but that’s fine. Highly recommend watching this if you somehow haven’t already. I will adamantly defend this movie being a worthy watch for any and all, not just teenage boys.
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of The Sith (2005)
Even if you’re not a Star Wars fan, this movie is still a great watch. Probably the only movie in the franchise that can be enjoyed by non-Star Wars fans for the plot. Now, I’m aware that true Star Wars fans were not hugely supportive of this movie when it released but in the 18 years since, it has grown on many of those past haters. I love the way this film shows you how Anakin Skywalker becomes the most feared villain in the galaxy… Darth Vader.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and The Wardrobe (2005)
While the book-turned movie had some accusations of being “Lord of The Rings’ for kids, the movie still holds up. The film captures some of the magic that can come with childhood. Which does include an evil witch and an army of Centaurs.
Remember The Titans (2000)
“Remember The Titans” is in my opinion, the best football movie ever. Not only do we get to peak into the true story of legendary football coach Herman Boone dealing with a community of racially angry fans and parents while trying to inspire a divided group of players to play for each other. We also get a picture of what can be achieved when we embrace each others differences and work together to strive for greatness. I think this film is a must see because it’s important for the very real history of this time to be known, and to appreciate those who fought so hard for what was right.
Zodiac (2007)
Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr. and Mark Ruffalo star in this chilling thriller about the very real “Zodiac killer” who went on a rampage, killing several people from 1968 to 1983. I think the most terrifying part of this movie, is that it’s based on reality. If you have any interest in crime docs or tv shows like Law & Order, this movie will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
I know what you’re thinking… this little kid movie? Hear me out though. “Bridge to Terabithia” is catered to the young audience with the story of 2 misfits befriending each other and discovering their own magical world together. However, the biggest themes of this movie are rather adult like. The movie dives in deeply to physical and emotional bullying and how having a friend can help you through some of the darkest times in life. More importantly, these lessons are put to the test on one of the main characters after tragedy strikes.
The Blind Side (2009)
The true story of Michael Oher, a homeless teen who was taken in by a loving family and beat all the odds in order to make it big as a pro football player. One of the best feel good movies to watch out there.
Dinosaur (2000)
Now here’s a movie that flew under the radar for many years. I recommend watching “Dinosaur” because I’m a dino nerd, but also because the story and CGI animation for this movie were actually quite exceptional for the time. The movie follows an Iguanodon and his adopted family through a long dangerous journey to the nesting grounds. I will say, the movie has some striking similarities to “The Land Before Time” but I actually believe that was a great template for this movie to use as reference.
Spider-Man (2002)
I might be one of the few people who prefer the original “Spider-Man” to the sequel. I think that we get a great story, some cheesy CGI at times, with an overall A graded movie. I think the ending of this movie contains some of the most compelling 30 minutes of cinema I’ve ever seen.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)
The third installment of Harry Potter is by far my favorite of all. This movie and book for that matter, is where we finally start to see Harry and his friends really grow up. We see more sinister plots at work, we can also feel the darkness start, which will have a strong undertone in the remainder of the series. 10/10 recommend, and not just because it features a werewolf and wolf-man battle.
Napoleon Dynamite (2004)
Probably the greatest indie film ever. Napoleon Dynamite is iconic. This film is sort of a “anti-Hollywood” flick with normal looking people doing sometimes normal things. The simplicity of the plot and dialogue are what make this one a must watch.
Coach Carter (2005)
“Coach Carter” is the only movie on this list I haven’t seen more than one time. This movie is such an inspiration. This is another true story about an amazing basketball coach who turns troubled boys, into dignified and hard-working men. This is easily in the top 5 for greatest sports movies ever made.
Troy (2004)
Now considering a Greek Mythology superfan wrote this story, it’s not a surprise “Troy” starring Brad Pitt made the list. Achilles is probably one of the most badass heroes of all time and may be one of the earliest “hero tales” in existence. Throughout the movie you get to experience the brutality of the Trojan War and see first-hand how ancient Greek Battles were fought. It’s a brutal movie, full of love, war, and tragedy.
