The 25 Most Influential Films of the 2000s
The 2000s decade was not only filled with cinematic successes but also a period of cultural expansion within the film industry, where many productions managed to change history. Here, check out 25 titles that have left a mark on an entire generation.
Inglourious Basterds is not only one of Quentin Tarantino's best films but has also brought together some of the industry's finest stars, including Brad Pitt, Diane Kruger, Eli Roth, Mélanie Laurent, Christoph Waltz and Michael Fassbender. Over time, it became a cult film and is known for its sharp and memorable dialogues.
Quotes like I think this just might be my masterpiece have become part of popular culture, and although many have requested a sequel, the director has not been willing to develop one. The historical reinterpretation inspired discussions and reflections on the conflict and the cinematic representation of historical events.
The story is set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II and depicts a plan to assassinate Nazi leaders by a group of American Jewish soldiers, which coincides with the vengeful plans of a cinema owner.
There are few productions considered gems of a generation that have also managed to change the history of cinema in multiple ways. Avatar is undoubtedly one of them. The film directed by James Cameron not only broke box office records but also established itself as one of the most popular franchises worldwide, starring Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver and Kate Winslet.
The story follows a paralyzed Marine who is sent to the moon Pandora on a unique mission and grapples with the choice between following orders and protecting the world he has come to see as his home. This immersion in the world of Pandora had a profound impact on the way science fiction and adventure films are designed and experienced. It also conveyed an environmental and conservation message by addressing themes like the destruction of nature and resource exploitation.
The drama starring Will and Jaden Smith made its big-screen debut in 2006 with the aim of moving anyone who watches the film, and it has undoubtedly achieved its goal perfectly. Directed by Gabriele Muccino and based on a screenplay by Steve Conrad, the plot is inspired by the life of Chris Gardner, a man who faces numerous adversities while striving to build a better life for himself and his son.
The adaptation not only promoted the idea of perseverance, the importance of parenthood, education and hard work but also served as a source of inspiration for personal growth and entrepreneurship. Phrases like Don't ever let someone tell you that you can't do something became iconic and continued to be quoted in motivational discussions after it became a box office hit.
In 2001, there was a division among fans of Harry Potter and followers of The Lord of the Rings. It was undoubtedly a great year for the film industry, as two of the franchises that have changed the 2000s and the history of cinema in general were created. The film directed by Peter Jackson and based on the books by J.R.R. Tolkien remains one of the most popular today.
The story follows a Hobbit from the Shire and eight companions who embark on a journey to destroy the powerful One Ring and save Middle-earth from the Dark Lord Sauron. As expected, the production level exceeded all limits, and the cast was filled with stars. Among the most prominent are Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom, Sean Bean, Sean Astin, Marton Csokas, Viggo Mortensen, Cate Blanchett and Christopher Lee.
The movie, which is based on the life of Frank Abagnale Jr. and directed by Steven Spielberg, was not only a box office success but has over time become one of the most iconic in cinema, especially for the great performances and the well-developed biographical story that raises questions about authority and morality.
Leonardo DiCaprio portrays the main character, while Tom Hanks accompanies him in the role of Carl Hanratty. The cast was filled with A-list stars, such as Christopher Walken, Martin Sheen, Amy Adams, James Brolin and Jennifer Garner. The story follows Frank, who, at just 21 years old, is a skilled forger who has impersonated a doctor, lawyer, and pilot. FBI agent Carl becomes obsessed with tracking the con artist, who relishes the pursuit.
Years go by, and the story created by J.K. Rowling continues to capture hearts with its iconic magical world. Harry Potter is not only considered one of the most popular franchises in the world, but it has changed the film industry like no other. The movies altered the way film adaptations of books are made and perceived, and they have also left a lasting mark on literature and even fashion.
Rupert Grint, Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson had their peak of fame in the 2000s when they were just children, portraying the main trio. The acclaimed story, which was nominated for three Oscars, follows an orphaned boy who enrolls in a school of magic and wizardry, where he learns the truth about himself, his family and the terrible evil that lurks in the magical world.
The success of Legally Blonde was quite significant, and it not only made its mark on the generation in various ways but also had a notable distinction at the box office. Starring Reese Witherspoon in 2001, the story follows Elle Woods, a fashion sorority queen who is dumped by her boyfriend and decides to follow him to law school. But while there, she discovers that there is more to her than her appearance.
Directed by Robert Luketic, the film shattered multiple stereotypes, and one of the key factors influencing the plot is female empowerment, as the main character demonstrated that a woman can be both attractive and intelligent. Fashion was one of the standout elements, popularizing the color pink and Elle's image as a style icon.
Despite the passing of years, the story penned by Jane Austen remains a favorite of viewers, especially those who are fans of period dramas and passionate romance. The adaptation Pride and Prejudice, directed by Joe Wright, arrived in 2005 to break all the molds and become one of the biggest successes, garnering four Oscar nominations.
The cast was one of the most important factors in the project, as it is filled with A-list stars, with notable names including Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen, Carey Mulligan, Rosamund Pike, Jena Malone, and Donald Sutherland. The plot unfolds as love blooms when spirited Elizabeth Bennet meets the wealthy, single, and proud Mr. Darcy. But can each one overcome their own pride and prejudices?
The film starring Jake Gyllenhaal and directed by Richard Kelly is one of the most memorable within the horror, suspense, and psychological thriller genre. After making its grand debut on the big screen in 2001, it achieved great success worldwide and eventually became a cult classic, which has had a significant impact on pop culture over time.
The story follows Donnie, a troubled teenager who, after narrowly escaping a strange accident, has visions of a man in a rabbit costume manipulating him to commit a series of crimes. The iconic image of the rabbit Frank, which is a key element in the movie, has become a recognizable symbol.
Musicals also had a significant impact during the 2000s, but the most memorable one was Moulin Rouge! directed by Baz Luhrmann. The film stands out for its distinctive visual style and extravagant aesthetics, incorporating elements of pop culture, music, and fashion. The fact that two young actors, Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, took on the leading roles made the work a huge success, earning it some Oscars.
The story follows a poor bohemian poet in 1890s Paris who falls in love with a beautiful courtesan and nightclub star coveted by a jealous duke. In addition to its incredible unconventional narrative and editing, the soundtrack remains one of the most popular of all time, featuring great songs like El Tango de Roxanne, Elephant Love Medley and Come What May.
Mean Girls is not the typical romantic comedy that is forgotten, quite the opposite. Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Lacey Chabert and Amanda Seyfried have become true icons after starring in the iconic film directed by Mark Waters. Some of its characters, like Regina George, left a mark on an entire generation, becoming icons of pop culture.
Over the years, the title has maintained its status as a cult film and has gained a loyal following who consider it a classic of teen comedy. The story follows Cady Heron, who tries to fit in at school, but things get complicated when she falls for the ex-boyfriend of the most popular girl in the school.
The impact it had in the 2000s was so significant that it even popularized iconic phrases and cultural references that are still used and recognized today. It went on to influence and shape everyday language, making phrases like You can't sit with us or On Wednesdays we wear pink become part of common slang.
You can be a big Marvel fan or not be interested at all, but if there's one thing that cannot be denied, it's the impact that Iron Man has had on cinema, pop culture, and even technology. The film directed by Jon Favreau that debuted in 2008 marked the beginning of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, managing to change the way superhero movies are made and perceived.
The impact of the story extended beyond the big screen, as the technology used in the film, such as the holographic interface of Iron Man's armor, inspired real-world advancements. Robert Downey Jr. brings the iconic Tony Stark to life, a billionaire engineer who creates a unique suit of armor to combat evil after being held captive in an Afghan cave. The production, nominated for two Oscars, is filled with stars like Gwyneth Paltrow, Terrence Howard and Jeff Bridges.
Christopher Nolan not only solidified his reputation as a director of complex and intriguing films with The Prestige but also influenced the generation by changing the way obsession, rivalry, and the art of magic are perceived. The Academy Award-nominated film featured a cast of excellent actors, including Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Scarlett Johansson, Michael Caine and even David Bowie.
The story follows two magicians in 1890s London, who, after a tragic accident, engage in a rivalry to create the ultimate illusion, sacrificing everything they have to outdo each other. The exploration of identity and sacrifice, combined with the world of illusionism and magic, made it one of the filmmaker's classic titles.
Who doesn't know the iconic Miranda Priestly? Since The Devil Wears Prada made its grand debut on the big screen in 2006, the popularity of its main stars has been on the rise. Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci are just a few of the figures who have appeared in the film that has left a mark on an entire generation, especially through fashion and empowerment.
The adaptation, directed by David Frankel and based on the book written by Lauren Weisberger, had a lasting impact by influencing fashion, reflecting workplace culture, conveying messages about feminism and empowerment, delivering memorable performances, shaping the narrative of dramedy, and leaving a mark on pop culture. The story follows an intelligent but sensible recent graduate who lands a job as the assistant to the demanding editor-in-chief of a high-fashion magazine.
When it comes to classics that have left a mark on an entire generation, The Notebook undoubtedly makes the list. The romantic film, based on the book written by Nicholas Sparks, continues to be a must-watch if you're a fan of the genre and if you appreciate cinematic hits. It was directed by Nick Cassavetes, while Jeremy Leven and Jan Sardi were responsible for the screenplay.
Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling are the ones who star in the story, which follows a young, poor, yet passionate man who falls in love with a wealthy young woman, giving him a sense of freedom, but they soon part ways due to their social differences. The rest of the cast is filled with mega-stars, such as Gena Rowlands and James Garner.
The film directed by the great Sofia Coppola is part of the list of titles that have managed to change the history of cinema for the better. With its reflective narrative, addressing themes of loneliness and disconnection in an increasingly globalized world, it has succeeded in leaving a mark on an entire generation.
Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson bring the main characters to life, while Giovanni Ribisi and Anna Faris appear in supporting roles. The Oscar-winning story follows a fading movie star and an overlooked young woman who form an unlikely bond after their paths cross in Tokyo. The acclaimed project also stood out for its visual style and evocative soundtrack, making it an example of indie aesthetics.
Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet have proven to have great chemistry and be one of the best duos on the big screen when they starred in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind in 2004, directed by Michel Gondry, which won an Oscar for Best Writing, Original Screenplay. The story follows a couple who undergo a medical procedure to erase each other from their memories as their relationship deteriorates.
The movie's soundtrack, composed by Jon Brion, left a lasting impression on the audience and has influenced contemporary music. The plot portrays the complexity of romantic relationships and how shared moments, both good and bad, contribute to the experience of love. The cast was led by the two stars, but other figures like Elijah Wood, Mark Ruffalo and Kirsten Dunst were also part of it.
The 4-time Oscar-winning film, directed and starred in by Clint Eastwood alongside Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman, was not only a global commercial success but also managed to make a mark in the history of cinema due to its profound exploration of themes. The plot delves into determination, sacrifice, loyalty and redemption.
The story follows Maggie Fitzgerald, a determined woman preparing to become a professional boxer with an experienced coach. As expected, the production had a significant impact on women's boxing as well, contributing to raising its profile in the world of sports and increasing interest.
After a long run of different James Bonds, Casino Royale was released in 2006, marking the renewal of the acclaimed franchise, starring Daniel Craig. The adaptation influenced the direction other spy films took, leading to a trend of more realistic stories and complex characters in the genre.
The first movie was directed by Martin Campbell and follows the secret agent once again. Armed with a license to kill, he embarks on his first mission as 007, aiming to defeat a terrorist financier in a high-stakes poker game at Casino Royale. However, things are not what they seem.
Gladiator arrived in the early 2000s and not only enjoyed significant success but also managed to make a profound impact on the generation of that time. Russell Crowe delivered one of the most formidable and memorable performances, receiving acclaim and taking home his first and only Oscar.
The adaptation, directed by Ridley Scott, follows a former Roman general who sets out to avenge the corrupt emperor who murdered his family and sent him into slavery. The story influenced the way action and adventure films were made and perceived in that decade, with many subsequent productions attempting to emulate its success.
Juno was directed by Jason Reitman and starred Elliot Page in the role of Juno MacGuff. The adaptation was not only successful due to its incredibly talented cast but also because of the complexity of the narrative, addressing taboo topics that invite the viewer to reflect. The screenplay was written by Diablo Cody, while actors Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman, J.K. Simmons and Allison Janney appeared in supporting roles.
The movie stood out for its sincere and humorous approach to teenage pregnancy, a topic that was often handled in a more serious manner on screen. It also emphasized the importance of open communication and the support of family and friends during challenging times.
The Pianist stands as one of director Roman Polanski's most remarkable works, adapted from Ronald Harwood's screenplay, which was based on Wladyslaw Szpilman’s memoir. The film captivated an entire generation and went on to win three Oscars for its exceptional storytelling.
Adrien Brody plays Wladyslaw, a Polish-Jewish pianist fighting to survive the devastation of the Warsaw Ghetto during World War II. His poignant journey serves as a moving testament to the atrocities of the Holocaust and the war, encouraging deep reflection on both history and the human experience.
28 Days Later... is not just another horror movie; quite the opposite. Following its release in 2002, directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, it had a lasting impact on the horror genre and on how zombies are portrayed, as well as in the exploration of social and political themes on the big screen.
Starring Cillian Murphy, the story is set four weeks after a mysterious and incurable virus spreads across the United Kingdom, following a handful of survivors trying to find refuge. Its influence on the generation is reflected in how it changed the horror landscape and contemporary pop culture.
If there's one movie that managed to sweep the Academy Awards during the 2009 ceremony, it was Slumdog Millionaire. The project collected eight golden statues. Danny Boyle and Loveleen Tandan were in charge of directing the acclaimed action and suspense story that an entire generation loves and knows perfectly. Dev Patel and Freida Pinto were present as the lead actors.
The plot follows a teenager from Mumbai who reminisces about his childhood growing up in the slums after being accused of cheating on the Indian version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?". The adaptation captivated an entire generation and helped promote diversity in cinema, inspire future filmmakers, and touch on universal themes of struggle and personal overcoming.
Despite there being many Batman movies, few have managed to capture the essence of the story like Christopher Nolan. In 2008, The Dark Knight was released, an adaptation that not only had a lasting impact by presenting an iconic performance and redefining the superhero genre, but also by being a box office success, influencing popular culture, exploring complex themes, and changing the way big-budget films are made.
Christian Bale portrays the vigilante, while Heath Ledger delivered the best performance of his career as the Joker. The star was recognized with an Oscar during the 2009 ceremony and is the only actor to have won an award in the category of Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role posthumously.
The story once again follows Batman, who, when the threat known as the Joker wreaks havoc and chaos in Gotham City, must undergo one of the greatest psychological and physical tests to combat injustice. Aaron Eckhart, Michael Caine, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Gary Oldman, Morgan Freeman and Cillian Murphy are part of the cast.