Menu
Welcome to our celebration of the 100 Best Films of the 2000s, a decade marked by technological advancement and storytelling innovation. The 2000s saw a dramatic evolution in cinema, with new digital tools and creative approaches reshaping the film landscape and expanding the possibilities of visual and narrative artistry.
In this list, we highlight the 100 highest-rated and most critically acclaimed films of the decade, showcasing the diverse styles and groundbreaking techniques that defined this vibrant period. From visually stunning epics to imaginative animated features, these films offer a compelling look at the era’s cinematic achievements.
Discover how Christopher Nolan redefined narrative complexity and visual style with his mind-bending stories, Peter Jackson brought epic fantasy to life with grand, meticulously crafted adaptations, and Pixar transformed animation with their blend of heartfelt storytelling and innovative technology.
Join us as we celebrate the films that not only captured the essence of the 2000s, but also left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. Each film on this list stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation that characterized filmmaking in the new millennium.
Click below to delve deeper into our rating system and learn all about the inner workings of our algorithm.
Top10nerScore77.780 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Stephen Chow
WRITERS: Xin Huo, Stephen Chow, Tsang Kan-cheong, Man Keung Chan
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Poon Hang-Sang
STARRING: Stephen Chow, Yuen Wah, Yuen Qiu, Huang Shengyi, Bruce Leung Siu-Lung, Danny Chan Kwok Kwan, Lam Tze Chung
GENRE: Kung fu, Comedy, Mo lei tau, Slapstick
Set in Canton, China in the 1940s, the story revolves in a town ruled by the Axe Gang, Sing who desperately wants to become a member. He stumbles into a slum ruled by eccentric landlords who turns out to be the greatest kung-fu masters in disguise. Sing’s actions eventually cause the Axe Gang and the slumlords to engage in an explosive kung-fu battle. Only one side will win and only one hero will emerge as the greatest kung-fu master of all.
Kung Fu Hustle impressively balances humor and action. Stephen Chow’s innovative direction, along with a talented ensemble cast, creates an enduring cinematic experience celebrated for its unique fusion of slapstick comedy and breathtaking martial arts sequences.
Top10nerScore77.784 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Roy Andersson
WRITERS: Roy Andersson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jesper Klevenås, István Borbás
STARRING: Lars Nordh, Stefan Larsson, Bengt C.W. Carlsson, Torbjörn Fahlström, Sten Andersson
GENRE: Black Comedy, Satire, Surrealism, Drama
A film poem inspired by the Peruvian poet César Vallejo. A story about our need for love, our confusion, greatness and smallness and, most of all, our vulnerability. It is a story with many characters, among them a father and his mistress, his youngest son and his girlfriend. It is a film about big lies, abandonment and the eternal longing for companionship and confirmation.
Songs from the Second Floor is a unique experience that masterfully weaves absurdity and existentialism, offering a profound exploration of the human condition. Its meticulously composed long takes and darkly comic vignettes create an unforgettable tapestry of modern life.
Top10nerScore77.963 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Shinji Aoyama
WRITERS: Shinji Aoyama
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Masaki Tamura
STARRING: Koji Yakusho, Aoi Miyazaki, Masaru Miyazaki, Yoichiro Saito
GENRE: Drama, Road Movie
In rural Japan, the survivors of a tragedy converge and attempt to overcome their damaged selves, all while a serial killer is on the loose.
Eureka is a mesmerizing blend of sci-fi and drama, seamlessly weaving a tale of human resilience and discovery. Its inventive narrative and breathtaking visuals captivate, leaving audiences pondering its profound themes long after the credits roll.
Top10nerScore77.999 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Shane Meadows
WRITERS: Shane Meadows, Andrew Vickers
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Danny Cohen
STARRING: Thomas Turgoose, Stephen Graham, Jo Hartley, Andrew Shim
GENRE: Coming-of-Age, Drama
A story about a troubled boy growing up in England, set in 1983. He comes across a few skinheads on his way home from school, after a fight. They become his new best friends, even like family. Based on experiences of director Shane Meadows.
This Is England offers an unflinching portrayal of youth culture amidst socio-political turmoil, weaving raw emotion with gritty realism. Through stellar performances and poignant storytelling, it immerses audiences in a poignant journey of identity and belonging.
Top10nerScore78.014 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Alfonso Cuarón
WRITERS: Steve Kloves
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Michael Seresin
STARRING: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Gary Oldman, Alan Rickman, David Thewlis, Michael Gambon, Emma Thompson
GENRE: Fantasy, Adventure, Mystery, Gothic
Harry, Ron and Hermione return to Hogwarts for another magic-filled year. Harry comes face to face with danger yet again, this time in the form of escaped convict, Sirius Black—and turns to sympathetic Professor Lupin for help.
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban expertly delves into the darker side of the wizarding world, delivering a mature and visually stunning installment in the series. Alfonso Cuarón’s direction and character development shine, making it a standout entry in the franchise.
Top10nerScore78.059 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Mary Harron
WRITERS: Mary Harron, Guinevere Turner
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Andrzej Sekula
STARRING: Christian Bale, Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, Reese Witherspoon, Chloë Sevigny
GENRE: Black Comedy, Satire, Psychological Thriller, Crime
A wealthy New York investment banking executive hides his alternate psychopathic ego from his co-workers and friends as he escalates deeper into his illogical, gratuitous fantasies.
American Psycho is an incisive, darkly satirical exploration of societal excess and the fragile veneer of sanity. Christian Bale’s mesmerizing performance and Mary Harron’s sharp direction combine to deliver a thought-provoking, chilling and strangely hilarious cinematic experience.
Top10nerScore78.276 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Sylvain Chomet
WRITERS: Sylvain Chomet
STARRING: Lina Boudreau, Jean-Claude Donda, Charles Linton, Michel Robin
GENRE: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Satire
When her grandson is kidnapped during the Tour de France, Madame Souza and her beloved pooch Bruno team up with the Belleville Sisters–an aged song-and-dance team from the days of Fred Astaire–to rescue him.
The Triplets of Belleville mesmerizes with its whimsical animation, eccentric characters, and enchanting soundtrack. A delightful fusion of imagination and emotion, it’s a testament to the power of storytelling beyond words. A must-watch for lovers of cinematic artistry.
Top10nerScore78.421 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Martin Campbell
WRITERS: Paul Haggis, Robert Wade, Neal Purvis
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Phil Meheux
STARRING: Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen, Judi Dench
GENRE: Spy, Action, Thriller
Le Chiffre, a banker to the world’s terrorists, is scheduled to participate in a high-stakes poker game in Montenegro, where he intends to use his winnings to establish his financial grip on the terrorist market. M sends Bond—on his maiden mission as a 00 Agent—to attend this game and prevent Le Chiffre from winning. With the help of Vesper Lynd and Felix Leiter, Bond enters the most important poker game in his already dangerous career.
With Daniel Craig’s gritty portrayal of Bond, Casino Royale revitalizes the franchise, blending heart-stopping action with emotional depth. Martin Campbell’s deft touch brings Ian Fleming’s classic to life, earning it a spot among the most exhilarating spy thrillers of all time.
Top10nerScore78.443 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Rajkumar Hirani
WRITERS: Rajkumar Hirani, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Abhijat Joshi
CINEMATOGRAPHY: C.K. Muraleedharan
STARRING: Aamir Khan, Boman Irani, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor, Omi Vaidya
GENRE: Comedy, Buddy, Drama, Coming-of-Age
Two friends are searching for their long lost companion. They revisit their college days and recall the memories of their friend who inspired them to think differently, even as the rest of the world called them “idiots”.
3 Idiots ingeniously blends humor and heart, delivering a poignant critique of India’s education system. With stellar performances, it champions the pursuit of passion over conformity. A cinematic gem resonating with laughter, tears, and inspiration.
Top10nerScore78.471 / 100
p>
DIRECTORS: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
WRITERS: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen, Homer
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Roger Deakins
STARRING: George Clooney, John Turturro, Tim Blake Nelson, John Goodman
GENRE: Comedy, Adventure, Road Movie, Buddy
In the deep south during the 1930s, three escaped convicts search for hidden treasure while a relentless lawman pursues them. On their journey they come across many comical characters and incredible situations. Based upon Homer’s ‘Odyssey’.
O Brother, Where Art Thou? is a delightful concoction of Americana, blending folk music, humor, and Homer’s Odyssey. Its quirky characters, witty dialogue, and The Coen Brothers’ signature style make it a timeless gem in the cinematic landscape.
Top10nerScore78.562 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Zhang Yimou
WRITERS: Feng Li
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Christopher Doyle
STARRING: Jet Li, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Maggie Cheung, Zhang Ziyi, Donnie Yen
GENRE: Wuxia, Period Drama, Epic
One man defeated three assassins who sought to murder the most powerful warlord in pre-unified China.
In Zhang Yimou’s Hero, martial arts transcend mere spectacle, weaving a tapestry of vibrant hues and philosophical depth. Its choreography is a symphony of movement, while its narrative dances gracefully between loyalty and sacrifice. A visual poetry that enraptures the soul.
Top10nerScore78.672 / 100
p>
DIRECTORS: Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson
WRITERS: Ted Elliott, Terry Rossio, Roger S.H. Schulman, Joe Stillman
STARRING: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, John Lithgow
GENRE: Computer Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Fairy Tale, Family
It ain’t easy bein’ green – especially if you’re a likable (albeit smelly) ogre named Shrek. On a mission to retrieve a gorgeous princess from the clutches of a fire-breathing dragon, Shrek teams up with an unlikely compatriot – a wisecracking donkey.
Shrek skillfully navigates the realm of fairy tales, infusing a mischievous spirit that both honors and cheekily tweaks Disney’s classics. With valuable life lessons tucked amidst uproarious escapades, this film offers a humorous, fast-paced journey for all ages to enjoy.
Top10nerScore78.895 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Andrew Dominik
WRITERS: Andrew Dominik
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Roger Deakins
STARRING: Brad Pitt, Casey Affleck, Sam Shepard, Mary-Louise Parker
GENRE: Revisionist Western, Period Drama
Outlaw Jesse James is rumored to be the ‘fastest gun in the West’. An eager recruit into James’ notorious gang, Robert Ford eventually grows jealous of the famed outlaw and, when Robert and his brother sense an opportunity to kill James, their murderous action elevates their target to near mythical status.
The Assassination of Jesse James stands out as a meticulously crafted period piece, enriched by its compelling lead performances. This historical drama provides a captivating lens through which we explore enduring American legends, deepening our appreciation of the past.
Top10nerScore79.042 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Pedro Almodóvar
WRITERS: Pedro Almodóvar
CINEMATOGRAPHY: José Luis Alcaine
STARRING: Penélope Cruz, Carmen Maura, Lola Dueñas, Blanca Portillo
GENRE: Drama, Family Drama, Black Comedy
Raimunda lives and works in Madrid with her husband Paco and their daughter Paula. Raimunda’s sister Sole lives nearby. The two sisters miss their mother Irene who died several years ago in a house fire along with their father. When a former neighbor from their hometown reports that she has seen the ghost of Irene, the daughters do not believe her. After a murder and a family tragedy, however, Irene’s spirit materializes around her daughters to comfort them.
Volver stands as a remarkable exploration of female resilience, with strong performances from Cruz and Maura. Almodóvar’s direction weaves a captivating narrative, blending comedy and drama seamlessly, making it a must-see in his distinguished filmography.
Top10nerScore79.052 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Steve McQueen
WRITERS: Steve McQueen, Enda Walsh
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sean Bobbitt
STARRING: Michael Fassbender, Liam Cunningham
GENRE: Prison Film, Period Drama, Political Drama, Biopic
Irish republican Bobby Sands leads the inmates of a Northern Irish prison in a hunger strike.
Hunger defies cinematic norms, plunging viewers into an immersive experience of raw emotion and political turmoil. McQueen’s unflinching direction, Fassbender’s transformative performance, and a haunting score combine to craft a film that resonates long after the credits roll.
Top10nerScore79.237 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Wong Kar-wai
WRITERS: Wong Kar-wai
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Christopher Doyle, Kwan Pung-Leung
STARRING: Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Faye Wong, Gong Li
GENRE: Romance, Drama
Women enter and exit a science fiction author’s life, over the course of a few years, after the author loses the woman he considers his one true love.
2046 is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant cinematic exploration of love, loss, and longing. Its intricately woven narrative and evocative cinematography make it a captivating and thought-provoking experience for those willing to delve into its complexities.
Top10nerScore79.259 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Gregg Araki
WRITERS: Gregg Araki
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Steve Gainer
STARRING: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Brady Corbet, Michelle Trachtenberg, Elisabeth Shue
GENRE: Coming-of-Age, Psychological Drama, Queer Cinema, LGBTQ+
A teenage hustler and a young man obsessed with alien abductions cross paths, together discovering a horrible, liberating truth.
Mysterious Skin is a hauntingly poignant exploration of trauma’s lasting impact. Araki’s conscientious character development and Gordon-Levitt’s transformative performance make it an unforgettable cinematic journey into the darkest corners of human experience.
Top10nerScore79.397 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Paul Thomas Anderson
WRITERS: Paul Thomas Anderson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Elswit
STARRING: Adam Sandler, Emily Watson, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Luis Guzmán, Mary Lynn Rajskub
GENRE: Romance, Drama, Black Comedy
A socially awkward and volatile small business owner meets the love of his life after being threatened by a gang of scammers.
Punch-Drunk Love is a refreshingly unconventional and heartwarming film that cleverly harnesses Adam Sandler’s comedic talent to delve into the world of a solitary man discovering romance. It’s an oddly endearing and humor-laden journey into the human condition.
Top10nerScore79.414 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Kim Ki-duk
WRITERS: Kim Ki-duk
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Jang Seong-baek
STARRING: Jae Hee, Lee Seung-yeon, Kwon Hyuk-ho
GENRE: Romance, Drama
A young man, whose only possession is a motorcycle, spends his time riding around the city looking for empty apartments. After finding one, he hangs out for a while, fixing himself something to eat, washing laundry or making small repairs in return. He always tries to leave before the owners get back but in one ostensibly empty mansion he meets the abused wife of a rich man and she escapes with him…
3-Iron stands as a poignant and expressive cinematic work. Ki-duk’s artful storytelling and unconventional use of silence, combined with the mesmerizing cast, create an emotionally resonant journey through love and solitude, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
Top10nerScore79.454 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Steven Spielberg
WRITERS: Jeff Nathanson
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Janusz Kamiński
STARRING: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken, Nathalie Baye, Amy Adams, Martin Sheen
GENRE: Crime, Biopic, Drama
A true story about Frank Abagnale Jr. who, before his 19th birthday, successfully conned millions of dollars worth of checks as a Pan Am pilot, doctor, and legal prosecutor. An FBI agent makes it his mission to put him behind bars. But Frank not only eludes capture, he revels in the pursuit.
A riveting blend of charm and suspense, Catch Me If You Can dazzles with Spielberg’s direction and DiCaprio’s charismatic performance. Hanks adds depth, crafting a cat-and-mouse game that’s both exhilarating and heartfelt. An absolute triumph of storytelling.
Top10nerScore79.526 / 100
p>
DIRECTORS: Jonathan Dayton, Valerie Faris
WRITERS: Michael Arndt
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tim Suhrstedt
STARRING: Greg Kinnear, Toni Collette, Steve Carell, Alan Arkin, Paul Dano, Abigail Breslin
GENRE: Road Movie, Drama, Black Comedy, Family Drama
A family loaded with quirky, colorful characters piles into an old van and road trips to California for little Olive to compete in a beauty pageant.
Little Miss Sunshine blends dark humor with a heartfelt family journey, offering a unique and thought-provoking take on the American Dream. Its strong ensemble cast and clever satire of pageant culture make it an enduring favorite among indie film enthusiasts and critics alike.
Top10nerScore79.577 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Guy Ritchie
WRITERS: Guy Ritchie
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tim Maurice-Jones
STARRING: Jason Statham, Brad Pitt, Benicio del Toro, Dennis Farina, Vinnie Jones, Alan Ford, Robbie Gee, Ade, Stephen Graham
GENRE: Black Comedy, Heist Film, Hyperlink Cinema, Crime
Unscrupulous boxing promoters, violent bookmakers, a Russian gangster, incompetent amateur robbers and supposedly Jewish jewelers fight to track down a priceless stolen diamond.
Snatch is an exhilarating crime flick that skillfully juggles its multiple plotlines, creating an intricate tapestry of chaos and humor. With Guy Ritchie’s trademark style and sharp, witty dialogue, it offers an engaging and darkly comedic journey into London’s underworld.
Top10nerScore79.687 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Martin McDonagh
WRITERS: Martin McDonagh
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Eigil Bryld
STARRING: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Ralph Fiennes
GENRE: Black Comedy, Crime, Drama, Buddy
Ray and Ken, two hit men, are in Bruges, Belgium, waiting for their next mission. While they are there they have time to think and discuss their previous assignment. When the mission is revealed to Ken, it is not what he expected.
In Bruges captivates with Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson’s exceptional on-screen chemistry, enhancing Martin McDonagh’s unique blend of dark humor and melancholy. This quirky crime comedy resonates for its compelling performances and witty writing.
Top10nerScore79.746 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Cameron Crowe
WRITERS: Cameron Crowe
CINEMATOGRAPHY: John Toll
STARRING: Patrick Fugit, Kate Hudson, Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Jason Lee, Zooey Deschane, Anna Paquin, Fairuza Balk, Noah Taylor, Philip Seymour Hoffman
GENRE: Coming-of-Age, Drama, Road Movie, Music
In 1973, 15-year-old William Miller’s unabashed love of music and aspiration to become a rock journalist lands him an assignment from Rolling Stone magazine to interview and tour with the up-and-coming band, Stillwater.
Almost Famous is a cinematic voyage through the rock ‘n’ roll era, beautifully capturing the spirit of the ’70s music scene. Crowe’s semi-autobiographical narrative and an exceptional ensemble cast ensure an authentic, nostalgia-filled experience for music enthusiasts.
Top10nerScore79.800 / 100
p>
DIRECTOR: Fatih Akin
WRITERS: Fatih Akin
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Rainer Klausmann
STARRING: Birol Ünel, Sibel Kekilli, Güven Kiraç, Catrin Striebeck, Zarah Jane McKenzie
GENRE: Drama, Romance
With the intention to break free from the strict familial restrictions, a suicidal young woman sets up a marriage of convenience with a forty-year-old addict, an act that will lead to an outburst of envious love.
Head-On stands as a remarkable exploration of love’s complexities and cultural clashes. Its raw, unfiltered portrayal of two volatile souls embarks on an intense journey of self-discovery, backed by powerful performances and a gripping narrative.
