32 great films of the 2000s (thus far).

[jesse_custer]

Before listing what I believe are the best films of this decade thus far, here are some guidelines that I followed:

1. I am not picking the most controversial or most talked-about films.

Many times people think "best" qualifies as "controversial." It doesn't. This is the problem with films like "Brokeback Mountain." About half of those who watched it took part in this nation-wide discussion on homosexuality while the rest of us were going, "OK, so how is this film that revolutionary?" Ang Lee's direction, while supported by beautiful scenery, is incredibly vapid in the sense that it does nothing that I haven't seen before and ends shots before they’re even fully developed. Character-wise, I'd rather see an interesting gay character rather than another repressed and unhappy individual who doesn't know whether he's on the top or bottom yet. (Note: For an interesting gay character who isn't defined by tired stereotypes, see Willem Dafoe's performance in "Boondock Saints" or Val Kilmer's in "Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang.")

Please do not misinterpret this point. While I will not be picking a controversial film just because it's controversial, that doesn't mean I will restrain from picking any controversial films. However, it's important to point out that controversial doesn't equal best; otherwise, "Caligula" would be the greatest film of all time. (Note: Pro-"Caligula" arguments are very welcome.)

2. I am not picking films based on box office success.

If you need elaboration on this point, just stop reading and play more Monopoly with your soulless friends. In short, "Money doesn't equal quality lolz."

3. I am not picking films based on word-of-mouth "success," quotability, and other related bullshit.

4. "Crash" is automatically disqualified for systematically ripping off "Magnolia," "Pulp Fiction," etc., etc.

Guidelines and pretension aside, any criticism or alternative lists would be greatly appreciated. This list, admittedly, is an odd one at 32 choices. I’ll start with the bottom six in order of “greatness” or whatever. (Possible spoilers.)


32. Casino Royale – This film was destined to fail because of conventionality (or so I thought). But director Martin Campbell wisely chooses not to begin on a familiar note, opting to go with a grittier opening in black and white. The ensuing two hours is a treat in terms of both action and plot (the latter of which had been lacking in the previous three James Bond films). Lastly, Daniel Craig’s tough demeanor is a perfect fit for a Bond film that avoids flash and goes for brawn. At the very least, “Casino Royale” proves that the action genre is alive and can be taken seriously.

31. American Psycho – Christian Bale’s self-conscious performance is the strongest aspect of this horrific satire. Unlike almost every performance you could note, Bale had to reference himself, his own character, throughout the film in order to illustrate the madness of Patrick Bateman. Bale’s ability to do this while maintaining believability is a monumental achievement in acting. The humor at work in “Psycho” is very black and memorable, although the film stumbles with its frustrating “Was it all real?” ending. No matter. Other films have never laughed so uproariously at murder and decadence like this one (“Heathers” comes close, though), and Bale’s breakthrough role is truly something to behold.

30. Shattered Glass – OK, so this isn’t another “Glengarry Glen Ross” where every performer is at his best, constantly attempting to outdo the others. Yet “Shattered Glass” showcases some of the most explosive and intriguing acting in contemporary filmmaking, courtesy of the formerly abysmal Hayden Christensen and the droopy-eyed Peter Saarsgard. The direction here is top-notch as well, with its brisk pacing and a visual illusion that parallels the real-life liar at hand in this character study.

29. Borat – Flaws aside, “Borat” is a refreshing comedy in that it is consistently funny and unwilling to flippantly spread its message. Sacha Baron Cohen formulates a mockumentary that mocks, well, us. But subversive humor isn’t the only thing Cohen can share. Hopefully phrases like “back pussy” and “her vagina hangs like sleeve of wizard” will stick around for a long time.

28. Gangs of New York – During this film’s long running time, Martin Scorsese injects a traditional revenge tale within the frame of a dark corner in America’s history. As he did in “Raging Bull,” Scorsese strives for authenticity (check out the DVD extras and the “The Gangs of New York” novel by Herbert Asbury for more info). Anchoring this film is the method actor’s method actor, Daniel Day-Lewis, who developed a unique accent and a killer’s mentality, among other things, to portray Bill the Butcher. Scorsese’s uncompromising vision is only slightly marred by an inept performance from Cameron Diaz, who just doesn’t fit well in this period piece.

27. Forty Shades of Blue – A character study about one’s place in society may not be an original idea, considering that the 1970s produced several films with such thematic content. However, “Forty Shades of Blue” is a welcome throwback to classic American filmmaking, reminiscent of work like “Five Easy Pieces” without the funny parts. Rip Torn is a beast to remember, a raging bastard and unthinking boyfriend. In contrast, Dina Korzun’s Russian beauty is reserved for the background of the film at times. Director/writer Ira Sachs makes us think the film is about Torn’s character, when in fact Korzun’s societal role in terms of gender is explored. Korzun’s lone walk as a new woman during the conclusion is a triumph over the film’s smothering dark tone.

[Chiasm]

Out of curiousity how does anyone credibly (for themselves) rank a list of films beyond say ten or so. Whenever I do it I find that I always end up forgetting one. The first few are easy for sure but after that its harder. For me, sticking with this decade, it would go: 1) Serenity, 2) Spiderman, 3) Spiderman 2 and then at that point I have to think about it and I usually start realizing I've forgotten about films.

[jesse_custer]

To "credibly" accomplish such, you would probably have to spend more time on it than I have. More than likely I have forgotten films as well. However, the discussion that follows will hopefully be interesting.

[Linali616]

1)Transformers!!!!
2)Spderman 3
3)Alien Vs Prdator
4)Van Helsing
5)Blood and chocolate
6)1408
7)Knocked up
8)the Covenant
9)Catwoman
10)Rush Hour.....all three

I'm sure theres more....but these all come to mind first!!

[thespianphryne]

Gangs of New York, except for the odd moments that feature Daniel Day Lewis, is a crap-fest.


-Das

[HomerJay]

For me, sticking with this decade, it would go: 1) Serenity, 2) Spiderman, 3) Spiderman 2 and then at that point I have to think about it and I usually start realizing I've forgotten about films.

1)Transformers!!!!
2)Spderman 3
3)Alien Vs Prdator
4)Van Helsing
5)Blood and chocolate
6)1408
7)Knocked up
8)the Covenant
9)Catwoman
10)Rush Hour.....all three

I'm sure theres more....but these all come to mind first!!
Please say you're both kidding.

[Jared]

28. Gangs of New York – During this film’s long running time, Martin Scorsese injects a traditional revenge tale within the frame of a dark corner in America’s history. As he did in “Raging Bull,” Scorsese strives for authenticity (check out the DVD extras and the “The Gangs of New York” novel by Herbert Asbury for more info).


Do you just mean aesthetic authenticity. Because while can buy that, it seems to me like the story goes off the rails when it comes to film's take on the Draft Riots. I also felt like the third act was fatally flawed. Once Day Lewis's character discovers who DiCaprio is, the movie becomes too contrived. Not only does Lewis not kill him, but he doesn't even scar him all that badly, despite his initial declaration which suggested that DiCaprio was going to end up looking horrific for rest of his days. Could Scorcese just not bring himself to mess up his star's face too badly? Anyway, after the scarring, DiCaprio is suddenly able to galvanize a huge army of the Irish in order to take out the bad guys.

[jesse_custer]

Do you mean that the draft scenes were not factual? Because they are very accurate. Either two or three thousand (can't remember which) people died during that riot.

The reason why Lewis doesn't kill DiCaprio is because DiCaprio's father, Priest, spared Lewis' character years before after cutting out Lewis' eye. It's obvious from the beginning of the film that Lewis is a sentimental character despite his murderous tendencies. Even though he killed Priest, he had an incredible amount of respect for him. After all, he said that no one should touch Priest's dead body.

The scar may have not been horrific, but Lewis branded DiCaprio like a farmer would a cow. It's all part of Lewis' idea of respect. DiCaprio disrespected him, so he makes sure that everyone in the town will know this from the brand.

Also, DiCaprio is able to get an army because of the mythology of the Dead Rabbits. The Irish remembered when Priest fell to Bill the Butcher, and they've been waiting for a chance to take back the power. Remember, during this time the Irish were seen as undesirables because they were immigrants--taking down Bill the Butcher, who represents the "Natives," could open new opportunities for their people.

[BoosterBronze]

Jesse... why 32? It seems so arbitrary?

[jesse_custer]

I tried to narrow it down to 25, but several of these were extremely close calls. So instead of doing some kind of lame honorable mentions section, I decided to go with 32. Very arbitrary, indeed.

[Black Atom]

I don't bedgrudge anyone their opinion, but any "best of" list that includes both Catwoman and The Covenant has to be a joke.

[Johnny_Luck]

I don't bedgrudge anyone their opinion, but any "best of" list that includes both Catwoman and The Covenant has to be a joke.

The Covenant is hated by hardcore horror fans that are old dudes or people uncomfortable about themselves. Just because theres a lot of male leads, does not mean that the story isn't as good as others. While the Special effects are great most of the time, there are a few lacking moments.

That being said the Covenent has one of the best stories in the horror genre in years, and isn't half as bad as people make it out to be.

Its not super great or even top 50 worthy but its pretty good for what it was.

Blood and Chocolate is another greatly directed/told visual style werewolf movie that fans of the genre hate because its more chick flicky then horror like.




Now If Lucky Number Slevin doesn't make your list of top of the 2000's I will definately be disappointed.

[Jared]

Do you mean that the draft scenes were not factual? Because they are very accurate. Either two or three thousand (can't remember which) people died during that riot.

IIRC, there was no naval bombardment, and the riot primarily consisted of Irish gangs terrorizing and killing blacks, whereas the movie of course has to keep most the Irish as the good guys.


The reason why Lewis doesn't kill DiCaprio is because DiCaprio's father, Priest, spared Lewis' character years before after cutting out Lewis' eye. It's obvious from the beginning of the film that Lewis is a sentimental character despite his murderous tendencies. Even though he killed Priest, he had an incredible amount of respect for him. After all, he said that no one should touch Priest's dead body.

The scar may have not been horrific, but Lewis branded DiCaprio like a farmer would a cow. It's all part of Lewis' idea of respect. DiCaprio disrespected him, so he makes sure that everyone in the town will know this from the brand.


>Sure, it's just that Lewis is playing a completely over-the-top scene-chewing super villain. Hell, I had to laugh at the scene where he revealed that he'd plucked his own eye out because it shamed him. He was so overboard with his hard bastardry, that I couldn't believe he didn't actually go through with messing the kid up real bad. DiCaprio ended up with a scar that actually looks kinda cool, like Anakin Skywalker or Locke from Lost.

Also, DiCaprio is able to get an army because of the mythology of the Dead Rabbits. The Irish remembered when Priest fell to Bill the Butcher, and they've been waiting for a chance to take back the power. Remember, during this time the Irish were seen as undesirables because they were immigrants--taking down Bill the Butcher, who represents the "Natives," could open new opportunities for their people.[/QUOTE]

I know there's a reason people flocked to him, I just don't think it's handled well. Suddenly in the third act DiCaprio has an army behind him to challenge Bill. It just felt like the pacing was off.

[Black Atom]

The Covenant is hated by hardcore horror fans that are old dudes or people uncomfortable about themselves. Just because theres a lot of male leads, does not mean that the story isn't as good as others. While the Special effects are great most of the time, there are a few lacking moments.

That being said the Covenent has one of the best stories in the horror genre in years, and isn't half as bad as people make it out to be.

Its not super great or even top 50 worthy but its pretty good for what it was.

I'm not an "old dude", nor was I particularly put off by the abundant homoeroticism. I just didn't think it was very good.

[BoosterBronze]

I'm not an "old dude", nor was I particularly put off by the abundant homoeroticism. I just didn't think it was very good.

There was homoeroticism? I must have missed it.

Sorry, when I was watching that movie and the douchebad yelled "Harry Potter can kiss my ass!" my ears started bleeding and my toungue swelled up to cut the oxygen to my brain off, in self-preservation just in case there was another line that stupid.

[rick]

The Covenant is hated by hardcore horror fans that are old dudes or people uncomfortable about themselves.


Hey Johnny, have you noticed that you have a real tendency to make sweeping, generalized comments about entire groups of people?

[Black Atom]

There was homoeroticism? I must have missed it.

Sorry, when I was watching that movie and the douchebad yelled "Harry Potter can kiss my ass!" my ears started bleeding and my toungue swelled up to cut the oxygen to my brain off, in self-preservation just in case there was another line that stupid.

Maybe it was just regular eroticism, but for women. And really, who needs that?

But yeah, the dialog/acting was really bad. It reminded me of stories I wrote in junior high.

[Jared]

Maybe it was just regular eroticism, but for women. And really, who needs that?


Everyone knows that women don't like eroticism. Nor do they poop.

[jesse_custer]

IIRC, there was no naval bombardment, and the riot primarily consisted of Irish gangs terrorizing and killing blacks, whereas the movie of course has to keep most the Irish as the good guys.

Actually, most of the riot involved the poor killing the rich. Remember, if you had $200, you could get out of the draft. This inspired the less wealthy to invade the rich, who were sitting quietly in their homes at peace. There were blacks being killed as well, and Scorsese touched on that, but I don't blame him for not making a movie about racial hatred toward blacks.

[Justin D.]

The Covenant is hated by hardcore horror fans that are old dudes or people uncomfortable about themselves. Just because theres a lot of male leads, does not mean that the story isn't as good as others. While the Special effects are great most of the time, there are a few lacking moments.

That being said the Covenent has one of the best stories in the horror genre in years, and isn't half as bad as people make it out to be.

Its not super great or even top 50 worthy but its pretty good for what it was.

Blood and Chocolate is another greatly directed/told visual style werewolf movie that fans of the genre hate because its more chick flicky then horror like.

Now If Lucky Number Slevin doesn't make your list of top of the 2000's I will definately be disappointed.

I had no idea The Covenant is a horror movie. I didn't know what I would've called it before, but I wouldn't have thought it was a horror movie. Maybe just supernatural movie. Of course, I freely admit this is what I gathered from the commercials and trailers.

I wanted to see Blood and Chocolate because I like good werewolf movies, but I heard this wasn't one. Fans of the genre didn't like it because they thought it was a poorly done movie on different levels, not because it was a horror movie with strong feminine qualities. Ginger Snaps has that, and it's seen as one of the better horror movies to (especially werewolf-related) to have come out in the last decade or so. Also, from what I've read, people who read the book Blood and Chocolate was based on disliked what they saw as nonsensical changes.

Jesse, I have to agree that 32 is an odd number.

[Johnny_Luck]

I wanted to see Blood and Chocolate because I like good werewolf movies, but I heard this wasn't one. Fans of the genre didn't like it because they thought it was a poorly done movie on different levels, not because it was a horror movie with strong feminine qualities. Ginger Snaps has that, and it's seen as one of the better horror movies to (especially werewolf-related) to have come out in the last decade or so. Also, from what I've read, people who read the book Blood and Chocolate was based on disliked what they saw as nonsensical changes.



The Howling
Howling 5/Rebith-Howling 6 The Freaks
Ginger Snaps 1,2,3
Blood and Chocolate
All four big black and white werewolf movies
American Werewolf in London
Dog Soliders
Skinwalkers


I am really big into werewolf movies. Blood and Chocolate doesn't have two legged werewolves, but they still work in the way of the story, the overall performances and direction is solid.Its a good werewolf movie.

and I understand why they changed the movie so far from the book. The book was 200 and something pages about Vivian a werewolf chick whom saw a human boy wanted to bone him, couldn't and whined about it until about the last 15 pages where he ended up shooting her, running off and her ending up with the leader of the werewolves.

It wouldn't even remotely made any sort of decent movie whatsoever. So yeah the changes actually worked.

[jesse_custer]

The next six on the list:

26. Million Dollar Baby – Watching this film is akin to having a familiar—perhaps even pleasant—dream, then suddenly finding yourself in a nightmare about an abortion and you’re the fetus. Director Clint Eastwood—boy, has he kicked a lot of ass in the past 40 years—piles on cliché after cliché before setting up the hard questions and memorable situations we’re used to seeing in his movies (“Unforgiven” serves as a good example). I really thought I would hate Hillary Swank in her role, but her performance as a female boxer is incredible based on the physical transformation alone. OK, so maybe Morgan Freeman didn’t have to narrate another movie. But credit Eastwood for taking the feel-good sports genre and shitting all over it. That takes guts.

25. The Proposition - We've been needin' this one fer a long time. Just as it looked hopeless to get another kickass western, here comes a film made and set in Australia starring Guy Pearce. Pearce overcomes all odds--"Guy Pierce in a western?!"--and gives a fascinating performance as a protagonist who's unsure of what to do about his outlaw brother. He also receives strong support from Ray Winstone (who was also awesome in "The Departed"). But what really makes this film is its eerie quality and short, sudden, and graphic spurts of violence. A shame it's so underrated (the morons on IMDB should be shot). By the way, I would be surprised if the exploding head in this film failed to make David Cronenberg jealous.

24. Grizzly Man – This is why Werner Herzog is considered a fantastic filmmaker: whereas most people would just dismiss Timothy Treadwell as a lunatic and forget about any elaboration, Herzog decides to look beyond the surface, exploring the unusual psyche of the former alcoholic and interviewing a host of people with different viewpoints. This documentary is often funny, sometimes depressing, and always fascinating.

23. Sin City – The fact that “Sin City” is the most faithful book-to-film adaptation I’ve ever seen is enough justification for its position. But then I would be overlooking the groundbreaking visual masturbation of director/editor/insert-random-position Robert Rodriguez, who left the Director’s Guild of America after they told him he couldn’t bring Frank Miller on board as co-director. Rounding out the awesomeness is a spectacular cast, with Mickey Rourke giving the greatest performance as Marv.

22. Munich – Spielberg visits gloomy territory again with “Munich,” the director’s most disturbing and controversial film yet. Spielberg tortures the audience with brief flashbacks of the Palestinian terrorists kidnapping Israeli Olympians. The now-old auteur waits until the final ten minutes of the film to finally reveal the murders of the Israelis, and he does so while the tormented protagonist has sex with his wife. The maturation of a usually sentimental director is one reason why “Munich” deserves to be called a great film. The other reasons are the solid ensemble cast and beautiful camerawork (that, strangely enough, seems to borrow from Kubrick at certain points).

21. Grindhouse – Rodriguez and Tarantino’s double feature is a bit more than two excited dicks slapping together to pay homage to 1970s exploitation films. “Grindhouse” essentially juxtaposes the styles of two filmmakers who are seemingly the same person to some moviegoers. “Planet Terror” caters to fans of the mindless horror/action subgenre, and “Death Proof” mixes car chases with women killing. The latter is my favorite of the two, mainly because of Kurt Russell’s unpredictable character and the virtually unprecedented car crash sequence that presents the explicit deaths of each character from different angles as if the ordeal is a sporting event.

[Toku King]

I'd put things like the "Spider-Man" movies, "Transformers", and "Holes" waaaaaayyyyyy up there.
I have no idea what my #1 would be, though.

[Toku King]

..........."Grizzly Man"? You put "Grizzly Man" on this list?
I am automatically not pleased with this list.

[jesse_custer]

Sorry man, Herzog is great.

[rick]

Sorry man, Herzog is great.

In fact I would have to add that of the living "great" directors, I personally would place Herzog higher then Speilberg, Scorsese, Coppola, Coen or Polanski.

His work is just stunning.

Even without Kinski.

[Zero Hunter]

The only thing good about Grizzly Man is the dumb ass gets ate in the end. I was actully routing for the bear to eat the idiot. Anyone with even a grain of sence knows that the way that guy acted around WILD animals was so stupid that what happened to him was almost a certinity sooner or latter.
I hate to see anyone die, but when you do something that dumb it is never going to end well.

[rick]

The only thing good about Grizzly Man is the dumb ass gets ate in the end. I was actully routing for the bear to eat the idiot. Anyone with even a grain of sence knows that the way that guy acted around WILD animals was so stupid that what happened to him was almost a certinity sooner or latter.
I hate to see anyone die, but when you do something that dumb it is never going to end well.


Okay, so it was a film about a dumbass, but it's hardly the first time that Herzog has made a film about a deluded, self-destructive nutcase.


Aguirre, der Zorn Gottes (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0O7KnPuP3c4&mode=related&search=)

Fitzcarraldo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F53yUsgVuL0&mode=related&search=)

[Chiasm]

Please say you're both kidding.

Not only am I not kidding but Serenity is my #1 movie of all time. Spiderman is my #4 and Spidey 2 is my #5. And see I just realized I already forgot some movies as I forgot about Lord of the Rings. I always consider it one movie rather than three and its my #3 of all time and #2 of the decade. Star Wars IV is my #2 of all time.

If I must be forced to separate out the LOTR movies then it goes Fellowship, Return, and Towers in that order.

[GrifterWC]

The Howling
Howling 5/Rebith-Howling 6 The Freaks
Ginger Snaps 1,2,3
Blood and Chocolate
All four big black and white werewolf movies
American Werewolf in London
Dog Soliders
Skinwalkers



What's your opinion on the movie "Wolfen" with Albert Finney. I personally enjoy it and would like to get other peoples views.

[Wenatchee the Hatchet]

I thought Grizzly Man was really good. Sure, I happen to dig Spiderman 1 and 2 but I can see Grizzly Man being on custer's list because it's custer's list. Besides, since I had no love for Sin City and have a love/hate relationship with American Psycho because Bale was great in a movie I wasn't sure I liked that I sensed I wasn't SUPPOSED to llike I have an easy time accepting Grizzly Man and American Psycho as having cases for being somewhere in a top 32.

Why 32? Meh, lists that are numbered tend to be arbitrary anyway. If we had eleven fingers we'd have top 11 lists.

[twilight]

Why do people keep mentioning Transformers?

It was a good popcorn flick.
Not a good movie.

-Twi

[HomerJay]

Not only am I not kidding but Serenity is my #1 movie of all time. Spiderman is my #4 and Spidey 2 is my #5.
Before I continue to knock anybody elses list further, here are my top 32 in no particular order (these are what I consider the BEST and not necessarily my FAVORITE):

- BATMAN BEGINS
- FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING
- THE TWO TOWERS
- RETURN OF THE KING
- MEMENTO
- SHAUN OF THE DEAD
- REQUIEM FOR A DREAM
- THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM
- THE INCREDIBLES
- DONNIE DARKO
- X-MEN 2
- GLADIATOR
- BLACKHAWK DOWN
- THE ROYAL TENNENBAUMS
- SIGNS
- UNBREAKABLE
- THE RING
- THE DEPARTED
- COLLATERAL
- PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: CURSE OF THE BLACK PEARL
- KILL BILL vol. 1
- 28 DAYS LATER
- HOTEL RWANDA
- KING KONG
- BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN
- SIN CITY
- CASINO ROYALE
- BORAT
- FLIGHT 93
- GRINDHOUSE
- SPIDER-MAN 2
- CAST AWAY

[Johnny_Luck]

Anyone who puts Shaun of the Dead as one of the best movies of the 2000's really, really needs to see more movies, more so Dead and Breakfast which is an American Horror/zombie comedy that is twice the film Shaun is.

I would definately take The guy who plays Ozwald on Drew carey show as a french chef, David Carridine(sp) as an Inn keeper, a Collin Ferrell look alike drifter, Jeremy Sisto(basically the scream movie king), Bianca lawson(aka Kendra from buffy/black b**ch from save the last dance, dancing zombies and a country singing narrator who later becomes a zombie country singing narrator and the humor it involves over Shauns humor any day of the week.

Why do people keep mentioning Transformers?

It was a good popcorn flick.
Not a good movie.

-Twi

Sad thing was both FF2 and HP5 were better movies, but because of the geekdom and fanboys and overall idea they make the popcorn flick to be better than it was. I mean it was a goosd movie, not great, but good and a lot better than expected, however its not even close to being the best summer movie.

[Fish Sauce]

Sad thing was both FF2 and HP5 were better movies, but because of the geekdom and fanboys and overall idea they make the popcorn flick to be better than it was. I mean it was a goosd movie, not great, but good and a lot better than expected, however its not even close to being the best summer movie.

Except that HP5 wasn't crash hot either?
Can't comment on FF2.
Transformers gets much, much more praise than it deserves.

[GozertheGozarian]

I'm of the impression that these are what Jesse considers the BEST films of the century, not his favorite. Many of the films people are suggesting are just favorites, not great, or even good films.

[HomerJay]

Anyone who puts Shaun of the Dead as one of the best movies of the 2000's really, really needs to see more movies, more so Dead and Breakfast which is an American Horror/zombie comedy that is twice the film Shaun is.
I haven't seen Dead and Breakfast, but I will stand by my assesment the Shaun of the Dead is one of the best movies of the decade. Maybe not top ten, but definitely top 32.
As already mentioned let's not try to make sweeping generalizations. I actually have a degree in film studies, so I've seen a few movies.

Oh by the way, this proves nothing, but I'd like to mention that Rotten Tomatoes has Shaun of the Dead at 90% while Dead and Breakfast is at a dismal 47%. Apparently there's a whole LOT of folks that need to see more movies.

[jesse_custer]

20. The Host – Director/writer Bong Joon-ho obviously adores the monster subgenre. When the monster of “The Host” first goes on a rampage, it is just as exhilarating as any of the action sequences in classics like “Jason and the Argonauts.” Joon-ho quickly switches gears as he analyzes family dysfunction and governmental corruption. Despite all the serious subject matter, Joon-ho tosses in joke after joke, sometimes in the form of movie references. As the female archer of the protagonist’s family nails the monster with a flaming arrow, the film revisits “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” for a brief moment. Take that, Tarantino.

19. City of God – Although “City of God” could be dismissed as a Brazilian “Boyz N’ the Hood,” it has its own merits and style in terms of narration and direction. The opening chicken-chasing sequence is mesmerizing because of its confounding cinematography and scrambled narrative. The film soon introduces a more traditional story structure, which focuses on a boy who desires to be a photographer amid the children killing children. “City of God” is both a coming-of-age story and a tragedy--a disgusting photograph that almost sends you away.

18. The Royal Tenenbaums – Wes Anderson brilliantly utilizes a storybook frame to contextualize the inner workings of the oddest family to come along in film since … the Adams Family. Bad comparison, but definitely a great movie. Somehow, Gene Hackman still has the magic in his portrayal of the extremely shallow Royal Tenenbaum, one who makes sure that everyone knows his daughter was adopted and one who lies about having cancer to gain sympathy. Owen Wilson deserves quite a bit of credit as well, since he co-wrote the dry and wry script with Anderson. He also turns in a defining performance as writer Eli Cash, who at one point remarks, “Well, everyone knows Custer died at Little Bighorn. What this book presupposes is... maybe he didn't?”

17. Save the Green Planet! – No other film suffers from identity crisis like this one. Director/writer Jang Jun-hwan has around 30 rugs to pull out from under you, and he doesn’t waste any time setting up punchlines, either. Calling this film “eclectic” is an understatement, as it combines these genres and subgenres: horror, sci-fi, satire, screwball comedy, physical comedy, mystery, suspense, musical, drama, and even kung fun in an incredibly weird and out-of-place scene. The special effects, while obviously not as advanced as Hollywood’s moneyeaters, are a proper fit to the movie’s enthusiastic bombardment of homage and lunacy.

16. Brick – Wow. That’s all I could think when Joseph Gordon-Levitt turned in a performance that lives up to the daunting groundwork set by Jack Nicholson as Jake Gittes and Humphrey Bogart as Sam Spade. And what a language that director/writer Rian Johnson creates, blending old-school film noir babble with modern drug slang. This film also notably contains a foot-chase sequence that could stand up to any similar scene from an action film (yes, even the one in “Casino Royale”). If anything, “Brick” may restore your faith in American filmmaking.

15. Memories of Murder – Directed and co-written by the man who would eventually bring us “The Host” (Bong Joon-ho), “Memories of Murder” completely revitalizes the serial killer subgenre (and yes, it came out before “Zodiac,” which bears a resemblance to “Memories,” coincidentally). About halfway through you realize that the film is more than a real-life murder story. It is, in fact, a scathing, uncompromising criticism of the incompetent authorities responsible for this particular unsolved case. At one point, during a suspect’s interrogation, an officer doesn’t just hit the interviewee: he leaps over a table and dropkicks him (fans should note that there is also a comedic dropkick in “The Host”). The ending, which is about as unpretentious as these conclusions can get, is terrifying in that the murderer should have never gotten away.

[jesse_custer]

I'm of the impression that these are what Jesse considers the BEST films of the century, not his favorite. Many of the films people are suggesting are just favorites, not great, or even good films.

This is a good point. But I would be lying if I said I really didn't enjoy the films I picked.

Just to give some context on this point, I could watch "Serenity," "X2," and "Kiss Kiss Bang Bang" every week and enjoy them. But they won't be on this list. They're very good movies, but not what I would call the greatest of the 2000s.

In fact I would have to add that of the living "great" directors, I personally would place Herzog higher then Speilberg, Scorsese, Coppola, Coen or Polanski.

His work is just stunning.

Even without Kinski.

Herzog would be "up there" with those directors for me, but I'm not sure if I would place him higher. For example, Coppola is notoriously overrated, but damn, he directed the first two Godfather movies and "Apocalypse Now."

Have you seen "Rescue Dawn" yet? I highly recommend it if not.

[Black Atom]

I'd be more interested in the "favorites" list, honestly

[GozertheGozarian]

I'd be more interested in the "favorites" list, honestly
Favorites is too subjective and flamey.

[Black Atom]

Favorites is too subjective and flamey.

I guess. But I'm a lot less likely to take issue if someone says "Transformers is my favorite movie of 2007" than if they say "Transformers is the BEST movie of 2007".

[Chiasm]

I'm of the impression that these are what Jesse considers the BEST films of the century, not his favorite. Many of the films people are suggesting are just favorites, not great, or even good films.

Is there a difference?

I can say a movie was very well made, acted, filmed, directed etc and still not consider it a great movie. Take Babel for instance. It gets high marks in all those categories. And I didn't really enjoy it and doubt I'll ever willingly watch it again. So I don't consider it a great film. Or take The Departed which is another movie that gets high marks in all categories. I did like it but its not a movie I really care about seeing again.

There is an X-factor, if you will, for every film thats hard to quantify but its the thing that appeals to an individual as to what makes a great film. Take my #1 Serenity. Other movies have done everything Serenity did and in various cases done it better. But none of them overall appealed to me the way this movie did. And FYI, I'd never seen Firefly before seeing this movie (I of course now have) so I'm not even saying this simply out of love for the series.

Its this X-Factor that makes Star Wars IV such a great film. The only thing in regards to acting, directing, filming, etc that this movie did better than other movies in was its special effects. In some areas, acting for instance, its pretty bad. But it had the X-Factor and then some and even movie critics think it was a great movie.

Some people can watch a movie simply for the great acting (or insert directing, whatever) and call it a great movie. I can't especially if the movie is boring beyond belief. I don't care how great the acting was in The English Patient because it quite simply was one of the most boring movies I've ever seen in my life. The movie has got to have that special something that is so hard to quantify.

[rick]

Have you seen "Rescue Dawn" yet? I highly recommend it if not.


It didn't make it to Colorado Springs, so I'm stuck waiting for the DVD.

I have to say that it looks very different then what I normally expect from Herzog.

[Toku King]

But of course, we all know what #1 will be.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/80/AquaTeenPosterColonMovie.jpg

[Johnny_Luck]

Maybe if it were a Most Annoying and Horrid Movie of all time list/thread it would make #1.

[jesse_custer]

I can say a movie was very well made, acted, filmed, directed etc and still not consider it a great movie. Take Babel for instance. It gets high marks in all those categories. And I didn't really enjoy it and doubt I'll ever willingly watch it again. So I don't consider it a great film.


Babel was an unoriginal and pretentious film with shoddy acting for the most part. I don't think I've ever seen Brad Pitt look so bored and out of it. The direction was so cliche that it could have passed as a television movie.

[Toku King]

Maybe if it were a Most Annoying and Horrid Movie of all time list/thread it would make #1.

Bull. The most horrid movie ever? You have probably only seen 10 movies tops then.

While ATHFCMFFT was somewhat disappointing(there was no resolution, for one), it was still a funny and entertaining movie.

[Wenatchee the Hatchet]

The Aqua Teen movie was more fun to sit through than The Butterfly Effect, which is of course just my opinion.

[Gary Joyce]

Everyone knows that women don't like eroticism. Nor do they poop.

Naw thats not true If women watch Porn its erotic if men use it well then its sleazy porn.

[moebius]

It's sad, but I think "Borat" was mostly considered a good movie by people who completely missed the point of the concept.

I include Sacha Baron Cohen in that list.


Also Bourne Identity > Casino Royale. All the moreso considering the producers were actively attempting to capture the "gritty thriller" ascetic Bourne brought in their Bond reboot.

[jesse_custer]

I consider Royale better because the camerawork in Identity is horrendous.

[rick]

I consider Royale better because the camerawork in Identity is horrendous.


I didn't really like all that hand held stuff either.

But for acting and story, Bourne was in my opinion a far superior film to Royale,

[moebius]

I consider Royale better because the camerawork in Identity is horrendous.

You're thinking of the other two. Identity was directed by Lyman and not Greensgrass, and wasn't filmed with shaky-cam.

[jesse_custer]

I know that Identity has a different director. The camerawork is still pretty bad.

[Toku King]

Are we finishing the list or not?

[ultramandingo]

28. Gangs of New York – During this film’s long running time, Martin Scorsese injects a traditional revenge tale within the frame of a dark corner in America’s history. As he did in “Raging Bull,” Scorsese strives for authenticity (check out the DVD extras and the “The Gangs of New York” novel by Herbert Asbury for more info). Anchoring this film is the method actor’s method actor, Daniel Day-Lewis, who developed a unique accent and a killer’s mentality, among other things, to portray Bill the Butcher. Scorsese’s uncompromising vision is only slightly marred by an inept performance from Cameron Diaz, who just doesn’t fit well in this period piece.
.

.........fun fact ! Scorsese wanted to do this back in the 70s staring the CLASH !!!! man he must of done a lot of coke back then - woulda had a amazing soundtrack thou

[Stony]

Johnny_Luck and Toku King:
If you really must insist of trying to out-snark each other, take it to PM.

[mattx110]

I know that Identity has a different director. The camerawork is still pretty bad.

i think it's more inconsistent than bad. didn't it have more than one director? that could lead to some issues with camera work. it's amazing they were able to edit out a good film.
by supremacy bourne is arrogant and impossible to injure despite throwing himself into car crashes explosions fights windows and far drops. identity he was still as lost as everyone else.

casino royale was pretty good too. the people i watched it with didn't seem to love it though. though consensus, wright was a great felix.

[The Zapper]

I'm with Toku King, ATHF for #1!

[jessecuster3]

You're thinking of the other two. Identity was directed by Lyman and not Greensgrass, and wasn't filmed with shaky-cam.

Its not shaky-cam, its handheld. I think while it may bother some, it definitely makes the audience feel as if they, too, are a part of the movie.

[jesse_custer]

Still working on these last several films, but here's a trailer of "There Will Be Blood!" I recently saw this trailer before watching the great "3:10 to Yuma."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37BwmU1Am1I

I wouldn't be surprised if this turns out being one of the best films of this year and the 2000s.