100 best films of the 21st century: a definitive guide to modern cinema's masterpieces

Economic Times

3 days ago

Explore the ultimate list of the 100 best 21st-century films that shaped modern cinema. This curated guide highlights visionary directors, groundbreaking storytelling, and global perspectives, offering cinephiles and critics an essential resource for contemporary film excellence. Discover the must-see movies that defined a cinematic generation
Discover the most influential 21st-century films that redefined global cinema, an essential visual journey through modern masterpieces, visionary directors, and groundbreaking storytelling.
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Artistic achievements and genre redefinitions
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Critically acclaimed narratives
Emerging voices and master craftsmen
Global perspectives in contemporary film
Cinema in the 21st century has undergone a dynamic evolution, blending technological innovation with daring storytelling. From digital cinematography and immersive world-building to genre-bending narratives, filmmakers have redefined how audiences experience stories. This curated list of 100 standout films represents the defining artistic, cultural, and narrative achievements that have shaped global cinema since 2000. Whether through experimental aesthetics or powerful realism, these films continue to influence the art form and provoke dialogue across diverse audiences and generations.While commercial success remains relevant, this list prioritizes cinematic impact, originality, and critical recognition. Each selection stands as a landmark of storytelling, chosen not only for excellence in craft but also for lasting resonance. Divided into four categories, artistic achievements, critically acclaimed narratives, emerging voices, and global perspectives. This compilation offers a panoramic view of what makes 21st-century cinema so rich and enduring. These films demonstrate that great cinema knows no borders, genres, or limitations in expression.Also read: Cancel your plans: These brand-new films just hit Netflix, Hulu, Prime and more streaming platforms These films shaped the current cinematic landscape with innovative storytelling and visual design. They redefined genres and set new benchmarks for success.Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) – George MillerEternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) – Michel GondryGet Out (2017) – Jordan PeeleMulholland Drive (2001) – David LynchHoly Motors (2012) – Leos CaraxDogtooth (2009) – Yorgos LanthimosThe Tree of Life (2011) – Terrence MalickA Ghost Story (2017) – David LowerySpring Breakers (2012) – Harmony KorineThe Grand Budapest Hotel (2014) – Wes AndersonWALL-E (2008) – Andrew StantonUnder the Skin (2013) – Jonathan GlazerSpirited Away (2001) – Hayao MiyazakiAdaptation. (2002) – Spike JonzeBlack Panther (2018) – Ryan CooglerThe Shape of Water (2017) – Guillermo del ToroEverything Everywhere All at Once (2022) – Daniel Kwan & Daniel ScheinertInside Out (2015) – Pete DocterThe Dark Knight (2008) – Christopher NolanInception (2010) – Christopher NolanThe Lobster (2015) – Yorgos LanthimosNope (2022) – Jordan PeeleAftersun (2022) – Charlotte WellsBarbarian (2022) – Zach CreggerAnnihilation (2018) – Alex GarlandAlso read: Don't hold back! Gimme those sharp, over-the-top movies of excess! These productions are celebrated for their intricate storytelling and thematic depth, often addressing complex societal issues or human experiences.There Will Be Blood (2007) – Paul Thomas AndersonMoonlight (2016) – Barry JenkinsA Separation (2011) – Asghar FarhadiThe Social Network (2010) – David FincherZodiac (2007) – David Fincher12 Years a Slave (2013) – Steve McQueenManchester by the Sea (2016) – Kenneth LonerganTár (2022) – Todd FieldRoma (2018) – Alfonso CuarónPast Lives (2023) – Celine SongCall Me by Your Name (2017) – Luca GuadagninoIda (2013) – Paweł PawlikowskiMelancholia (2011) – Lars von TrierPrisoners (2013) – Denis VilleneuveFirst Reformed (2017) – Paul SchraderMystic River (2003) – Clint EastwoodThe Power of the Dog (2021) – Jane CampionLeave No Trace (2018) – Debra GranikMargaret (2011) – Kenneth LonerganRequiem for a Dream (2000) – Darren AronofskyThe Father (2020) – Florian ZellerThe Lost Daughter (2021) – Maggie GyllenhaalRoom (2015) – Lenny AbrahamsonStill Alice (2014) – Richard Glatzer & Wash WestmorelandAtonement (2007) – Joe WrightAlso read: These terrifying horror movies are perfect for Friday the 13th — don't watch them alone Highlighting both established directors and influential new voices whose unique vision helped shape the future of filmmaking.Parasite (2019) – Bong Joon HoThe Irishman (2019) – Martin ScorseseLady Bird (2017) – Greta GerwigBoyhood (2014) – Richard LinklaterInside Llewyn Davis (2013) – Coen BrothersPain and Glory (2019) – Pedro AlmodóvarPhantom Thread (2017) – Paul Thomas AndersonThe Master (2012) – Paul Thomas AndersonThe Souvenir (2019) – Joanna HoggThe Babadook (2014) – Jennifer KentIncendies (2010) – Denis VilleneuveHunger (2008) – Steve McQueenHer (2013) – Spike Jonze25th Hour (2002) – Spike LeeA History of Violence (2005) – David CronenbergThe Florida Project (2017) – Sean BakerSound of Metal (2019) – Darius MarderThe Rider (2017) – Chloé ZhaoBeasts of the Southern Wild (2012) – Benh ZeitlinThe Farewell (2019) – Lulu WangPromising Young Woman (2020) – Emerald FennellThe Worst Person in the World (2021) – Joachim TrierNapoleon Dynamite (2004) – Jared HessMe and You and Everyone We Know (2005) – Miranda JulyBeginners (2010) – Mike MillsAlso read: US president Donald Trump announces 100% tariffs on all movies produced abroad to protect Hollywood Films reflecting diverse cultural narratives and international artistry, offering insight into the global richness of modern cinema.In the Mood for Love (2000) – Wong Kar-WaiYi Yi (2000) – Edward Yang4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days (2007) – Cristian MungiuY Tu Mamá También (2001) – Alfonso CuarónDrive My Car (2021) – Ryusuke HamaguchiUncle Boonmee Who Can Remember His Past Lives (2010) – Apichatpong WeerasethakulThe Assassin (2015) – Hou Hsiao-HsienLeviathan (2012) – Castaing-Taylor & ParavelCache (2005) – Michael HanekeFaces Places (2017) – Agnès Varda & JRThe Act of Killing (2012) – Joshua OppenheimerCapernaum (2018) – Nadine LabakiThe Host (2006) – Bong Joon HoSelma (2014) – Ava DuVernayCertified Copy (2010) – Abbas KiarostamiI Am Not Your Negro (2016) – Raoul PeckA Prophet (2009) – Jacques AudiardToni Erdmann (2016) – Maren AdeBurning (2018) – Lee Chang-dongTimbuktu (2014) – Abderrahmane SissakoAtlantics (2019) – Mati DiopThe Lunchbox (2013) – Ritesh BatraPersepolis (2007) – Marjane SatrapiCity of God (2002) – Fernando Meirelles & Kátia LundWaltz with Bashir (2008) – Ari Folman