Best-Rated Movies from 2000

The year 2000 was a fantastic time for movies, marking a transition into a new millennium of filmmaking. It was a year filled with memorable stories that captured our imaginations and introduced us to incredible characters. From epic historical dramas to mind-bending thrillers and heartwarming animated tales, the films of 2000 left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike, setting a high bar for the decade to come.

This was a year that showcased a remarkable diversity in genres and styles, offering something for everyone to enjoy. We saw visionary directors pushing the boundaries of storytelling and actors delivering powerful, career-defining performances. Whether you were laughing, crying, or on the edge of your seat, the movies of 2000 provided unforgettable cinematic experiences that continue to be celebrated and discussed by film lovers all over the world.

‘Gladiator’ (2000)

‘Gladiator’ is an epic historical drama that tells the story of a Roman general named Maximus Decimus Meridius. After being betrayed by the ambitious son of the emperor, Maximus is forced into slavery and rises through the ranks of the gladiatorial arena to seek revenge against the corrupt new emperor. The film is directed by Ridley Scott and features a powerful performance by Russell Crowe in the lead role.

The story was written by David Franzoni, John Logan, and William Nicholson. The film also stars Joaquin Phoenix as the treacherous Emperor Commodus, Connie Nielsen as Lucilla, and Oliver Reed in his final film role as Proximo. The film was widely praised for its thrilling action sequences, compelling story, and stunning recreation of ancient Rome, becoming a massive box office success and a cultural phenomenon.

‘Memento’ (2000)

‘Memento’ is a gripping psychological thriller with a unique narrative structure. The film follows Leonard Shelby, a man who suffers from anterograde amnesia, which means he cannot form new memories. He is on a mission to find the man who he believes attacked him and killed his wife, using a complex system of Polaroid photos and tattoos to keep track of information.

Directed by Christopher Nolan and based on a short story by his brother Jonathan Nolan, the movie is presented in two different sequences of scenes. One sequence is in black-and-white and is shown chronologically, while the other, in color, is shown in reverse order. The lead role of Leonard is played by Guy Pearce, with Carrie-Anne Moss and Joe Pantoliano in key supporting roles.

‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’ (2000)

‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’ is a visually stunning martial arts film that captivated audiences worldwide. The movie is set in 19th-century Qing Dynasty China and revolves around the theft of a legendary sword known as the Green Destiny. The story follows a master swordsman and a young noblewoman who is also a skilled warrior, as their paths cross in a tale of love, honor, and adventure.

The film was directed by Ang Lee and features an international cast including Chow Yun-fat, Michelle Yeoh, and Zhang Ziyi. The screenplay was adapted by Wang Hui-ling, James Schamus, and Tsai Kuo-jung from the novel by Wang Dulu. The movie is renowned for its breathtaking fight choreography, beautiful cinematography, and sweeping romantic story.

‘Traffic’ (2000)

‘Traffic’ is a gripping and complex crime drama that explores the illegal drug trade from multiple perspectives. The film interweaves three different storylines, following a conservative Ohio judge who is appointed as the new drug czar, a pair of DEA agents working in San Diego, and the wife of a jailed drug lord who takes over her husband’s business.

Directed by Steven Soderbergh and written by Stephen Gaghan, the film boasts a large ensemble cast that includes Michael Douglas, Don Cheadle, Benicio del Toro, and Catherine Zeta-Jones. The movie was praised for its realistic and unflinching look at the war on drugs and its intricate, character-driven narrative.

‘Almost Famous’ (2000)

‘Almost Famous’ is a heartfelt and funny coming-of-age story inspired by the director’s own experiences. The film is about a teenage journalist in the 1970s who gets the opportunity of a lifetime to write a story for Rolling Stone magazine about a rising rock band. As he tours with the band, he gets a crash course in life, love, and the world of rock and roll.

The film was written and directed by Cameron Crowe. Patrick Fugit stars as the young writer, William Miller. The cast also includes Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, and Kate Hudson in a role that earned her widespread recognition. The movie is celebrated for its fantastic soundtrack, witty script, and genuine affection for the music and culture of the era.

‘Requiem for a Dream’ (2000)

‘Requiem for a Dream’ is a powerful and intense psychological drama that examines the devastating effects of addiction. The film follows four characters from Coney Island whose lives spiral out of control as they chase their different versions of happiness through drug use. Their dreams and realities become increasingly distorted, leading to a harrowing and unforgettable conclusion.

The movie was directed by Darren Aronofsky and is based on the novel of the same name by Hubert Selby Jr., who also co-wrote the screenplay. The cast features Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly, and Marlon Wayans, all of whom deliver raw and compelling performances. The film is known for its stylized direction, fast-paced editing, and haunting musical score.

‘Erin Brockovich’ (2000)

‘Erin Brockovich’ is a biographical film based on the true story of an unemployed single mother who becomes a legal clerk and takes on a powerful corporation. The film follows Erin as she uncovers a case of groundwater contamination in a small California town and fights for the rights of the affected residents, despite having no formal legal training.

Julia Roberts stars in the title role, a performance that was highly praised and earned her significant acclaim. The film was directed by Steven Soderbergh and the screenplay was written by Susannah Grant. Albert Finney also stars as Erin’s boss, Ed Masry. The movie was a critical and commercial success, celebrated for its inspiring story and Roberts’ charismatic performance.

‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’ (2000)

‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’ is a unique and entertaining adventure comedy set in rural Mississippi during the Great Depression. The story is loosely based on Homer’s epic poem ‘The Odyssey’ and follows three escaped convicts on a journey to retrieve a hidden treasure. Along the way, they encounter a series of eccentric characters and have a number of misadventures.

Directed by the Coen Brothers, Joel and Ethan Coen, the film stars George Clooney, John Turturro, and Tim Blake Nelson as the trio of fugitives. The movie is known for its witty dialogue, quirky humor, and an acclaimed bluegrass and folk soundtrack that became a surprise hit.

‘Amores Perros’ (2000)

‘Amores Perros’ is a powerful Mexican drama film that tells three distinct stories connected by a car crash in Mexico City. Each story explores themes of love, loss, and the harsh realities of life, with the characters’ lives intersecting in unexpected and profound ways. The title translates to ‘Love’s a Bitch’, reflecting the film’s gritty and unflinching look at human relationships and survival.

This was the debut feature film for director Alejandro G. Iñárritu, and it was written by Guillermo Arriaga. The movie features a talented ensemble cast, including Gael García Bernal in one of his early roles. ‘Amores Perros’ was praised for its raw energy, complex narrative, and intense emotional impact, announcing Iñárritu as a major new voice in cinema.

‘Yi Yi’ (2000)

‘Yi Yi’ is a Taiwanese drama that beautifully captures the lives of a middle-class family in Taipei. The film is told from the perspectives of three different family members a father, a teenage daughter, and a young son. The story gently unfolds as they navigate their personal and professional struggles, offering a poignant and insightful look at everyday life and the search for meaning.

The film was written and directed by Edward Yang. The title means ‘A One and a Two’ in English, and the movie is celebrated for its patient, observant style and its profound understanding of human emotions. ‘Yi Yi’ received widespread critical acclaim for its thoughtful storytelling, rich characters, and the universal themes it explores with such grace and honesty.

‘Best in Show’ (2000)

‘Best in Show’ is a hilarious mockumentary that follows a group of eccentric dog owners as they prepare for and compete in a prestigious national dog show. The film satirizes the competitive and often absurd world of dog shows through its quirky and memorable characters, each of whom is passionately devoted to their canine companion.

Directed by Christopher Guest, who also co-wrote the script with Eugene Levy, the movie features a brilliant ensemble cast of improvisational actors, including Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Parker Posey, and Fred Willard. The film’s humor comes from the deadpan delivery and the hilarious interactions between the characters, making it a beloved comedy classic.

‘American Psycho’ (2000)

‘American Psycho’ is a dark and satirical horror film that delves into the mind of a wealthy and materialistic New York City investment banker in the 1980s. The main character, Patrick Bateman, leads a double life as a serial killer, and the film blurs the lines between reality and hallucination as it explores themes of consumerism, identity, and male vanity.

The movie was directed by Mary Harron, who co-wrote the screenplay with Guinevere Turner, based on the novel by Bret Easton Ellis. Christian Bale delivers a chilling and iconic performance as Patrick Bateman. The film also features supporting roles from Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, and Reese Witherspoon. It has become a cult classic, known for its sharp social commentary and Bale’s memorable portrayal.

‘In the Mood for Love’ (2000)

‘In the Mood for Love’ is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant romantic drama from Hong Kong. The film is set in 1962 and tells the story of a man and a woman who live in the same apartment building and discover that their respective spouses are having an affair. As they form a bond over their shared loneliness and betrayal, they grapple with their own growing feelings for each other.

Directed by Wong Kar-wai, the film stars Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung. It is renowned for its lush cinematography, evocative use of color and music, and the subtle, powerful performances of its leads. The movie is a masterpiece of mood and atmosphere, beautifully capturing the unspoken longing and repressed emotions of its characters.

‘Cast Away’ (2000)

‘Cast Away’ is a compelling survival drama about a FedEx executive whose plane crashes over the Pacific Ocean. He washes up on a deserted island and must learn to survive with no one to help him and no way to contact the outside world. The film is a powerful story of human endurance, hope, and the will to live against all odds.

The movie was directed by Robert Zemeckis and stars Tom Hanks in a remarkable solo performance for much of the film’s runtime. Hanks’ portrayal of Chuck Noland earned him widespread acclaim. The screenplay was written by William Broyles Jr. A key element of the story is the character’s relationship with a volleyball he names Wilson, which serves as his only companion.

‘Billy Elliot’ (2000)

‘Billy Elliot’ is a heartwarming and inspiring British film set during the 1984–85 coal miners’ strike in northeastern England. The story is about an 11-year-old boy from a working-class family who discovers a passion for ballet. He secretly attends dance classes, defying the expectations of his father and brother, who want him to take up boxing.

The movie was directed by Stephen Daldry and written by Lee Hall. Jamie Bell gives a fantastic performance in the title role, and the cast also includes Gary Lewis as his father and Julie Walters as his ballet teacher. ‘Billy Elliot’ is a moving and uplifting story about following your dreams and challenging social conventions.

‘Chicken Run’ (2000)

‘Chicken Run’ is a delightful stop-motion animated comedy from the creators of ‘Wallace and Gromit’. The film is a parody of classic prison escape movies, but with a cast of chickens who are determined to fly the coop before they are turned into pies. The story follows the ambitious hen Ginger and a charming American rooster named Rocky as they plot a daring escape from their farm.

The movie was produced by Aardman Animations and directed by Peter Lord and Nick Park. The voice cast includes Julia Sawalha as Ginger and Mel Gibson as Rocky. ‘Chicken Run’ was a huge success, praised for its clever humor, charming characters, and incredible animation.

‘High Fidelity’ (2000)

‘High Fidelity’ is a smart and funny romantic comedy about a record store owner and music obsessive named Rob Gordon. The film follows Rob as he recounts his top five most painful breakups in an attempt to understand his own romantic failings after his latest girlfriend leaves him. The story is a witty and relatable look at love, relationships, and the way music shapes our lives.

The movie was directed by Stephen Frears and is based on the novel by Nick Hornby. John Cusack stars as Rob Gordon, and he also co-wrote the screenplay. The cast includes Jack Black in a breakout role as one of Rob’s quirky employees. The film is beloved for its sharp dialogue, great soundtrack, and honest portrayal of relationships.

‘Chocolat’ (2000)

‘Chocolat’ is a charming and magical film set in a traditional French village. The story follows a mysterious woman and her young daughter who arrive in town and open a chocolate shop during Lent. Her delicious creations begin to awaken the suppressed desires of the villagers, much to the displeasure of the town’s conservative mayor.

The film was directed by Lasse Hallström and is based on the novel by Joanne Harris. Juliette Binoche stars as the free-spirited Vianne Rocher. The cast also includes Judi Dench, Alfred Molina, and Johnny Depp. ‘Chocolat’ is a sweet and enchanting tale about tolerance, temptation, and the simple pleasures of life.

‘The Emperor’s New Groove’ (2000)

‘The Emperor’s New Groove’ is a hilarious and fast-paced animated comedy from Disney. The story follows a selfish and arrogant young emperor who is transformed into a llama by his scheming ex-advisor. To turn back into a human, he must rely on the help of a kind-hearted peasant, and along the way, he learns a valuable lesson in humility and friendship.

The movie features a fantastic voice cast, with David Spade as Emperor Kuzco, John Goodman as Pacha, Eartha Kitt as the villainous Yzma, and Patrick Warburton as her dim-witted henchman Kronk. The film is known for its slapstick humor, memorable one-liners, and unique, self-aware style that sets it apart from other Disney animated features.

‘X-Men’ (2000)

‘X-Men’ is a superhero film that brought the popular Marvel Comics team to the big screen and helped kick off the modern era of comic book movies. The story introduces a world where a small percentage of people are mutants with extraordinary powers. It centers on the conflict between two groups of mutants the X-Men, who seek peaceful coexistence with humans, and the Brotherhood of Mutants, who believe in mutant superiority.

Directed by Bryan Singer, the film features an ensemble cast that includes Patrick Stewart as Professor X, Ian McKellen as Magneto, Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, Halle Berry as Storm, and Anna Paquin as Rogue. The movie was praised for its action sequences, thematic depth, and strong performances, successfully translating the beloved characters and their struggles to film.

‘Meet the Parents’ (2000)

‘Meet the Parents’ is a very funny comedy about the stress and anxiety of meeting your significant other’s family for the first time. The film follows a male nurse named Greg Focker as he spends a weekend at his girlfriend’s parents’ house, desperately trying to make a good impression. Unfortunately for him, a series of disastrous and awkward mishaps ensue, especially with her intimidating, ex-CIA father.

The movie was directed by Jay Roach and stars Ben Stiller as Greg and Robert De Niro as the formidable father-in-law, Jack Byrnes. The comedic chemistry between Stiller and De Niro is a highlight of the film. ‘Meet the Parents’ was a huge box office hit, and its relatable premise and cringe-worthy humor resonated with audiences everywhere.

‘Pitch Black’ (2000)

‘Pitch Black’ is a thrilling science fiction action film that introduces the iconic anti-hero character Richard B. Riddick. The story follows the survivors of a transport ship that crash-lands on a desolate desert planet. They soon discover that the planet is inhabited by deadly, light-sensitive creatures that come out to hunt in the dark during a total eclipse.

The film was directed by David Twohy, who also co-wrote the screenplay. Vin Diesel stars as Riddick, a dangerous convict being transported on the ship, whose unique ability to see in the dark becomes the group’s only hope for survival. ‘Pitch Black’ became a cult classic, praised for its suspenseful atmosphere, exciting action, and Diesel’s star-making performance.

‘Snatch’ (2000)

‘Snatch’ is a stylish and energetic British crime comedy with a tangled plot and a large cast of colorful characters. The film weaves together two main storylines one involving the search for a stolen diamond, and the other centered on a small-time boxing promoter who gets into trouble with a ruthless gangster. The stories collide in a chaotic and humorous series of events.

Written and directed by Guy Ritchie, the movie features his signature fast-paced editing and witty, profanity-laced dialogue. The ensemble cast includes Jason Statham, Stephen Graham, and Brad Pitt in a memorable role as an Irish Traveller bare-knuckle boxer. ‘Snatch’ is a fun and cleverly constructed crime caper with a lot of attitude.

‘Unbreakable’ (2000)

‘Unbreakable’ is a unique and grounded take on the superhero genre. The film tells the story of David Dunn, a security guard who is the sole survivor of a devastating train crash and emerges without a single scratch. He is then contacted by a mysterious comic book art gallery owner with a rare disease, who believes that David has superhuman abilities.

The movie was written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan and reunites him with ‘The Sixth Sense’ star Bruce Willis, who plays David Dunn. Samuel L. Jackson co-stars as the fragile but brilliant Elijah Price. ‘Unbreakable’ is a suspenseful and thought-provoking thriller that deconstructs superhero mythology in a realistic and compelling way.

‘Battle Royale’ (2000)

‘Battle Royale’ is a controversial and influential Japanese action thriller. In the near future, the Japanese government has passed a law to deal with juvenile delinquency. As a result, a class of ninth-grade students is taken to a deserted island and forced to fight to the death until only one survivor remains. Each student is given a random weapon and a collar that will explode if they break the rules.

The film was directed by Kinji Fukasaku and is based on the novel by Koushun Takami. The movie is known for its shocking violence, dark satire, and social commentary. ‘Battle Royale’ became a cultural phenomenon and has had a significant impact on popular culture, influencing many other works in the “battle royale” genre.

‘Dancer in the Dark’ (2000)

‘Dancer in the Dark’ is a powerful and unconventional musical drama. The film stars Icelandic musician Björk as Selma, a Czech immigrant and factory worker in rural America who is saving money for an operation to prevent her son from going blind from the same genetic condition that she has. As her own eyesight deteriorates, she escapes into elaborate daydreams of musical numbers.

The movie was written and directed by Lars von Trier. It is known for its raw, handheld camerawork and the striking contrast between its gritty reality and its vibrant, stylized musical sequences. Björk’s performance was highly acclaimed, and she also composed the film’s soundtrack. ‘Dancer in the Dark’ is a deeply moving and emotionally devastating film.

‘Wonder Boys’ (2000)

‘Wonder Boys’ is a smart and funny comedy-drama about a creative writing professor and novelist who is struggling to finish his long-awaited second book. Over the course of a chaotic weekend at a university literary festival, he deals with a series of personal and professional crises involving his editor, his mistress, and a gifted but troubled student.

The film was directed by Curtis Hanson and is based on the novel by Michael Chabon. Michael Douglas stars as Professor Grady Tripp. The cast also includes Tobey Maguire as the talented student, Robert Downey Jr. as the editor, and Frances McDormand as the mistress. ‘Wonder Boys’ was praised for its witty script and strong performances.

‘What Lies Beneath’ (2000)

‘What Lies Beneath’ is a supernatural horror-thriller that builds suspense and a sense of unease. The story centers on a woman who, after her daughter leaves for college, begins to experience strange and frightening occurrences in her home. She starts to believe that her house is haunted, possibly by the ghost of a missing young woman, and begins to suspect that her husband is hiding a dark secret.

The movie was directed by Robert Zemeckis and stars Michelle Pfeiffer and Harrison Ford as the central couple. It is a stylish and suspenseful film that pays homage to the thrillers of Alfred Hitchcock. The film keeps the audience guessing with its twists and turns, leading to a tense and exciting climax.

‘Final Destination’ (2000)

‘Final Destination’ is a clever and suspenseful horror film with a unique premise. The movie follows a high school student who has a premonition of a deadly plane crash and manages to save himself and a group of his classmates. However, they soon learn that they can’t cheat death, as an unseen force begins to hunt them down one by one in a series of bizarre and elaborate accidents.

The film was directed by James Wong and stars Devon Sawa, Ali Larter, and Kerr Smith. The concept of death itself as the villain was a fresh and creative take on the horror genre. ‘Final Destination’ was a commercial success and is known for its inventive and often shocking death sequences, which became a hallmark of the franchise it launched.

‘Bring It On’ (2000)

‘Bring It On’ is a fun and energetic teen comedy that has become a cult classic. The film is about a champion high school cheerleading squad that discovers that their former captain stole all of their best routines from a rival squad in another part of town. The new captain is determined to lead her team to victory at the national championships with an original routine.

The movie was directed by Peyton Reed and stars Kirsten Dunst, Eliza Dushku, and Gabrielle Union. ‘Bring It On’ is celebrated for its witty script, memorable quotes, and fun cheerleading sequences. The film also touches on themes of cultural appropriation and sportsmanship, adding a layer of substance to its upbeat and entertaining story.

What are your favorite movies that came out in the year 2000?