If you find yourself in search of something to watch beyond the standard Netflix or Amazon Prime fare, take look at our top ten. The following list consists of ten American films from the 21st century that have stood out as some of the best in terms of critical acclaim, audience reception, and cultural impact.
1. The Social Network (2010)
Directed by David Fincher and written by Aaron Sorkin, The Social Network tells the story of Mark Zuckerberg and the founding of Facebook. The film was praised for its sharp script, exceptional performances, and stylish direction, earning critical acclaim and several awards, including three Oscars.
2. Moonlight (2016)
Barry Jenkins’ coming-of-age drama Moonlight follows the life of a young black man growing up in Miami. The film’s stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and intimate storytelling earned it widespread acclaim and the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2017.
3. No Country for Old Men (2007)
The Coen Brothers’ No Country for Old Men is a modern Western that tells the story of a man who stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong and becomes the target of a ruthless hitman. The film’s tense pacing, brutal violence, and thought-provoking themes earned it four Oscars and widespread critical acclaim.
4. There Will Be Blood (2007)
Paul Thomas Anderson’s There Will Be Blood follows an ambitious oil prospector in early 20th century America. The film’s stunning cinematography, Daniel Day-Lewis’ mesmerizing performance, and its exploration of power, greed, and family dynamics make it one of the best films of the 21st century.
5. The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight re-imagines the Batman mythology with a darker, more complex tone. Heath Ledger’s iconic performance as the Joker, combined with Nolan’s intricate storytelling and stunning action sequences, make this film one of the best superhero movies ever made.
6. Inside Out (2015)
Pixar’s Inside Out is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful exploration of the inner workings of the human mind. The film’s unique concept, outstanding voice performances, and heartfelt storytelling make it one of the best animated films of the 21st century.
7. Boyhood (2014)
Richard Linklater’s Boyhood is a groundbreaking film that was shot over the course of twelve years, following the life of a young boy as he grows up. The film’s innovative concept, outstanding performances, and intimate storytelling earned it widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards.
8. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel is a quirky, visually stunning comedy that tells the story of a legendary hotel concierge and his young protégé. The film’s outstanding cast, intricate production design, and Anderson’s distinctive style make it one of the best comedies of the 21st century.
9. The Departed (2006)
Martin Scorsese’s The Departed is a gripping crime drama that follows two undercover cops trying to take down a notorious gangster in Boston. The film’s outstanding ensemble cast, tense pacing, and complex storytelling earned it four Oscars and widespread critical acclaim.
10. Get Out (2017)
Jordan Peele’s Get Out is a genre-defying horror film that tackles issues of racism, identity, and cultural appropriation. The film’s outstanding performances, clever script, and deft direction earned it widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards, including an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.