Some of these films became instant classics, while others gained cult followings in the years that followed.
WhileTrafficis excellent,Erin Brockovichjust beats it in terms of entertainment value.
Bret Easton Ellis, who wrote the original novel, consideredAmerican Psychoto be unfilmable, yet directorMary Harronnailed it.
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8’Battle Royale' (2000)
Directed by Kinji Fukasaku
“Life is a game.
So fight for survival and see if you’re worth it.”
This is a dystopian thriller done right, towering over imitators likeThe Hunger Games.
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The violence is explosive and the storytelling kinetic, emphasizing the critique of social control and authoritarian governments.
But another key part of what makesBattle Royalework is the fact that it’s essentially an ensemble drama.
Not for nothing,Quentin TarantinohascalledBattle Royaleone of the greatest films of all time.
No action without reaction.
No desire without restraint.
Now give yourself up and find yourself again."
The fight sequences, choreographed byYuen Woo-Ping, feel like elegant dances, defying gravity with breathtaking grace.
Instead, they navigate a world of stolen glances, lingering silences, and bittersweet longing.
This is simply a gorgeous, exquisite film, from the music and cinematography to the heartfelt performances.
His recreation of this particular time and place is also evocative, almost dreamlike, oozing nostalgia.
A righteous infliction of retribution manifested by an appropriate agent.
It’s certainly one of Pitt’s more offbeat roles.
Even back in 2000,Christopher Nolan’s storytelling prowess was considerable.
WithMemento, he shows off his skill at handling nonlinear structures and mind-bending plots.
1’Gladiator' (2000)
Directed by Ridley Scott
“Are you not entertained?”
Image via Lionsgate
Crowe plays his part with gravitas, making him into a near-mythic figure.
Phoenix is also terrific but in the opposite way, making Commodus delightfully loathsome.
NEXT:The 10 Worst Movies That Ripped Off Quentin Tarantino, Ranked
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In ancient Rome, after the death of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, loyal general Maximus is betrayed and sentenced to death by the new emperor, Commodus. Escaping execution, Maximus is enslaved and forced to fight as a gladiator, where his skills and honor lead him toward a path of vengeance and redemption.
