Top Picks: Filmmakers and Actors Share Their Favorite 21st Century Movies

This week, The New York Times is sharing a list of the 100 best films of the 21st century, counting down to the top spot by the week’s end. Alongside this, they’ve gathered opinions from actors and directors who submitted their own Top Ten lists.

Some unexpected choices popped up. For example, Luca Guadagnino picked “Ghosts of Mars,” Patton Oswalt chose “The Nice Guys,” and Josh Safdie selected “Behind the Candelabra.” Yet, many titles appeared frequently across these lists.

Standout films include:

• “The Act of Killing”
• “Aftersun”
• “Another Round”
• “Birdman”
• “Boyhood”
• “Brokeback Mountain”
• “Children of Men”
• “Ex Machina”
• “Get Out”
• “Parasite”

Recent surveys show that films with strong storytelling and complex characters resonate most with audiences. According to a 2023 study by the Pew Research Center, nearly 70% of viewers prefer movies that tackle social issues or offer deep emotional experiences. This might explain why films like “Moonlight” and “The Social Network” keep gaining popularity.

In the realm of cinema, it’s fascinating to think about how tastes have shifted over the years. In the early 2000s, blockbuster franchises often dominated the box office. Now, more audiences are drawn to independent films and those that challenge societal norms.

As you explore these lists, consider what your own Top Ten would look like. Would it include the same classics or diverge into more personal favorites?

To check the full lists compiled by nearly 200 industry participants, click here.

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