From ‘Gladiator’ to ‘American Psycho’: 20 Movies From 2000 That Became Legends

From ‘Gladiator’ to ‘American Psycho’: 20 Movies From 2000 That Became Legends

The year 2000 feels like it was just yesterday, but somehow it’s now a full quarter-century in the past. The world was worried about Y2K, everyone had a flip phone, and the movie theater was still the best place to spend a Friday night. What we didn’t realize at the time was that many of those “new releases” would end up becoming modern classics.

1. Gladiator

Few films made audiences feel as grandly transported as Ridley Scott’s Gladiator. The sweeping story of a betrayed Roman general turned slave who fights his way to vengeance struck a chord with just about everyone. Russell Crowe’s intense performance as Maximus made him an instant icon — and gave us the immortal line, “Are you not entertained?”

The movie was a stunning blend of old-school storytelling and new-age spectacle. Its breathtaking battle scenes and emotional depth reminded audiences that blockbusters could also be rich in meaning.

More than two decades later, Gladiator still commands respect as one of the best historical epics ever made. It revived interest in ancient Rome, influenced countless films and TV shows, and proved that honor, revenge, and a well-swung sword never go out of style.

2. American Psycho

It’s wild to think that American Psycho was once considered controversial — now, it’s practically required viewing for anyone who loves dark humor and biting social commentary. Christian Bale’s chilling (and weirdly funny) take on Patrick Bateman redefined what it meant to play an antihero.

On the surface, it’s a story about a wealthy Manhattan investment banker who’s hiding a murderous double life. But beneath the blood and chaos is a razor-sharp satire of vanity, capitalism, and the obsession with perfection that defined the late ‘80s — and, let’s be honest, still defines a lot of social media today.

The film has aged remarkably well, becoming a meme machine and cultural touchstone. From the “business card” scene to Bateman’s morning routine, it’s a movie that’s both horrifying and hilarious — and still disturbingly relevant.

3. Requiem for a Dream

There’s no easy way to watch Requiem for a Dream, and that’s exactly why it’s unforgettable. Darren Aronofsky’s unflinching look at addiction is as visually stunning as it is emotionally devastating.

The film’s hypnotic editing, pulsating score, and intense performances make it feel like a fever dream that slowly turns into a nightmare. Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly, and Ellen Burstyn each give performances that are raw and painful to witness — yet impossible to look away from.

While it’s not a “fun” movie by any stretch, its honesty and artistry have earned it classic status. Requiem for a Dream changed how filmmakers approached stories about self-destruction, and its haunting ending still lingers long after the credits roll.

4. Memento

Christopher Nolan’s Memento wasn’t just a movie — it was a puzzle audiences couldn’t stop talking about. Told backward, this psychological thriller follows a man with short-term memory loss trying to solve his wife’s murder.

Guy Pearce delivered a career-defining performance as Leonard, a man relying on tattoos and Polaroids to keep track of his reality. The story forces you to question what’s true, what’s imagined, and how much of our lives depend on the stories we tell ourselves.

Memento became an instant cult favorite and solidified Nolan as one of the smartest storytellers in Hollywood. It paved the way for mind-bending cinema and proved that audiences were more than ready for films that challenged them to think.

5. Cast Away

It’s rare for a movie featuring only one main character to hold your attention for over two hours — but Cast Away pulled it off perfectly. Tom Hanks delivered one of his most powerful performances as Chuck Noland, a man stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash.

His desperate friendship with a volleyball named Wilson became one of the most memorable movie moments of all time. The film’s simple story of survival and resilience resonated deeply with audiences, especially during moments of isolation in later years.

At its core, Cast Away is about rediscovering what truly matters — hope, connection, and the will to keep going. Even now, it remains one of the most human stories ever told on screen.

6. Erin Brockovich

When Julia Roberts took on the role of Erin Brockovich, she wasn’t just playing a character — she was embodying a real-life powerhouse who refused to take “no” for an answer. The film tells the inspiring story of a single mother who takes on a massive energy corporation accused of poisoning a town’s water supply.

What makes the movie so timeless isn’t just its David-versus-Goliath message, but Erin’s unshakable belief in justice. Roberts’ performance — fiery, funny, and full of heart — earned her a well-deserved Oscar and reminded audiences that one determined person can change the world.

Even decades later, Erin Brockovich stands as a reminder that persistence and empathy can be just as powerful as a law degree. It’s the kind of story that leaves you cheering for the underdog long after the credits roll.

7. Traffic

Steven Soderbergh’s Traffic didn’t just explore the war on drugs — it dissected it. Told through multiple interwoven stories, the film showed how addiction, corruption, and desperation touch every level of society. It’s the rare crime drama that feels both epic in scope and deeply personal in emotion.

Michael Douglas, Benicio del Toro, and Catherine Zeta-Jones each deliver powerhouse performances that give the film its emotional punch. The distinctive color grading — different tones for different storylines — added a cinematic texture that was groundbreaking at the time.

Traffic was both a critical and commercial success, earning four Academy Awards and cementing its reputation as one of the smartest, most nuanced crime dramas of the early 2000s. It remains a sobering reminder that even with good intentions, there are no easy solutions.

8. Meet the Parents

Before there was the multiverse of awkward family comedies, there was Meet the Parents. Ben Stiller’s anxious everyman, Greg Focker, meeting his girlfriend’s intimidating father (Robert De Niro) was the ultimate recipe for secondhand embarrassment.

The movie struck comedy gold by blending relatable social anxiety with perfectly timed chaos — from lost cats to lie detector tests. Every cringe-worthy moment felt painfully familiar, which is exactly why it was so funny.

More than two decades later, Meet the Parents still holds up as one of the best “meeting the in-laws” movies ever made. It launched a trilogy, gave us unforgettable quotes (“I have nipples, Greg. Could you milk me?”), and proved that sometimes, laughter is the best way to survive family pressure.

9. Miss Congeniality

Sandra Bullock has played plenty of great roles, but Miss Congeniality might be her most charming. As Gracie Hart — a tomboy FBI agent forced to go undercover at a beauty pageant — Bullock balanced goofiness, vulnerability, and genuine heart.

The film was part comedy, part makeover story, and part empowerment anthem. What started as a fish-out-of-water story became something more — a celebration of embracing femininity without losing your edge. It’s funny, smart, and surprisingly progressive for its time.

Miss Congeniality remains a comfort watch that never fails to deliver smiles. Whether it’s Bullock tripping onstage or declaring “world peace,” this movie reminded us that being yourself is the most beautiful thing of all.

10. High Fidelity

John Cusack’s High Fidelity hit home for anyone who’s ever tried to make sense of heartbreak using music. Adapted from Nick Hornby’s novel, it follows a record store owner revisiting his past relationships like a playlist of regrets.

The film’s witty narration and sharp observations about love, nostalgia, and self-sabotage make it endlessly relatable. Plus, the soundtrack is pure perfection — a love letter to vinyl culture and music nerds everywhere.

Two decades later, High Fidelity feels even more relevant in a world obsessed with playlists and self-reflection. It’s not just about romantic relationships — it’s about learning to stop blaming others and finally grow up.

11. Bring It On

Who knew a cheerleading movie could become such a cultural phenomenon? Bring It On gave us pom-poms, killer routines, and a surprisingly sharp take on competition, race, and originality.

Kirsten Dunst and Gabrielle Union brought energy and confidence to their roles, turning what could’ve been a silly teen flick into something far more meaningful. The dialogue, the choreography, and the infectious spirit made it an instant favorite.

Even now, Bring It On still gets quoted (“It’s cold in here!”), referenced, and rewatched. It proved that teen comedies could have style and substance — and that cheerleaders, in the right hands, could absolutely bring the house down.

12. Best in Show

Mockumentaries don’t get much funnier — or smarter — than Best in Show. Christopher Guest’s hilarious look at competitive dog shows is packed with eccentric characters, awkward interviews, and comedic gold.

What makes it shine is its perfect balance between absurdity and heart. The characters are ridiculous, but they’re also deeply human in their desperation to win. Every actor — from Eugene Levy to Catherine O’Hara — commits so completely that you forget it’s all staged.

Best in Show became a cult favorite and remains endlessly rewatchable. Whether you’re a dog lover or just a fan of sharp, character-driven humor, this film is proof that sometimes, the funniest stories come from taking life a little too seriously.

13. X-Men

Before the Marvel Cinematic Universe took over the world, X-Men laid the groundwork. Bryan Singer’s superhero film brought comic books to life in a way that felt both serious and thrilling — something that hadn’t really been done before.

The movie’s mix of action and metaphor made it stand out. Beneath the mutant powers and epic battles was a story about identity, prejudice, and belonging. With performances from Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, and Ian McKellen, it had both brains and brawn.

More than 20 years later, X-Men still feels fresh. It kicked off a superhero boom that defined the next two decades — and made Wolverine’s cigar-chomping attitude an instant icon.

14. Mission: Impossible II

Say what you want about over-the-top action — Mission: Impossible II made it look good. Directed by John Woo, this sequel gave Tom Cruise his most stylish and adrenaline-fueled outing yet.

With slow-motion stunts, doves flying through explosions, and motorcycle chases that defied logic, the film was pure action art. Cruise’s commitment to doing his own stunts helped set the tone for what would become one of Hollywood’s most reliable franchises.

While later installments refined the formula, Mission: Impossible II remains the most flamboyant and unapologetically fun of the series. It’s proof that sometimes, excess is the point — and that Ethan Hunt’s impossible missions are here to stay.

15. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

When Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon hit theaters, audiences had never seen anything quite like it. Ang Lee’s martial arts masterpiece blended poetic storytelling, jaw-dropping fight choreography, and stunning cinematography to create something truly magical.

The movie introduced many Western viewers to the elegance of wuxia — a genre that turns combat into visual poetry. Every fight scene felt like a ballet in the clouds, graceful yet powerful, layered with emotion and symbolism. Michelle Yeoh and Chow Yun-Fat delivered performances that radiated strength, longing, and quiet heartbreak.

Decades later, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon remains one of the most visually breathtaking films ever made. It won four Oscars, inspired countless filmmakers, and proved that beauty and power can coexist — both in love and in battle.

16. The Patriot

Mel Gibson’s The Patriot brought explosive action and emotional storytelling to the Revolutionary War. As a widowed farmer reluctantly drawn into battle after his family is torn apart by tragedy, Gibson gave one of his most intense and heartfelt performances.

The movie combined large-scale war scenes with deeply personal stakes. It wasn’t just about independence — it was about sacrifice, family, and the lengths one man will go to protect what he loves. Heath Ledger, in one of his earliest roles, added even more emotional weight to the story.

While The Patriot takes creative liberties with history, its spirit of heroism and heart still resonate. It remains a staple of July 4th marathons and a reminder that courage isn’t always about grand speeches — sometimes it’s about doing the right thing when it costs you everything.

17. Unbreakable

Long before superhero fatigue set in, M. Night Shyamalan gave us one of the most grounded, thought-provoking takes on the genre with Unbreakable. The film explored what would happen if ordinary people discovered they might have extraordinary abilities — without the capes, costumes, or clichés.

Bruce Willis plays David Dunn, a quiet man who realizes he’s never been sick or injured, while Samuel L. Jackson’s Elijah Price believes it’s proof that superheroes — and supervillains — walk among us. Their performances give the story a slow-burning tension that builds to one unforgettable twist.

What makes Unbreakable endure is its realism. It treats the idea of superhuman strength not as fantasy, but as destiny — something both miraculous and isolating. It’s a rare superhero movie that dares to whisper instead of shout.

18. Pitch Black

Before Vin Diesel became a household name, he played the mysterious antihero Riddick in Pitch Black. This gritty sci-fi thriller found a perfect balance between horror and survival as a group of crash survivors realize that darkness itself hides something deadly.

What set the film apart was its atmosphere — bleak, claustrophobic, and full of tension. Riddick, with his glowing eyes and morally gray decisions, became an instant cult favorite. Diesel’s quiet menace gave the movie a pulse that never stopped racing.

Pitch Black wasn’t a huge blockbuster, but it became a fan favorite and spawned an entire franchise. Its blend of sci-fi grit and monster-movie suspense makes it one of those early-2000s gems that fans still can’t stop revisiting.

19. Final Destination

The early 2000s horror scene got a major jolt with Final Destination, a movie that flipped the genre on its head. Instead of a masked killer, death itself was the villain — and it was unstoppable.

The premise was terrifyingly simple: a group of teens cheat death after a premonition, only to find it coming back for them in increasingly creative (and horrifying) ways. What made it stand out was its originality and twisted sense of fun. Every ordinary object suddenly felt dangerous.

Over the years, Final Destination became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless sequels and memes. It also changed how we look at everyday moments — from plane takeoffs to highways — proving that you don’t need a monster when fate itself is the scariest thing imaginable.

20. Chicken Run

You wouldn’t think a movie about chickens escaping a farm would become one of the most beloved animated films ever made — but Chicken Run pulled it off brilliantly. With its clever humor, heartwarming message, and stop-motion charm, it remains a timeless classic.

The film follows a group of hens plotting their great escape from a gloomy British farm. The animation from Aardman Studios (the same team behind Wallace and Gromit) gave the movie a handcrafted warmth that CGI can’t quite replicate.

More than two decades later, Chicken Run still clucks along as a family favorite. It’s smart enough for adults, fun for kids, and endlessly quotable. It taught us that freedom, friendship, and a little ingenuity can take you far — even if you have feathers.