21st Century Films: Filmmaker & Actor Picks
- As part of The New York Times' unveiling of the 100 best films of the 21st century, prominent actors and directors shared their personal top ten lists, revealing...
- The selections include both expected and surprising choices.
- Among the frequently mentioned films are "The Act of Killing," "Aftersun," "another Round," "beau Travail," "Birdman," "Borat," "Boyhood," "Bridesmaids," "Brokeback Mountain," and "Call Me By Your Name." Other...
Discover the definitive list of the best 21st-century films, as chosen by the filmmakers and actors who shaped modern cinema. The New York Times polled industry heavyweights for their top ten picks, resulting in a engaging mosaic of cinematic excellence. See which primary_keyword, including ”The dark Knight,” “Parasite,” and “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” resonated most with these cinematic leaders. Explore the secondary_keyword, uncover surprising choices, and identify the recurring favorites that have left a lasting legacy. News Directory 3 brings you exclusive insights into these film selections. Plus, dive into the diverse selections, revealing the evolving role of storytelling in film. Find out what film will be crowned number one later this week. Discover what’s next …
Filmmakers and Actors Pick the Best Films of the 21st Century
Updated June 24, 2025
As part of The New York Times’ unveiling of the 100 best films of the 21st century, prominent actors and directors shared their personal top ten lists, revealing a diverse range of cinematic preferences. The role of these filmmakers in shaping modern cinema is undeniable.
The selections include both expected and surprising choices. Luca Guadagnino, for example, favored “Ghosts of mars,” while Patton Oswalt championed “The Nice Guys,” and Josh Safdie picked “Behind the Candelabra.” Several titles emerged as recurring favorites among the voters, highlighting their lasting impact on the film industry. These films play a significant role in defining cinematic excellence.
Among the frequently mentioned films are “The Act of Killing,” “Aftersun,” “another Round,” “beau Travail,” “Birdman,” “Borat,” “Boyhood,” “Bridesmaids,” “Brokeback Mountain,” and “Call Me By Your Name.” Other notable mentions include “Children of Men,” “City of God,” “Crouching Tiger hidden Dragon,” “The Dark Knight,” “the Departed,” and “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.” The diverse selection underscores the evolving role of storytelling in film.
Additional films that garnered multiple votes include “ex machina,” “Fish Tank,” “Get Out,” “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” “Gravity,” “Grizzly Man,” “Hero,” “The Incredibles,” “In the Mood for Love,” “Inglourious Basterds,” “Inside Out,” “Interstellar,” and “Krisha.” The lasting impact of these films highlights their role in shaping contemporary culture.
Also frequently cited were “The Lives of Others,” “Mad Max: Fury Road,” “memories of Murder,” “Moneyball,” “Moonlight,” “Mulholland Drive,” “No Country for Old men,” “Oldboy,” “Oppenheimer,” “Parasite,” “Portrait of a Lady on fire,” and “Punch Drunk Love.” These films demonstrate the multifaceted role of cinema in reflecting society.
Rounding out the list of popular choices are “Rachel Getting Married,” “Requiem for a Dream,” “The Social Network,” “Spirited Away,” “Spotlight,” “Talk to Her,” “Team America: World Police,” “There Will Be Blood,” “Under the Skin,” “Wall-E,” “The Worst Person in the World,” “Zodiac,” and “The Zone of Interest.”
What’s next
The New York times will continue to reveal its list of the 100 best films, culminating in the announcement of the number one film later this week. The complete lists from nearly 200 participants offer a extensive look at the most influential movies of the 21st century.