The Can't Miss Movies of the 2000's. Find Out Here!
The 2000s were a transformative decade for the film industry, marked by the rise of CGI, the birth of enduring franchises, and some of the most iconic movies ever made. As we throwback to this vibrant era, let's revisit the top-grossing film that defined the 2000s and captivated audiences worldwide.
Avatar (2009)
James Cameron's "Avatar" revolutionized visual effects with its groundbreaking use of 3D technology and smashed box office records. Grossing over $2.7 billion globally, "Avatar" transported viewers to Pandora's lush, alien world, combining stunning visuals with a compelling narrative about environmentalism and imperialism. Stream Avatar on Disney+
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
Peter Jackson's epic conclusion to J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary trilogy was a critical and commercial triumph. "The Return of the King" earned over $1.1 billion worldwide and swept the Academy Awards, winning 11 Oscars, including Best Picture. Its masterful storytelling and groundbreaking special effects set new standards for fantasy films. Stream the Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King on Max
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006)
Johnny Depp's iconic portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow helped "Dead Man's Chest" sail to over $1 billion at the box office. The swashbuckling adventure, filled with thrilling action sequences and memorable characters, solidified the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise as a cultural phenomenon. Stream Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest on Disney+
The Dark Knight (2008)
Christopher Nolan's gritty and realistic take on the Batman franchise was a game-changer for superhero movies. "The Dark Knight" grossed over $1 billion and featured Heath Ledger's unforgettable Joker performance, earning him a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film's dark tone and complex characters left a lasting impact on the genre. Stream The Dark Knight on Max
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (2001)
The magic began with "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone," the first film adaptation of J.K. Rowling's beloved book series. Grossing over $974 million, it introduced audiences to the enchanting world of Hogwarts and laid the foundation for one of the most successful franchises in cinematic history. Stream Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone on Peacock
The Lion King (1994) (Re-Release in 2002)
Although initially released in 1994, the re-release of "The Lion King" in IMAX theaters in 2002 brought this Disney classic back to the forefront. The timeless story of Simba's journey to reclaim his throne resonated with both new and returning audiences, contributing to its enduring legacy. Stream the Lion King on Disney+
Spider-Man (2002)
Sam Raimi's "Spider-Man" swung into theaters and became a blockbuster sensation, grossing over $825 million worldwide. Tobey Maguire's portrayal of the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man and the film's impressive special effects set the stage for the modern superhero movie era. Stream Spider-Man on Netflix
Shrek 2 (2004)
DreamWorks' "Shrek 2" continued the hilarious and heartwarming tale of the lovable ogre and his friends. The sequel outperformed its predecessor, earning over $919 million at the box office. Its witty humor, memorable characters, and clever pop culture references made it a favorite among audiences of all ages. Stream Shrek 2 on Peacock
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)
The final installment of George Lucas's prequel trilogy, Revenge of the Sith, brought the story full circle with Anakin Skywalker's transformation into Darth Vader. The film grossed over $868 million, drawing fans back to a galaxy far, far away with its intense action and dramatic storyline. Stream Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith on Disney+
Transformers (2007)
Michael Bay's "Transformers" introduced audiences to the epic battle between the Autobots and Decepticons. With its cutting-edge CGI and explosive action scenes, the film grossed over $709 million and kickstarted a lucrative franchise that continued to dominate the box office. Stream Transformers on Paramount+
The 2000s were a decade of cinematic innovation and blockbuster hits that left an indelible mark on the industry. From epic fantasies and superhero sagas to animated adventures and sci-fi spectacles, these top-grossing movies not only entertained millions but also pushed the boundaries of filmmaking. As we look back, it's clear that the legacy of these films continues to influence and inspire today's movies.
