There are a lot of fictional inventions in movies and TV shows, mostly in the sci-fi genre, that have since become real things. Often, it's not exactly what we saw in the movie or television show, but it's very close. Others might not be 100% possible today, but we are very close to seeing those things become a part of everyday life in the 21st Century. This is a list dedicated to all of those inventions that seemed unrealistic or fanciful to many, except the geniuses who dreamed them up in Hollywood.

Artificial Intelligence (2001: A Space Odyssey)

The HAL-9000 was a warning to all of us. A warning that we still might not heed. The computer in 2001: A Space Odyssey turns against its human creators and users to take control of the space station at the heart of the first half of the movie. It spins things into a trippy adventure for the viewer, but now, more than 50 years later, we might need to start paying attention to what director Stanley Kubrick was trying to tell us.

Lasers (The War Of The Worlds)

In the original 1953 adaptation of H.G. Wells' seminal sci-fi novel, War of the Worlds, Martians attack humanity with a type of technology that had been theorized both in sci-fi and in real life, lasers. Of course, the lasers we have aren't quite on the level of the iconic alien ships in the movie, but they've been around for decades now.

Holograms (Forbidden Planet)

1956's Forbidden Planet makes use of holograms, which at the time were completely unheard of, except in science fiction. While we don't have true holograms like this movie and many since have used, we have seen a version of holograms at concerts like Coachella and elsewhere in live entertainment. We still can't send a message like Princess Leia yet, but that can't be too far off, right?

Autonomous Vehicles (Total Recall)

Self-driving cars have been talked about for years, and in Total Recall and other science fiction, they've kind of been a staple for decades. As everyone knows now, they do actually exist, and even more are on the way in the coming years. It's not crazy to think that every car will at least have the option to be self-driving in the not-too-distant future.

Smartwatch (Dick Tracy)

Wearable tech is all the rage these days, and while Google Glass was a unmitigated commercial failure, smartwatches, like Apple Watches, are a huge hit. In fact, mine is telling me to stand up for a couple of minutes as I've been sitting here working on this list for most of the last hour. Dick Tracy used his watch as a two-way radio decades ago.

Video Communication (Metropolis)

Video phones and other software like Zoom and Google Meet have been around for a long time now. The use of it really exploded during the pandemic, and now they are a part of almost everyone's everyday life. Of course, for decades, science fiction movies and TV shows have been predicting that this would eventually be the case. One of the earliest examples came about 100 years ago in the silent film classic Metropolis.

Space Travel (A Trip To The Moon)

Hailed as one of the earliest examples of science fiction on screen, A Trip To The Moon predicted space travel and man landing on the Moon way back in 1902. The French silent film classic envisions a very lively, even dangerous Moon, which is, of course, nothing like what it is actually like, nor did the Apollo 11 Mission actually land a rocket in the eye of the man in the moon, but hey, A Trip To The Moon did foresee at least something about the future.

Lightsaber (Star Wars)

Ok, this one is a little bit of a stretch, because it's not like everyone is chopping their onions with laser knives and we aren't fighting intergalactic battles with futuristic laser swords, but lightsabers do exist on one level. According to Guinness World Records, a builder named Alex Burkan has invented something at least somewhat similar to the legendary, elegant weapon of the Jedi in the Star Wars franchise.

Cloning (The Resurrection of Zachary Wheeler)

As far as we can tell, The Resurrection of Zachary Wheeler (1971) was perhaps the first movie to feature the concept of cloning. It was certainly a very early example of the idea, though the terminology used in the low-budget movie was different. We're not cloning humans (yet), and maybe we shouldn't ever be going that far, but humans are definitely cloning other species.

Androids (Alien)

Androids have been part of science fiction forever. Robots, in general, have always been dreamed up in different ways by writers and directors. One of the most iconic examples comes from the Alien franchise, starting with the original Ridley Scott movie from 1979. We don't have androids yet, to be sure, but with the combination of advancements in AI and robotics, it sure seems close.

Neuralink Brain Implants (Black Mirror)

Several episodes of Black Mirror involve a device connected directly to the brain that allows us to record everything we see or connect our consciousness to a computer program. We might be that far yet, but there does exist such a device that is implanted in a person's brain, allowing them to control a computer just by thinking up a task. Many are working on the ability to transplant our consciousness onto a hard drive, which was also the plot of a Black Mirror episode, which is a little further off, and frankly, much scarier.

Virtual Reality (Tron)

While not quite as advanced as what is depicted in the groundbreaking 1982 film Tron, immersive video games are more popular today than ever. The concept of "virtual reality" has changed quite a bit over the last few decades, with "augmented reality" taking a more prominent role. Still, at least in the gaming world, virtual reality on the level of Tron doesn't seem far off.

Personalized Marketing (Minority Report)

Personalized marketing is a reality, though it's not exactly how it is in Minority Report. This is something that has been discussed in the advertising world for decades now. My first job out of college was for a company that was trying to create personalized ads delivered to phones, and this was a decade before the smartphone was really even a thing. Still, trying to buy a pair of shoes on the web and not get bombarded with ads for more shoes.

Flying Cars (Back To The Future Part II)

Jetpacks and flying cars have been part of dozens of sci-fi stories over the years, going back many, many years. Generations of people have predicted that flying cars would be a thing by the time they become adults. We still don't have one in every driveway, but they are closer than ever, and there are definitely working prototypes.

Audio Translation (The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy)

Apple AirPods now have the ability to translate foreign languages in real time. There are plenty of examples in sci-fi of this tech, but my favorite is the Babel Fish from The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy. Sure, it's not technically new "tech" in the classic books or the adaptations, but hey, they do the translating!

Hoverboard (Back To The Future Part II)

Back to the Future II was set in what is now the past, and some of the inventions are closer to reality than others. The most coveted invention in the movie is the hoverboard. There have been a few products over the years that have called themselves hoverboards, but the closest one to the film is one Tony Hawk rode back in 2015, which was, coincidentally, the year that Marty travels to in the future.

Voice User Interface (2001: A Space Odyssey)

Amazon's Alexa and Apple's Siri are just two examples of voice interfaces that have been predicted by everything from Star Trek to 2001.

Smarthomes (The Illustrated Man)

In a segment from this anthology of Ray Bradbury-inspired segments called "The Veldt," a couple finds that their parental authority is being undermined by their technologically advanced home. More recently (if the 1980s are "recent"), it was also seen in The Running Man.

Smartglasses (Back To The Future Part II)

Back to the Future II actually predicted quite a bit of tech that has become a reality. For example, Marty McFly Jr. owns a pair of glasses that allow him to watch TV anywhere. Sure, Google Glass bombed, but that won't be the tech industry's last attempt to make smartglasses work.

Synthetic Meat (Eraserhead)

Lab-grown meat, like Impossible Meat, has a long history in science fiction and other works of fiction. It made a memorable (and very bizarre) appearance in director David Lynch's debut feature, Eraserhead, in 1977.

AI-Generated Art (Her)

Spike Jonze predicted a world in which books, music, and movies would be "created" instantaneously with a computer program in Her. Even though this is one of the more recent additions to this list, the world is chock full of AI art today, for better or (mostly) worse.

Biometric Payment (Back To The Future Part II)

In Back To The Future Part II, Biff uses a thumbprint to pay his cab fare. We don't use this exact type of technology today, but we all use biometric technology to open our phones, like thumbprints and face recognition, and we use those phones to "tap" to pay for stuff on our credit cards. Combining the two is certainly possible, even if we're probably not ready to trust it.

Artificial Heart (Threshold)

The first successful artificial heart implant happened in 1982, though attempts had been made in medicine for decades. 1981's Threshold, starring Donald Sutherland and Jeff Goldblum, was still breaking ground when it predicted, albeit by just a few months, that it was now possible.

Space Stations (2001: A Space Odyssey)

Space stations, like the one seen in 1969's 2001: A Space Odyssey, were first inhabited just a couple of years later, first with the Soviet station Salyut 1 in 1971, followed shortly by the United States' Skylab in '73. There have been various versions ever since.

The Metaverse (Ready Player One)

When Mark Zuckerberg first announced the Metaverse, I couldn't help but immediately think of Ready Player One. So far, we haven't been escaping to a virtual reality, but it honestly doesn't seem that outlandish that the dystopian future the movie predicts could easily come true. Let's hope that the real version has as many Easter Eggs as Ready Player One has, at least.

Milk Engine (Phil Of The Future)

In one episode of the sci-fi Disney Channel series Phil Of The Future, Phil and Keely build a pudding-serving machine powered by an engine that runs on milk, which causes his father to fear their 22nd-century origins will be revealed since that invention will not exist for decades. However, efforts to convert lactose into ethanol fuel actually started in 2023. It's not here yet, but it's not far off, it seems.

Tablets (2001: A Space Odyssey)

Though they are called "newspads" in 2001: A Space Odyssey, the devices that the astronauts use to watch the news are basically iPads or tablets.

Robot Vacuums (The Glass Bottom Boat)

In the 1966 rom-com The Glass Bottom Boat, Bruce (Rod Taylor) owns a "gizmo" company, and one of his (many) inventions looks basically like what you expect the prototype of a Romba to look like. It's a little robot vacuum that seems too silly to be true, but we know there is nothing silly about them these days! Well, they are a little silly, but they sure are convenient!

Bionic Limbs (The Empire Strikes Back)

Here's one that everyone remembers, Luke Skywalker's bionic arm in The Empire Strikes Back. Of course, similar arms (and other limbs) exist today, though they don't look as real as Luke's does.

Digital Billboards (Blade Runner)

In Blade Runner, the future looks very much like the present in at least one way: billboards. Giant digital billboards were still not the norm back when the movie was released in 1982. Today, they are everywhere from Times Square to highways in Iowa. They are everywhere. And they are annoying as they are in Blade Runner.

Commercial Space Travel (2001: A Space Odyssey)

2001: A Space Odyssey sure got a lot of stuff right when Kubrick made it in the late '60s. Commercial space travel, for example, was the norm in the movie. While we are not quite at the same level today as they were in the movie (and Pan Am is long gone), we do have space tourism these days, so long as you're a tech billionaire or Katy Perry. One day, the rest of us might be lucky enough to do it too!

Self-Tying Shoes (Back To The Future Part II)

Once again, Back To The Future Part II comes through with an invention that we have today; this time, it's self-tying shoes, or as Marty calls them in the movie, "power laces." They actually come from Nike, too! All in all, it's impressive how many times old sci-fi movies managed to predict the future. Mostly in good ways, too.

When you think of the best action movies ever to grace the silver screen, there are probably a ton that come to mind from different decades. (Example: the best '90s actions movies.) One can’t overlook the 2000s, of course, as a number of films from that time span are still enjoyed and discussed today. 

With so many notable blockbusters having been released, it’s admittedly hard to narrow down the cream of the crop. We’ve attempted to do that very thing for you here, though. So why don’t we dive in and discuss said features, shall we?

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

To put it plainly, Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a martial arts masterpiece and one of the best films of the 2000s in general. This beautiful and epic tale is an adaptation of Wang Dulu’s 1942 novel of the same name. It centers on a skilled warrior, who – along with his formidable ally/love interest – must find his legendary sword and ensure that it’s placed in the right hands. The script is as sharp as the weapons featured, and the fight sequences are impeccably choreographed. Whether you’re a fan of kung fu flicks or not, this is a movie you have to see.

Minority Report (2002)

When thinking about Steven Spielberg’s massive filmography, one has to consider 2002’s Minority Report. The sci-fi movie is set to the backdrop of 2054, in a United States where precognitive technology is used to thwart crime. And in this world, a police official, played by Tom Cruise, finds himself on the run after being accused of a crime he didn’t commit. This may all sound complex but, at its core, this is a pure chase movie and there are more than a few impressive sequences that solidify that notion. Action junkees, Spielberg devotees and Cruise followers alike will dig this one.

The Bourne Identity (2002)

Jason Bourne’s story began in 2002’s The Bourne Identity. Matt Damon’s famed protagonist is introduced as a man suffering from amnesia and attempting to learn of his identity while dealing with a CIA-related conspiracy. Director Doug Liman outdoes himself here, skillfully balancing character and major set pieces. There’s hand-to-hand combat, gunplay and more on display, which contribute to an awesome piece of work. It’s no wonder it spawned a franchise some would argue is better than the James Bond movies.

Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Curse Of The Black Pearl (2003)

I’m not sure what the public expected when Disney sought to make a film based on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, but what they got was a fun, swashbuckling adventure. Gore Verbinski’s first foray into the world of pirates not only introduced fun characters like Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow and Geoffrey Rush’s Hector Barbosa. It also produced some amazing moments of action, from sweet sword fights to impressive naval battles. While Curse of the Black Pearl turned 20 in 2023, it still holds up very well.

The Italian Job (2003)

Remakes can be hit or miss, but F. Gary Gray’s The Italian Job hits just about all the right notes. A revamp of the 1969 British film of the same name, it sees a gang of thieves seeking to swindle gold from under the nose of a former comrade. Starring Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron and other A-listers, this is a prime heist flick that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat. And what Gray does particularly well here is craft is car chases, which rival those of 2001’s The Fast and the Furious.

Kill Bill: Volume 1

The first part of Quentin Tarantino’s martial arts revenge epic, Kill Bill: Volume 1, remains one of his most celebrated directorial efforts. Uma Thurman stars as The Bride – a former assassin with plans to get back at a group of fellow killers after they attempted to kill both her and her unborn baby. Tarantino pulls out all of the stops for this one, giving viewers an exciting story but also plenty of brutal fights for viewers to take in.

The Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King (2003)

Although Peter Jackson’s three original Lord of the Rings movies (which we’ve ranked) are all magnificent, there’s much to be said about 2003’s The Return of the King. It’s a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy from a storytelling standpoint but also an incredible action movie. Every single bombastic moment feels absolutely earned, and that’s especially true with the Battle of Minas Tirith, which includes the chill-inducing Ride of the Rohirrim. Honestly, this is Middle-earth’s finest cinematic hour.

Oldboy (2003)

One must see Oldboy, an epic that focuses on a former captive who seeks revenge on his captors, to truly understand its impact. This is easily one of the greatest movies from Korean director Park Chan-wook. It features an intriguing story, a pitch-perfect lead in Choi Min-sik and plenty of gritty fight scenes. The combat feels so raw and visceral, and the way Chan-wook shoots the long takes is so perfect. If you want just a taste of such moments, head on over to YouTube to see the famous corridor sequence.

Collateral (2004)

Tom Cruise is widely known for playing the hero in many of his films, but he proved himself to be a formidable villain in Collateral. Michael Mann’s 2004 thriller sees Cruise play a hitman contracted to take out several high-profile targets and, in the process of trying to do so, an innocent cabbie (Jamie Foxx) gets embroiled in his schemes. This is a real nail-biter, Mann manages to create plenty of tension and stage some excellent action scenes. Additionally, Cruise and Foxx (who received an Oscar nod for his work) are at their absolute best.

Kung Fu Hustle (2004)

It is indeed possible for martial arts movies to be funny, and Kung Fu Hustle is one of the films that helps prove that. Director and co-writer Stephen Chow plays a low-life, who seeks to become a member of an infamous gang in 1940s Shanghai, only to find a higher purpose and greater sense of self. Chow’s flick boasts great performances and a lot of humor. And, of course, the brawls are sights to behold. They’re intense and well-staged while also boasting a sensibility that would make the Looney Tunes proud.

Mr. And Mrs. Smith (2005)

Those who like a little romance mixed in with their thrills will surely love Mr. and Mrs. Smith. It sees former real-life couple Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt link up as co-stars playing assassins from rival agencies – who learn of each other’s statues and are tasked with killing the other. In short, Pitt and Jolie make Doug Liman’s 2005 film both exciting and sexy. Both actors turn in great performances and more than commit to the physicality for the well-choreographed fights.

Children Of Men (2006)

Another one of the best 2000s movies, Children of Men is one of the great works from Alfonso Cuarón, which is saying a lot for the filmmaker and his resume. Its set in a dystopian world, where infertility is widely prevalent, and sees an activist try to aid a refugee who’s poised to have the first natural childbirth in nearly two decades. Visually, this is a stunning piece of work, and Cuarón manages the chaos in tremendous fashion. You may have seen some incredible long takes in a motion picture before, but this one will dazzle you (and make you think).

Casino Royale (2006)

If you’ve watched the James Bond movies in order, then you probably have your favorites, and I wager that, for a lot of people, 2006’s Casino Royale is one of them. This marked the first installment in Daniel Craig’s Bond series, and it did not disappoint. Director Martin Campbell does so much right, especially when it comes to staging his action scenes. The hotel stairwell fight as well as the parkour chase are just a few of the highlights. And, of course, Craig deserves a lot of credit for the physicality he brings to Commander Bond.

Mission: Impossible III (2006)

The 2010s marked a new era for the M:I franchise, but Mission: Impossible III closed out its run in the 2000s in a mostly fitting way. Helmed by J.J. Abrams, it sees Tom Cruise’s now-retired Ethan Hunt returning to duty for the IMF in order to take down an arms dealer (played exceptionally by Philip Seymour Hoffman). The set pieces are remarkable, and Abrams orchestrates some exciting moments. The bridge attack and skyscraper jump – two of the best M:I action sequences – are worth a viewing alone.

Live Free Or Die Hard (2007)

Live Free or Die Hard doesn’t match the high standard set by Die Hard, but the Bruce Willis-led movie is a fun, high-octane adventure nonetheless. Scenes like the fight on the highway and the one that takes place in the elevator shaft are well done. Don’t get me wrong, Len Wiseman’s 2007 effort is totally ridiculous. However, Willis totally commits to John McClane’s journey – and who doesn’t love seeing a car hit a helicopter?

Hot Fuzz (2007)

There were plenty of buddy cop movies in existence before Edgar Wright gifted us with Hot Fuzz but, somehow, he managed to bring something fresh to the genre. As you’d expect the British filmmaker infuses the proceedings with plenty of humor, but there’s also great action that’s bolstered by legitimate stakes. Lead actors Simon Pegg and Nick Frost pull it all off beautifully, making this a must-see movie.

The Dark Knight (2008)

What can be said about The Dark Knight that hasn’t been said already? It’s arguably the best live-action Batman movie due to the great performances, sharp script, Christopher Nolan’s astute direction and of course, the stunning action. What may be the crowning jewel of the flick, when it comes to spectacle, is the chase scene involving the Batpod. Blockbusters don’t get much better than this, and we’re all the better for having such a sequel.

Wanted (2008)

Another comic book adaptation to hit the silver screen in 2008 is Wanted, which is based on Mark Millar and J.G. Jones’ miniseries. James McAvoy plays a working stiff, who is thrust into the world of assassins after learning that his father was one. There’s some seriously stylized action at play in Timur Bekmambetov’s thriller, and it helps make for a fun watch. (And surely, there are still people wondering how to curve a bullet.)

Taken (2008)

Taken is a film that remains synonymous with Liam Neeson, and it’s not hard to understand why. Pierre Morel’s franchise starter centers on a man who seeks to rescue his daughter after she’s kidnapped while vacationing in France. This is a gritty flick that allows Neeson to truly show off his talents, and Morel puts him in a position to succeed, thanks to excellent fight sequences.

Avatar (2009)

The highest grossing film of all time, James Cameron’s Avatar may tell a straightforward story, but it doesn’t skimp on the spectacle at all. The CGI-infused battles are gorgeous and exciting, and that’s accentuated by the lushness of the fictional world of Pandora. It might take a while for Cameron to craft a film, but it’s worth it when the result is as impressive as this.

You really can’t go wrong with any of the features we’ve discussed if you’re looking to get your action fix. You can check out these titles and more by streaming them through platform subscriptions and/or digital rentals.

What do all-time great sci-fi movies like Star Wars and Jurassic Park, the Harry Potter film franchise, and quite a few Best Picture winners have in common? If you guessed they are all considered some of the best films of all time, you’d technically be correct, but that’s not the answer we’re looking for. If you guessed they all feature tremendous scores composed by John Williams, you’re in for a real treat. Below is a list of 32 great movies featuring the work of the Academy Award-winning composer, including several of his collaborations with Steven Spielberg.

Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)

It is hard to imagine a world in which anyone but John Williams composed the Star Wars score, and luckily, we don’t have to experience that dark reality. His score, which won him an Oscar, brings so much pomp and circumstance to George Lucas’ epic space opera, and it all starts with the brilliant and iconic “Main Title” sequence. But the real crown jewel is the “Binary Sunset” moment as Luke Skywalker (Mark Hammill) ponders his future.

Jaws (1975)

Steven Spielberg’s Jaws is still considered one of the best movies of all time nearly 50 years after its release, and the legendary blockbuster is made even better thanks to John Williams’ score, which earned the composer an Oscar. The simple yet effective opening theme, with its pounding piano and orchestration, sets the stage for what’s to come spectacularly in addition to providing one of cinema’s scariest moments.

Raiders Of The Lost Ark (1981)

In addition to kicking off the Indiana Jones franchise, Steven Spielberg’s Raiders of the Lost Ark also features one of John Williams’ most well-known tracks: the “Raiders March.” It’s hard not to see Harrison Ford’s beloved character swinging, swashbuckling, and fighting Nazis whenever this composition comes on.

Harry Potter And The Sorcerer's Stone (2001)

Though composers like Patrick Doyle, Nicholas Hooper, and Alexandre Desplat would go on to provide the music for later films in the franchise,  John Williams kicked things off with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Several of the songs featured in Chris Columbus’ 2001 fantasy film have gone on to become some of Williams’ most popular tracks, including “Hedwig’s Theme.”

Jurassic Park (1993)

The Jurassic Park score, which features some of John Williams' best work, is a tour de force that captures a range of feelings, much like the 1993 dinosaur movie it accompanies. Essentially every track is noteworthy, especially the triumphant main theme and the more subdued “Welcome to Jurassic Park,” which plays during the movie’s more emotional moments.

Schindler's List (1993)

Just like director Steven Spielberg, John Williams pulled double-duty in 1993 with the releases of the huge movies Jurassic Park and Schindler’s List, which would go on to win the Oscar for Best Picture. The violin in the score’s main theme adds a great deal of weight and emotion to this brilliant yet harrowing Holocaust drama.

Home Alone (1990)

In 1990, John Williams got the opportunity to write a score for one of the best Christmas movies of all time, Home Alone, which allowed him to create some of the best tracks of his career. From the outstanding title sequence to the poignant “Somewhere in My Memory,” the compositions hit you right in the heart. Oh, and let’s not forget the epic “Setting the Traps” sequence.

Superman (1978)

The main title march in Richard Donner’s Superman is not only one of John Williams’ best creations, but it’s also in the running for one of the best superhero movie songs ever. It’s so triumphant, pure, and magical. Not even kryptonite could slow this track down. 

Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)

Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace may not be high up in our Star Wars rankings, but George Lucas’ 1999 prequel did give us the epic “Duel of the Fates” track that plays during the film’s final lightsaber fight. The instrumentals are one thing, but the resounding performance from the London Voices is so good you have to let the Sequel Trilogy’s transgressions go.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

A movie that should have won Best Picture, Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan featured another superb collaboration between the director and John Williams. The beloved composer starts with the wonderfully constructed “Hymn to the Fallen,” which carries weight and sounds similar to Aaron Copland’s iconic “Fanfare for the Common Man.”

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Few movies capture the awe and innocence of childhood better than Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, and a lot of that has to do with John Williams’ lights-out score. Like, can you imagine the bicycle escape sequence without his composition blaring in the background as Elliott (Henry Thomas) and E.T. fly past the moon?

Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

In addition to being considered the best sequel of all time, The Empire Strikes Back also gave the universe one of the franchise’s most recognizable and menacing tracks, “The Imperial March.” In the 40-plus years since the film’s release, John Williams’ additions to the Star Wars score, including “Yoda’s Theme,” have become major parts of the beloved series.

Born Of The Fourth Of July (1989)

Oliver Stone’s heartbreaking chronicling of the life of Ron Kovic (Tom Cruise) in Born on the Fourth of July is made all the more impactful by John Williams’ masterful score. At times beautiful and others gutting, the compositions, like the movie they accompany, perfectly capture the emotions of an idealistic man reborn after being discarded by his country.

Lincoln (2012)

The subtle, somber, and sentimental tones of John Williams’ Lincoln score helped make the 2012 drama about the passage of the 13th Amendment all the more impactful. There are some loud moments, but the soundtrack is carried by those slower and quiet segments, which make the film one of Steven Spielberg’s best movies.

JFK (1991)

Oliver Stone’s 1991 conspiracy/legal drama, JFK, gave us one of John Williams’ best scores up to that point in his career, which is saying a lot considering everything he had done up to that point. There’s a combination of genres featured throughout the soundtrack that add weight and prestige to this twist-filled thriller.

Close Encounters Of The Third Kind (1977)

John Williams’ score for Close Encounters of the Third Kind, a movie that came six months after Star Wars changed the industry, features a lot of the composer’s touchstones, including increasingly intricate anticipatory tracks that build to loud and triumphant orchestrations that hit with so much weight. And then there’s the “Wild Signals” moment when humans and aliens interact.

Catch Me If You Can (2002)

One of the best 2000s movies, Catch Me If You Can also features some of John Williams’ finest work of the 21st century. This is especially true when it comes to the enchanting title sequence with its mid-century animations and an almost jazz-infused orchestration. The rest of the movie about con artist Frank Abagnale (Leonardo DiCaprio) is great, but this opening number is the stuff of art.

The Poseidon Adventure (1972)

In the early 1970s, John William provided the score for The Poseidon Adventure, an incredible disaster film about a capsized ship and a group of passengers as they attempt to reach safety. Just like Gene Hackman’s performance, Williams’ compositions are outstanding throughout the movie.

War Of The Worlds (2005)

When it came time for Steven Spielberg to adapt War of the Worlds into a terrifying big-budget sci-fi thriller, it had to be John Williams sitting in the composer’s chair. The film’s terrifying moments, as well as its more emotional sequences, are made all the better thanks to Williams’ touch.

The Fabelmans (2022)

One of the best movies of 2022, Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical coming-of-age drama, The Fabelmans, was an outstanding addition to the filmmaker’s rich filmography, and his most personal film in years. And who accompanied Spielberg on this journey through his formative years? Well, none other than John Williams.

Memoirs Of A Geisha (2005)

Rob Marshall’s 2005 period drama, Memoirs of a Geisha, may not be the first movie to come to mind when discussing John Williams scores, but this Academy Award winner does feature some great compositions from the legendary composer. The opening track, “Sayuri’s Theme,” named after Zhang Ziyi’s character, combines the East and West to create a unique and sonically pleasing experience.

Fiddler On The Roof (1972)

Considered one of the best movie musicals, Fiddler on the Roof is an epic everyone should enjoy at least once in their life. The story, performances, and production design are all incredible, as is John Williams’ adaptation of the Broadway hit’s wonderful score.

Munich (2005)

Steven Spielberg’s 2005 historical drama, Munich, which dramatized the Mossad assassinations in the fallout of the 1972 Munich Massacre, was another one of the filmmaker’s movies to feature the work of John Williams. The orchestrations, combined with the use of the “wailing woman” singing technique added a heightened sense of drama and urgency to the film’s more intense moments.

Amistad (1997)

John Williams’ work on Steven Spielberg’s 1997 drama, Amistad, a movie that centered on a legal battle after a group of slaves take control of a ship before being recaptured, was enough to earn him another Oscar nomination. However, he would lose out to the powerhouse that was Titanic.

Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1969)

Goodbye, Mr. Chips, Herbert Ross’ 1969 musical starring Peter O’Toole and Petula Clark, is one of John Williams’ earlier films, as well as one that would serve as a taste of what was to come for the composer in the decades that followed.

The Adventures Of Tintin (2011)

In 2011, Steven Spielberg gave the world The Adventures of Tintin, an animated adventure film based on the long-running comic series of the same name. There to help add to the sense of wonder and action found throughout this gem of a movie was John Williams, whose score elevates the story to the next level.

War Horse (2011)

Just like they did in 1993, Steven Spielberg and John Williams teamed up twice in 2011, a collaboration that included War Horse. This remarkable World War I movie has a little bit of everything, including moving instrumentals from the famed composer.

Far And Away (1992)

Ron Howard’s epic drama, Far and Away, follows a couple (played by Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman) as they leave their native Ireland behind for a chance at a better life in America. The journey is made all the more emotional and adventurous thanks to John Williams and his unforgettable score, one filled with all types of music and movements. 

Empire Of The Sun (1987)

An ‘80s movie that doesn’t get enough love, Empire of the Sun has everything that makes a Steven Spielberg movie great: a wonderful cast led by a young Christian Bale, epic action, emotional drama, and a phenomenal John Williams score. It’s really worth seeking out.

The Long Goodbye (1973)

In 1973, John Williams worked with Robert Altman on the satirical neo-noir crime film, The Long Goodbye, a movie starring Elliott Gould as a private detective who gets wrapped up in the murder of a friend’s wife. Adding intrigue and mystery to this film is Williams’ impressive score.

The Sugarland Express (1974)

The Sugarland Express features a great dramatic turn from Goldie Hawn as a woman who convinces her husband to break out of prison so they can find and retrieve their young son before he can be placed in foster care. The movie was Steven Spielberg’s feature film directorial debut, as well as his first time working with John Williams.

Minority Report (2002)

In 2002, John Williams worked with both Steven Spielberg and Tom Cruise on the sci-fi thriller, Minority Report. This dark yet fun score features some great work by the Oscar-winning composer, including the optimistic closing number, “A New Beginning.”

Though we don’t know if we’ll ever hear another new John Williams soundtrack after the composer hinted that Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny may be his final film score, at least we have decades and dozens of movies to revisit for years to come.

There’s no single CinemaBlend opinion on anything. Through countless arguments over the years, I’ve learned we’re not even on the same page about how to define the word best, from our choices for the top 100 '90s movies to our picks for the best horror movies of all time. What makes a movie the best is impossible to nail down from one person to the next, though it's perhaps easier to consider when thinking about a decade of movies that came and went and can't be added to anymore. But for the most part, it's all about what you like.

It’s because of those clashing perspectives that this Best Movies Of The 2000s list is unlike any list that a single person from our team could have crafted, taking into account both Oscar-worthiness and popcorn-friendliness. The list accounts for movies that have aired 5,000 times on cable, and movies that have been shared lovingly from generation to generation. It’s a retro-hodgepodge of what we loved then and then, from Adam Sandler's raunch to Daniel Day Lewis' aplomb.

This list is CinemaBlend’s collective celebration of the 2000s, in all its neon-hued glory, and we hope everyone will find plenty to love, though a few disagreements and good-natured debate never hurt anyone. Let the arguments begin…

100. Avatar (2009)

While it's the last on this list, there's no denying Avatar's impact on the film industry back in 2009. The movie is a sci-fi masterpiece that features incredible visuals, mainly following the tale of Jake Sully, a human who finds love and acceptance within the world of the Na'vi, the native people of Pandora.

The film takes the audience on a wild ride for two and a half hours. While the story of saving a planet from foreign invaders could be more groundbreaking, the unique visual effects that fans get to see are. And now, with a successful sequel out more than ten years later, it's the perfect chance to revisit the original.

99. Erin Brockovich (2000)

Julia Roberts had established herself as one of the most beloved actors in the world in the 1990s, and as calendars flipped over to the year 2000, she didn’t waste any time starring in yet another critically acclaimed box office hit. Hitting theaters in March 2000, Erin Brockovich tells the story of the titular lawyer who started a landmark case against the Pacific Gas and Electric Company for groundwater contamination, and it’s a stellar work that further cemented the clear talents of director Steven Soderbergh. It’s thrilling and dramatic, but also funny and fun – in large part due to Roberts’ charm and charisma.

98. The Hangover (2009)

The Hangover is part travelogue and part comedic shitshow. It races its characters through what feels like an entire TV season’s worth of odd locations and ridiculous scenarios, somehow finding time for hospital visits, naked gangsters, weddings, Blackjack heaters, stolen tigers, missing babies and stun gun demonstrations. It sounds like way too much plot for an hour and forty minute movie, but the key to a good comedy isn’t the situations the characters find themselves in, it’s the rapport and natural chemistry between the actors/characters going through those situations. And Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms are fantastic together. Their clashing vibes, energy levels and comedic sensibilities somehow blend into a perfect cocktail, and with Oscar-nominated director Todd Phillips stirring the drink, The Hangover is able to turn its B-movie premise into one of the funniest comedies of the 2000s.

97. Cloverfield (2008)

The first decade of the Aughts saw one word playing into many of its most cherished cinematic successes: reinvention. For director Matt Reeves’ Cloverfield, two different types of genre favorites were mashed together to create a wildly new, very mysterious product: monster movies like Godzilla and found footage pictures such as The Blair Witch Project. 

Amping up the scale of what a handheld camera could cover, Cloverfield’s ingenious marketing campaign kept audiences guessing about what its true intentions were. In the wake of a mysterious/title-free teaser, it was anyone’s guess what writer Drew Goddard’s movie was about. To live up to the hype after stoking such anticipation for an unknown quantity only cemented Cloverfield as a certified success. In a market where it felt like the trailers gave everything away, a major studio movie broke with the norm, all in the name of a monstrous triumph. 

96. National Treasure (2004)

The race to steal the Declaration of Independence was on in 2004 as Nicolas Cage and his team of treasure hunters went on a high stakes mission to find the greatest treasure. This story sweeps across American history, and is held together by Cage’s protagonist and his drive to find this great prize, and protect the Declaration of Independence by stealing it, of course.

This Disney staple is a family classic, and an action adventure bound to entertain just about anyone. It was such a success that a sequel soon followed, and maybe, someday, National Treasure 3 will happen. However, let us not forget the majesty that is the original National Treasure. 

95. The Notebook (2004)

There’s a reason that when one thinks of the genre “romance” The Notebook instantly comes to mind. The 2004 Nicholas Sparks adaptation is nothing short of a timeless classic that gracefully dances between being a forbidden and second-chance love story. It’s the movie that made Ryan Gosling a Hollywood hunk matched by a passionate yet grounding performance by Rachel McAdams. Together they are a firecracker of chemistry who left a generation longing to kiss in the rain. Cliché and mushy as The Notebook can be, when the music swells on the final scene, it never ceases to remind us why it’s one of the most endearing and cathartic love affairs we’ve ever seen. 

94. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

Though it's been nearly two decades since its release, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy still stands as one of Will Ferrell and Adam McKay’s greatest collaborations. The 70s-set movie marked McKay’s directorial debut and, with it, he masterfully injects humor and social commentary into a satirical workplace comedy set within the world of broadcast news. His screenplay is funny and occasionally, downright hilarious, but the cast truly makes the movie shine. Christina Applegate, Paul Rudd, Steve Carrell and more are just flawless. And of course, it’s Ferrell’s portrayal of the titular character that really puts it over the top.

93. Million Dollar Baby (2004)

Anyone angling for a great sports drama that not only delivers sheer emotion but also captures the spirit of the pastime it’s tackling should check out Million Dollar Baby. Director Clint Eastwood’s Best Picture-winning film tells the story of an aspiring boxer (played by Hilary Swank), who teams up with a veteran trainer (Eastwood) in the hopes of achieving in-ring glory. The result is an emotionally affecting – and sometimes brutal – story about resilience and parental bonds. This boxing flick won Swank, Eastwood and co-star Morgan Freeman all Oscars and, when you see the movie, you’ll understand why.

92. Saw (2004)

2004's Saw revitalized the horror genre years ago, thanks to James Wan and Leigh Whannell, with its shocking twists and equally astonishing violence. But while the movie did include some truly grotesque “games” for Jigsaw’s victims, this was more than the mere “torture porn” that plagued the aughts. There was intention behind Jigsaw’s pain — making people think about the lives they’d led before forcing them to, “Live or die, make your choice.” 

The audience was along for the ride, trying to figure out why Adam (Whannell) and Dr. Gordon (Cary Elwes) were chained up in a bathroom and how they could escape before it was too late. Thanks to some brilliant misdirection, the ensuing plot twist was truly gasp-inducing. These days you might not be able to get away with that ending, but don’t say you saw it coming back in 2004.

91. Super Troopers (2001)

Super Troopers From a plotting and acting perspective, Super Troopers isn’t exactly The Departed. Its basic premise, and even many of its specific scenes, are just nimbly bimbly excuses for the cast to make raunchy jokes about the natural absurdities of being a cop. That works, though, because the movie understands what we want as an audience: non-stop jokes and shenanigans about liters of cola, littering and smokin’ the reefer. From cat game to syrup fights to biker confusion, Super Troopers has its own vibe and unique sense of humor. It’s just out there, doing its own thing, and that’s why, more than two decades later, fans are still pulling over to watch it… even if they’re already pulled over and they can’t pull over any further.

90. War of the Worlds (2005)

Steven Spielberg wouldn’t be the first to adapt H.G. Wells’ The War of the Worlds novel for the screen, nor would he be the last. But his modern-day take on the 19th Century sci-fi novel certainly made an impression. From the main characters — led by Tom Cruise as Ray Ferrier, father to Rachel (Dakota Fanning) and Robbie (Justin Chatwin) — to the various settings, to the unnerving sight (and sound) of the tripods emerging from below the ground to decimate or capture any humans in their path, War of the Worlds made its mark as an epic sci-fi action movie about survival and the choices a struggling parent has to make to protect his children from a worst-case-scenario. In true Spielberg fashion, the movie is thrilling and occasionally chilling, but also offers that added layer of a family element to keep us invested from beginning to end. 

89. Sin City (2005)

Most comic book adaptations aim to reimagine the characters and events of the source material in a way that more closely resembles reality. However, when director Robert Rodriguez teamed up with famed author and illustrator Frank Miller (acting as co-director) to bring his graphic novel series, Sin City, to the big screen, they did more than just adapt it. They brought it to life.

This anthology-style collection of three interconnected stories — all of which take place in the same hopelessly down-trodden, crime-ridden metropolis — is a masterclass in noirish storytelling (the razor sharp dialogue is straight out of a Raymond Chandler classic), astonishingly unique visual design (every beautifully grayscale frame resembles a comic book panel), and flawless acting from the entire Sin City cast, including Bruce Willis, Rosario Dawson, Mickey Rourke, and so many more amazing A-listers. When it comes to non-superhero-related comic book movies, this might be the best of them all.

88. Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)

Anticipation for the feature adaptation of Helen Fielding’s Bridget Jones’s Diary — itself a reinterpretation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice — was high, to say the least, for those of us who adored the book, when it finally made its way into theaters in 2001. Renee Zellweger’s mix of charm, determination for romance and occasional awkwardness alone are reason enough to love the adaptation. Then factor in the excellent chemistry she shares with both love interests — Hugh Grant as Daniel Cleaver and Colin Firth as Mark Darcy — not to mention the fantastic supporting cast, well-timed bits of hilarity and genuinely heartfelt moments of romance and what’s not to love about Bridget Jones’s Diary? 

87. Taken (2008)

Taken isn’t the most emotionally complicated or the most realistic movie, but it has a really good sense of its own strengths and leverages that particular set of skills perfectly. Liam Neeson might not be the prototypical action star, but he’s an Oscar-nominated actor uniquely good at portraying single-mindedness and determination. Taken is able to harness the badass fatherly intensity of a desperate man searching for his daughter and pair it with ruthless action sequences that rely more on craftiness than brute strength. The result is one of the best and most rewatchable action movies of the 2000s, a tight 90 minutes that’s so much fun it produced two sequels, a TV series and an unexpected late career resurgence for Neeson.  

86. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Before Will Smith earned his third Oscar nomination for King Richard, and after his nomination for Ali, he received his second Academy Award nod for The Pursuit of Happyness. Based on the real story of Chris Gardner, the movie follows Gardner's struggle to find a job to provide for his son during a year when they are homeless. 

The movie is inspiring for anyone, featuring an uplifting and memorable story. That, paired with an incredible performance from Will Smith and his son, Jaden Smith – who made his acting debut in the film – makes this the perfect movie to watch on any given day. 

85. The Bourne Identity (2002)

Before Daniel Craig came along and ushered in a new era for the James Bond movie franchise a few years later, Doug Liman’s The Bourne Identity welcomed audiences to the 21st century with this fresh, unique, and action-packed spy thriller. Matt Damon, who had already shown a great deal of depth in movies like Good Will Hunting and The Talented Mr. Ripley a few years earlier, became a bonafide action star with his portrayal of Jason Bourne, a trained killer with no recollection of his dark past.

There are few early 2000s action sequences as memorable as the movie’s iconic car chase through the streets of Paris. Audiences, used to seeing spies and assassins whipping around in souped-up sports cars were in for the ride of their lives with Bourne behind the wheel of a weathered Mini Cooper.

84. Love Actually (2003)

Love Actually has become annual holiday viewing for many since its premiere in 2004. Renowned rom-com filmmaker Richard Curtis struck gold with an A-list cast, as ten loosely connected plotlines each portray a different kind of love. Everybody’s sure to have their favorite stories within the movie, but they all strike an emotional chord, albeit in different ways. 

As these characters navigate the holidays, Love Actually tackles themes of grief, infidelity, unrequited love, workplace romance and more, while never losing its charm and eliciting tons of laughs. Throw in infinitely quotable dialogue (“Let’s get the shit kicked out of us by love!”), an infuriatingly hilarious cameo by Rowan Atkinson, and one absolutely iconic dance from Hugh Grant, and you’ve got yourself a classic.

83. (500) Days of Summer (2009)

In a decade greatly defined by bubblegum romantic comedies where audiences can take comfort in the same three act structure often ending in wedding bells, (500) Days Of Summer flipped the genre on its head. Romance and love can be a tricky, complicated thing that not only may be finite, but clouded by one’s fantasies, projections of potential and manic pixie dream girls. Marc Webb’s indie rom-com announces up front that it is “not a love story” and cleverly plays with structure as Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s Tom falls for Zooey Deschanel’s Summer. Between its stunningly memorable soundtrack, creative use of mixed media against its gorgeous L.A. backdrop, (500) Days Of Summer is a dark horse of a romantic comedy that tackles the expectations vs. reality of love with a sharp wit. 

82. Knocked Up (2007)

Most romantic comedies try a lot harder at one of those two things. They’re either romantic movies with a few solid laughs sprinkled in or they’re clearly comedies that shoehorn a romance in there as an afterthought. Knocked Up works so well because it tries really hard at both. It succeeds a little more as a comedy, given it has Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill, Jason Segel, Martin Starr, Craig Robinson, Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd, but it also takes a lot of time and care with its love story and has many thoughtful things to say about relationships and parenting. It never takes the easy way out or betrays itself for a cheap, inauthentic laugh, which lets the natural chemistry between Rogen and co-lead Katherine Heigl grow into a budding relationship you actually root for. 

81. Dawn Of The Dead (2004)

As proven decades ago by George A. Romero, slow zombies are quite scary – but in 2004, director Zack Snyder and screenwriter James Gunn teamed up to show us just how freaky fast zombies can be. Dawn Of The Dead is a movie that stays true to its source material, gathering a bunch of strangers in a shopping mall as the dead come back to life, but it has its own energy and no shortage of standout moments. The beginning is a terror, the ending is deeply unsettling (including the material in the end credits), but the baby is where this one hits its peak.

80. Remember the Titans (2000)

Remember the Titans will make you laugh, cry, cheer and feel a whole range of emotions as you go on a journey with newly integrated T.C. Williams football team to win the state championship. This incredible movie about bringing a football team together is led by Denzel Washington, and it’s not only regarded as one of his best movies, but it’s also widely known as one of the greatest sports films. 

Washington and Will Patton lead the stacked cast of Remember the Titans, which includes Wood Harris and Ryan Hurst as the team’s leaders. Along with them, the movie also features Donald Faison, Craig Kirkwood and Ethan Suplee as well as a very young Ryan Gosling and 10-year-old Hayden Panettiere, among many others. Overall, it’s an inspiring and moving movie about acceptance and determination. Let’s just say Remember the Titans always has us saying “We want some more!” 

79. Juno (2007)

While Elliot Page was an actor at a young age, Juno was the movie that made him into a household name. And for good measure, as Jason Reitman’s quirky 2007 flick delivers in both comedy and heartfelt, human moments. Page earned an Academy Award nomination at the time for his performance, which surely feels justified. 

2007's Juno centers around its title character, a teenage girl who accidentally gets pregnant. She decides to carry the baby to term, arranging an adoption with a married couple (played by Jennifer Garner and Jason Bateman). After being filled with plenty of funny moments (and a killer soundtrack) the ending provides an emotional catharsis that puts Juno above many movies around its time.

78. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

It’s no wonder that Disney has been trying for 20 years to recapture the lightning in a bottle that was Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. Inspired by a theme park attraction, but blazing its own trail, Pirates created one of modern cinema’s most iconic characters in Captain Jack Sparrow. But the rest of the cast, including Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, and a scene-stealing Geoffrey Rush, is no less compelling. From sword fights to ship battles, Black Pearl’s action is near perfect, with the Johnny Depp vs. Orlando Bloom duel a textbook example of how to tell a story with an action scene. It set a bar so high that even its own sequels were never going to clear it.

77. Ray (2004)

Cinema lovers have been graced with plenty of great biopics over the decades, and Ray certainly stands as one of the best. Directed by Taylor Hackford, the movie chronicles the life and career of the great Ray Charles. James L. White’s screenplay effectively tells Charles’ story, chronicling his professional and personal highs and lows in the process. And of course, the production is (appropriately) infused with incredible music. There are plenty of great performances on display, but it’s Jamie Foxx’s uncanny – and Oscar-winning – turn as the titular musician that really makes this period drama worth a watch or two.

76. Unbreakable (2000)

M. Night Shyamalan had an unenviable task in 2000 – following up his overnight sensation, The Sixth Sense. Was that movie a flash in the pan? Or would Shyamalan live up to the billing he was receiving in the press as, “The next Spielberg?” Remarkably, Shyamalan came up with a deeper, more meaningful film that also started the bandwagon for superhero-movie fascination, only with a meditative origin story for a strong man (Bruce Willis) who doesn’t recognize his invulnerability. Pulp Fiction co-star Samuel L. Jackson tapped into his fiendish side to play Willis’s nemesis, a man plagued with brittle bones who assumed that his opposite had to exist in the world. But it was Night’s ability to generate an intense mood that boosted Unbreakable. We rode a wave of increasingly suspenseful tension until the moment Willis donned his raincoat and embraced his destiny. Unbreakable started a trilogy, but also guaranteed that Shyamalan was here to stay as one of our most original and effective storytellers. 

75. Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)

Forgetting Sarah Marshall occasionally gets overlooked as being just another rom-com from the aughts – specifically the rom-com featuring the oddball pairing of Mila Kunis and Jason Segel, but I can’t imagine that anyone who’s lumping this movie into just another group of rom-coms has seen it recently because it is profoundly and consistently weird. 

Segel’s TV composer main character dreams of creating a Dracula musical featuring puppets called A Taste For Love. He also wants to get over his titular ex-girlfriend - hilariously played by Kristen Bell, who somehow ends up in the hotel room next to him having loud sex with her new rock star boyfriend. That messy journey of acceptance and moving on, amidst all its weirdness or maybe because of all its weirdness, never feels like a cliche. It’s consistently funny and has so many thoughtful things to say about relationships, break-ups and finding yourself. Don’t write it off.

74. School of Rock (2003)

Jack Black was many things in 2003, though many wouldn’t have considered his comedic stylings family-friendly until School Of Rock. Black’s musical abilities from his band Tenacious D paired with the wholesome story of teaching some kids how to rock, was fun for everyone and really skyrocketed him further into the mainstream and into more roles for younger audiences like Kung Fu Panda and Nacho Libre. Sure, he’d still do raunchier stuff like Tropic Thunder, but this movie was imperative to show the range he had as an actor. 

Let’s also not forget this movie boasted other celebrities who are notable talents in 2023, like Miranda Cosgrove and The White Lotus showrunner Mike White. Oh, and the music is still as great as it was then, even decades later. There’s a strong message here about the importance of teaching children about music and helping them follow their passion, and it’s that message that will keep this movie relevant for decades to come. 

73. Up (2009)

Pixar Animation Studios, a subsidiary of Walt Disney Studios, has always been known for its films that have reached a broad audience, starting with their debut full-feature film, Toy Story. However, in 2009, the studio released Up, the first Pixar film to receive a nomination for Best Picture at the Academy Awards. Up is mainly about Carl, an older man living a lonely life, and to fulfill his promise to his late wife, he travels across the world in a floating house to South America – with the help of a local wilderness explorer who tags along for the ride. 

A lot can be said about Up, from its stunning animation to the beautiful soundtrack, but nothing beats the story. It's a tale of a found family and of finding love and compassion in places you would never expect. And you must always remember – the wilderness must be explored!

72. District 9 (2009)

Coming in at 72 on the list might just be an indicator of how underrated District 9 is, considering it’s one of the best science fiction movies of the 2000s. Neill Blomkamp’s feature walks the line between messaging about the various mistreatment marginalized groups are subjected to, to how humanity would respond if aliens were really discovered to be on Earth. Given recent reports at government hearings, it isn’t all that unbelievable that it wouldn’t take long for humanity to get back to normal after finding a bunch of alien refugees on Earth. 

Perhaps the best compliment to pay District 9 is that it’s a phenomenal standalone sci-fi movie with no sequels or prequels. This could be why it’s typically lower on the sci-fi lists as there may be a community of people that simply forgot about it as the years went on. Now is the time to revive the credit it deserves and maybe bump it up a few notches on future top lists. 

71. Shrek (2001)

Think of every DreamWorks Animation movie you can think of – I bet Shrek is one of the first that pops into your head. 

Shrek was a momentous occasion for DreamWorks Animation when it was released. It was a huge box office success, received rave reviews, and was even the first Academy Award for Best Animated Feature winner. The movie mainly follows Shrek, an ogre whose swamp is suddenly overrun with fairytale creatures, and to get them out, he must save Princess Fiona from a tower guarded by a dragon on a mountain of lava and bring her to Lord Farquad. 

The DreamWorks Animation film created an empire of Shrek success. With numerous sequels and spinoff movies, Shrek is one of the most successful animated franchises ever. The first film featured some great CGI animation for 2001 but also had the hilarity of adult jokes that parents would get while their kids enjoyed the fantasy, animation, and love story. Besides, who wouldn't love listening to Eddie Murphy crack jokes as Donkey for an hour and a half? 

70. Mulholland Drive (2001)

There are two sides to David Lynch: the fairly normal filmmaker who wants to tell a linear story in a somewhat straightforward manner (examples include The Elephant Man and The Straight Story), and the absolute bonkers off-the-wall batshit fever dream of an avante-garde video artist (examples include Eraserhead and Inland Empire). What makes Mulholland Drive such a beautiful film, is that it’s the perfect balance of these two sides of the iconic writer/director. In fact, without spoiling anything, the film even has a pivotal moment where it completely changes tonally, effectively showing these two distinct sides of Lynch. Perhaps more importantly, this tonal switch is expertly pulled off by the film’s star Naomi Watts, who, between this and 2001’s 21 Grams, was at a point in her career where she was showing off her chops with an authenticity that was hard not to notice. Mulholland Drive will show you the full range of skill you need to see from both Watts, and the legendary auteur that is David Lynch. 

69. Watchmen (2009)

“Unadaptable” is a word that’s been used when approaching the most ambitious literary adaptations. Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons’ landmark graphic novel Watchmen was one such project, earning that brand after decades of potential adaptations failed to tackle the ambitious superhero narrative properly. 

Even in light of multiple cuts, and the ending being substantially altered from what was depicted in the 1985 source material, Watchmen is a miracle to behold. Somehow, the complicated narrative told through various mediums in that graphic novel was streamlined into a product that didn’t water down the full story. 

Only Zack Snyder’s third directorial effort, Watchmen is a powerful statement of the man’s developing skills in that point of his career. Arriving in the wake of Iron Man and The Dark Knight, it proved comic adaptations could be more than market-driving crowd pleasers. In the case of Watchmen, such movies could also be masterpieces.

68. Sideways (2004)

How the hell did Sideways, a dialogue-driven dramedy about a schoolteacher who loves wine, become such a mainstream pop-culture phenomenon? Try going wine-tasting without hearing a joke about drinking from the spit bucket, or somebody saying, “I am not drinking any fucking merlot!”

Sideways’ writer and director, Alexander Payne, has always told stories that are rather grounded in reality. Aside from Downsizing where he literally shrank Matt Damon, these are movies about common issues that most folks can relate to. The Descendants is about grief, About Schmidt is about aging, and Sideways is about letting go. With the script came Payne’s first Academy Award, a life-changing role for Paul Giamatti, and one of the best films of that decade. The bleak nature of the ending with just a dash of hope is a testament to real-life, and relatable for the average person. That is how a movie about a failed middle-aged writer with a drinking problem managed to cement its place in film history. 

67. Lost In Translation (2003)

Bob Harris (Bill Murray) is an American actor past his prime. Charlotte (Scarlett Johansson) is a young, married, recent college graduate. Both are in Tokyo — Bob to shoot promos for a Japanese whiskey and Charlotte to follow her photographer husband (Giovanni Ribisi) on his latest assignment — and overcome with feelings of loneliness and disillusionment until a chance meeting at their hotel bar gives the unlikely duo a sense of fulfillment when they both need it most.

Lost in Translation is one of the first films produced by Focus Features and is still considered to be one of the production company’s best releases two decades later for the refreshingly unique — albeit, unlikely — love story that still manages to warm hearts from its unforgettable opening shot to its cryptic, much-debated final moment. The charming, invigoratingly honest dramedy also managed to be a major turning point for Murray (who earned his sole Academy Award nomination), Johansson (a breakthrough performance), and second-time writer and director Sophia Coppola, who earned a well-deserved Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.

66. The 40 Year Old Virgin (2005)

In the mid-2000s, big screen comedy underwent a titanic shift. Through the late ‘90s and the turn of the century, the genre was dominated by the so-called Frat Pack (Will Ferrell, Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Jack Black, Owen Wilson and Luke Wilson)… but then along came The 40-Year-Old Virgin, the directorial debut from Judd Apatow. The film is hilarious and sweet, with a collection of wonderful characters exploring the high highs and low lows of sexuality and romance in the 21st century – and while not everything about it has aged perfectly, it does a tremendous job at leaning into the talents of its stars. And it’s a game-changer.

While it’s Steve Carell’s movie, a huge part of its legacy is featuring the breakout performance by Seth Rogen. In the wake of The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Rogen and Apatow became the biggest names in funny, with not just their own comedic voices becoming popular, but also their improvisation-heavy styles.

65. Hot Fuzz (2007)

Hot Fuzz is the kind of action movie where every second feels crafted by a team of action movie fans, as opposed to a cast and crew just going through the motions. Co-written by the A+ pair Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg, starring Pegg opposite frequent co-star Nick Front, Hot Fuzz is mostly set far from metropolitan skylines and endless high-rises, and its quaint Wicker Man-esque village makes for a wildly unique setting for any story filled with this many Point Break references.

As the second film in the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy, Hot Fuzz built on Shaun of the Dead's already stellar cast with a host of UK legends such as Jim Broadbent, Timothy Dalton, Bill Nighy, Edward Woodward, Billie Whitelaw, Olivia Colman, Bill Bailey, and the list goes on and on. (When you have Cate Blanchett making uncredited appearances, you're doing something right.) Unlike the other two Cornetto films, though, Hot Fuzz probably deserves another straightforward sequel set in this universe, with a new killer crime for Nicholas Angel and Danny Butterman to get crackin’ on.

64. Walk The Line (2005)

Music biopics might feel like they’re a dime a dozen, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t gems to behold in the genre, and one of those is absolutely James Mangold’s Academy Award-winning drama, Walk the Line. In it, Joaquin Phoenix portrays country music legend Johnny Cash through his tumultuous rise to fame, which includes his relationship with eventual wife, June Carter (Reese Witherspoon).

Sure, on one hand, we’ve seen music’s superstars descend into alcoholism and drug addiction on the big screen time and time again, but it’s how all the pieces of Cash and Carter’s story are put together that make the film a must watch. As such, the performances of the leads are everything here, and seeing June attempt to staunch her feelings for her married co-performer, while also trying to knock some sense into him as she watches his addictions grow and Johnny become more erratic, are some of the best parts of the movie. Witherspoon didn’t win a Best Actress Oscar for nothing, and Phoenix is at his peak here, as well.

63. Lilo & Stitch (2002)

With Walt Disney Animation fresh out of its renaissance after the ‘90s, the 2000s were a particularly experimental period for the studio which, looking back, found inspiration from numerous science fiction classics. The best 2D animated movie from the House of Mouse of the decade is a lively spin on E.T., but this mysterious alien is an intergalactic fugitive with a bad temper who falls to the Hawaiian Islands, becomes best friends with a young orphaned girl who teaches him the gospel of Elvis Presley. 

Not only is Lilo & Stitch an incredibly quotable, fun, family adventure, it’s one of Disney’s most authentic and original films that speaks to finding one’s ohana in unexpected places amidst great loss. Few Walt Disney Animation movies have felt as simultaneously intimate and commercial as Lilo & Stitch. Experiment 626 remains a gem that made Disney’s growing pains of the 2000s worth the while. 

62. Monsters, INC (2001)

Before Up, The Incredibles and even Finding Nemo, there was Monsters, Inc. Pixar’s decision to make its fourth feature a story about a company that generates scream-based power in a world inhabited by ferocious creatures may have seemed odd at the time. However, it ultimately turned out to be an inspired (and very) lucrative decision. Set in the world of Monstropolis, the film centers on two pals – both employees of the titular corporation – who must return a human child to her world in order to keep her out of harm’s way. And the result is a hilarious and heartwarming romp about loyalty and tolerance.

Pete Docter – who’d go on to direct Up, Inside Out and more – really proved himself as a filmmaker with this directorial debut. The flick is beautifully animated and populated with plenty of lovable characters. Speaking of which, John Goodman’s James P. “Sully” Sullivan and Billy Crystal’s Mike Wasowski still stand as two of Pixar’s most popular creations. The interactions between the two sometimes mirror the interplay of some of cinema’s best comedic duos. Monsters, Inc. would spawn a sequel and TV spinoff, but it’s the 2001 movie that’s truly an eclectic piece of storytelling.

61. The Hurt Locker (2008)

Best Picture award, but the voters got it right when it came to the prize handed out at the end of the 21st century’s first decade. Director Kathryn Bigelow’s The Hurt Locker is a heart-stopper that tears down the wall between film and audience: when Jeremy Renner’s Staff Sergeant William James is suited up and defusing bombs, you hold your breath in fear, terrified to feel the heat of the fiery explosion that will result with one false move by the protagonist.

Screenwriter Mark Boal’s work puts us directly in James’ mind – a soldier who is incapable of leaving the battlefield behind – and Jeremy Renner’s turn is a career best. In retrospect, it’s wholly understandable why Renner’s performance changed the trajectory of his career and turned him into the Marvel-bona fide star that he is today.

60. Moulin Rouge (2001)

On paper, Moulin Rouge is a movie that just should not exist. The premise alone, a modern jukebox musical set in 1890s Paris, creates a level of cognitive dissonance on its own that suspension of disbelief should be impossible. It’s the sort of thing that only a director like Baz Luhrmann would even try, but somehow, he not only makes it happen, he makes it work.

Everything about Moulin Rouge goes hard. The performances, the songs, the sets. It creates its unreality so perfectly that it’s near-impossible to avoid being swept up by it and brought along for the ride. And the absinthe-infused magic is so far removed from reality that even 20 years later Moulin Rouge feels just as fresh. Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor are perfect as the star-crossed lovers. We know how the story will end before it begins, but it doesn’t make any of it less heartbreaking. Luhrmann’s films can sometimes focus on style over substance, but there’s no lack of substance here. 

59. Elf (2003)

Elf is probably the most recent Christmas movie that became an instant classic. Jon Favreau crafted a delightful and bonkers story for the 2003 movie, with Will Ferrell offering one of his most iconic performances of all time. And it’s a movie that’s re-watched annually by countless families every Holiday Season… or other times in the year when you need a good laugh.

Elf’s concept is both ridiculous and simple; Buddy is a human raised by elves who eventually goes to New York City to find his birth father (played by Godfather icon James Caan). The juxtaposition between Buddy’s eternal optimism and the hard streets of the Big Apple is fodder for countless funny bits throughout its runtime. There’s also a touching story about family and the holiday spirit that makes Elf a true beloved Christmas movie. Plus, it’s got a pre-Game of Thrones appearance by Peter Dinklage. And of course, Santa (I know him!).

58. Good Night, and Good Luck (2005)

In the 1950s, few people were as outspoken about the threat of Communism than Wisconsin senator Joseph McCarthy, whose blacklisting of anyone he deemed suspicious was so notoriously frequent that “McCarthyism” — a term associated with fear mongering — was coined after him. One of the few people brave enough to take a stand against him was CBS reporter Edward R. Murrow, whose defiance of the politician and the Red Scare nearly cost him his career, but also made him into one of the most influential icons of his craft.

This monumental moment in journalism history is dramatized with nearly the same level of passion for truth and justice in Good Night, and Good Luck. — named after the famous concluding catchphrase of Murrow, portrayed here in an Academy Award-nominated performance by David Strathairn. George Clooney, who also plays Murrow’s producer, Fred Friendly, earned his first Oscar nominations as a director and co-writer for this riveting history lesson, made even better with Robert Elswit’s gorgeous cinematography and exquisite acting from the star-studded ensemble, which also includes Jeff Daniels, Patricia Arquette, Robert Downey Jr., and Frank Langella.

57. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

Wes Anderson’s style is so distinct that it has become something of a joke in pop culture, frequently being parodied on shows like Saturday Night Live. When folks reference Wes Anderson, and the trademarks of a Wes Anderson film, they’re primarily lifting it from The Royal Tenenbaums. The point is, Tenenbaums is by far the most Wes Anderson-y film to ever Wes Anderson; absolutely jam-packed with quirkitude, a variety of eccentric characters and deadpan dialogue delivery. This is the quintessential hipster flick that helped to define a generation of indie millennial film buffs.

Aside from The Royal Tenenbaums’ effect on pop culture, it truly exists as a wonderful, honest, hilarious, and heartbreaking film. Over twenty years ago when the film was released, there wasn’t a lot like it in mainstream American cinema, with the somewhat privileged (yet painfully relatable) themes it explores being limited to conversations had by those gathering to watch Jean-Luc Godard in their NYU dorm rooms. With his first Oscar nomination, The Royal Tenenbaums introduced much of the world to Wes Anderson, and many still consider it to be his finest work to date. 

56. Spider-Man 2 (2004)

Oftentimes sequels don’t measure up to their predecessor, but Spider-Man 2 is one of the exceptions. Director Sam Raimi and screenwriter Alvin Sargent kept the best elements from the first Spider-Man movie and improved upon them, with the follow-up doing an excellent job exploring how Tobey Maguire’s Peter Parker handles the burden of heroism and trying to balance his web-sliding activities with his civilian life. However, Spider-Man 2’s MVP is Alfred Molina, whose more sympathetic take on Doctor Octopus quickly cemented him as one of the best superhero movie villains of all time. It’s no wonder we still have yet to see another actor play the tentacled antagonist in a live-action movie. As a bonus, I love how the movie recreated the panel from 1967’s The Amazing Spider-Man #50 of Peter Parker leaving his costume behind in the garbage. A touch like that is a great Easter egg for Marvel fans, but is also just a gorgeous shot for the casuals watching the tale unfold.

55. Ratatouille (2007)

Pixar Animation’s eighth feature film, Ratatouille, is as surprising as its premise. It came at a time when the studio was high on a winning streak, redefining how we looked at toys, bugs, monsters, cars, superheroes and fish. Sure, making an audience empathetic to rats feels like a stretch, but the 2007 movie had a fresh and quirky way in that kept Pixar at an all-time high. What if one rat was secretly a gourmet cook in Paris, France? The results are so charming. 

Fronted by a charismatic voice performance from Patton Oswalt as Remy, packed with decadent and often mouth-watering animation greatly displayed inside a top-tier French kitchen and beautifully underlined by an all-time great score from Michael Giacchino, Pixar told a hilarious underdog story with the creativity and wonder the studio remains beloved for. It’s one of those movies that has one doing a double take at every human and animal you encounter next time you walk outside in playful curiosity about the world thinking “Anyone Can Cook.” 

54. Superbad (2007)

Seth Rogen has touted himself as a “permanent teenager,” and never has that title been truer than in the 2007 teen buddy comedy Superbad. The movie — which he penned with Evan Goldberg and stars a number of the regular Judd Apatow players — carries the funky vibe of the 1970s throughout, but its story is timeless. The only thing more relatable than high-school seniors Seth and Evan (played perfectly by Jonah Hill and Michael Cera) trying to get to a party to impress some girls was their underlying anxiety over not knowing what would happen to their friendship after graduation.

The laughs come a mile a minute — some may say it’s the funniest movie of all time — with an impressive cast that also includes Bill Hader, Joe Lo Truglio, Emma Stone and, of course, Seth Rogen. But in the end it’s the friendship at the heart of the story that makes this one worth watching again and again. Superbad is also responsible for giving us “McLovin,” for which we should be forever grateful.

53. Catch Me If You Can (2002)

One of the most intriguing stories related to the crime of check fraud is that of Frank Abagnale Jr., who impersonated various professions, passed off millions of dollars worth of phony checks, and outran the FBI between the ages of 16 and 21. At least, that is what the fraud prevention consultant claimed in his memoir, Catch Me If You Can. The book inspired an excellent movie of the same name.

This 1960s-set crime drama stars future Academy Award winner Leonardo DiCaprio as the young, elusive con artist, who enters an intense, enduring game of cat-and-mouse with two-time Academy Award winner Tom Hanks as a veteran FBI agent who will stop at nothing to bring him to justice, even if he becomes friends with him in the process. Following Minority Report, director Steven Spielberg completed his one-two punch of masterfully entertaining films in 2002 with this dazzling, devilishly charming, and even heartwarming tale. 

52. Cast Away (2000)

Everybody scream “Wilson!” with me! Now, let’s all break into violent sobs as we remember Tom Hanks losing his best friend… a volleyball with a face painted on it. Cast Away is a miracle. It’s essentially a one-man show that you can’t pull your eyes off of, because you root so hard for Hanks and want to see how he’s going to get off the deserted island on which he is stranded. Director Robert Zemeckis places us in Hanks’ sandals, so we feel frustration as he fails to get a makeshift raft over the incoming tide, and elation when he figures out how to start a fire. Hanks already was viewed as one of our greatest actors before he single handedly carried this survival story, but the gripping performance earned him his fifth Oscar nomination. (He lost to Russell Crowe in Gladiator.) Listen to this remarkable stat: Zemeckis filmed Cast Away’s first half with a chunky Hanks, then had to pause production while his leading man lost enough weight and grew enough hair to play his marooned self in the movie’s second half. During that pause, Zemeckis filmed an entire feature: 2000’s marital thriller What Lies Beneath, with Michelle Pfeiffer and Harrison Ford.

51. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

One thing to know about Ang Lee is that he keeps audiences guessing when it comes to his projects. And given his body of work leading up to the 2000s, not too many people might’ve expected him to helm a wuxia martial arts epic with Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Yet movie lovers should be so glad he did. His seventh directorial effort is a masterpiece featuring beautifully choreographed fight sequences, impeccable production design, imposing performances and more.

Based on Wang Dulu’s 1942 novel of the same name, the highly ambitious production centers on a seasoned warrior and his equally skilled ally (and love interest), who aim to hunt down the former’s fabled sword so it can be delivered for safekeeping. Their quest ultimately leads them down a path neither could’ve ever imagined. Ang Lee assembled a highly formidable ensemble of actors led by Chow Yun-fat, Michelle Yeoh and Zhang Ziyi, who all give career-best performances. The martial arts genre features a wide array of movies, but few can meet the standard set by Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

50. Legally Blonde (2001)

“What? Like it’s hard” to be one of the top 50 movies of the 2000s? It’s not for Legally Blonde, that’s for sure. Casually going to law school at Harvard to win back your ex-boyfriend is a far-fetched idea, but Reese Witherspoon’s Elle Woods doesn't just pull it off, she succeeds in grand fashion, obviously.  

Elle Woods is such an icon, she’s funny, gorgeous, and hyper-intelligent, and seeing her harness all of that to succeed at Harvard was empowering. Reese Witherspoon and the cast of Legally Blonde are also on their A-games in this movie, creating a hilariously smart and unique story. From Jennifer Coolidge’s “bend and snap” moment with our leading lady to the adorable rom-com subplot between Elle and Luke Wilson’s Emmett, the film is packed with memorable stories from fabulous characters.

Since then, Withersoon’s lawyer’s story has expanded into a sequel and a Broadway musical, because a world with more Elle Woods in it is “So Much Better.” 

49. Tropic Thunder (2008)

Tropic Thunder is a relentless and vicious commentary on the motion picture industry and all the absurdities associated with it. For two unyielding hours, Ben Stiller’s satirical action comedy mercilessly skewers the executives, the actors, the directors, the writers, the agents and even an explosives coordinator, painting them as deeply flawed and emotionally unstable people who will do anything to stay relevant and protect their own fragile egos. From blackface to stolen valor to exploiting the mentally handicapped, there’s no line they won’t cross in pursuit of their next award, their next paycheck or their next high.

Tropic Thunder shouldn’t work. From one angle, it’s a big budget, big studio action comedy filled with explosions, fart jokes and Tom Cruise dancing to Flo Rida. From another angle, it’s a deeply clever satire that repeatedly and without apology seeks out complicated and problematic subject matter. It’s a movie within a movie disguised as another movie, but instead of a disorganized mess, it somehow all comes together thanks to a fantastic script, an Oscar-nominated Robert Downey Jr. performance and the greatest little kid reaction shot in the history of movies.

48. Gladiator (2000)

Russell Crowe went on an absolute tear in the 2000s with a number of memorable movies, so it’s no surprise that the one he won the Best Actor Oscar for is on this list. Gladiator is an absolute triumph from start to finish, with knockout performances led by the direction of Ridley Scott. Maximus is an immediately likable character brought down to the lowest point of his life. He keeps fighting and survives solely because of the revenge he hopes to deliver to Commodus. 

And while Joaquin Phoenix did not win an Oscar for his nominated performance as Commodus, Maximus’ journey isn’t quite as sweet without him being every bit as unlikable as he should be. When the big scene finally comes for Maximus and Commodus to square off, how can you not be on the edge of your seat? Without a doubt one of the best gladiator movies of all time.

47. Slumdog Millionaire (2008)

While not strictly a love story, Danny Boyle’s Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire definitely owes a lot to the genre, as Jamal’s (Dev Patel) lifelong love for childhood friend Latika (Freida Pinto) drives much of what he does. The drama follows Jamal as he relays the events of his young life that have led him to correctly answering questions on the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, after he’s arrested and tortured for cheating.

As Jamal takes us through the harrowing events of his childhood that led him not only to fall for Latika, but to compete on the show in an effort to find her again, we’re taken through an action-packed tale of survival under extreme circumstances, what a young man will go through to save the love of his life, and how we all probably know a lot more than we think we do. Definitely hard to watch at times, but inspirational nonetheless.

46. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

On one hand, Jonathan Daylon and Valerie Faris’ Little Miss Sunshine is one of the funniest movies of the 2000s, but on the other hand it’s one of the most tragic stories to come out of the decade. The “road trip from Hell” setup had been done countless times prior to the film’s 2006 release, but rarely had the subgenre been as effective, emotional, or laugh out loud funny.

Michael Arndt’s hilarious, heartbreaking, and nuanced screenplay, which earned him an Oscar, doesn’t play it safe by avoiding life’s tragedies (both major and minor), but instead faces them head-on, creating a cathartic experience for his characters and audience alike. Transformative performances by the late Alan Arkin (he also won an Academy Award), Abigail Breslin, Toni Collette and the rest of the Little Miss Sunshine cast make you feel their characters are family, which is the heart and soul of this outstanding film.

45. Pride & Prejudice (2005)

Keira Knightley’s Pride & Prejudice is hardly the first take on the novel of the same name, but the 2005 film arguably set the standard for modern Jane Austen movie adaptations. The love story between Elizabeth Bennet (Knightley) and Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen) is beautifully told, and made all the more memorable for the cinematography, soundtrack, and chemistry between the stars. In fact, the cast was stacked with stars who either already had or would become big names, including Donald Sutherland, Judi Dench, Rosamund Pike, Jena Malone, Carey Mulligan, and Kelly Reilly in addition to Knightley and Macfadyen. 

The world of the Bennet family in this Pride & Prejudice feels lived in and domestic in a way that adds a touch of modern realism to a Regency-era period drama and contrasts the more austere beauty of Mr. Darcy’s Pemberley estate. The film isn’t as faithful to the book as the beloved 1995 BBC miniseries, but it hits the important beats of the original Jane Austen story in just over two hours while also being completely accessible to viewers who haven’t read the book, with moments like the iconic hand flex of Mr. Darcy that fans far and wide know well. 

44. Adaptation (2002)

Adaptation is a book adaptation about the adaptation process. Understood? Wonderful. 

Nicolas Cage plays dual roles as the most neurotic possible version of screenwriter Charlie Kauffman, as well as his fictitious twin Donald Kauffman. Originally hired to write the film adaptation for Susan Orlean’s bestseller The Orchid Thief, Charlie Kauffman experiences a debilitating case of writer’s block, stemming from a slew of mental health issues including social anxiety, body dysmorphia and depression. This sends him on something of a tortured artist’s odyssey that leads him to write himself, and the experience, into his script. Thus, we get Adaptation, a hybrid of both the story of The Orchid Thief, and Kauffman’s experience adapting it.

These days, such a meta concept is somewhat commonplace, but over 20 years ago, this was the most bonkers script since Kauffman’s Being John Malkovich. Malkovich was even worked into Adaptation’s storyline, with John Cusack, Catherine Keener and the titular John Malkovich playing themselves. The point is, this film is WEIRD in the best of ways, yet still managed to grab Oscar nominations for Nicolas Cage and Meryl Streep, as well as a win for Chris Cooper. Adaptation is perhaps the greatest cinematic insight into the creative writing process, and the effect it has on one’s psyche, ever made.

43. Love & Basketball (2000)

The best romantic comedies might get a lot of attention from fans of lovey dovey stories, but romantic dramas deserve our eyeballs as well, and Love & Basketball is one that really should be praised. This romance (which is also a fantastic sports drama) tells the story of Monica (Sanaa Lathan) and Quincy (Omar Epps), two talented, basketball-obsessed kids who bond over their love of the sport, but have several trials as they attempt to take their relationship from friends to lovers in their high school and college years and, later, in their twenties.

Gina Prince-Bythewood’s feature-length directorial debut does an amazing job of showing how hard it can be for two people who are so dedicated to their craft to make time for one another, especially as the pressure to succeed in their sport pulls them in different directions. But, it goes much further than that, with each of their complicated family dynamics and emotional wounds taking this love story to the next level.

42. Minority Report (2002)

If you had the chance to predict and prevent a tragic crime, the choice sounds obvious, right? That is until you are faced with the possibility that the prediction is wrong and your arrestee was destined to be innocent. That provocative idea was the basis for a 1956 short story by prolific science-fiction writer Philip K. Dick, which was later adapted into one of director Steven Spielberg’s most exciting films of the decade, if not his full career.

Tom Cruise stars as John Anderton — the chief for a special police unit that uses a trio of clairvoyant siblings to detect future murders — who begins to question their seemingly “perfect” system when he makes the horrifying discovery that the potential perpetrator of his next case is himself, forcing him to go on the run. The truth behind this prediction revealed in the brilliant twist ending of Minority Report is one of the many fascinating and thought-provoking aspects of this astonishingly inventive sci-fi masterpiece that is not quite dystopian, but far from utopian either.

41. Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Over the past few years, there have been great strides for representation and diverse stories in Hollywood. But back in the early 2000s, this wasn’t exactly the case. Which is why Ang Lee’s Brokeback Mountain was such a groundbreaking movie upon its release. Hollywood simply wasn’t telling queer love stories through major blockbusters, let alone honoring them with major Awards Nominations.

While there’s been some backlash about straight actors playing LGBTQ+ roles, Brokeback likely only got produced because of its bankable (and yes straight) lead actors. For their part, both Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger offer moving and complicated performances that still stand up today. Michelle Williams and Anne Hathaway also really deliver, which is par for the course for those talented actresses. This quartet of performers tell their characters’ stories through decades of time, and to devastating results. And the acclaimed film is still so beloved that it’s being adapted for the stage on the West End, starring Mike Faist and Lucas Hedges. 

40. American Psycho (2000)

Author Bret Easton Ellis’ novel American Psycho is a shocking literary experience. There are scenes in it that will make even the most seasoned horror fan blanche – and reading it, you can understand why it was deemed unadaptable for a time after its publication. When it did finally get brought to the big screen, co-adapted by screenwriter Guinevere Turner and director Mary Harron, the material was understandably pulled back a bit, but the movie still remains a scary and biting satire that takes aim at the hardcore capitalism in the 1980s.

Years before he became a big screen legend playing Batman, Christian Bale became a horror icon with his performance as Patrick Bateman – a white, rich sociopath who enjoys torturing and slaughtering women… but who nonetheless blends in with all the rest of New York’s white, rich sociopaths. It’s a rich cinematic experience that manages to be both satisfyingly scary and surprisingly funny.

39. 28 Days Later (2002)

Certain movies can be credited as causing shifts so powerful, an entire genre felt its influence. Director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland’s 28 Days Later is one such film, as this lo-fi British horror-thriller would go on to see interest in movies like Dawn of the Dead (2004) and Shaun of the Dead being boosted. 

Revitalizing the zombie genre, while not calling its own creatures by the Z-word, the normal rules didn’t apply in this horror masterpiece. In the world of the previously coma-ridden Jim (Cillian Murphy), the vicious “infected” could come from anywhere, with blazing speed. Survival, in some situations, could be measured in a heartbeat, with a drop of blood or saliva making the difference. 

Stocked with a who’s who of actors like Brendan Gleeson, Christopher Eccleston, and Naomie Harris, 28 Days Later did for zombies what Scream did for slasher films. Challenging the status quo with relentless energy, the film is all at once terrifying, heartbreaking, and hopeful. Danny Boyle and Alex Garland resurrected the undead genre with stunning results.

38. Amelie (2001)

One of the most delightful stories committed to film. French ingénue Audrey Tautou was perfectly cast as the title character Amelie, who is believed to have a delicate heart condition and so is overprotected by her doting parents. As a result of her gently-imposed isolation, Amelie develops an overactive imagination, which leads her on a series of whimsical adventures. Amelie director Jean-Pierre Jeunet embraces magical realism as a style, with Tautou basically gliding through this giddy fantasy as she works to make the lives of everyone around her happy, and possibly find love on her own in the process. Amelie seems to transmit joy, and if you aren’t uplifted by Tautou’s effervescent performance, you might want to check to ensure you still have a pulse. Now, go borrow someone else’s lawn gnome, photograph it in front of a celebrated vacation spot, and spread the joy of Amelie with anyone who hasn’t yet seen this delightful gem. 

37. Donnie Darko (2001)

There may not be a more aggressively strange and maddeningly perplexing movie on this list than Donnie Darko. Yet, its mysterious and nearly off-putting nature may be the reason why — despite nearly becoming a cable TV movie (if not for Christopher Nolan’s praise) and ultimately bombing at the box office — it remains an enduring cult hit.

At its core, writer and director Richard Kelly’s feature-length debut is the story of an emotionally troubled young man (Jake Gyllenhaal) whose struggle to navigate adolescence in the late 1980s is worsened by visions of an apocalyptic soothsayer in a horrifying rabbit suit, but it is much more than that. It is a sharp coming-of-age satire on par with some of John Hughes’ films, a classic time travel movie, and a pervasively grim fantasy tale that serves as a perfect Halloween tradition, among other things. Above all, however, Donnie Darko is unique enough to defy categorization, resulting in a one-of-a-kind experience. 

36. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)

If we’re only including one adaptation of the Harry Potter series on this list, it has to be Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. The source material has our lead trio entering into their teen years with more studies than ever and higher stakes all around. New characters are introduced, major reveals transpire and there’s also that twisty bit of time travel. Oh, and let’s not forget the bone-chilling Dementors, whose powers include dredging up a person’s darkest memories and fears. 

Those things on their own give Prisoner of Azkaban an edge over some of the other books, but Alfonso Cuarón’s adaptation does more than just bring one of the best installments of the series to life. New layers of the magical world emerge on the screen thanks to the cinematography, not to mention Cuarón’s vision and patient approach to the pacing, which gives us the chance to really soak in the surroundings in any given scene. Whether it’s showing the change of seasons at Hogwarts or the stunning sight of Harry soaring over the lake on the back of a Hippogriff, it’s more than enough to set the film above its predecessors and raise the bar firmly for the adaptations that would follow. 

35. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

The Devil Wears Prada is already a classic. While the film quality itself is high, the movie has also become part of the fabric of pop culture, thanks to its quotable lines and the unbelievable performance of one Meryl Streep. Anne Hathaway is regularly transformed into a meme thanks to the scene where Annie shows up to work post-makeover in Chanel Boots.

Aside from the pop culture of it all, The Devil Wears Prada is a delightful movie romp. The fashions are aspirational, and the cast is truly on top of their game. Special points to Emily Blunt, who became a household name following her performance as Emily. And considering how light and frothy even the movie’s drama is, the rewatchability of this book to movie adaptation cannot be understated. If you haven’t watched Devil Wears Prada recently, by all means move at a glacial pace. You know how that thrills me.

34. The Lord Of The Rings Movies (2001-2003)

There are very few fantasy movie franchises out there that have been great all the way through. They have their dips and slides, but if there’s one major fantasy franchise to rule them all, it has to be The Lord of the Rings movies. 

The film franchise mainly follows Frodo Baggins as he travels with the Fellowship on a quest to destroy the One Ring in order to take down the person who made it, Sauron. But don't take that premise at face value – there is so much more to this story than meets the eye. 

The Lord of the Rings movies are perfect in every shape and form. From the battle sequences to the visual effects to the acting, there is much to love and adore about these films. The Lord of the Rings delivers in ways fans can't even imagine. There's a reason why the franchise is so popular years later – and how spinoffs, such as The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, have been released in recent years. The love keeps pouring in. 

33. Casino Royale (2006)

When James Bond was given his iconic Walther PPK in Dr. No, Sean Connery’s initial incarnation is told the weapon has “a delivery like a brick through a plate glass window.” The same could be said for 2006’s Casino Royale, as the introduction to Daniel Craig’s James Bond movies wasn’t shy about changing things up, and surprising even the most experienced 007 fans with how it would depict Commander Bond’s exploits.

Director Martin Campbell’s franchise reboot was as lean and mean as they come. Casino Royale showed 007 getting his ass handed to him, and his heart broken. Such vulnerability didn’t weaken the character, but rather it humanized him and added a suspense that the Bond movies had lost for some time.

Daniel Craig stepped into the role of the modern James Bond as if it were a tuxedo perfectly tailored for his presence. Wryly funny, yet cold and calculating when he had to pull the trigger, Craig made the role his own from frame one. To see such an iconic series redefined so perfectly, after 20 movies and over four decades of history before it, is something that still astonishes as much now as it did upon initial viewing.

32. Batman Begins (2005)

One of the most notorious bombs in Hollywood history is 1997’s Batman & Robin — a movie that, despite having some fans, is so cartoonishly absurd and dismissive of the source material’s essential themes and tone that it would be the last we would see of one of DC Comics’ most important characters on the big screen for years. The Caped Crusader’s resurgence in cinema — and in modern pop culture — can be traced back to when director Christopher Nolan went back to basics and all the way back to the beginning of his war on crime in Batman Begins.

Christian Bale immediately asserted himself as one of the best actors to play Batman with his grounded and stoic performance as a Bruce Wayne desperate to rescue his beloved Gotham City — one of the most stunningly realistic and effectively grimy depictions of the burdened metropolis — from the cesspool of crime and corruption it has become. While it is not widely considered to be the absolute best of the live-action Batman movies so far (more on that one later), most would agree that Batman Begins is one of the best superhero movies in general for its refreshingly earnest and complex approach to comic book lore, exhilarating action sequences and technical mastery, and reinventing the Dark Knight for a new generation without losing sight of what made him an icon in the first place.

31. Children of Men (2006)

In a dystopian future, environmental malpractice has led to constant war, famine, and total human infertility. So imagine the surprise felt by former political activist Theo Faron (Clive Owen) when he learns that a young female refugee (Clare-Hope Ashitey) is pregnant, and is poised to deliver the first natural childbirth in eighteen years. 

Mexican director Alfonso Cuaron was coming off of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (considered by many to be the best film in that saga) when he unleashed his talents on Children of Men. His breathtaking approach to editing and cinematography propels the action forward at a feverish pitch, with Cuaron often choosing to stage his movements in long, eye-popping, unbroken shots that lure the audience to the edge of their seats. Cuaron says this is a movie about hope, but you have to endure a lot of credible despair to finally unearth it. It’s worth the effort.

30. Ocean's Eleven (2001)

As times change, what’s considered popular is as fluid as water itself. Sometimes a movie can be ahead of the curve in that respect, dictating a whole era of cool in its very existence. Director Steven Soderbergh’s Ocean’s Eleven did just that, as both an uber slick heist movie, and as a modernized remake of a pre-existing film. 

The 1960’s Rat Pack extravaganza about war veterans looking for one big score was turned into a gathering of thieves, assembled by one man (George Clooney) looking for something more than cash. While the stakes were changed, and the number spelled out in the title, this film nailed the breezy energy that made the original so lovely.

Be it an all-star cast including Bernie Mac, Carl Reiner, Andy Garcia, and Julia Roberts, the insanely slick soundtrack, or even just the way George Clooney could rock a suit without a tie, Ocean’s Eleven doesn’t telegraph its style. It presents it with great confidence, and allows you to decide if it’s worth your while. It’s a love letter to the past, while playing to the viewer of today; with a result as cool as that drink you just ordered at the bar.

29. Chicago (2002)

If you look at just about any list of the best musicals of the 21st century, it’s basically a guarantee that Chicago will be there. The adaptation of Bob Fosse’s long-running musical is one of few musical films to win Best Picture at the Academy Awards. Catherine Zeta-Jones took home a trophy as well for her stellar performance as the “All That Jazz” singer who killed her husband and sister, Velma Kelly. This film has intrigue, sex, murder, genius performances and a whole lot of jazz, and it's truly a masterful musical adaptation.

Rob Marshall ultimately made a musical that stays true to its stage roots, but also heightens the entire story through movie magic. Take “Cell Block Tango” for example, the majority of the song is performed on a stage, and the women singing about murdering their husbands are in black costumes similar to the wardrobe from Broadway. However, it’s bigger as a whole, and it flashes between the actual prison, and this staged dream-like sequence. By doing this for every number, the film both elevated and paid homage to its predecessor, which is just one of the many reasons it’s so incredible.

28. Iron Man (2008)

From being the first self-financed Marvel Studios production, executives initially being opposed to casting Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, and most of the dialogue being improvised since the script wasn’t finished when production began, there was a lot that could have gone wrong with Iron Man. And yet, the end result stands as a triumph in large part due to Downey’s performance as the genius/billionaire/playboy/philanthropist.

But of course, one can’t discuss Iron Man without addressing how it changed the film franchise game. Once Nick Fury emerged from the shadows and mentioned the Avengers Initiative in the post-credits scene, that was the first big tipoff that this movie was the first chapter in a shared universe, just like in the original Marvel comics. More than a decade later, the MCU still stands as a Hollywood powerhouse, and many franchises, both superhero and from other genres, have followed in its footsteps. 

27. Shaun Of The Dead (2004)

The slacker bastard child of George Romero's Dead films and Danny Boyle's 28 Days Later, Shaun of the Dead is a rarity in cinema, and not just for having the gall to sacrifice the soundtrack to 1989's Batman. It's a largely perfect amalgam of authenticity and parodical storytelling, anchored to the comedic whims and wiles of  director Edgar Wright, his co-writer Simon Pegg,  and Pegg’s co-star Nick Frost. As it goes with that trio’s other film on this list (see #65), Shaun’s biggest strength is its characters who feel real enough to legitimize the zombie apocalypse chaos, while also making viewers care about them even when the gory threats aren’t around the corner.

Shaun of the Dead may go down as the funniest horror movie to have ever existed, while also delivering some genuinely disturbing moments throughout that keep the adventure from falling too far into the funnies. Simon Pegg even transcends the dual genre description by spinning palpable emotion out of his struggle to prioritize the safety of his relationship, his BFF, and his mom. And if that wasn’t enough, it allowed moviegoers to spend some time in the Winchester, and that’s a slice of fried gold that makes everyone’s life better.

26. Moon (2009)

Whenever we sit down for a sci-fi film, especially one that takes place on a remote station somewhere away from our planet, we all know that we’re in for a twisty tale, and Moon certainly fulfills that promise. Duncan Jones’ 2009 directorial debut (he also came up with the story) focuses on Sam Bell (Sam Rockwell), the lone human working a mostly automated mining facility on the far side of the moon, who begins to have troubling hallucinations as he nears the end of his work contract.

What follows is surprising, as not only does the story take several intriguingly unexpected turns, but it also examines what it’s like to be isolated from others (including loved ones), holding on to a sense of community, and one’s willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. Throw in a creepy AI, which can’t quite be determined as a helper or a hindrance for a time, and you get science fiction gold.

25. The Incredibles (2004)

Released during the early years of the superhero movie’s surging popularity, The Incredibles still holds up tremendously after all this time, despite so many other offerings from Marvel, DC and other studios being delivered nearly two decades after its release. To be sure, Pixar’s sixth full-length feature does a spectacular job at both honoring classic superhero stories and tropes, as well as poking fun at them, including the hilarious ‘no capes’ gag. But The Incredibles’ greatest feat isn’t how it handles these larger-than-life elements, but rather how it makes these characters feel relatable and complex in the midst of the action.

From Bob and Helen Parr being concerned about their children’s welfare, whether they’re living everyday life in suburbia or fighting bad guys in costume, to understanding that Syndrome’s sinister motivations stem from the hurt he endured as an adolescent, The Incredibles never pushes aside its humanity in favor of spectacle; instead, they compliment each other quite nicely. Throw in outstanding vocal performances from actors like Craig T. Nelson and Holly Hunter, and Brad Bird excelling as both the director and screenwriter, this movie stands out not just as a superhero movie, but as one of the greatest entries in Pixar’s library.

24. Requiem for a Dream (2000)

Join Us In Creating Excellence. More powerful than any anti-drug ad, Requiem for a Dream hit theaters in 2000 and has stood the test of time as possibly the most affecting portrayal of addiction to date. Based on the Hubert Selby Jr. book of the same name, Darren Aronofsky’s film explores more than just the heroin addictions of Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly and Marlon Wayans’ characters. Ellen Burstyn’s obsession with being on television and fitting into her red dress is haunting, and there’s no questioning why the role earned her an Academy Award nomination.

The work behind the camera was equal to the all-around horrifying performances, as Darren Aronofsky and cinematographer Matthew Libatique added to the story in how every shot was framed, the choreography of the characters’ movements, and the use of sound effects and split screens. The score was worthy of praise all on its own, with "Lux Aeterna" — the song that played over the climax of the film — leaving such an impression that it has gone on to be re-orchestrated for several other movie and video game trailers. 

Combine all of this and add a little of Christopher McDonald’s Tappy Tibbons J.U.I.C.E., and you’ve got a real feel-bad movie that may never fully leave you.

23. Oldboy (2003)

Because many have such good storylines, South Korean films have become some of the biggest international movies.. A few examples could be Parasite and The Wailing. One movie in particular stands above many of them, and that's Oldboy. 

Directed by Park Chan-wook, the film is loosely based on the Japanese manga of the same name and focuses on Dae-su, a man imprisoned in a cell that looks like a hotel room, for fifteen years, without knowing who the person was behind his capture. But when he gets his chance at freedom, he makes it his mission to find out who committed the crime all those years ago – only to find out there is much more to his imprisonment than he thought. 

Oldboy is incredible. The action scenes are probably some of the best recorded on a movie screen and have been imitated many times – just the corridor fight scene itself is enough to satisfy any action-movie fan. The story is intriguing all the way until the end, which will blow the minds of first-time viewers. Truly, Oldboy is a staple of the South Korean film industry – and a fantastic movie of the 2000s. 

22. Collateral (2004)

Michael Mann had already cemented his legacy as one of the greatest directors in the world of crime thrillers, but he further made a case for himself with his 2004 thriller, Collateral. Clocking in at exactly two hours, this cool, violent, and ruthless neo-noir classic not only sees one of the best Jamie Foxx performances with his portrayal of cab driver Max (a role that should have earned him an Oscar), it also introduces one of Tom Cruise’s most unhinged characters: Vincent, a mysterious and deadly assassin.

Cruise, who was coming off movies like Minority Report and The Last Samurai, is incredibly refreshing as the film’s antagonist, and it shows a side of the star that audiences don’t get to see as much. Seeing the actor’s undeniable charm and big-screen energy used to breathe life into someone who is pure evil is quite the experience, and really messes with the viewers’ mindset. In addition to actors like Mark Ruffalo, Javier Bardem, and Jada Pinkett Smith, the movie also treats the city of Los Angeles less like a backdrop and more as another character, one that feels more alive as the story goes on, much like Mann’s 1995 heist film, Heat.

21. Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

Since the early days of moviemaking, Walt Disney’s viewpoint of the fairytale has had a stake in popular culture. It’s G-rated, soft and sweet, and there’s always a happy ending. Guillermo del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth brings to life a fairytale that redefined what a fantasy movie can look like with its distinct and unforgettable vision. Set in 1944 Spain as the country picks up the pieces of the Spanish Civil War, the R-rated fantasy film follows a young girl named Ofelia as she faces the violent reality of the Francoist period and stumbles upon a dark wonderland in the shadows (or at least the shadows of her imagination). 

As del Toro was coming off two more commercial movies in Blade II and Hellboy, Pan’s Labyrinth is a breathtaking highlight in an all-time great filmmaker’s career. Across two hours, the Spanish-language movie brings to life an extraordinary vision that beautifully balances being twisted and innocent all at once with memorable horror, gore, mythical creations and a ton of gorgeous practical creature effects. How does he balance a magical quest with political drama? Some especially memorable words in Pan’s Labyrinth answers that question: If “door is locked,” one must “create your own.” In a landscape where fairytales can be predictable, del Toro opened a wonderfully defiant world of his own with Pan’s Labyrinth.

20. Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003) And Vol. 2 (2004)

After turning the heist movie on its head with 1992’s Reservoir Dogs, and changing the way audiences perceive movies in general (and winning a screenwriting Oscar) with 1994’s Pulp Fiction, Quentin Tarantino very quickly made himself into one of the most unique and esteemed icons of the medium. However, after releasing his 1997 Elmore Leonard adaptation, Jackie Brown, we would not see him direct anything for another six years. Little did we know that he was planning to come back with something big — so big, that just one movie was not enough to tell the story. Based on a character Tarantino created with star Uma Thurman on the Pulp Fiction set, Kill Bill follows a deadly assassin initially known only as The Bride — one of the greatest female action heroes — who wakes up from a four-year coma with a furious urge to punish those who tried to put her to sleep permanently, with her former boss (David Carradine) being the primary target. 

For years, it was debated whether or not the stylistically disparate halves of the story — with Vol. 1 being an ode to ‘70s kung fu movies and Vol. 2 counting as Tarantino’s first western, essentially — should count as one film. Well, even if the director had never officially clarified that he does see Kill Bill as one movie, we still would have designated one spot for both volumes of this exquisitely crafted, gorgeously choreographed, visually and emotionally breathtaking epic on this list, because that is the only way to experience "the whole bloody affair.” 

• A Kill Bill Quote To Remember: “That's right. I killed your master. And now I'm gonna kill you too, with your own sword, no less, which in the very immediate future, will become... my sword.” (The Bride)

19. Training Day (2001)

In 100 years, when film historians look back to determine why Denzel Washington was considered one of the best actors of his generation, director Antoine Fuqua's Training Day should be at the top of any screening list. Detective Alonzo Harris is a special kind of monster, and Washington’s work offers incredible escalation and power. At first, he just seems like a hardened detective who has made some scary discoveries about how best to patrol the city of Los Angeles, but he becomes a whole different kind of beast by the end – one that King Kong ain’t got nothin’ on.

But while Training Day features an all-time great performance from one of the all-time great actors, not to be ignored is just how terrific the movie as a whole is. Ethan Hawke is also at the top of his game as up-and-coming officer Jake Hoyt, who faces death and peril as he slowly understands the real game that Alonzo is playing, and David Ayer’s screenplay is special – packing the believable character arcs and growing stakes into a limited 24-hour time frame. Even on the tenth viewing it is successful at raising your pulse and getting you to invest in the protagonist’s peril, and that’s the mark of a truly great thriller.

• A Training Day Quote To Remember: “You gotta control your smiles and cries, because that's all you have and nobody can take that away from you.” (Jake Hoyt)

18. The Wrestler (2008)

Still considered one of the best movies of 2008 more than a decade later, Darren Aronofsky’s The Wrestler is a grueling battle royale of emotions that doesn’t pull any punches with its story about a broken-down professional wrestler looking for one last shot at redemption. Channeling both the triumph and tragedy, and the agony and ecstasy of putting one’s life on the line day-in and day-out for decades, Mickey Rourke gave audiences the performance of a lifetime with his portrayal of washed-up wrestler, Randy “The Ram” Robinson, a one-time larger-than-life titan caught somewhere between his past and uncertain future.

There are a lot of parallels between the character and Rouke’s own journey in this semi-autobiographical drama, which adds a tremendous amount of depth to not only his performance, but also the movie in general. Though wrestling is often considered a fake sport, Rourke’s performance and Aronofsky’s commitment to portraying the industry in an honest and genuine light is incredibly real. The physical, mental, and emotional pain can be felt in each of Randy’s movements, heard in his voice, and seen in his eyes as the former champ wrestles in high school gyms and attempts to make ends meet by taking on shifts at a local grocery store deli. Then there are the religious allegories that are explored through Randy’s character, as well as Marisa Tomei’s Cassidy, which make it all even more potent.

• A The Wrestler Quote To Remember: “I'll tell you somethin', I hate the fuckin' 90's.” (Randy Robinson)

17. Finding Nemo (2003)

Pixar has created some of the greatest animated films of all time, and Finding Nemo may be the studio’s true crowning achievement. It is as beautifully animated as it is emotionally powerful. The undersea world of Nemo is gorgeous simply to look at, and that’s just as true today as it was when the film was released. 

2003's Finding Nemo’s voice casting is second to none. Nobody does neurotic like Albert Brooks. Nobody can play clueless like Ellen DeGeneres. Nobody plays a tough guy of questionable sanity like Willem Dafoe. These are the actors you would cast if you were telling this story in live-action, and they bring it all to the voice performances in a way that truly brings these characters to life.

And Finding Nemo is able to balance its emotional extremes perfectly. We’re used to Pixar movies making us cry but years before Up, Finding Nemo opened with an incredibly heartbreaking moment. But after that, it’s able to be hilarious, scary, and even exciting. Finally, it concludes with the sort of resolution that stands the test of time, as young children will see the film and relate with Nemo, then grow up, and begin to understand Marlin in a new way.  Nemo does it all, not bad for a clownfish with a bad fin. 

• A Finding Nemo Quote To Remember: “Of course I like you. It’s because I like you, I don’t want to be with you. It’s a complicated emotion.” (Marlin)

16. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

“I think this just might be my masterpiece.” That’s the final line in writer/director Quentin Tarantino’s Inglourious Basterds, and coming as it does at the end of 153 minutes of perfection, it’s hard not to read it as a message directly from the filmmaker to the audience. In 2009, Tarantino was coming off of a low point in his career with the disappointing theatrical release of Grindhouse, but his follow-up is a phenomenal World War II epic that only he could make: Nazi-killing action packaged in a love letter to cinema.

Two stories – the revenge of Mélanie Laurent's Shosanna Dreyfus and the mission of the titular troop – play out in parallel with equal captivating energy right up until they collide in the (literally) explosive finale. While there isn’t a star in the expansive ensemble who doesn’t deliver a memorable performance (from Brad Pitt to Michael Fassbender to even Mike Myers), there isn’t a person who can watch the film and not walk away mesmerized by the work done by Christoph Waltz in his star-making turn as Hans Landa. It’s not an easy thing to blend a vibe of dastardly evil with sharp charisma, but Waltz is a force in the role, and it remains the best thing he has done in his career.

• An Inglourious Basterds Quote To Remember: “Well, you don't got to be Stonewall Jackson to know you don't want to fight in a basement.” (Lt. Aldo Raine)

15. Spirited Away (2001)

Studio Ghibli is one of the world's most-known anime film studios. Co-founded by legendary anime director Hayao Miyazaki, the studio has created some of the best anime films of all time, one of which is Spirited Away – which Hayao Miyazaki directed. 

Spirited Away is about a journey into the spirit world following the young Chihiro. Taking place in Japan, we follow the little girl, who happens to be moving to a new neighborhood with her family. When her parents decide to take a shortcut to their new home and explore what looks to be an abandoned amusement park, Chihiro is forced to go along. However, there's magic everywhere, and her mom and dad turn into pigs against their will for eating a gluttonous feast. For her to get them back, she must work for the spirits in the bathhouse, so they can return to the human world. 

The premise itself sounds like a lot at first, but it's become Studio Ghibli’s – and Hayao Miyazaki's – highest-grossing film. It’s also the only anime film to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and the only hand-drawn film (so far) to accomplish the task. The movie features themes about love and learning to grow up and be brave. It's the perfect gateway movie into the anime film – indeed, one of the best movies of the 2000s. 

• A Spirited Away Quote To Remember: “I don't need any help; this place is full of soot.” (Kamaji)

14. The Prestige (2006)

The Prestige is a battle of wills between two talented and irreparably flawed magicians, who can’t stay out of each other’s lives. Their differing roles in a shared tragedy push them apart and then repeatedly back together, as their initial determination to succeed steadily gives way to an obsession for vengeance. That obsession drives them to sacrifice and abandon everything healthy about their lives until they’re each left with only a singular drive to sabotage the other.

Based on that description, The Prestige sounds like a really dark movie. In many ways, it is, but in director Christopher Nolan’s hands, it’s also often really fun. It has a sense of wonder and mystery about it, as it not only dives into the idiosyncrasies of magic but also the exciting possibilities of science in the 1890s and early 1900s. It was a time and place in which anything felt possible, and you really feel that hopeful uncertainty thanks to a timeline that jumps to and fro and fantastic performances from Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, Rebecca Hall and a perfectly cast David Bowie as Nikola Tesla. Like a great magic trick, the first time you watch The Prestige, you’re fascinated by the spectacle and simply along for the ride. Then every time you rewatch it afterwards, you’re blown away by all the subtle skill required to pull it off.

• A The Prestige Quote To Remember: “Nobody cares about the man in the box.” (Robert Angier)

13. There Will Be Blood (2007)

Looking back, 2007 was one of the best movie years in recent memory, considering classics like No Country For Old Men, Zodiac, and Superbad all premiered on the big screen. But one of the biggest, baddest, and most arresting of those releases was Paul Thomas Anderson’s There Will Be Blood. An epic period drama about oilman Daniel Plainview (Daniel Day-Lewis) doing everything in his power and stepping on anyone in his way in his quest for wealth in the early 20th-century oil boom, the movie is a deep and vast exploration of a man’s psyche and desire to become the biggest player in the game.

While Day-Lewis’s performance is tremendous and more than deserving of the Oscar he received, it’s made even better thanks to his character’s conflict with Eli Sunday (Paul Dano), a religious zealot who is just as tenacious and hungry for power as his counterpart. Several of the movie’s most iconic scenes (like the oil-town baptism and shocking ending sequence) are the result of the actor’s tremendous chemistry and ability to play off each other’s words. The pair, who get along like oil and holy water, create a dynamic that’s not quite a battle between good and evil, but instead something much deeper than that, which adds another level to this incredible cinematic achievement.

• A There Will Be Blood Quote To Remember: “You're an orphan from a basket in the middle of the desert, and I took you for no other reason than I needed a sweet face to buy land.” (Daniel)

12. In Bruges (2008)

Prior to 2008, Martin McDonagh was established as a talented and popular playwright, but he had ambitions to make his way into movies. In 2004, he directed the incredible short film Six Shooter (which won an Academy Award), and then he moved to features. He made his debut with In Bruges, and anyone who saw it instantly recognized McDonagh’s potential to become one of the best filmmakers working today (potential he has made good on with the genius of Seven Psychopaths, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, and The Banshees of Inisherin).

In Bruges takes a high concept premise – two hitman hide out in Belgium waiting for instructions after a job goes bad – and weaves a remarkable meditation on life and death. It’s a dark comedy (and a hilarious one at that), but it has a beautiful blend of tones that radiate from the genius work of stars Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson and Ralph Fiennes. Farrell and Gleeson have a unique chemistry that works on both comedic and dramatic levels (it’s far from a mystery why McDonagh reunited them for The Banshees of Inisherin) and the bizarrely rage and logic-filled energy that Fiennes brings in the third act is icing on the cake.

• An In Bruges Quote To Remember: “I kinda like hearing people having sex. Means at least somebody around here's happy.” (Ray)

11. Almost Famous (2000)

If a 15-year-old going on tour with a raucous rock band wasn’t enough of a hook, Almost Famous also happens to have one of the most memorable posters/ DVD box covers of all time. It focuses on the enigmatic Penny Lane, the heroine of Cameron Crowe’s film, whom everyone loves to love and admire and most don’t bother to understand. With distinct shades and tendrils of blonde hair, she draws you into her world of Humble Pie and heartbreak, and in between commentary on what made the ’70s the ’70s and a slick soundtrack including Led Zeppelin, The Who and of course Elton John, she helps turn the film into one of the best of the 2000s.

It’s a career-defining performance for Kate Hudson, and she’s not the only one who delivers. Jason Lee grows a mustache and long hair to fall into his hilarious lead singer role while Billy Crudup is similarly unrecognizable as the talented and moody Russell Hammond. Patrick Fugit plays William Miller, younger than most but wiser than some, and he finds a terrific foil in Philip Seymour Hoffman, who plays famed music writer Lester Bangs. Throw in great work from Frances McDormand, Zooey Deschanel and even Jimmy Fallon and it’s a masterclass of terrific performances. If it’s been a while since you’ve revisited the movie, maybe throw on some purple-tinted sunglasses and kick back to the tune of Simon & Garfunkel’s “America.” Settle in, you’re almost home.

• An Almost Famous Quote To Remember: “If you never take it seriously, you never get hurt. If you never get hurt, you always have fun. And if you ever get lonely, you just go to the record store and visit your friends.” (Penny Lane)

10. No Country For Old Men (2007)

No matter what kind of film genre is up for discussion, the power and breadth of the Coen Brothers' filmography is worthy of inclusion, and they don't make 'em much better than 2007's No Country for Old Men. An adaptation of Carmac McCarthy’s 2005 novel that’s every bit as faithful as it is chilling, the film meticulously dips its toes most heavily into the cinematic waters of crime thrillers and westerns. That said, Javier Bardem’s unflinching hitman, Anton Chigurh, would be at home in any horror narrative, with his Two-Face-esque coin flips and an unstoppable drive that rivals Jason Voorhees or Michael Meyers. At least if a big ol’ stack of cash was also their end goal.

Despite being one of Joel and Ethan Coen’s driest films regarding their signature screwball humor, the movie is an exercise in tension that thrives on its lack of levity, though it’s hard not to smile whenever Woody Harrelson is on the screen in any capacity. With a stellar cast including Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin, Kelly Macdonald, Garret Dillahunt and more, No Country for Old Men is, to date, the only Coen brothers masterpiece to win them the Oscars for Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Picture, with Bardem taking the gold for Best Supporting Actor. It’s not the awards that best signify its impact, however, but the bolt pistol gripped in Chigurh’s ever-steady hand.

• A No Country For Old Men Quote To Remember: “Well all the time ya spend trying to get back what's been took from ya, more is going out the door. After a while you just have to try to get a tourniquet on it.” (Ellis)

9. Memento (2000)

Talk about a movie that you definitely need to watch without your phone in your hand. Christopher Nolan’s Memento is a mind-bending combination of different angles that demands and deserves your entire attention. The story is told backward, broken up by clips of a black and white, forward-moving montage of a mysterious one-sided phone call in a hotel, led by Guy Pearce, whose character Leonard, also happens to have anterograde (or short-term) amnesia, stopping our protagonist from creating new memories as he looks for his wife’s killer, who also gave him this debilitating injury.

As mentioned, Nolan basically begins at the end and works his way back, for the most part. The juxtaposition of the timelines bring the audience into the obvious confusion that Leonard lives with every day. "Even if you get revenge, you're not going to remember it," he's told by his new friend Teddy (played by Joe Pantoliano) but his reply shows just how far his love and determination will go, stating "My wife deserves revenge whether or not I remember it."  Toss in Natalie (Carrie-Anne Moss) to add some confusing sympathy (or treachery) and you will probably want a second viewing just to wrap your mind around what you might have initially dismissed as unimportant plot points from this Nolan classic. You’ll notice that Nolan has popped up numerous times on this list (and rightfully so) and he has also once again recently hit it out of the park with 2023’s Oppenheimer.  

• A Memento Quote To Remember: “So you lie to yourself to be happy. There’s nothing wrong with that. We all do it.” (Teddy G.)

8. Wall-E (2008)

Do you know who is a genius? Sound designer Ben Burtt. You might not know his name, but you certainly know the movies he contributed to over the years, including Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, and 2009’s Star Trek. Burtt designed the “vocals” for R2-D2, Darth Vader’s heavy breathing, and the “voice” of E.T. But, his work truly soared when he lent dialogue to the adorable Waste Allocation Load Lifter assigned to an abandoned Earth. MIraculously, the first half of Pixar’s ingenious WALL-E works as a silent film, following our main character as it goes about its daily routine with a pet cockroach in tow. WALL-E’s life is upended when another robot named EVE arrives, searching for any sign of life. 

From there, the fate of humanity starts to be revealed, and it’s rather grim. Director Andrew Stanton’s animation for the film ranks as some of Pixar’s most magnificent, embracing the scorched orange of a deserted Earth and then painting with vivid colors for WALL-E’s eventual outer-space adventure. The environmental messages of the film are important without ever being preachy. And, the eventual romance felt and shared by WALL-E and EVE will lift every single heart, with the lovers sharing hardly any words. 

• A Wall-E Quote To Remember: “I see the ship's log is showing that today is the 700th anniversary of our five year cruise. Well, I'm sure our forefathers would be proud to know that 700 years later we'd be... doing the exact same thing they were doing.” (Captain B. McCrea)

7. The Departed (2006)

There are crime films and then there are Martin Scorsese crime films, and when it comes to The Departed, the director doesn’t let us down. A remake of the Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs, the 2006 movie gives us a range of characters to root for, root against or simply watch just to see what they’ll do or say next. That includes Leonardo DiCaprio’s undercover cop character Billy Costigan, Matt Damon’s sneaky, spying Colin Sullivan, Jack Nicholson’s mob boss character Frank Costello, and Vera Farmiga’s well-meaning therapist Dr. Madolyn Madden. To say that things get complicated might be understating it, but it’s the complexity of the characters and their roles in this story that makes The Departed such a fantastic and gripping movie from beginning to end. 

In a way, it’s all business for everyone involved, but it’s also personal for each character on some level or another. It’s impossible not to feel anxious for DiCaprio’s character as he attempts to navigate the criminal world without being caught for who he really is, just as it’s impossible not to grow increasingly frustrated by Matt Damon’s character for posing as an upstanding law enforcer who’s actually up to no good. It’s thrilling, stressful, riveting and ultimately satisfying, and that’s not even factoring in Mark Wahlberg’s character every time he has something to say (that’s just a bonus). 

• A The Departed Quote To Remember: “You know what I like about restaurants? . . . You can learn a lot, watching things eat.” (Frank Costello)

6. Best In Show (2000)

Nobody does mockumentaries like Christopher Guest, and 2000’s Best in Show is an absolute masterclass. The mundane musings of everyday conversation combine with outlandish characters and awkward situations to deliver one of the best movies of the decade. The dog show is the event that brings these unique and individually brilliant characters under one roof, but it’s no Maguffin. As bonkers as each dog-lover’s trip is to get to the show, everything is turned up to 11, if you will, when they all come together, and the event itself is perfectly colored by Fred Willard’s commentary.

There’s a reason this phenomenal cast has stuck together to appear in other projects. The chemistry between Eugene Levy’s Gerry and Catherine O’Hara’s Cookie (with her “hundreds” of boyfriends) left people begging for more, which they got in A Mighty Wind. Jennifer Coolidge was excellent in her attempts to substantiate her marriage to her ancient sugar daddy husband by saying they bonded over a love of soup and the ability to “not talk or talk forever.” The genius casting of John Michael Higgins and Michael McKean gave audiences the married couple they never knew they needed. 

Best in Show exploits the banal in some situations while heightening reality in others, to where Harlan Pepper naming nuts and the couple describing how they met at Starbucks (but two different Starbucks) land laughs just as hard as Gerry’s literal two left feet or Cookie walking with her knee out of socket.

• A Best In Show Quote To Remember: “Why don’t they put the bloodhound — put on one of those Sherlock Holmes hats and put a little pipe in his mouth? Are they ever allowed to do anything like that? Dress up the dog in a funny way? It would really get the crowd going. You know what I mean? The Sherlock Holmes hat with a pipe. I don’t know if you could make it look like smoke is coming out of the pipe.” (Buck Laughlin)

5. Zodiac (2007)

David Fincher’s greatest accomplishment, and that’s saying a lot. The director has spent countless hours analyzing the compulsion that drives people to seek the truth – be it lawyers parsing through statements to figure out who invented Facebook (The Social Network), or detectives tracking a serial killer who is inspired by the Seven Deadly Sins (Seven). But Zodiac is Fincher’s magnum opus, an engrossing true-crime thriller based on the books of Robert Graysmith tracking the diligent work of three men consumed by the search for the identity of the Zodiac Killer. 

Jake Gyllanhaal serves as the ideal audience surrogate, a puzzle designer for the San Francisco Chronicle who gets swept up in the mystery of the serial killer, who antagonized the police and the media as he committed vicious murders around San Francisco in the 1970s, Fincher painstakingly recreates the time period with breathtaking visuals and top-notch costuming and set design. His emphasis on the bustle of a newsroom is particularly spot on. The film also lingers in the haze of fear, anxiety, and suspense that comes from a killer on the loose. But it’s the supporting roles of Robert Downey Jr. and Mark Ruffalo, as well as an inability to truly deliver a concrete ending, that makes Zodiac such a rewatchable movie, and a captivating masterpiece.

• A Zodiac Quote To Remember: “I am not the Zodiac. And if I was, I certainly wouldn't tell you.” (Arthur Leigh Allen)

4. Mean Girls (2004)

From wearing pink on Wednesdays to shouting “You go Glen Coco” it’s undeniable that Mean Girls has seriously influenced pop culture over the last (almost) two decades. So, “get in loser,” it’s time to appreciate this beloved coming-of-age comedy from Tina Fey.

This movie is a classic teenage tale about a girl who moves from Africa to the United States where she experiences the rude awakening that is high school by way of The Plastics. While it’s your typical coming-of-age story, it’s infused with the signature sense of humor from Fey – who was in the midst of her legendary run at Saturday Night Live – and it shows the high school experience in a totally unique way with a cast of characters played by actors who have since become icons. 

Not only did the film solidify Lindsay Lohan as an early 2000s star, it also simultaneously jumpstarted the careers of many in the Mean Girls cast, including little known actresses like Rachel McAdams and Amanda Seyfried. On top of that, its legacy has lived on, as it was adapted into a Broadway musical, and is eventually coming back to the screen with an adaptation of said stage production. To say this film is a quintessential 2000s classic almost feels like an understatement because of the lasting impact it has managed to have on people of all ages since its release in 2004. 

• A Mean Girls Quote To Remember: "She doesn't even go here!" (Damian)

3. Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind (2004)

You could argue that Jim Carrey makes much better dramatic movies than he does comedic features. And that opinion is coming from someone who adores Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, as well as Dumb & Dumber. But when you factor in the dramatic detours he embarked on for The Truman Show, Man on the Moon, and this incredible romance, you begin to wonder how many Oscars Carrey might have if he got the industry to treat him seriously, instead of talking out of his ass (literally). 

Carrey and Kate Winslet are magnificent as Joel and Clementine, two soul mates who undergo a radical procedure to have their memories of each other erased after a bitter argument. Only screenwriter Charlie Kaufman (Being John Malkovich, Adaptation) could keep such a twisty premise from flying off the rails. And while the side-mission actions of the memory technicians can get a little silly, we remain wholly invested in Joel and Clementine’s complicated journey because of the heartbroken and beautiful chemistry shared between Carrey and Winslet. It’s a real challenge presented to these stars, as we’re not supposed to know whether Joel and Clementine are better off together or apart. But the satisfying resolution says as much about fate as it does about the existence of true love, so long as we remember how and when to look for it.

• An Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind Quote To Remember: “Constantly talking isn’t necessarily communicating.” (Joel Barish)

2. The Dark Knight (2008)

It’s been said before, but it’ll be said again – The Dark Knight is one of the greatest superhero films (and one of the greatest movies) ever made. Christopher Nolan’s ambition as a filmmaker has been well-noted, but even he outdid himself with his 2008 follow-up to 2005’s Batman Begins. The second chapter in the journey of Christian Bale’s Bruce Wayne sees the iconic DC Comics hero going up against the dangerous and unpredictable Joker. All the while, the Caped Crusader and his allies must also contend with mob bosses and Harvey Dent, Gotham City’s honorable district attorney who becomes the deformed Two-Face.

Where does one even start when it comes to singing this movie’s praises? There’s the impeccable screenplay, massive set pieces, engrossing score and much more. Yet I suppose what stands out the most are the performances, especially that of the late Heath Ledger. The actor, who posthumously won an Oscar for his work, fully committed to his role as the Clown Prince of Crime and is absolutely mesmerizing. His villainous turn is just one of the many reasons why Nolan’s film is a thrilling and compelling piece of work that’s still incredibly entertaining now, over a decade later.

• A The Dark Knight Quote To Remember: “Do I really look like a guy with a plan? You know what I am? I'm a dog chasing cars. I wouldn't know what to do with one if I caught it! You know, I just...do things.” (The Joker)

1. City Of God (2002)

Making its Brazil and festival run in 2002 and eventually hitting theaters in the U.S. and elsewhere  in the year that followed, Fernando Meirelles’ City of God, based on Paulo Lins’ semi-autobiographical novel of the same name, served as an inflection point in the world of cinema and served as a preview of what the the next few years would look like. Told through the eyes of young photographer Rocket (Alexandre Rodrigues), the movie explores the life of street kids in the Cidade de Deus (City of God) favela in Rio de Janeiro, an expansive slum filled with endless supplies of drugs, ruthless gangsters, and corrupt cops who allow the madness to continue. One of the most violent movies of the 2000s, City of God is a lesson in brutality, especially whenever depicting the exploits of Li’l Dice (Douglas Silva), a ruthless and sociopathic young criminal who stops at nothing in his quest for complete control. Oddly enough, the older version of the character known as Li’l Ze (Leandro Firmino) never comes off as cold blooded as his younger self, which further illustrates the movie’s point about youth and violence. 

At the same time, City of God is also one of the most beautiful movies of the 2000s, and not just on an aesthetic level (though César Charlone’s cinematography is out of this world). The endearing spirit of those who wish to escape a life of crime, ranging from Rocket to the ill-fated drug dealer Benny (Phellipe Haagensen), adds a level of heart and soul one may not expect from a two-hour crime drama about young criminals with short fuses and, in many cases, tragically  shorter lifespans. 

• A City Of God Quote To Remember: “You need more than guts to be a good gangster; you need ideas.” (Rocket)

How we put this list together

Using a combination of internal recommendations and other best of lists, we compiled a spreadsheet of all the movies from the 2000s that we considered to be culturally relevant and/or critically well-reviewed. We pushed together some multi-part movies like Kill Bill and Lord Of The Rings and then had our staff of almost 30 go through and assign a score for each movie they’ve seen based on their own personal opinions. We disqualified any movies that didn’t get a minimum number of ratings and dropped the lowest score for each, as if we were judging a figure skating competition. We then ordered the top 100 based on average score and had someone who gave that movie a particularly high score write up a paragraph explaining what’s so great about it. This rigorous scientific process resulted in Idiocracy being slotted at 101, an omission I’m still furious about.

During the early aughts, the pairing of Tom Cruise and Steven Spielberg delivered two of the best sci-fi movies of our recent era. Both Minority Report and War of the Worlds have a pretty staunch fanbase, with the first film being based off of the Phillip K. Dick novella The Minority Report. It was a box office success, with the sort of impressive action and happy ending you’d expect from a Spielberg movie. Depending on who you talk to though, the Minority Report ending only wants you to think it’s a happy conclusion. 

Is this the hidden truth, or is the internet just digging into rabbit holes that don’t have a basis in reality? Let’s revisit the finale of the story, as well as the one scene that planted this paranoid seed to begin with, and ultimately decide if Minority Report’s conclusion really is a typical Steven Spielberg ending.

What Happens At The End Of Minority Report?

Precrime Chief John Anderton (Tom Cruise) has been arrested for a murder he was predicted to commit. That act was an elaborate frame job, all thanks to Anderton’s boss, Precrime director Lamarr Burgess (Max Von Sydow). While Minority Report’s hero is predicted to have murdered a man he never met, it was all a setup due to the detective stumbling on a truth he was never supposed to know: Burgess literally killed to protect the future of this fledgling law enforcement body.

After his arrest, John is sent to a stasis prison that houses all of the suspects Precrime has arrested in its six year history. It isn’t long before Anderton’s estranged wife Lara (Kathryn Morris) breaks him out, with the pair setting out to expose Lamarr Burgess and his actions to the world. What started with Burgess killing the mother of vital Precog Agatha (Samantha Morton) ended in a suicide to prevent himself from winding up in the same prison John Anderton ended up spending some time in.

Minority Report ends with John and Lara reuniting, the pair now expecting another child. As for Agatha and her fellow Precogs, they move to the countryside and start a quiet life, with Precrime now shut down in light of the revelations made in reference to its creation.  

The Minority Report Scene That Spawned Two Interpretations

What’s described above sounds like a pretty solid Steven Spielberg ending, right? Minority Report feels like it wraps up rather nicely, with the sense of justice prevailing and family reuniting being something that this legendary director seems to love to land on when he can. However, there’s one scene in particular that has made fans of the 2002 neo-noir blockbuster question this reality ever since the film’s release.

It comes from the moment where John Anderton is about to become imprisoned, like all the perps he put away through Precrime. Before he’s fully secured in what could generously be called a “cell,” prison warden Gideon (Tim Blake Nelson) describes this futuristic incarceration experience as follows: 

That’s right folks! We’ve got another Phillip K. Dick adaptation that includes one scene of dialogue that makes you question everything. This same sort of thing happened with Total Recall’s ending, which not only littered the film with clues hinting at it all being a dream, but also had one scene that laid out a carefully crafted alternate hypothesis. 

One last fact that should be noted is that in a draft of Scott Frank’s script dated May 2001 (via Daily Script) the dream theory we’re about to discuss gets a bit muddier. In a scene deleted from this version of Minority Report, we see John Anderton actually have a dream about his lost son Sean. 

Does this scene confirm that John is dreaming, or does it set up a clear barrier between the stasis prison reality and the outside world? In this opinion, it feels like another grey area, as we never got to see that sequence and how it was filmed; which plays into another piece of supposed evidence we’ll discuss in a little while. 

Minority Report’s stasis prisons are made to keep people imprisoned for an indeterminate period of time, with all the visions they could hope for occupying their trapped bodies and minds. So those that thought the ending to this detective story was a bit too upbeat have an alternate theory when it comes to interpreting what they’ve just seen. As it turns out, interpreting Minority Report’s ending includes a minority report of its own.

Is Minority Report’s Ending Actually A Dream?

In keeping with the neo-noir vibes of the production script credited to writers Scott Frank and Jon Cohen, this other interpretation of Minority Report’s ending is that the reality is much darker. Thanks to Gideon’s rather suggestive warning, there’s a theoretical possibility that John’s still in prison at the end of the film, merely dreaming of this happy ending. 

Were this ending to be true, Minority Report’s noir inspirations would be fulfilled as it would ironically reinforce what we’re being told throughout the movie: Precrime is perfect. In this sense, that’s technically so, as Lamar Burgess’ crimes ensure the survival of the futuristic institution. No sacrifice is too great, and no player is considered to be better than this hypothetical game being played.

John Anderton’s confrontation of his former mentor doubles down on this sort of paradox. Anderton mentions to Lamarr Burgess that by killing him to protect Precrime, the system still works: he just has to suffer the consequences to allow it to survive. Strangely enough the Wiki description of Phillip K. Dick’s novella keeps that decision on Anderton, with the ending seeing our Precrime cop going to prison after willfully committing the murder he’s predicted to commit.

Which Interpretation Of Minority Report’s Ending Works Better?

Determining which interpretation of Minority Report’s ending works best really depends on where you draw the line between dreams and reality. But to hand down a ruling that truly does the film’s ending justice, we might have to go with the old fashioned concept of reasonable doubt.

In the case of Steven Spielberg’s futuristic crime caper, there is reasonable doubt over the finale we witnessed being the actual chain of events. Gideon’s bit of salesmanship noting that the stasis prison experience allows a person to dream their own happy ending is all it takes to give us that idea, and as such we can’t truly tell if this is reality or fiction. 

Not to mention, as io9 pointed out in its case discussing this theory, the visual style of the starkly blueish white palette of Minority Report does soften a bit as we get closer to the third act. That shift could be another clue towards the outlook of Tom Cruise’s character getting a bit more Technicolor as a result of his imprisonment. 

It’s hard not to watch the ending of Minority Report and question whether or not it’s all a dream. The questions, the evidence, and even how these events map up with what we saw previously are too powerful to wave them off. Knowing how Phillip K. Dick’s novella ends, the dream theory would keep the film right in line with the message that the author was trying to convey: the system is only perfect if you force it to be.

Dick was an author known for stories of distrust in shadowy authoritarian organizations, as well as paranoia in general. To give Minority Report an ending this happy works on the surface because of some additions that fit Steven Spielberg’s drive to humanize the story. 

Even then, you can’t deny the bones provided by the source material show their structure rather well in the first two acts. Reasonable doubt means that the dream theory feels like the more fitting ending to this mystery, despite the ending playing towards the strengths of Steven Spielberg’s brand.

Of course, that’s all subjective. No matter where you fall on this discussion, Minority Report is currently available for streaming through a Paramount+ subscription. Perhaps now’s a good time to revisit Tom Cruise and Steven Spielberg’s neo-noir classic, and see what evidence you gather to support or debunk the argument made above. 

To take a look into the future at a theater near you, head over to the list of 2023 new movie releases. We swear that no Precogs were harmed in the compiling of this database.

For more than a century, Paramount Pictures has given the world some of the best movies of all time with franchises like Mission: Impossible, the Star Trek movies, and countless others bringing audiences to crowded theaters time and time again. The impact of the iconic studio’s stunning films can still be felt today in the age of streaming with a subscription to Paramount+, which is chock-full of countless classics and hidden gems that are hard to find on other streaming platforms. To help make your selection of what to watch easier, the following are our picks for the best movies on Paramount+ at the moment.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

During World War II, a modestly sized crew of American soldiers must risk their lives to find a young private after he becomes the sole surviving son of his family. While Steven Spielberg fortunately earned acknowledgement from the Academy for his captivating direction of Saving Private Ryan, many still believe this heart-wrenchingly realistic portrayal of war starring Tom Hanks deserved a Best Picture Oscar as well.

Stream Saving Private Ryan on Paramount+.

Galaxy Quest (1999)

A washed-up actor (Tim Allen) and his former co-stars (including Sigourney Weaver and Alan Rickman) are given the chance to be real heroes by friendly aliens who believe their canceled, cult sci-fi series was real. Considered a fun cult favorite itself these days, Galaxy Quest is a clever satire of Trekkie culture, but also with all the thrills of the best Star Trek movies and TV shows, that hopefully gets a sequel someday.

Stream Galaxy Quest on Paramount+.

The Beverly Hills Cop Movies (1983-1994)

Eddie Murphy first headlined a film on his own as Axel Foley – a Detroit-based detective who frequently finds himself chasing criminals in the Golden State – in Beverly Hills Cop and would reprise the role in two more action-packed comedies. All three Beverly Hills Cop movies (which have a fourth installment in the works) are currently available to stream on Paramount+. 

Stream the Beverly Hill Cops movies on Paramount+.

Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid (1969)

A pair of infamous outlaws (Paul Newman and Robert Redford) find themselves on the run after a train robbery gone wrong in early 1900s Wyoming. Winner of four Academy Awards (including for the iconic original song “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head”), Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is one of the most exciting westerns and buddy adventure stories of all time.

Stream Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid on Paramount+.

Beavis And Butt-Head Do America (1996)

Two brainless teenagers (both voiced by co-writer and director Mike Judge) travel across the country in search of their stolen TV and unwittingly get wrapped up in an FBI manhunt along the way. Before you see the titular infantile icons return in Paramount+’s “very stupid, but very funny” sci-fi comedy Beavis and Butt-Head Do the Universe, be sure to check out their first star-studded, smarter-than-it-seems feature length adventure, Beavis and Butt-Head Do America.

Stream Beavis and Butt-Head Do America on Paramount+.

Charlotte’s Web (1973)

A wise spider (Debbie Reynolds) and her barnyard animal friends try to help prevent an innocent, young pig (Henry Gibson) from suffering an early fate as a breakfast table item. Based on the classic, inspiring book by E.B. White, Charlotte’s Web is a delightful, animated musical film the whole family can enjoy.

Stream Charlotte’s Web on Paramount+.

Mission: Impossible Movies (1996-2018)

Tom Cruise has been risking life and limb (literally) to play daredevil secret agent Ethan Hunt for six movies now (with two more installments in the works as we speak). Excluding the third chapter from 2006, you can watch all of the Mission: Impossible movies so far in order now on Paramount+.

Stream the Mission: Impossible movies on Paramount+.

Face/Off (1997)

In order to prevent an impending attack, a burdened FBI agent (John Travolta) undergoes a revolutionary procedure to assume the identity of his comatose arch nemesis (Nicolas Cage), who suddenly wakes up and turns the tables by wearing his face. Director John Woo gets breathtaking performances out of his main leads in Face/Off – one of the craziest and most fun action thrillers of the ‘90s that has a sequel in the works from Adam Wingard and Simon Barrett.

Stream Face/Off on Paramount+.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

A rebellious, fourth wall-breaking teen (Matthew Broderick) decides to skip school and show his best friend (Alan Ruck) and girlfriend (Mia Sara) a good time in Chicago, putting them under suspicion of their ruthless principal. John Hughes wrote and directed some of the most insightful and simply best high school movies ever made, but Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is easily the most cleverly hilarious and thoroughly joyful of that bunch.

Stream Ferris Bueller’s Day Off on Paramount+.

Into The Wild (2007)

A college graduate (Emile Hirsch) decides to abandon all of his belongings and his life in favor of a cross-country hitch-hike to Alaska. Based on the non-fiction book by Jon Krakauer documenting the tragic true story of Christopher McCandless, Into the Wild is a beautifully told, wonderfully acted, and even inspiring adventure from writer and director Sean Penn.

Stream Into the Wild on Paramount+.

The Sonic The Hedgehog Movies (2020-2022)

A lightning-fast, blue animal (Ben Schwartz) enlists the help of a cop (James Marsden) and, later, a speedy fox (Colleen O’Shaughnessy) to help defeat an eccentric scientist (Jim Carrey) and, later, his own furry ally (Idris Elba). Director Jeff Fowler’s Sonic the Hedgehog is one of the few movies based on a video game to score big with audiences of all ages and spawn an almost equally beloved follow-up.

Stream the Sonic the Hedgehog movies on Paramount+.

Grease (1978)

A bad boy teen (John Travolta) and a meek Australian girl (Olivia Newton-John) fall in love and try to change for one another in 1950s California. Based on the Tony-nominated stage production of the same name, Grease is one of the most exhilarating and romantic movie musicals of all time and has a Paramount+ original TV spin-off in the works.

Stream Grease on Paramount+.

The Addams Family Movies (1991-1993)

The patriarch (Raul Julia) of an eccentric and morbidly inclined family is delighted by the surprise return of his brother (Christopher Lloyd) and, later, by the announcement that his wife (Anjelica Huston) is having a baby. Director Barry Sonnenfeld’s dazzling comedies The Addams Family and Addams Family Values both provide a gold standard for how to adapt beloved properties such as the creepy and kooky clan for live-action cinema.

Stream the Addams Family movies on Paramount+.

The Fighter (2010)

An aspiring prize fighter (Mark Wahlberg) from Boston is mentored by his older half-brother (Christian Bale) – a well-known former boxer himself consumed by his own destructive habits. Bale received a Best Supporting Actor Oscar and Melissa Leo also received a win for Best Supporting Actress for one of David O. Russell’s most gripping dramas, The Fighter, which is inspired by the true story of boxer Micky Ward.

Stream The Fighter on Paramount+.

A Fish Called Wanda (1994)

The unlikely team-up of four master thieves quickly turns into a bitter rivalry as they all try to trick each other out of the loot from a jewel heist. Monty Python star John Cleese co-wrote and co-starred in one of the smartest and funniest crime movies of its time, A Fish Called Wanda – which is also one of the best Jamie Lee Curtis movies outside of her horror reputation.

Stream A Fish Called Wanda on Paramount+.

Planes, Trains And Automobiles (1987)

An advertising executive (Steve Martin) is forced to travel from New York City with a talkative, bumbling shower curtain ring salesman (John Candy) in an attempt to make it home to Chicago in time for Thanksgiving. Writer and director John Hughes crafted the ultimate road trip disaster movie with Planes, Trains and Automobiles, which is also one of Steve Martin’s best movies.

Stream Planes, Trains and Automobiles on Paramount+.

The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)

A cunning young man (Matt Damon) poses as the friend of a former Princeton student (Jude Law) and is initially successful, until the ruse takes a deadly turn, in 1950s Italy. One of the most gripping, unique, and simply best Matt Damon movies is The Talented Mr. Ripley – director Anthony Minghella’s winning adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel. 

Stream The Talented Mr. Ripley on Paramount+.

Clerks (1994)

A disillusioned convenience store employee (Brian O’Halloran) is forced to work on his day off, during which he contemplates the state of his life as a whole. Writer and director Kevin Smith made a surprisingly huge impact on the world of indie film with Clerks — his hilarious, poignant, and influential debut shot on the cheap in black and white.

Stream Clerks on Paramount+.

The A Quiet Place Movies (2018, 2021)

In a world overrun by vicious, extra-terrestrial beasts that track their prey purely by sound, a family struggles to keep things silent at their homemade safe haven which they are later forced to abandon. Real-life couple John Krasinski and Emily Blunt lead A Quiet Place — a brazenly intense and clever post-apocalyptic family drama that spawned an equally impressive sequel, both of which Krasinski also directed.

Stream A Quiet Place on Paramount+.
Stream A Quiet Place Part II on Paramount+.

48 Hrs. (1982)

A grizzled veteran detective (Nick Nolte) is forced to team up with a fast-talking parolee (Eddie Murphy) on a two-day manhunt. Witness Murphy’s instant transformation into a movie star in director Walter Hill’s 48 Hrs. — the ultimate buddy cop comedy.

Stream 48 Hrs. on Paramount+. 

The Jackass Movies (2002-2022)

A group of intrepid and immature people subject themselves to stunts and high-wire visual gags of varying consequence. After hitting it big with the Jackass series on MTV, Johnny Knoxville, Steve-O, and others continued to embarrass and torture themselves for our enjoyment with a hit movie franchise whose second installment is, unfortunately, not available on Paramount+ at the moment.

Stream the Jackass Movies on Paramount+.

Top Gun (1986)

An ace naval pilot (Tom Cruise) finds himself falling for one of his instructors (Kelly McGillis) at an elite training facility. From Tony Scott’s visceral action direction, iconic original songs, and captivating romantic plot, it is easy to see how Top Gun became the highest grossing film of 1986.

Stream Top Gun on Paramount+.

There Will Be Blood (2007)

An oil tycoon (Daniel Day-Lewis) comes into opposition of a young preacher (Paul Dano) and other citizens of a small California town as he steadily pushes himself on a path of both success and self-destruction. Day-Lewis won his second Academy Award for his chilling performance in There Will Be Blood — writer and director Paul Thomas Anderson’s gripping period piece partially inspired by Upton Sinclair’s Oil!

Stream There Will Be Blood on Paramount+.

Breakfast At Tiffany’s (1961)

A bright, posh socialite (Audrey Hepburn) attracts the attention of a gentleman (George Peppard) who recently moved into her apartment building in New York City. Very loosely based on the novella by Truman Capote, Breakfast at Tiffany’s is one of the most beloved romantic comedies and one of Hollywood’s most iconic titles in general.

Stream Breakfast at Tiffany’s on Paramount+.

Scream (2022)

Two generations of Woodsboro natives are forced to come together to solve the mystery of who is behind the Ghostface mask this time when a new string of brutal murders begin to happen. Filmmaking collective Radio Silence made what some agree is the best Scream movie since Wes Craven’s 1996 original with this commentary on the recent trend of horror movie “requels.”

Stream Scream on Paramount+.

Interstellar (2014)

A former scientist (Matthew McConaughey) and others embark on a journey across time and space to find a new home for mankind as Earth reaches the brink of uninhabitability. Also one of the best Jessica Chastain movies, Interstellar is one of writer and director Christopher Nolan’s most visually stunning and ambitious sci-fi blockbusters.

Stream Interstellar on Paramount+.

The Kid (1921)

There are few figures from the olden days of Hollywood who are as recognizable as Charlie Chaplin. Watch where it all started for the silent film star in 1921’s The Kid, a masterpiece about a tramp and a young orphan who strike up a unique and unbreakable bond.

Stream The Kid on Paramount+.

The Star Trek Movies (1979 - 2013)

You can’t watch all of the Star Trek movies on Paramount+, but the streaming service does feature 10 films from the franchise, which should be more than enough to hold any Trekkie over while we wait to find out what’s coming next for the series.

Stream The Star Trek Movies on Paramount+.

Catch Me If You Can (2002)

Steven Spielberg’s excellent 2002 crime drama Catch Me If You Can sees Leonardo DiCaprio take on the role of real-life con artist Frank Abagnale Jr. as he becomes one of the most infamous criminals of the 20th Century, all while Tom Hanks’ Carl Hanratty is hot on his tail.

Stream Catch Me If You Can on Paramount+.

Night Of The Living Dead (1968)

George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead is one of the best horror movies of all time and just so happens to be one of the most readily available. See how it all began for the modern zombie genre in this black-and-white feature about a small group of survivors trying to survive the night (and each other) in a small farmhouse in rural Pennsylvania.

Stream Night of the Living Dead on Paramount+.

The SpongeBob SquarePants Movies (2004 - 2021)

A square, yellow sea sponge (Tom Kenny) races to save his hometown from an evil fast food restaurateur (twice) and, later, journeys to the Lost City of Atlantis in search of his pet snail, Gary. Check out Nickelodeon’s most iconic and beloved animated character in his first two big screen adventures and his third feature-length outing, The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run, which was released exclusively on Paramount+ in the United States.

Stream The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie on Paramount+.
Stream The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water on Paramount+.
Stream The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run on Paramount+.

This may seem like a ton of movies, but this list barely scratches the surface of all the great titles featured on Paramount+. If you want even more streaming options after reading about all these great films, take a look at our lists on the best movies on Netflix and best Amazon Prime movies, both of which are updated regularly. 

CinemaBlend participates in affiliate programs with various companies. We may earn a commission when you click on or make purchases via links. The following article was produced in partnership with Plex.

Not too long ago, we here at CinemaBlend partnered with the streaming service Plex to highlight some of the best movies it had to offer on their platform. But streaming libraries being what they are, new and exciting stuff gets added and taken away on a regular basis, so we felt like it was a good idea to check in and see if anything new and cool was added. Plus, give that the Halloween season has concluded, the horror movie binges we’ve just finished have us all ready for some genre adjacent thrills in the way of some great sci-fi movies. Get ready to stream, as this list has 10 awesome picks just waiting to meet your acquaintance at this very moment.

Minority Report

One half of one of the greatest Steven Spielberg double plays ever, Minority Report adapts Philip K. Dick’s short story into an action mystery that is pure Spielberg. As Tom Cruise’s law enforcement protagonist is on the run for a crime he’s supposedly about to commit, his detective skills will be put to the test in order to clear his own name. The message, and the set pieces, absolutely hold up; and it boasts an ending that still has audiences debating its true meaning, as well as whether it fits the film or not.

Pacific Rim

Monsters come in all shapes and sizes, even those created by the colorful mind of director Guillermo del Toro. Nowhere has that action gotten its largest and most comprehensive workout than in the anime/Godzilla-inspired Pacific Rim, where a group of brash and determined pilots set out to cancel the kaiju apocalypse. A lot of mad science makes its way into this fun-filled ride, as large scale aggressors require some pretty big solutions, and an even larger sense of resolve, to be defeated.

Cube

Sci-fi is one of the great genres where no matter what size or scale the ideas are presented in, the right idea comes across like a charm. Writer/director Vincenzo Natali’s Cube embodies that scrappy spirit, telling a tale of puzzles of imprisonment which sees a group of strangers struggle to survive in a maze that has tons of nasty surprises awaiting them around every turn. If you’re a fan of the Saw franchise and/or the more recent thriller Escape Room, you can thank Cube for helping those movies come to life.

Stargate

Before it was a wildly successful television franchise across multiple spinoffs, Stargate started out as a theatrical blockbuster that wowed fans at the multiplex. With Kurt Russell and James Spader respectively originating the iconic roles of Colonel Jack O’Neill and Daniel Jackson in director Roland Emmerich’s sci-fi adventure, the story of how humanity first used the Stargate, and where the world that eventually spawned Stargate SG-1 came from, are both built from the ground up in this picture. So if you’re looking for a new series to binge or want to see how the franchise began, Stargate is a great choice to indulge in.

Star Trek: First Contact

There are several of Paramount’s Star Trek films to choose from on Plex’s extensive library, and they’re actually some of the fan favorites from the franchise. Perhaps the best one on offer is 1996’s Star Trek: First Contact, which kept the series tradition of using time travel as an exciting story device going with the Next Generation crew. Action packed, extremely humorous and even a bit frightening at times, the eighth Star Trek movie is one of the entries that fans continually heap praise onto, even after all of these years. Resistance is futile.

Monsters

Another example of low budget origins making sci-fi magic, writer/director Gareth Edwards tangled with gigantic beasties before he even set eyes on the director’s chair to the 2014 reboot of Godzilla. In Monsters, Edwards not only wrote and directed the story of a world where monstrous invaders pose a rather inconvenient threat to the human race, but he also tackled the roles of cinematographer, production designer and visual effects powerhouse. This indie darling packed such a punch that Gareth Edwards found himself tangling with Titans and the forces of the Empire, as Rogue One: A Star Wars Story also enlisted his talents upon the results of his humble, but impressive beginnings.

The Dead Zone

One of Stephen King’s best-selling novels, The Dead Zone, is another one of those successes that eventually found itself on both the big and small screens. But even after doing pretty well for itself as a USA original series, the David Cronenberg-directed film is still a chilling masterpiece of grounded tension. With Christopher Walken playing the central role of reluctant clairvoyant Johnny Smith, he delivers a landmark performance as his school teacher-turned-psychic tries to prevent an apocalypse the likes of which we’ve never seen. Political paranoia and heartbreaking drama take the stage in this adaptation of a King classic.

Vanilla Sky

What if we told you that Cameron Crowe and Tom Cruise made a sci-fi movie that nearly defies explanation? If we were around to spread that message back in 2001, maybe Vanilla Sky might have been a bigger hit than it turned out to be at the box office. However, it’s never too late to discover the truth about this cult classic for yourself, as Cruise’s charming millionaire David Ames goes from schmoozing power brokers and famous friends to having a rather unique crisis of personality. We’re being vague here, but it’s best to go into this one with as little knowledge as possible.

Paycheck

Another charming defiance of expectations comes from the John Woo/Ben Affleck pairing that’s known to the world as Paycheck. Also torn from the pages of Phillip K. Dick, this sci-fi mindbender shows a world where looking into the future is possible, but it comes with a lot of strings. Affleck’s Michael Jennings is the man that creates this technology, but the only problem is, he doesn’t remember a thing. All he has are a series of clues his past self has left him, with a ticking clock hounding his every move.

A.I. Artificial Intelligence

We close our rundown of great sci-fi movies with another one that’s gained quite the following in its post-release life. Meant as a tribute to his late friend and mentor’s work, Steven Spielberg’s A.I.: Artificial Intelligence was a project that originated as a Stanley Kubrick picture. But over the course of several decades, Kubrick would try to convince Spielberg that the film was something that was more aligned with the blockbuster director’s sensibilities. It’s a haunting riff on the Pinocchio legacy, with young Haley Joel Osment delivering a hell of a performance in the afterglow of The Sixth Sense.

Before we go, we’d like to remind you that if you saw a movie on this list that caught your eye, you can start watching it immediately through the Plex service right this very moment. So don’t think we’re just hyping you up for coming attractions that have a bit more of a wait time on their debut. You now have all you need to either start enjoying this streaming service, or to continue where you left off when we last spoke of it. Stream responsibly, and don’t forget, there’s plenty more where these came from. So be sure to check Plex real carefully, as all titles are subject to change and availability.

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Colin Farrell is one of the most versatile and interesting actors working today. His roles and projects are unpredictable--Farrell has done everything from big blockbuster movies to critically acclaimed indies. His diverse body of work makes him an actor who you’ll rarely get bored watching. Sticking with his ability to shock and amaze his fans, Farrell recently signed on to play the Penguin in The Batman. Of all the Batman comic villains that Farrell could have played, the Penguin would have been my last guess on who I would see him bring to life.

This is just one of the many times that Colin Farrell has gone against type-casting or expectations, and taken on a role that he knows he can bring uniqueness and originality to his portrayal. Farrell is a chameleon who really tries to embody all his characters, no matter how strange.

Fortunately for Colin Farrell fans, there are plenty of great movies starring him available to stream on premium and free streaming services.

Seven Psychopaths - Amazon Prime

Colin Farrell teams up with writer-director Martin McDonagh for Seven Psychopaths, a movie about a struggling writer whose dognapping friends get him involved with a gangster. Meanwhile, Marty (Farrell) is trying to finish his screenplay and this misadventure might be what he needs to find the perfect story.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: Seven Psychopaths is one of the few movies where Farrell is not the craziest character. Farrell is enjoyable to watch in the film, but it’s made even better with the all-star ensemble featuring Woody Harrelson, Sam Rockwell, and Christopher Walken. They all bring a distinct brand of crazy to Seven Psychopaths.

Stream it on Amazon Prime here.

Dumbo - Disney+

Tim Burton directs this live-action version of Disney’s beloved animated classic Dumbo. It features two former Batman actors, Michael Keaton and Danny DeVito, the former Penguin, with new The Batman actor Colin Farrell. and Eva Green, Alan Arkin, Nico Parker, Finley Hobbins, and a CGI elephant.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: Dumbo is a semi-family friendly movie, so it’s a great Farrell choice if you’re trying to watch content that stars the actor that your children can also watch and enjoy. It’s also an action-adventure tale that is a lot different from his other work.

Stream it on Disney+ here

In Bruges - HBO Max

Two hit-men are forced to stay in Bruges, Belgium after a job blunder. Their time in Bruges is anything but peaceful. In Bruges is the feature-length directorial debut of Martin McDonagh, who later went on to direct the Academy Award-winning dark comedy Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: Many consider In Bruges one of Farrell’s best performances for his comedic timing and the depth he brings to the character. Farrell has done plenty of comedies since In Bruges, but it was one of his first comedies and helped establish how good he is at comedy, especially when paired with equally talented actors like Brendan Gleeson and Ralph Fiennes.

Stream it on HBO Max here.

The Lobster - Netflix

A group of singles go to a hotel where they only have several days to find a match. If they don’t find one, they’re turned into an animal of their choosing.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: The Lobster is a strange and slightly disturbing movie that is light on the comedy elements and high on the dark ones. Like with The Killing of a Sacred Deer, it features another collaborative partnership between Farrell and Yorgos Lanthimos. The Lobster has an all-star cast that includes Olivia Colman and John C. Reilly.

The Lobster presents some fascinating ideas of love and companionship that makes it deserving of multiple viewings, especially if you’re a Colin Farrell fan, because this is another role where he physically and emotionally transforms himself into his character. He makes his character, David, a little ruthless, a little desperate, a little hopeful, and very compelling.

Stream it on Netflix here.

The New World - Vudu

The New World is a retelling of the story of Pocahontas (Q'orianka Kilcher) and her love story with John Smith (Colin Farrell).

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: This isn’t Disney’s Pocahontas but a more complex look at her story, relationship with John Smith and John Rolfe (Christian Bale), Native Americans, and the British colonizing of America. Terrence Malick directs this visually stunning movie. Farrell gives a subtle performance that allows him to shine, but Kilcher to stand out even more as the young lead, and that’s a sign of a good acting partner.

Stream it on Vudu here.

Horrible Bosses - HBO Max

A group of friends decide to murder their bosses. Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, and Jason Sudeikis play the friends, and Jennifer Aniston, Colin Farrell, and Kevin Spacey play their bosses.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: If a murder plot doesn’t seem ridiculous enough, the film becomes more over-the-top as it continues. Horrible Bosses is a hilarious movie with many outrageous performances, especially by the bosses, but Farrell’s character has to be one of the standouts in this movie. It’s so weird and funny.

Stream it on HBO Max here.

Ondine - Tubi

Ondine deals with Irish folklore and the ideas of selkies, creatures who can change from seals to humans by losing their skin. It follows the romance between Syracuse “Circus” (Colin Farrell) and Ondine (Alicja Bachleda). Circus’s daughter Annie (Alison Barry) believes that Ondine might be a selkie because she was caught in his fishnet and came back to life from drowning.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: Ondine is a fairytale/mythology based in real life. It introduces non-Irish movie fans to a little history and folklore. With Neil Jordan as director and heavy Irish accents, Ondine feels like a tribute to Ireland and sea life. It’s a curious romantic drama that’s worth exploring and diving into.

Stream it on Tubi here.

Fright Night - Showtime

The 2011 version of Fright Night is a remake of the 80s cult-classic horror film of the same name. The film follows Charley Brewster (Anton Yelchin) as he discovers that his neighbor Jerry (Colin Farrell) is a real life vampire. This discovery leads to a major battle between the two. Fright Night’s cast includes Christopher Mintz-Plasse, David Tennant, Imogen Poots, Toni Collette, and Dave Franco.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: Both Fright Night films are entertaining, and though I adore the original, this one is just as entertaining. Farrell’s Jerry is a slick, devious, and terrifying vampire. He brings a darkness and creepiness every time that he’s on the screen. The entire cast works really well in 2011’s Fright Night, and it’s one of the rare adaptations that feels different from the original, but not in a bad way.

Stream it on Showtime here.

The Beguiled - Max Go

Sofia Coppola directed The Beguiled, a movie based on a book that later became a 1971 movie. The film stars Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, Elle Fanning, and Colin Farrell. During the Civil War, only five students and one teacher remain at an all-girls school. One day, a student stumbles upon a wounded soldier, Corporal John McBurney (Farrell). Each of the girls find themselves competing for his attention.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: The Beguiled is an interesting look at female sexuality, ruthlessness, and a steady decline towards insanity--all in war times. Colin Farrell gives a layered performance as the fox in the hen house type of character, who discovers the hens are actually wolves. He’s alluring but also manipulative, lustful, and dangerous for many reasons.

Stream it on Max Go here.

The Killing Of A Sacred Deer - Netflix

Steven Murphy (Colin Farrell) forms a bond with a strange kid named Martin (Barry Keoghan). At one point, he fully integrates Martin into the life of him and his family. Then Martin’s true intentions begin to surface. Martin possesses an unusual hold on Steven that may destroy the Murphy family.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: The Killing of a Sacred Deer feels like a cousin to Hereditary, but like 30 times more confusing and disturbing. The entire cast of this movie does a great job with their characters, but Farrell’s Steven is what draws you in by being sympathetic enough to let you feel sorry for him on this tragic journey.

Stream it on Netflix here.

Minority Report - Showtime

Tom Cruise stars in Minority Report, a science fiction action movie set in the year 2054. For years, murders have been prevented thanks to a psychic technology that allows them to find would-be murderers before they commit the crime. Cruise plays John Anderton, the head of the police department that deals with this technology. He finds himself hunted when he’s accused of a future murder.

Why Colin Farrell Fans Will Like It: Farrell plays Danny Witwer, a Department of Justice agent. He’s the man leading the charge against Anderton. Minority Report is a sleek sci-fi crime drama that Steven Spielberg directs, so the visuals are just as fascinating as the story. It's always interesting to see him in the sci-fi landscape.

Stream it on Showtime here.

Besides these movies listed, Farrell has plenty of other films available to stream or rent, like The Gentlemen and The Way Back. Colin Farrell will appear in The Batman on October 2, 2021

For some, naming their choice for the greatest filmmaker to ever live might be impossible, but for most, the answer is simple: Steven Spielberg. The man is responsible for so many memorable moments in cinematic history – from E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial to Schindler’s List, among others – that he is almost synonymous with cinema itself.

In 2022, the three-time Academy Award winner would offer audiences a fictionalized glimpse into his life before becoming a filmmaker with The Fabelmans. What better way to follow that than by tracing his preceding career with a binge of the best Steven Spielberg movies available now on streaming? Allow us to point you in the right direction.

Jaws (1975)

At 29, Steven Spielberg became the most profitable filmmaker of all time (until his buddy George Lucas beat him two years later with Star Wars) in 1975 with Jaws. Based on Peter Benchley's novel about an oceanside town terrorized by a shark, this thriller – often credited as the first ever "blockbuster" –  earned composer John Williams his second Oscar for the unforgettably heart-racing score.

Stream Jaws on FuboTV.
Rent/buy Jaws on Amazon.

The Indiana Jones Movies (1981-2008)

Steven Spielberg and producer George Lucas teamed up to make Raiders of the Lost Ark – a tribute to cinema itself that ended up inspiring more Indiana Jones movies, as well as countless other tributes in pop culture since. Spielberg would return to helm three more action-packed sequels  starring Harrison Ford as the titular hero. 

Stream the Indiana Jones movies on Paramount+.

Buy/rent Raiders of the Lost Ark on Amazon.
Buy/rent Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom on Amazon.
Buy/rent Indiana Jones movies and the Last Crusade on Amazon.
Buy/rent Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull on Amazon.

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Steven Spielberg has broken the record for highest grossing film of all time thrice – the second time being this story of a lonely boy (Henry Thomas) who befriends a lost alien. Even without its blockbuster status, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial would still, easily, be remembered as one of the greatest sci-fi movies of all time and one of the most emotionally moving films of any genre.

Stream E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial on Peacock Premium.
Buy/rent E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial on Amazon.

The Color Purple (1985)

Author Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about a Southern Black woman’s (Whoopi Goldberg) lifelong struggles with abuse from her peers served as the basis of this powerful landmark drama. The Color Purple is also one of the best movies starring Oprah Winfrey, whose supporting performance earned her one of the film's 11 Oscar nominations.

Stream The Color Purple on Netflix.
Stream The Color Purple on HBO Max.
Buy/rent The Color Purple on Amazon.

Schindler’s List (1993)

The true story of a German industrialist's (Liam Neeson) plea to save Jews from persecution in Nazi-occupied Poland is recreated in striking black and white in Schindler's List. The acclaimed World War II-era drama is one of the most personal films of Steven Spielberg's career and would earn him his first Academy Award for Best Director and only Oscar for Best Picture in 1994.

Stream Schindler’s List on Starz.
Buy/rent Schindler’s List on Amazon.

Jurassic Park And The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1993, 1997)

The third time that Steven Spielberg directed the highest grossing box office hit ever was when he adapted Michael Crichton’s novel about a theme park full of dinosaur clones, which also marked a major turning point in Hollywood’s history of visual effects. The director also returned to helm the second of the Jurassic Park movies, The Lost World: Jurassic Park.

Stream Jurassic Park and The Lost World: Jurassic Park on HBO Max.
Buy/rent Jurassic Park on Amazon.
Buy/rent The Lost World: Jurassic Park on Amazon.

Amistad (1997)

Four years after Schindler's List, Steven Spielberg dove further back into our world's history of persecution with Amistad, starring Djimon Hounsou as an illegally captured African tribalist who leads a revolt aboard a slave ship. The Oscar-nominated drama is also one of Matthew McConaughey’s best movies, in which he plays an abolitionist lawyer tasked with speaking for his non-English-speaking defendants in court.

Stream Amistad on Paramount+.
Buy/rent Amistad on Amazon.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Steven Spielberg received his second Academy Award for Best Director in 1999 for Saving Private Ryan. This a harrowingly realistic portrait of War World II follows a crew of army rangers, led by Tom Hanks, on a life-threatening mission to locate the youngest brother of three slain soldiers (Matt Damon) and bring him home to safety.

Stream Saving Private Ryan on Paramount+.
Stream Saving Private Ryan on PlutoTV.
Buy/rent Saving Private Ryan on Amazon.

A.I.: Artificial Intelligence (2001)

After Stanley Kubrick passed before he could finish it, Steven Spielberg stepped in to direct A.I.: Artificial Intelligence. This visually stunning, futuristic fairy tale stars The Sixth Sense's Haley Joel Osment as a robot built to resemble a child who goes on a quest to become a real boy.

Stream A.I.: Artificial Intelligence on Paramount+.
Rent/buy A.I.: Artificial Intelligence on Amazon.

Minority Report (2002)

In the year 2054, a time at which crime can prevented, Police Chief John Anderton (Tom Cruise) has 36 hours to prove his innocence in a murder that he has not committed yet in Minority Report. Steven Spielberg would also expand his dazzling, brilliantly designed, and particularly bleak adaptation of a thought-provoking story by Phillip K. Dick into a short-lived TV series on Fox years later.

Stream Minority Report on Amazon Prime.
Stream Minority Report on Paramount+.

Catch Me If You Can (2002)

Before he even turned 19, Frank Abagnale Jr. became one of the most successful and elusive criminals in the history of check fraud during the 1960s. Leonardo DiCaprio leads the Catch Me If You Can cast alongside Tom Hanks as the FBI agent hot on his trail, in Steven Spielberg’s excellent biopic.

Stream Catch Me If You Can on Paramount+.
Rent/buy Catch Me If You Can on Amazon.

War Of The Worlds (2005)

Years after Minority Report, Tom Cruise re-teamed with Steven Spielberg to play an irresponsible, divorced father who must protect his estranged children (Dakota Fanning and Justin Chatwin) in the wake of an alien invasion. This thrilling, modernized adaptation of H.G. Wells' groundbreaking 1897 science fiction novel The War of the Worlds received attention from the Academy for its stunning special effects and immersive sound design.

Stream War of the Worlds on Paramount+.
Rent/buy War of the Worlds on Amazon.

The Adventures Of Tintin (2011)

Following a trend almost solely led by his pal Robert Zemeckis, Steven Spielberg shot his adaptation of Herge's The Adventures of Tintin completely with motion capture performances. Jamie Bell plays the titular young reporter who joins an adult sea captain (Andy Serkis) on a search for a sunken ship in this fun adventure that would take home the Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature.

Stream The Adventures of Tintin on HBO Max.
Rent/buy The Adventures of Tintin on Amazon.

War Horse (2011)

While Steven Spielberg's "one for them" in 2011 was The Adventures of Tintin, his "one for him" was War Horse – an Academy Award-nominated epic adapted from Michael Morpurgo's novel (which was also made into a stage play). Also starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Tom Hiddleston, it follows a young Englishman (Jeremy Irvine) who enlists into the military in hopes to reunite with his beloved horse after it is sold into the cavalry during World War I.

Stream War Horse on Amazon Prime.

The BFG (2016)

For his first time directing a feature-length Disney production, Steven Spielberg chose to adapt Roald Dahl's 1982 novel The BFG, which was written for screen by late E.T. scribe Melissa Matthison. It stars Academy Award winner Mark Rylance in the title role of a "big, friendly giant" who finds an unexpected ally in defeating the larger malevolent creatures of his world in a London orphan named Sophie (Ruby Barnhill).

Stream The BFG on Paramount+.
Rent/buy The BFG on Amazon.

The Post (2017)

An earth-shattering scoop about decades of government cover-ups puts The Washington Post at odds with the White House in 1971. Meryl Streep (as publisher Kay Graham) and Tom Hanks (as editor Ben Bradlee) each received Oscar nominations for their performances in The Post – Steven Spielberg’s riveting depiction of one of the riskiest crusades for truth in the history of the press.

Stream The Post on FuboTV.
Rent/buy The Post on Amazon.

West Side Story (2021)

Steven Spielberg was always interested in the idea of directing a musical, which is why Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom begins with a lavish dance number. He finally took on the task at feature-length with a refreshing new take on the urban, Romeo & Juliet-inspired classic, West Side Story, for which breakout star Ariana DeBose took home a Best Supporting Actress Oscar.

Stream West Side Story on Disney+.
Stream West Side Story on HBO Max.
Rent/buy West Side Story on Amazon.

Clear your schedule for the ultimate Steven Spielberg movie binge. If your favorite movies by the filmmaker were not included above, check back here later to see if and when they become available on streaming.

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What is The Matrix? The Matrix is a hit blend of complex science fiction with graphic novel style action from the Wachowskis, starring Keanu Reeves, that imagines a dystopian world hidden from humanity through a virtual mask that convinced 1999 audiences to question their reality. What if I told you that it was not the only one?

Not to downplay the originality of The Matrix, but it was not the first film to propose concepts of technology sealing society’s downfall into a claustrophobic post-apocalypse, nor was it the last to feature leather-clad badasses in shades taking on armies of emotionless redshirts amid mind-bending visual effects. In fact, several examples of such films are available right now to stream on various platforms.

Where we go from there is a choice I leave to you. You exit out of this article, you log into Netflix, and watch your favorite dystopian sci-fi action film for the umpteenth time. You stay on this page and I will show you how the rabbit-hole goes when it comes to films available to stream that you and other fans of The Matrix will love.

Dark City (1998)

An amnesiac (Rufus Sewell) struggles to regain his memory and figure out why he is wanted for murder after he awakens in a strange, dismal world controlled by a group of inhuman beings.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: Alex Proyas’ neo noir tale of an oppressive, futuristic society has long been a subject of comparison to the Wachowskis’ hit, which came out just a year later, with some calling it weirder, darker, and even better.

Stream it on Vudu here

Inception (2010)

In a world in which dreams can be bought and sold, a skilled memory thief (Leonard DiCaprio) and his team are hired to complete the opposite task of implanting an idea into the subconscious of a powerful business executive.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: If not for the highly imaginative, Oscar-winning visual effects, the concepts of technology used to invade the mind and artificial realities are sure to make fans feel right at home with Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending classic.

Stream it on Netflix here

Escape From New York (1981)

In a war-torn, crime-ridden United States, Air Force One crash lands inside the maximum security prison that was once New York City, convincing the police force to offer a hardened criminal (Kurt Russell) a pardon if he can bring the President out and alive within 24 hours.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: John Carpenter’s politically charged B-movie is rich in claustrophobic, post-apocalyptic thrills, but the secret to why it has remained a much-worshipped cult classic decades later is the irresistible, authority-defying attitude of eye-patched outlaw Snake Plissken - arguably Russell's best character and one the actor still holds dear to this day.

Stream it on Shudder here or on Amazon Prime here

9 (2009)

A rag doll (Elijah Wood) learns he and the eight other hand-stitched beings like him are among the last living in the aftermath of a cataclysmic war between man and machine, but soon discover that they may hold the key to humanity’s last chance for salvation.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: Essentially, if you replace the characters of The Matrix with sentient rag dolls and throw out the artificial reality plot point, you still have much of the same post-apocalyptic, technophobic, prophesied hero’s journey in this animated gem based on director Shane Acker's original short film and produced by Tim Burton.

Stream it on Netflix here

Blade Runner (1982)

A cop (Harrison Ford) who specializes in the hunting and “retiring” of human-like, artificial organisms known as “Replicants,” which are outlawed on Earth, is assigned to locate four hiding out in a futuristic Los Angeles.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: Based on a novel by Phillip K. Dick, Ridley Scott’s sci-fi noir is, like The Matrix, highly regarded for visual effects and visions of dystopian society way ahead of their time, but the film, as well as its 2017 sequel, is still often referenced and dissected for considering how and when artificial intelligence could become more human than humans and, therefore, should it be treated as such?

Stream it on Netflix here

Equilibrium (2002)

John Preston (Christian Bale) is the top enforcer of a law requiring all citizens to consume an emotion-numbing drug, until the day he misses a dose and his newfound feelings help him realize the tyrannical nature of his world, motivating him to achieve ultimate freedom.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: From the depressingly bleak futuristic setting inhabiting an unwittingly manipulated populace, highly stylized action sequences, and long, black robes making up much of the costuming, this futuristic thriller, that some might call a guilty pleasure, feels like a direct descendent of The Matrix.

Stream it on Netflix here

TRON (1982)

A computer hacker and arcade champion named Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) must compete in the games he has mastered for real when he is abducted into a digital world.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: Unlike The Matrix, the visual effects of this Disney cult classic, which were experimental for the time, have not aged the best, but the concept of being trapped in a virtual reality is more intriguing and relevant today than ever.

Stream it on Disney+ here

John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum (2019)

Picking up right where the second chapter left off, legendary assassin John Wick (Keanu Reeves) is branded “Excommunicado” and made top target of assassins all over the world.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: In addition to the casting of Keanu Reeves (directed by his Neo stunt double and reunited once again with Morpheus himself, Laurence Fishburne), the John Wick films are lauded for their revolutionarily kick-ass action and clever world-building of an underground society enforcing order in plain sight. These elements are most prevalent in Parabellum, therefore making it the installment most referential to The Matrix yet.

Stream it on HBO Now here

Minority Report (2002)

In 2054, crime can be prevented and the chief of Washington D.C.’s special “Precrime” unit (Tom Cruise) is predicted to commit a murder within the next 36 hours, putting him on a race against time to find a potential alternate future that will prove his innocence.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: Director Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of Phillip K. Dick’s short story is more than popcorn excitement, but a remarkable (and often quite bleak) vision of the mid-21st Century with a twist on the mind-altering technology plot element that makes the story’s “heroes” (the police) the oppressive ones by taking possession of three reluctant clairvoyants for their own morally questionable purposes.

Stream it on Netflix here

Akira (1988)

Post-World War III “Neo-Tokyo” faces even greater threat when a top secret government research program turns a young biker into a telekinetic with sinister intent, leaving it up to the teen’s friend to stop him from causing a cataclysmic force from reemerge.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: This classic Japanese anime masterpiece is also a staple of the cyberpunk genre, which The Matrix clearly takes inspiration from, for its main hero’s instantly recognizable look, its iconic depiction of a war-torn society, and the thrilling depiction of science gone wrong.

Stream it on Hulu with subtitles here or dubbed in English here

The Platform (2019)

In a vertically built prison of an unknown number of cells holding two inmates each, a platform descends from the top bearing food that only lasts so many levels, but one prisoner seeks a way to change that.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: The message of this intense Spanish-language societal commentary leaves a bit more to be desired than the subtlety-lacking The Matrix, but the aggressively grim setting and themes perseverance amongst deadly circumstances should allow it to earn a place within fans’ wheelhouses.

Stream it on Netflix here.

Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989)

A pair of dim-witted Californians (Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter) are given access to a time-traveling phone booth by futuristic visitor Rufus (George Carlin) in hopes to create the perfect history project so they can keep their band from separating and preserve the global peace they will one day inspire.

Why The Matrix Fans Will Like It: Most fans of Keanu Reeves will refer to Neo as his defining sci-fi character, but the actor’s roots in the genre began with this thoroughly joyous ride through history that will inspire you to be “excellent to each other.”

Stream it on Starz here or Sling here

What do you think? Are these sci-fi masterpieces worthy of The Matrix fans’ love, or do you think I have fallen too deep down the rabbit hole? Let us know in the comments and be sure to check back for more information and updates on the sci-fi classic and other streaming recommendations here on CinemaBlend.

There is just something about eyes that freak me out, specifically having someone touch my eye or touching my eye myself. It's the reason I could never wear contacts. This condition is often referred to as ommetaphobia, and I am convinced this is because of movies like Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange with the whole eye clamps therapy scene. It hasn't gotten much better over the years thanks to Minority Report, Final Destination 5, and countless others, but today I want to start a little immersion therapy of my own.

I can't be the only one freaked out by scenes in movies that involve eyes, so I guess you all will be going on this journey to overcome our fear of others touching our eyes by looking at some of the most terrifying eye scenes cinema has to offer. Heads up, there are some disgusting and repulsive scenes that could have a psychological effect on all us, so you have been warned. Without wasting any more time, let's take a look at the most disturbing eye scenes.

A Clockwork Orange - The Aversion Therapy Scene

After street hooligan Alex DeLarge (Malcolm McDowell) and his gang of droogs commits a series of vicious crimes, the young Brit is jailed and subjected to intense behavioral modification therapy to change his ways.

The Terrifying Eye Scene: In a scene that will probably ruin your day, doctors strap Alex to a chair, fill him up with all sorts of drugs, install metal clamps on his eyelids to keep his eyes open, and force him to watch the worst humanity has to offer. The scene isn't as gross or demented as some of scenes found in some horror movies, but the thought of having cold, sharp metal clamps fixed to your eyelids and having an eye dropper keep your eyes moist is just about as terrifying as it gets.

Final Destination 5 - The Lasik Scene

Like the previous four installments, Final Destination 5 follows a group of friends who survive a major catastrophe but are still unable to escape death.

The Terrifying Eye Scene: The Final Destination franchise has given audiences dozens of the most gruesome and inventive deaths scenes since the first movie was released 20 years ago. One of the deaths that sticks out the most is Olivia Castle's (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) lasik surgery gone bad in Final Destination 5. When the doctor steps out of the room, the machine comes alive and begins shooting a laser into Olivia's eye. And although Olivia dies after falling out of the window moments later, the visual of a laser piercing her eye is just as bad, if not worse.

Zombie - The Eye Splinter

Italian horror king Lucio Fulci released several zombie movies under the Gates Of Hell trilogy, but the most notable of the bunch is his 1979 masterpiece Zombie (Zombi 2 in Italy), which follows the inhabitants of a small Caribbean island curse by voodoo that is overrun by the undead.

The Terrifying Eye Scene: This iconic and stomach-turning scene takes place when Paola Menard (Olga Karlatos) tries to hide from a zombie in her house, only for the ghoul to break down the door, grab ahold of the researcher's hair, and slowly pull her eye towards the giant wooden splinter. The sound of Paola's desperate screaming as she is slowly pulled toward her death is only made worse by the extreme closeup of the splinter popping her eye.

Fire In The Sky - Alien Test

The 1993 biographical science fiction thriller Fire In The Sky tells the disturbing story of Travis Walton, who claimed to have been abducted by aliens in the mid-1970s.

The Terrifying Eye Scene: During a flashback, Travis (D.B. Sweeney) remembers the events of the alien abduction where the extraterrestrials poke, prod, and probe the human as they run a series of tests. After wrapping Travis in some type of skin-like material and inserting tubes, the aliens placed a clamp over his eye, pour a milky liquid on it, and then pull down a large needle towards his eye.

Pan's Labyrinth - The Pale Man Scene

Before Guillermo del Toro was winning Academy Awards for The Shape Of Water, the Spanish filmmaker gave the world one of the most terrifying experiences with Pan's Labyrinth, a story about a young girl who escapes to a fantastical realm in 1940's Spain.

The Terrifying Eye Scene: Like the rest of Guillermo del Toro's movies, Pan's Labyrinth is equal parts beautiful and horrifying with its depictions otherworldly creatures, including Pale Man, a humanoid with eyes in the palms of his hands. Though he's only featured in one scene, Pale Man (Doug Jones) is probably what most people remember about the movie, especially after he pulls his hands towards his face to reveal two large eyes.

Minority Report - Eye Transplant

Steven Spielberg's 2002 science fiction epic Minority Report follows Washington, DC police captain John Anderton (Tom Cruise) who is accused of a murder that won't happen until the future and his journey to clear his name.

The Terrifying Eye Scene: At one point, Anderton goes to an underground doctor to undergo an eye transplant so that the city's optical recognition system won't be able to trace his steps. Like all good "eye scenes," the anticipation here is just as bad, if not worse than the procedure itself. The fact that you don't know whether you can trust the black market doctor performing the surgery makes it that much worse.

28 Weeks Later - Don Becomes Infected

Set months after the events of 28 Days Later, the 2007 apocalyptic horror film 28 Weeks Later follows members of a NATO military force attempting to restore order to a small salvageable section of London, which all goes to hell after two young children break protocol.

The Terrifying Eye Scene: There are plenty of spills and chills in this disaster epic, but one of the most grotesque deaths comes in a scene where Don (Robert Carlyle) becomes infected by the rage virus and viciously murders his wife, Alice (Catherine McCormack). During the attack, Don sticks his thumbs into Alice's eyes and continues to push until there is nothing left and his wife is dead.

Total Recall - The Bulging Eye Scene

Paul Verhoeven's 1990 science fiction action movie Total Recall follows Douglas Quaid (Arnold Schwarzenegger) as the bored construction worker dreams about visiting the colonized Mars, but things don't go according to plan once he visits a company that can plant false memories into clients' minds.

The Terrifying Eye Scene: We get the first bulging eye scene at the start of the over-the-top sci fi movie when Quaid dreams about walking on the martian surface. When he loses his footing, Quaid falls down a rocky hill and shatters his face-mask, causing his eyes to bulge out of his head. And remember this was just the beginning of this quintessential Verhoeven feature.

BONUS: Kill Bill Vol. 2 - Losing The Other Eye

I couldn't make a list of movies with terrifying eye scenes without including Quentin Tarantino's kung fu revenge epic Kill Bill Vol. 2, which features not one by two gross scenes where a character loses an eye.

The Terrifying Eye Scene: The more disgusting of the two eye scenes comes towards the end of the Kill Bill saga where the Bride (Uma Thurman) pulls out Elle Driver's (Daryl Hannah) only remaining eye before stomping on it with her bare foot. The blood, the agonizing screams, and the visual of an eyeball being squished sticks with me after all these years.

Wow! You were able to make it through this list of movies with the most terrifying eye scenes. Make sure to take the poll below and let me know which one grossed you out the most. And if there are any movies or scenes I left off the list, let me know in the comments.

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Here’s the bad news of April 2020: most everyone is locked down in a protective quarantine in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. So unless you’re roaming the streets to loot supplies of toilet paper, or worse, are headed to Florida for spring break, your entertainment options are limited. Which only makes the fact that Netflix has more great movies coming than ever all the more appropriate in these trying times.

Looking at the April 2020 lineup, it’s clear that either by design or coincidence, the new movies coming online are part of one of the most ambitious lineups of Netflix titles in quite a while. So since we have all this extra time to spare, let’s run down the best and brightest titles heading to a streaming queue near you this April!

Deep Impact

Okay, so a huge disaster movie like Deep Impact might not be the most obvious option for quarantine entertainment. But if people are going to be prone to watching Contagion and Outbreak at a time like this, then surely there’s room for a movie about the more personal side of an asteroid crisis. Also, if you are watching Outbreak, consider this the other half of your “Morgan Freeman in a time of crisis” double feature.

Just Friends

There’s still no word about whether or not Fox’s Free Guy, or any other movie for that matter, will still be making its big debut in theaters this July. So just in case there’s an off chance that Ryan Reynolds’ latest movie gets delayed, you can always revisit one of his best films with Just Friends. Yeah, it’s a Christmas themed movie, but that doesn’t stop the jokes from still being funny in any season.

The Lethal Weapon Franchise

What’s better than watching one Lethal Weapon movie during your quarantine? Apparently being able to watch every film from the Richard Donner-directed franchise. Mel Gibson and Danny Glover’s legendary run of buddy cop films are all presented as a complete unit on Netflix, which may or may not prompt the public to hope even harder that Lethal Weapon 5 gets under way as soon as safely possible.

Minority Report

In 2002, Steven Spielberg hit a double play out of the park that’s still well regarded to this very day. In that summer, he made Minority Report a blockbuster name, with Tom Cruise trying to solve a crime he hasn’t committed yet. That fall, Catch Me If You Can teamed Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio for an adventure of high crimes and emotional lows. While the latter film recently left the library, that former film is now available to take the edge off of your social distancing habits.

Road To Perdition

Okay, that was a foul trick mentioning Catch Me If You Can when it’s no longer available on Netflix. But allow me to make up for that absence with the fact that a very underrated Tom Hanks movie is coming very soon: director Sam Mendes’ Road to Perdition. Providing one of Hanks’ best performances, it’s a bittersweet story of family bonding between a mafia hitman and his son during a most dangerous time in their lives.

Sherlock Holmes

Some sequels feel like they’re always on the edge of starting and being cancelled, and Sherlock Holmes 3 is one of the most prevalent examples of such a state. We can’t blame fans for wanting that film to happen, as director Guy Ritchie’s original Sherlock Holmes adventure was so damned good, one sequel didn’t feel like enough. If you agree, Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law will be there to help us all deal with this endless delay real soon.

Taxi Driver

Netflix is in the Martin Scorsese business, as evidenced by its work with the director on his awards season darling The Irishman. The streaming giant has also been known to have quite a few of the iconic director’s films on its service, and Taxi Driver is one of those titles that’s been here before, only to come back again. Now you can watch one of Robert De Niro’s most memorable film performances and compare it to the film most feel should have nailed him another Academy Award nomination.

The Death Of Stalin

If the world was progressing as previously scheduled, we’d be seeing director Armando Iannucci’s latest film, The Personal History of David Copperfield, opening in domestic theaters this May. While that release is now put on hold, fans of Iannucci’s flavor of witty humor will still have cause to celebrate, as The Death of Stalin unleashes an all-star cast of comedic talent in this adaptation of the darkly comic graphic novel of the same name. Fans of Veep and Avenue 5, rejoice!

The Matrix Trilogy

How’s this for a glitch in The Matrix? Not too long ago, the entire trilogy of The Wachowski’s sci-fi masterwork was removed from the Netflix library. So just as The Matrix 4 is ready to send fans back to the world of Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus’s struggle to save humanity, all three of their classic exploits will be returning to the queue, and not a moment too soon. Whoa!

The Perks Of Being A Wallflower

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a powerful story of getting to know oneself through the power of friendship and dealing with trauma. It’s also a good opportunity to set up a joke about how one of the actual perks of being a wallflower is that social distancing is something you’re already really good at. Now that the joke is out of the way, prepare to feel wrapped in a warm blanket of adolescence with this beautiful portrait of those vulnerable days known as high school.

The Social Network

Almost a full decade ago, director David Fincher and writer Aaron Sorkin chronicled the origins of Facebook in The Social Network. After all these years that have passed, the relevance of this particular movie has not dimmed one iota. The performances still shine, the dialogue still sparks and the desired effect always hits as intended. Only a decade stands between this movie and its classic status, but you won’t have to wait that long to watch it again on Netflix.

The Good, The Bad And The Ugly

Director Sergio Leone’s spaghetti western classic, The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, has been a certified classic for about 34 years. Which means there’s plenty of you folks out there that have discussed the film with your friends, but may not have actually experienced Clint Eastwood’s Man with No Name for yourselves. What better time to finally sit down and watch this three-hour epic than a time of quarantined entertainment?

Hail, Caesar!

Fans of The Coen Bros may debate whether or not Hail, Caesar! is a good or bad entry in their overall canon. But in a time of urgent entertainment, it feels fitting that the matter can be discussed yet again, with the film’s entry into the streaming world of Netflix’s library. At the very least, can we all agree that Channing Tatum’s big musical number is a thing of beauty?

The Artist

The key to any good movie marathon is variety, and there are lots of titles that have one key factor in common: they all have spoken dialogue. So should you want a little bit of a break from words in your ears, the beauty of past Best Picture winner The Artist is something you definitely need to have in your rotation. Also, if you’re a fan of black and white films, your eyes will thank you for the change of pace.

Django Unchained

No matter what sort of marathon you want to run in your place of quarantine, you'll need an explosive finale. Obviously Quentin Tarantino is good for such a big bang, and while Inglorious Basterds and The Hateful Eight are already on Netflix, Django Unchained is heading back to the fold to serve this very need. Though as a note of suggestion, you should probably spread those Tarantino adventures out through the entire schedule of your quarantine adventures.

Still, no matter how you enjoy these films, or anything else in the Netflix library, we suggest that you stream responsibly and stay safe from the elements in the comfort of your own home. Who knows what next month will bring, and whether or not the suggestion of quarantining will still be in effect. Whatever happens, you can count on us to be back here this time next month, with a list of the best titles coming to the Netflix galaxy in May!

Being hungover isn’t fun. Being hungover when you have to go to work is especially dreadful. But being brutally hungover and having to go to work on a major Hollywood motion picture is just a recipe for disaster. Actor Colin Farrell found out as much on the set of the 2002 film Minority Report, when he had to go to work the day after his 25th birthday celebration. Colin Farrell recalled the experience saying:

Well, in his defense, he did try to warn them that he would be in no shape to film on June 1st. In hindsight, Colin Farrell admits the ludicrous and arrogant nature of this request, that a massive Hollywood movie with a schedule to keep to and a vast array of people working on it would move things around, potentially costing valuable time and money, just because he wanted to get wrecked for his birthday.

Colin Farrell did his best to get out of it, though as you might expect, the request of the 25-year-old actor was not honored and he indeed went to work on June 1st, as he told Mirror.

He didn’t want to have to come to work in a dilapidated state, so he asked to have the day off. When that didn’t work, did he choose not to party or take things a bit easier knowing he had work in the morning? No, no he didn’t. He had the pre-cognitive sight to know it wouldn’t turn out well, but couldn’t stop himself.

Colin Farrell elaborated on what the hairy day after his birthday was like on the Minority Report set, saying:

The combination of a rough night of birthday indulgences and no sleep resulted in Colin Farrell needing 56 takes to deliver one line in the film. One line. Steven Spielberg already has Oscars to his name, but he might be eligible for an honorary one here for having saintly patience as one of his young stars struggled through his lines to the tune of dozens of takes because he was irresponsibly hungover.

With the alliteration and the sequence of big words, you can see how Colin Farrell’s line as Danny Witwer in the film could be a bit of a tongue-twister to begin with. But if it was difficult to say before, Colin Farrell upped the difficulty by being completely hungover. Ironically, Javier Bardem could have starred as Danny Witwer in Minority Report, but he felt his English wasn't good enough at the time.

This resulted in what surely was an incredibly awkward and cringe-inducing scene where the actor struggled take after take to deliver the line. It practically sounds like it was scripted for a comedy with Colin Farrell’s sister being present on set that day and having to watch her brother go through that.

The result of all those takes and the trauma they caused is that Colin Farrell still remembers the line to this day. Well, basically anyways, as far as I can tell the line used in the final film was actually “I’m sure you all understand the legalistic drawback to pre-crime methodology.”

Actor Colin Farrell has been quite open over the years about his struggles with drugs and alcohol, and although the 56 take disaster on Minority Report was bad, he says that it was one of the only instances where his lifestyle affected his work.

Check out our 2019 Release Schedule to keep track of what's coming to theaters this year and stay tuned to CinemaBlend for all your movie news.

Colin Farrell is generally considered to be one of Hollywood more prominent performers, switching off between blockbusters like Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and smaller productions like The Lobster. But back in the early 2000s, he was still building up to becoming an A-list performer, and one of the movies that served as another step towards that goal was Minority Report. But had director Steven Spielberg gotten his original choice for Danny Witwer, it would have been Javier Bardem co-starring with Tom Cruise instead of Farrell.

While delivering a master class at the Toronto Film Festival (via THR), Javier Bardem recalled that when he first met Steven Spielberg more than 15 years ago, he was "star struck." However, at the time Bardem also believed he wasn't ready to join Minority Report, and thus the role ended up going to Colin Farrell. But Bardem added that he's much more comfortable joining these kinds of movies nowadays, saying:

Back when Minority Report was putting together its main cast, Javier Bardem was primarily known for his Academy Award-nominated performance as Reinaldo Arenas in Before Night Falls. So he'd already proven himself to be a talented performer, but at that stage of his career, he didn't believe he was ready to start venturing into blockbuster territory. Bardem would still leave a mark on 2002 through the movies The Dancer Upstairs and Mondays in the Sun. In the years since Minority Report's release, Bardem has collected blockbuster credits through Skyfall and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. He's also set to play Frankenstein's Monster in Universal's Dark Universe franchise.

Loosely based on the short story of the same name written by Phillip K. Dick, Minority Report took place in the year 2054 and followed a society where law enforcement was able to anticipate crimes before they happen thanks to the precogs, who could visualize the future. Colin Farrell's Danny Witwer led the manhunt against Tom Cruise's John Anderton when the precogs predicted that the latter would commit a murder. Before Minority Report, Colin Farrell had appeared in movies like American Outlaws and Hart's War, but the Steven Spielberg flick was an important stepping stone for his career. Minority Report earned near critical acclaim upon its release, and Fox revived the property two years ago with a sequel TV series, though it was quickly cancelled.

Javier Bardem can be seen next in mother!, which opens in theaters this Friday, while Colin Farrell will return to the big screen when The Killing of a Sacred Deer is released on October 27.

When the sun rose this morning, none of the major broadcast network schedules look anything like they did just two short weeks ago, as this week’s upfronts presentations caused the usual panic before sacrifices were made quickly and viciously. Tons of huge shows were laid out and lifeless when the smoke cleared after the first wave of cancellations hit last week, and then more dropped like low-rated and over-budgeted flies over the next few days.

Here are 10 more unfortunate series that did not survive to make it to their respective networks’ next fall or midseason premiere slates. They’ll all be replaced in a few months, and unless another network or streaming service steps in to offer a second chance – you’ll be hearing those words again later – this could be the very last time you hear about them.

Rush Hour, CBS

Remaking one of the top action comedy film franchises would seem like a safe bet for a network getting in on the film-to-TV trend. Unfortunately, CBS chose Rush Hour, whose big screen success was based largely on the exclusive-to-them talents of stunt-maestro Jackie Chan and the decibel-imploding mania that is Chris Tucker. Actors Jon Foo and Justin Hires just couldn’t compare, and the dynamic of a Chinese cop partnered with a black cop doesn’t have the on-screen exoticism it once did. Mediocre stories couldn’t make up for any finer points, and the below-5 million weekly audience did not compute with CBS’ execs, and the show was cancelled without a chance for Season 2.

Undateable, NBC

Undateable was quite the odd duck on NBC, debuting in the midseason in 2014 to low ratings and middling reviews, but still outlasting other comedies debuting in that season. The second season got shifted to Tuesday nights, where the ratings and word of mouth grew, and the success of a live episode inspired the creative team to make the show live each week, which opened up a slew of possibilities for how the cast could interact with fans via social media as the show was airing. Unfortunately, NBC put Season 3 on Friday nights, where the ratings once again plummeted, and the announcement that Season 4 wasn’t happening was unsurprising.

Heartbeat, NBC

Heartbeat is one of the entries on this list that is most likely to make you tilt your head to the side and say “That was a show?” Debuting just under two months ago, Heartbeat stars Melissa George as a heart-transplant surgeon at a research hospital where progress is a frequent occurrence, and they do things like give stem cell treatments to car accident victims who talk backwards. Dipping ratings and critical panning sealed this series’ fate right out of the double doors, but NBC did let eight episodes pass before officially calling the time of death on the medical drama.

Minority Report, Fox

Understanding that small screen adaptations of movies don’t always have to be down-the-middle remakes, Fox let Godzilla scribe Max Borenstein put together a serialized sequel to Steven Spielberg’s 2002 sci-fi actioner Minority Report that took place a decade later. Unfortunately, a lot of this show was a slog to go through to get to the legitimately cool science fiction moments. But there could have been an endless stream of award-worthy scenes and it still wouldn’t have gotten a second season with dismal ratings that only sometimes got above 2 million viewers during the live airing. No one needed any prediction powers to figure out this was ending soon.

Crowded, NBC

Crowded was created by Suzanne Martin, who created TV Land’s Hot in Cleveland, co-created The Soul Man and created Lifetime’s The Client List. And the comedy level here certainly reflected that more broad approach. The solid cast was headed by Carrie Preston and Patrick Warburton, who wasn’t able to even consider reprising The Tick for the upcoming Amazon series because of this show, and the plot centered on their temporarily peaceful home being taken over by their adult daughters and Warburton’s father (yeah, Stacy Keach!) and stepmother. Despite a rise in the ratings thanks in part to a Betty White cameo, Crowded was never going to draw big audiences, and NBC once again excised a freshman comedy before all of its episodes had aired.

The Mysteries of Laura, NBC

The Mysteries of Laura admittedly seemed like it had all the elements to last a decade on the air, from having a popular lead in Debra Messing to the police procedural aspect to the mildly comedic family drama. Not that combinations of good things automatically equal good things, and Mysteries of Laura was the target of quite a bit of negative criticism in its two seasons on the air. The show drew in big audiences, and although Season 2 definitely dipped overall from the first year, the now-series finale was watched by more people than Season 1’s capper. Weird way to make a decision, NBC.

Second Chance, Fox

Second Chance is a modernization of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein tale – strike one – centering on a former sheriff who finds a new lease on life when his youth is restored, complete with super-strength that wasn’t there the first time around. The show was first called The Frankenstein Code when it was first picked up as a last-minute choice, and it then became Lookinglass – strike two – before Second Chance was landed on. Also, it went through months of delays before finally getting dumped on Wednesdays in the midseason for two episodes before getting shoved to Friday nights, where it was buried beneath its ratings in a shallow grave. I think we’re at strike five now.

Telenovela, NBC

It’s such a shame that Telenovela didn’t work out on NBC, though the show can hardly be the biggest source of faults here. Created by Steel Magnolias writer Robert Harling and Cougar Town writer/producers Jessica Goldstein and Chriss Pietrosh, Telenovela was a return to form for Eva Longoria as the non-Spanish star of a Spanish soap opera produced in Miami. The comedy was a playful take on the show-within-a-show structure that for once didn’t involve a talk show or a sketch series. Unfortunately, not even sweaty muscles and well-lit living rooms were enough to keep audiences tuning in on a weekly basis, and NBC said no mas.

Game of Silence

Not something you’d want to play with a room full of toddlers, NBC’s Game of Silence is a drama based on the Turkish series of the same translated name, itself based on a true story of three children who spent years in prison for stealing a dessert. The U.S. narrative picked up with the past-sharing lads as adults, when two of them threaten to expose the other, who is in a much more powerful position than they are. How will it all end? I have no idea. NBC canceled the show with four episodes in the first season still left to air. As of now, that’s still happening, but don’t be surprised if further drooping ratings get it pulled altogether.

House of Lies

Lookie, lookie! We got ourselves a cable series over here with all the lowly broadcast network output. Unlike everything else on this list, House of Lies has been given a just and mostly deserved number of seasons, with Showtime deciding that the currently airing Season 5 will be the last. Not that this had nothing to do with ratings, since there are far fewer people watching this season’s episodes as compared to seasons past. It’ll be a shame to see a split happen between stars Don Cheadle, Kristen Bell, Ben Schwartz, Josh Lawson and the plethora of recurring actors, but hopefully bigger and better things are coming.

To see what else got put on the chopping block before these shows, check out the list here.

To see how all of your other favorite shows have fared, head to our network rundown. But if all this cancellation news has got you bummed and in need of something to ogle your woes away, check out our summer premiere schedule to see everything that’s coming to your TV over the next few months.

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Cancellation/renewal season is getting into swing on the major television networks, and it’s been a bloodbath so far. ABC has been chopping series right and left, and now Fox is taking the axe to its own lineup in earnest. Fox has officially given the cancellation notice to one of Fall 2015’s most ambitious new series, as sci-fi thriller Minority Report will not be getting a Season 2.

Minority Report had a recipe for success thanks to the name recognition of the 2002 Minority Report film and an aggressive marketing campaign. Still, the cancellation doesn’t come as a huge shock. The show has been off the air since the end of November 2015, and there hasn’t been much buzz about its future in the months since. Frankly, Minority Report has been off my radar for so long that I forgot that its cancellation hadn't already been reported by Deadline.

The pilot for Minority Report showed promise, and the mythology surrounding the precogs was unlike anything else on the small screen. Meagan Good was a solid lead, and the effects were pretty great for television. Unfortunately, the show never clicked with audiences, and the ratings for the series premiere were so disappointing that Minority Report was a flop right off the bat. The original episode count of thirteen was cut down to ten after only three episodes. Hopefully, any fans of Minority Report saw the signs ahead of time and aren’t too shocked by the cancellation.

Sadly, Minority Report is a show that might have worked on a different network. The numbers that weren’t enough for Fox to continue funding the series could have been great for a niche cable network. There’s no indication that Fox is planning on shopping the show around to other channels or pitching it to a streaming service like Hulu to continue, so we’ll only be able to wonder for now if it might have had a chance somewhere other than Fox.

Fox has not been kind to its freshman ventures, and the comedies in particular have suffered. Instead of sparing one to focus on the other, the network went ahead and cancelled both Grandfathered and Grinder, and animated series Bordertown has produced its last episode as well. Fox slashed its sci-fi even further than just Minority Report by cancelling the Frankenstein-ish Second Chance as well. With The X-Files done for now, sci-fi fans will have to look somewhere other than Fox for entertainment.

To see what other shows got the axe in the recent exodus, check out our list of the biggest shows that just got cancelled. Don’t forget to take a look at our rundown of what had been cancelled and what has been renewed to see what you can plan on catching in the 2016–2017 TV season, and see our schedule of summer TV premiere dates for when you can expect your warm-weather favorites back on the air.

Last night saw A&E premiering its latest primetime drama, Damien, Glen Mazzara’s small screen follow-up to the horror classic The Omen. Your own mileage may vary on the series – possibly hitting 666 mph – but critics have not been kind to Damien in these early days. This got us thinking about other well-known features that inspired unrequested and undesirable TV spinoffs and sequels.

Surprise! Here are 9 movie-to-TV efforts that not only failed to outshine their cinematic counterparts, but also failed to do anything beyond fade into the pop culture abyss, only to be remembered in scenarios such as this, and perhaps for an actor’s resume if they’re desperate. Now let’s start with a project that never should have made it to the “idea spoken aloud” stage.

Ferris Bueller

Everything about John Hughes’ 1986 comedy Ferris Bueller’s Day Off worked, from Matthew Broderick’s endearingly smug performance to the character relationships to the very structure. Four years after the film came out, NBC tried to capitalize on the film’s success by spreading the story out over more than just one day with Ferris Bueller, starring Charlie Schlatter in the title role. Beyond the character names and Ferris’ popularity, there are almost no real similarities between the two projects, with the TV show going so far as to move the setting from Chicago to Santa Monica. Even Ferris’ snoring sound effects were bored with this, and it’s no surprise it got canceled in the middle of its freshman season, with only 13 episodes produced. Jennifer Aniston, though, right?

Freddy’s Nightmares

One of my favorite horror movies of all time is Wes Craven’s A Nightmare on Elm Street, which introduced audiences to the sleep-haunting baddie Freddy Krueger. After two sequels, New Line wanted to milk this franchise a little more and put together the anthology series Freddy’s Nightmares: A Nightmare on Elm Street: The Series, which shoots for the moon with its rare double-colon title. Unfortunately, save for a few Freddy-themed episodes that were genuinely solid, that colon distinction was more interesting than most of the show’s 44 installments. Despite the always welcome presence of Robert Englund as Krueger for intros and outros, as well as a host of oddball guest stars – Brad Pitt and Kyle Chandler, say what? – this show sadly lived up to its name as a nightmare to behold.

Delta House

1978’s Animal House is remembered fondly for lots of reasons, with arguably the biggest being the larger-than-life performance from John Belushi. ABC’s 1979 sitcom Delta House is best remembered…in the moments after you hear about it for the first time. As you can imagine, there was literally no way for the R-rated shenanigans and personalities of the movie to get faithfully adapted for television, and there was a serious watering-down of the subject matter as it made its way to the small screen. And although Belushi’s Bluto Blutarsky did get referenced, the actor never touched this steaming heap. Delta House did give Michele Pfeiffer an early acting gig, though, although her memories of the experience have not been fond.

Minority Report

The most recently aired entry on this list, Minority Report’s downfall came from it just not having that much in common with its source material in the area of “shit that people actually liked.” Although there’s an executive credit here for Steven Spielberg, director of the 2002 film of the same name, the show featured very little of his imaginative approach to storytelling, and had far more in common with other lackluster sci-fi series that Fox has been responsible for over the years. There are definitely other stories to tell in a world where precrime and precogs exist, but this probably wasn’t it, and while Fox has yet to make a decision on the show’s future, we think we know what to expect.

Stir Crazy

While not a perfect comedy, 1980’s Stir Crazy boasted Sidney Poitier behind the camera, and the comedy team of Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor in front of the lens. Five years later, CBS decided to bring none of those aspects back for its 1985 adaptation of the prison-set film. Starring non-household names Larry Riley and Joseph Guzaldo, TV’s Stir Crazy was an absolute mess, and it definitely was not a criminal offense when CBS took the hokey show off the schedule after just six episodes had aired. It returned temporarily a couple of months later before permanently being sentenced to staying the hell off of anyone’s televisions.

Bad Teacher

Sometimes it’s best to remake financial successes rather than solely just beloved films, and that’s what CBS tried to do with Jake Kasdan’s 2011 black comedy Bad Teacher, only still not realizing that it wasn’t a network set up to turn raunchy R-rated laughs into entertainment for all demographics. However, this was the somewhat rare case in which the show’s cast was nearly as top-notch as that of the original film. Ari Graynor was a suitable replacement for Cameron Diaz, and she was surrounded by talent such as Sara Gilbert, Kristen Davis, David Alan Grier, Colin Hanks, Brett Gelman and Ryan Hansen. But this was more an issue of the writing and subject matter just not being worth anyone’s time, and CBS canceled classes after just five episodes, later airing the rest in a low-rated summer burn-off.

Fast Times

A film that defines an entire generation, Amy Heckerling’s Cameron Crowe-scripted Fast Times at Ridgemont High hits almost all of the benchmarks in the life of a high school teenager, particularly the parts about sex. As you might have imagined, CBS’ 1986 TV remake was not championed for its masturbation scenes, and the show was a paler-than-Judge-Reinhold imitation of its predecessor. Even if the movie wasn’t there as a point of comparison, and even if you had a bag full of Spicoli’s best herbage, this show would still be a disaster. The best thing that can be said about it is that CBS only intended for it to exist as a seven-episode limited series.

Police Academy: The Series

Of all the entries on this list, Police Academy is the movie that seems most likely to inspire a quality jump to the small screen. A group of inept cops bumbling their way into success while testing the sanity of their superiors? That’s basically what Brooklyn Nine-Nine is, and it’s been on the air for three hilarious seasons so far. Neither “three seasons” nor “hilarious” can be used to describe the TV run of Police Academy, though, an overly cartoonish and humorless take on the film’s set-up. Despite the recurring presence of Michael “I’m the guy that does the sound effects” Winslow, as well as the great SCTV vet Joe Flaherty, this hour-long series (!!!) was nothing to handcuff oneself to, and it was shelved after one season.

Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure

Say what you will about the acting skills of Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter, but there are no two actors on Earth that were better equipped to handle Bill S. Preston, ESQ and Ted “Theodore” Logan. But Fox still wanted to see what would happen if someone else tried, and the short-lived 1992 comedy Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventures featured non-non-heinous performances from Evan Richards and Christopher Kennedy in the respective roles, with Rick Overton somehow expected to fill George Carlin’s shoes as Rufus. The show was utter shit and was easily outshined by the animated series from a couple of years before, which brought back most of the film’s cast for the voice roles. It only lasted seven episodes, but that was seven episodes too many. Station!

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Most of this fall’s TV programs have wrapped up or are wrapping up for winter hiatus over the next few days. As these shows settle in for a long winter, some, like The Blacklist and Wayward Pines, have already been given brand new seasons. Others, however, are still churning out new content until this spring, when the networks make the final decisions regarding whether or not some of our favorites will be sticking around. While the networks have cut back on actually cancelling TV programs, there are several shows that are currently dead in the water and several more that are in danger of getting cancelled if their numbers don’t improve. Here are the 12 that are currently most in danger of being cancelled by the networks in 2016.

Bones, Fox

Bones has been losing viewers for some time now, and this year the network has even held off on putting Bones on the spring schedule. In addition to the low ratings and the lack of Bones this winter, David Boreanaz has also said he feels this season is the last the show will produce.

Status: Not dead but dying. I think Fox would need to pay more to have Boreanaz and Emily Deschanel come back and I think the network is not inclined to spend additional money on this series.

The Player, NBC

While The Player had a strong cast and a sharp pilot, it’s ridiculous premise didn’t manage to suck in a ton of viewers. After dropping the show’s episode count to a paltry nine episodes, NBC actually gave The Player’s timeslot to Jennifer Lopez’s Shades of Blue. The Player is not going to get to play any longer.

Status: Dead, but NBC hasn’t officially confirmed it yet.

Reign, The CW

Reign is stuck in a horrible Friday night slot and its numbers reflect that. Even a tender dying young king couldn’t help those numbers this season, and it’s probably all downhill from here. Still, Reign might just be given a shortened season next fall, as the CW is fond of giving programs the opportunity to wrap up for fans. (See Hart of Dixie, etc).

Status:Possibly going to get cancelled to make room for new content or might get a shortened final season. Either way, this one should be on its way out.

Person of Interest, CBS

After a strong start, Person of Interest made some creative decisions that led to a loss of viewership. The show has been shuffled around on the CBS schedule for the last couple of years, and this year CBS ordered fewer episodes of the series and then kept POI off of both its fall and winter schedules. Fans will likely get the new eps this summer, but we’re guessing it will be the last season for the drama.

Status: Missing in action, which isn’t exactly a good thing.

Blood & Oil, ABC

Blood & Oil had a tough start over at ABC, and the numbers faltered from there (last night’s finale was a low note, ratings-wise). Similar to The Player, ABC reduced the show’s episode order but failed to cancel the soapy drama, which starred Don Johnson. This wasn’t the worst new show this season, but it certainly won’t be coming back.

Status:Dead, but ABC hasn’t confirmed it, yet. No one is really fooled though, as many of this week’s recaps listed the finale as a “series finale.”

Truth Be Told, NBC

Truth Be Told started with a dismal premise and is going to end with dismal numbers. Unfortunately, NBC can’t seem to twist the knife in as deeply as the network should be doing. The freshman comedy was originally given 13 episodes, but now only 10 will be produced. Eight have already aired. Look for the series to fade away shortly.

Status:Dead, but NBC hasn’t confirmed it, yet. Seriously, NBC, just put this one out of its misery.

Castle, ABC

As much as I love Rick Castle and as much as I was invested in the Castle and Beckett romance for years, much like Grey’s Anatomy, the series has reached the end of its rope in terms of personal drama. Unlike Grey’s Anatomy, the 18-49 demo numbers aren’t supporting Castle anymore. The show has seen its worst ratings ever this season and could very well be on its way out.

Status: Let’s see how strong ABC’s lineup is for next season. If midseason stuff like The Catch and Agent Carter continues to do well, Castle could say sayonara this year.

Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, the CW

We love Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, but we know we are very much in the minority. The show pairs with Jane the Virgin, which also hasn’t been a huge ratings winner over at the CW. However, it also fares worse than Jane the Virgin and the numbers don’t look particularly sustainable over the long haul.

Status: This show had one foot in the grave until a week ago, when lead Rachel Bloom landed a Golden Globe nomination. Not sure the CW will want to cancel a critically acclaimed show.

CSI Cyber, CBS

CSI has been a staple on CBS for so long at this point that it’s hard to imagine a world without the procedural. However, the latest in the series hasn’t done as well in the ratings, and is stuck in the 10 p.m. timeslot on Sunday nights, which is rough for that network. I thought adding Ted Danson might help, but it looks like it hasn’t.

Status: While CBS loves the older demographic, CSI: Cyber’s numbers have never been great. This one will probably get cleared out to make room for new stuff next year.

Grimm, NBC

Grimm’s numbers were never phenomenal and they have been getting worse over the last few seasons. However, the show is a good property for the network, and it’s the one I’m most hesitant about putting on this list. Still, last week’s .8 rating was really, really crappy, so there’s a big chance Grimm might not make it past spring sweeps.

Status: Not dead yet. NBC really likes Grimm. Grimm has an avid fanbase. I’d give this show one more season, but not if the numbers keep falling. C’mon NBC, give this one a better lead-in.

Mysteries of Laura, NBC

The Mysteries of Laura did decently during its first season, but the show has never commandeered particularly high ratings and it’s not well-liked by critics or beloved by fans. In fact, I’d argue it’s the most “meh” show in NBC’s lineup and that might lead to it getting cancelled. Unlike Chicago Fire, The Blacklist and NBC’s other big shows, Mysteries has yet to earn an early renewal, as well.

Status:Decent overall numbers but a relatively low rating might mean that NBC gives up on this one moving forward. It’s too wishy-washy at this point to say definitively.

Minority Report, Fox

I actually thought Fox had taken a step back and admitted this show was cancelled, but nope. Like several others on this list, during a normal season, this show would already have been given the axe. But despite the piss poor ratings Minority Report brought in, and despite the fact the show has ended its run, I’m not supposed to say it’s cancelled. Let me just tell you: it’s cancelled.

Status: Cancelled, but Fox isn’t saying anything, yet.

Other shows that are having some problems: The Grinder, Hawaii Five-0, Heroes, although that’s technically an event series, so you could argue that’s a one-off even though it would have earned a renewal if it was doing well, Sleepy Hollow, The Good Wife, and Nashville.

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In the early going of any new TV season, there are going to be those shows that immediately connect with audiences, like Blindspot, which was already given a full season order by NBC, and those that struggle to find footing with viewers. One of the latter is Fox’s sci-fi series Minority Report, a show that just got its order cut, and it only took three episodes.

According to TV Line, Fox gave Minority Report a bit of a Season 1 haircut, cutting their original order—which was for 13 episodes—by three, down to 10. This comes on the heels of another disappointing ratings haul, where the most recent episode drew just 2.3 million viewers this past Monday. This represents a substantial drop from ratings that have never been particularly strong since its debut a few short weeks ago.

The outlet’s source says that Episode 10 “will serves as a satisfying conclusion to the season,” (possibly the series?) and says that there are no plans at the moment to move the show from its current slot, right after Gotham. Still, while they aren’t pulling the plug just yet, this does not bode well for the future of the series and Minority Report could very well join the long list of sci-fi shows that Fox has cancelled early into their runs, a list that notably includes cult favorite Firefly and the gone-too-soon Almost Human.

The series follows the events of Steven Spielberg’s 2002 film of the same name, itself an adaptation of a 1956 Philip K. Dick short story. Set in Washington DC in 2065, eleven years after the Tom Cruise-starring film, the main narrative revolves around Dash (Stark Sands), one of the three Precogs who, together with his brother and their adopted sister, used their unique abilities to see into the future to prevent crimes before they happened. Though the Pre Crime program was cancelled, Dash still gets glimpses of future events (though only partial), and he tries to put his gifts to use by helping Detective Lara Vega (Meagan Good). He does all of this while attempting to fit into normal society, which, as you can imagine, is difficult when you’re haunted by visions of things that haven’t happened yet.

In addition to the lackluster ratings, Minority Report hasn’t exactly been a critical darling either. Many reviews have criticized the series for a lack of imagination, being a dull spinoff, and for failing to even come close to the admittedly high bar established by the film. Then again, that may be an unfair comparison as the movie had one of the biggest movie stars in the world and perhaps the most acclaimed director of all time.

Hopefully Minority Report will be able to find a groove and rhythm over the next seven episodes, do something to distinguish itself, and avoid winding up on the scrap heap. 

The TV landscape is constantly changing. However, while streaming services like Netflix and Amazon and subscription cable channels like HBO and Starz don’t rely on Nielsen ratings to determine what programming moves forward and what gets the axe, traditional cable and network TV outlets still very much rely on ratings to nab advertising dollars. So, we’ve decided to take a look at what shows are already faltering in those ratings this fall, looking only at programs that very well could be cancelled by the end of the season.

It’s true that some of this fall’s shows have yet to premiere at this point, but despite this, we feel it’s never too early to talk about the shows that are doing well over at the networks and cable stations, along with the show’s that aren’t doing so hot. And if the first few weeks of these shows are any indication, there are a few new programs and older programs that may see themselves get the axe over the next few months.

Minority Report, FOX

Fox’s Minority Report is based on a famous movie, which theoretically should have given it a fanbase boost. In addition, it boasts a great cast, headed up by Stark Sands, Meagan Good and Wilmer Valderrama. Despite this, the show’s numbers have been dismal. The drama was a flop during its premiere, only pulling in 3.1 million total viewers and a 1.1 rating. This week, that number slipped to a .7 rating and we don't see how it could rise from there.

Our Verdict: We wouldn’t be shocked if this was the first cancellation of the season.

The Player, NBC

NBC launched an all-new drama lineup this fall, and while Heroes Reborn is doing decently and The Blacklist is still a ratings draw for NBC, the same can’t be said of The Player, the high-octane drama starring Wesley Snipes and Phillip Winchester. Unfortunately, few people are watching the drama, as it pulled in barely a 1.0 rating during its first couple of tries at bat. Those numbers will slip more, and when that happens, NBC will be forced to cancel.

Our Verdict: This show might’ve worked in a different timeslot, but it’s barely scraping by on Thursday nights.

Sleepy Hollow, FOX

Damn, Fox spent a lot of time and effort revamping Sleepy Hollow for a third season. So far, the direction has been good in terms of creativity and rebooting the storyline. However, Hollow's numbers have not been looking good, at all. Last season, the show premiered at a 2.0 rating and this season, the supernatural drama only earned a 1.0 rating during its premiere. That’s even lower than the 1.4 rating the show nabbed in the Season 2 finale. Some fans just look to have given up.

Our Verdict: That Thursday timeslot is tough, but I’m not sure if even a different timeslot could fix these numbers.

CSI: Cyber, CBS

It’s rare for a CBS show to have lower numbers, but that’s exactly what Sunday nights look like on the network right now. The CSI: Cyber premiere boasted only 6.7 million total viewers, and most were not in the 18-49 demographic. Because of this, those numbers only equated to a 1.0 rating. In comparison, ABC’s Quantico aired at the same time with nearly the same number of viewers and did a 1.9 ratings. So, the Cyber rating is really poor.

Our Verdict: It’s probable the wrong CSI property was cancelled last spring.

Blood & Oil, ABC

Unlike a lot of other networks, ABC doesn’t have any new shows that are clear disasters, which is quite the feat. However, the modestly rated Blood & Oil ended up falling from a 1.4 to a 1.2 rating in its second outing on the network. That makes it ABC’s lowest-rated drama on Sunday night and means a lot of people are already wondering if the show’s numbers will further erode in the coming weeks.

Our Verdict: If those ratings are able to even out, we could see it on the schedule next year. Or it could follow Revenge into the cancellation bin.

Scream Queens, FOX

Expectations for Scream Queens were high when Ryan Murphy’s latest dramedy premiered. The first episode didn’t reach such great heights as were expected, but it didn’t do poorly, either. However, subsequent episodes of Scream Queens have shown a further erosion in the ratings and during Monday’s episode, only 2.9 million total viewers tuned in. More people are watching John Stamos’ Grandfathered at this point.

Our Verdict: Clearly Ryan Murphy has plenty of hits, but it absolutely looks like Scream Queens is not going to be one of them, despite the high-end cast.

The Good Wife, CBS

The Good Wife premiere did a 1.2 rating this fall. It did do a whopping 9.25 million total viewers, but to CBS that’s actually small potatoes. In addition to having a lower 18-49 rating than most CBS programs, the show is now doing less viewers than Madam Secretary, which premiered to a 1.4 rating and 11.79 million total viewers on Sunday night.

Our Verdict: The Good Wife is a critical darling, but with key players gone and ratings so far down, this could be the year the show wraps up.(Also, let's not forget that Kalinda drama.)

Castle, ABC

It looks like Caskett fans are not digging this whole Beckett leaving to find herself storyline. The veteran ABC drama has seen poor ratings for its first several outings in Season 8. Ratings are the lowest they’ve ever been, but on the bright side, they don’t seem to be getting any lower. Still, no one is calling a 1.2 rating “good.”

Our Verdict: Castle fans have stuck with this show forever, and a good storyline could still turn this ship around.

Bones, Fox

Even the Bones staff thought the drama was getting cancelled last year. Now, here it is back for Season 11 and the show is at least doing better than Sleepy Hollow in the ratings. So, why is it on this list? The ratings aren’t great, and David Boreanaz has flat-out said he won’t be back.

Our Verdict: This one may get an ending from Fox instead of a cancellation, but there’s a mighty good chance this is the last season for Bones.

Nashville, ABC

Nashville has a strong fanbase, but the drama’s numbers have never been the best over at ABC. Now that the show is in its fourth season—a great number for syndication value—ABC might say goodbye to its musical-oriented program. On the bright side, the show did hop from a 1.1 rating to a healthy 1.8 after DVR ratings kicked in three days later, so maybe that healthy DVR 64% uptick will be enough to keep it around for another year.

Our Verdict: This show is obviously going to be around all season, but the future looks less rosy.

Hawaii Five-0, CBS

This show has been hanging on by a thread for several seasons now, and I’m literally shocked it’s still in the schedule (this has less to do with quality than with the numbers the drama is bringing in). Problematically, Hawaii Five-0 just doesn’t have a lot of younger viewers, which is how the 9.2 million viewers who tuned in could top Dateline’s 5.6 million, but still tie the news show with a 1.1 rating. That is not good.

Our Verdict:If I had to bet, Hawaii Five-0 is reaching the end of its line this season.

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Although we’ve had a smattering of TV premieres earlier this month, last night officially kicked off premiere week. There were a slew of returning shows, as well as several new programs added to the lineup, and while most of these programs landed somewhere in the middle, ratings-wise, there was one show that hugely flopped. That show was Fox’s brand new drama, Minority Report, which only managed to entice 3.1 million total viewers to tune in.

If Minority Report was a cable show, 3 million would likely be a respectable, although rather unremarkable, number--especially compared to the numbers that some of the other shows did last night. However, network TV spends a lot of money to get programs on the air, and because of this, more viewers need to earn advertising dollars to cover budgets. Because of its low audience, Minority Report’s premiere did the lowest numbers of the night—and that’s even considering that premiere episodes of TV shows tend to be a program’s highest, as the numbers will settle lower in coming weeks when people decide which shows they will and won’t stick with.

Along with only 3.1 million total viewers, Minority Report also only pulled in a 1.1. rating—the lowest of the night on Monday. To Fox’s credit, however, the audience on the show must have skewed in the 18-49 demographic. For instance, ABC’s Castle (7.1 million) and CBS’ NCIS: Los Angeles (8 million) did way more total viewers than Minority Report, but still only ended up eking ahead in terms of the 18-49 rating—both shows nabbed a 1.2 rating. Still, Minority Report’s debut was in all ways a flop.

Part of the problem may have been the Gotham lead-in, which also seems to have shed some of its audience between Season 1 and Season 2. Last night’s big debut only brought in a 1.65 rating and 4.5 million total viewers. Variety is noting that’s way down from last year’s premiere, but also 15% down from the midseason average of the series.

While Minority Project did well in theaters when it came out more than a decade ago, sci fi programming hasn’t had the best track record on Fox. While Fringe had a good run on the network, a lot of science fiction programming has gotten the axe after one season, including Almost Human, the also-expensive Terra Nova and—dare I say it--Firefly. The already-niche sci fi audience may just have decided giving Minority Report a shot was a lost cause.

Either way, the new network series starring Meagan Good and Stark Sands did not do well. Although I personally found the series to be tentatively positive in its first outing, it’s hard to believe Minority Report will continue to do remotely acceptable numbers on the network. Will it be the first cancellation of the season? Maybe not. But I would be shocked if it made it over the long haul.

Fox took a chance when it signed on for Minority Report, a new take on the Steven Spielberg movie of the same name. It’s hard to give new life to any theatrical property, but one that is as well-liked as Minority Report is even more of a challenge. And while the opening episode for the new drama features a quickly resolved mystery, the Fox show’s introduction to the world of the future and some intriguing characters is overall pretty good.

Minority Report is set some time after the events in the movie. Pre-Crime has been shut down and the precogs have all moved on with their lives. One, Agatha (Laura Regan), still lives in solitude. Another, Arthur (Nick Zano), has used his odd skill set to become a powerful and wealthy man. The third, Dash (Stark Sands), is still haunted by visions of murders and wants to stop them any way he can. He’s largely unsuccessful until he meets Laura Vega (Meagan Good), and then the fun case-of-the-week antics really begin.

Max Borenstein's Minority Report does go to painstaking lengths to stick with the mythology from the original movie and the actual concept of a minority report existing is intact. (A minority report is another view of the crime that determines sometimes people do choose different actions.) This gives the show a bit of a paradox. While Dash and Vega’s intentions are good, if people’s actions aren’t set in stone and a minority report can exist, is trying to catch murderers before they act the best idea? Isn’t this why Pre-Crime was shut down in the first place? The first episode does a good job of circumventing that problem by introducing us to dangerous villains who threaten the lives of our heroes, but I sense the ethical issues that crop up could either be a problem or an interesting exploration later on.

The good news is, Minority Report looks great on the small screen. CGI on TV has gotten a lot better in recent years, and Minority Report features a lot of technological touches that are similarly as cool looking as the 2002 movie was. Unfortunately, for every fun technology nod--like watches that fly and turn into cameras—there’s a groan-worthy reference to “the classics” like “Iggy Azalea.” (For whatever reason, this sort of banter goes over better in a fish out of water story like Sleepy Hollow.) Those comments aside, the conversations between Vega and Dash and Vega and her frenemy police partner Will Blake (Wilmer Valderrama) are pretty enjoyable.

Look, I’m not going to sit here and hard sell you that Minority Report is the best pilot I’ve seen this fall. It’s not. However, there is more intrigue and nuance to this procedural than a lot of the other case-of-the-week shows, and the premise and mythology are sound. We all know Fox’s track record with sci fi programs, so I’m hesitant to be optimistic, but with a little luck and an already built-in audience, Minority Report could be a good fit for the network. In a world where Bones is still in the schedule, that’s a good thing.

Rating:

At Comic-Con, Good reported that she worked for weeks to get the choreography of scanning a crime scene for information correct, similar to how Tom Cruise scanned crimes in the movie. It took so long to get the moves right that the team eventually had to film the scene toward the end of the pilot shooting process, so there’s definitely a heavy attention to detail, here. We’ll just have to wait and see if it all comes together into a cohesive and compelling narrative. After seeing the pilot, I’m at least hopeful.

Minority Report premieres on Monday, September 17 at 9 p.m. ET. In the meantime, you can check out more about the series on Fox’s site.

Photos courtesy of Fox.

The fall TV season is very nearly upon us, which means that sooner rather than later TV subscribers will have a ton of new and returning programs to add to their TV-viewing calendars. This year a popular trend is to turn films into TV shows, and CBS and Fox both have Limitless and Minority Report on their fall schedules, respectively. There are some spinoffs in the works, as well. Over at NBC, Chicago Fire has spinoff Chicago Med on the schedule late this fall.(The Criminal Minds spinoff is expected to premiere at midseason.) There’s surely something out there for everyone, and we’ll keep our fingers crossed that your favorites avoid the cancellation axe.

If you are wondering where the likes of Switched at Birth and Fear The Walking Dead are, they actually hit the schedule just before fall, in August. You can find those date in our summer TV schedule. Within this list, brand new shows are listed in all CAPS!

Tuesday, September 1

10:30 p.m. - Drunk History - Comedy Central

Friday, September 4

? p.m. - Hand of God - Amazon

Tuesday, September 8

? p.m. - The Awesomes - Hulu

11:30 p.m. - Late Show with Stephen Colbert - CBS

Wednesday, September 9

10:00 p.m. - The League - FXX

10:30 p.m. - You're The Worst - FXX

Thursday, September 10

12:01 a.m. - Longmire - Netflix

5:30 p.m. - Sunday Night Football - NBC

10:00 p.m. - Craig Ferguson: Just Being Honest - Epix

Friday, September 11

9:00 p.m. - For Better Or Worse - OWN

10:00 p.m. - 20/20 - ABC

10:00 p.m. - Z Nation - Syfy

11:00 p.m. - Continuum - Syfy

Saturday, September 12

10:00 p.m. - Ferrell Takes The Field - HBO

Sunday, September 13

9:00 p.m. - Sister Wives - TLC

10:00 p.m. - Project Greenlight - HBO

11:00 p.m. - Doll & Em - HBO

Monday, September 14

8:00 p.m. - Dancing with the Stars - ABC

Tuesday, September 15

? - The Mindy Project - Hulu

10:00 p.m. - BEST TIME EVER WITH NEIL PATRICK HARRIS - NBC

10:00 p.m. - THE BASTARD EXECUTIONER - FX

Wednesday, September 16

10:00 p.m. - South Park - Comedy Central

10:30 p.m. - Moonbeam City - Comedy Central

Thursday, September 17

8:00 p.m. - Thursday Night Football - CBS

Friday, September 18

7:30 p.m. - SpongeBob SquarePants - Nickelodeon

Saturday, September 19

9:00 p.m. - Doctor Who - BBC America

11:00 p.m. - Steve Rannazzisi: Breaking Dad comedy special - Comedy Central

Netflix Premiere Schedule: The Full List of New And Returning Netflix Original Series

Sunday, September 20

8:00 p.m. - 67th Emmy Awards - Fox

Monday, September 21

8:00 p.m. - Gotham - Fox

8:00 p.m. - The Big Bang Theory - CBS

8:30 p.m. - LIFE IN PIECES - CBS

8:00 p.m. - The Voice - NBC

9:00 p.m. - MINORITY REPORT - Fox

9:00 p.m. - Scorpion - CBS

10:00 p.m. - Castle - ABC

10:00 p.m. - NCIS: Los Angeles - CBS

10:00 p.m. - Blindspot - NBC

Tuesday, September 22

8:00 p.m. - SCREAM QUEENS 2-hour premiere - Fox

8:00 p.m. - NCIS - CBS

8:00 p.m. - THE MUPPETS - ABC

8:30 p.m. - Fresh Off The Boat - ABC

9:00 p.m. - Dancing With The Stars: Results Show - ABC

9:00 p.m. - NCIS: New Orleans - CBS

10:00 p.m. - LIMITLESS - CBS

Wednesday, September 23

? - Sports Jeopardy! - Crackle

8:00 p.m. - ROSEWOOD - Fox

8:00 p.m. - The Mysteries of Laura - NBC

8:00 p.m. - The Middle - ABC

8:00 p.m. - Survivor - CBS

8:30 p.m. - The Goldbergs - ABC

9:00 p.m. - Modern Family - ABC

9:00 p.m. - Empire - Fox

9:00 p.m. - Law & Order: SVU 2-hour premiere - NBC

9:30 p.m. - black-ish - ABC

10:00 p.m. - Nashville - ABC

11:00 p.m. - Trip Tank - Comedy Central

Thursday, September 24

8:00 p.m. - HEROES REBORN - NBC

8:00 p.m. - Grey’s Anatomy - ABC

9:00 p.m. - Scandal - ABC

9:00 p.m. - The Blacklist - NBC

10:00 p.m. - THE PLAYER - NBC

10:00 p.m. - How To Get Away With Murder - ABC

Friday, September 25

8:00 p.m. - Last Man Standing - ABC

8:00 p.m. - The Amazing Race - CBS

9:00 p.m. - Shark Tank - ABC

9:00 p.m. - Hawaii Five-0 - CBS

10:00 p.m. - Blue Bloods - CBS

Saturday, September 26

9:00 p.m. - BRIAN REGAN LIVE - Comedy Central

9:30 p.m. - MARVEL'S GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY - Disney XD

10:00 p.m. - 48 Hours - CBS

Sunday, September 27

7:00 p.m. - 60 Minutes - CBS

7:30 p.m. - Bob’s Burgers - Fox

8:00 p.m. - The Simpsons - Fox

8:00 p.m. - Once Upon A Time - ABC

8:30 p.m. - Brooklyn Nine-Nine - Fox

9:00 p.m. - Family Guy - Fox

9:00 p.m. - CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Finale Special - CBS

9:00 p.m. - BLOOD & OIL - ABC

9:30 p.m. - The Last Man On Earth - Fox

10:00 p.m. - QUANTICO - ABC

Monday, September 28

11:00 p.m. - The Daily Show with Trevor Noah - Comedy Central

Tuesday, September 29

8:00 p.m. - GRANDFATHERED - Fox

8:00 p.m. - Best Time Ever With Neil Patrick Harris (moves into regular timeslot) - NBC

8:30 p.m. - THE GRINDER - Fox

9:00 p.m. - Scream Queens (moves into regular timeslot) - Fox

9:00 p.m. - Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. - ABC

10:00 p.m. - BEYOND THE TANK - ABC

Wednesday, September 30

9:00 p.m. - Criminal Minds - CBS

10:00 p.m. - Chicago P.D. - NBC

10:00 p.m. - CODE BLACK - CBS

Thursday, October 1

8:00 p.m. - Bones - Fox

9:00 p.m. - Sleepy Hollow - Fox

10:00 p.m. - BENDERS - IFC

Friday, October 2

8:30 p.m. - DR. KEN - ABC

Saturday, October 3

8:00 p.m. - The Unauthorized Beverly Hills, 90210 Story - Lifetime

11:30 p.m. - Saturday Night Live - NBC

Sunday, October 4

8:00 p.m. - Madam Secretary - CBS

9:00 p.m. - The Good Wife - CBS

9:00 p.m. - Homeland - Showtime

9:00 p.m. - The Leftovers - HBO

10:00 p.m. - CSI: Cyber - CBS

10:00 p.m. - The Affair - Showtime

Tuesday, October 6

8:00 p.m. - The Flash - the CW

9:00 p.m. - iZombie - the CW

9:00 p.m. - Finding Carter - MTV

Wednesday, October 7

8:00 p.m. - Arrow - the CW

9:00 p.m. - Supernatural - the CW

10:00 p.m. - American Horror Story: Hotel - FX

10:00 p.m. - Jay Leno's Garage - CNBC

Thursday, October 8

? p.m. - Supermansion - Crackle

8:00 p.m. - The Vampire Diaries - the CW

9:00 p.m. - The Originals - the CW

10:00 p.m. - Haven - Syfy

10:30 p.m. - Billy On The Street - TruTV

Friday, October 9

? p.m. - Red Oaks - Amazon

12:01 a.m. - The New Mr. Peabody and Sherman Show - Amazon

8:00 p.m. - Undateable - NBC

8:00 p.m. - Reign - the CW

9:00 p.m. - America’s Next Top Model - the CW

Saturday, October 10

8:00 p.m. - The Unauthorized Melrose Place Story - Lifetime

10:00 p.m. - The Last Kingdom - BBC America

Watch Every Trailer For Network TV’s Fall 2015 Shows

Sunday, October 11

7:00 p.m. - America’s Funniest Home Video - ABC

9:00 p.m. - The Walking Dead - AMC

10:30 p.m. - Talking Dead - AMC

Monday, October 12

8:00 p.m. - CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND - the CW

9:00 p.m. - Jane the Virgin - the CW

10:00 p.m. - Fargo - FX

Tuesday, October 13

9:00 p.m. - Manhattan - WGN America

10:00 p.m. - Chicago Fire - NBC

Wednesday, October 14

9:00 p.m. - Kingdom - DirecTV

Thursday, October 15

10:00 p.m. - Nathan For You - Comedy Central

Friday, October 16

8:30 p.m. - TRUTH BE TOLD - NBC

9:00 p.m. - Gold Rush - Discovery

10:00 p.m. - Satisfaction - USA

10:00 p.m. - The Knick - Cinemax

Friday, October 23

12:01 p.m. - Hemlock Grove - Netflix

Saturday, October 24

8:00 p.m. - Da Vinci's Demons - Starz

Sunday, October 25

9:00 p.m. - Brain Surgery Live with Mental Floss - Nat Geo

Monday, October 26

8:30 p.m. - SUPERGIRL - CBS

Tuesday, October 27

10:00 p.m. - WICKED CITY - ABC

Friday, October 30

9:00 p.m. - Grimm - NBC

Saturday, October 31

9:00 p.m. - ASH VS EVIL DEAD - Starz

Sunday, November 1

8:00 p.m. - The Librarians - TNT

Monday, November 2

10:00 p.m. - Legends - TNT

Thursday, November 5

8:00 p.m. - The Big Bang Theory (moves into regular timeslot) - CBS

8:30 p.m. - Life In Pieces (moves into regular timeslot) - CBS

9:00 p.m. - Mom - CBS

10:00 p.m. - Elementary - CBS

Friday, November 6

12:01 a.m. - Master of None - Netflix

8:00 p.m. - Masterchef Junior - Fox

8:30 p.m. - World’s Funniest - Fox

Sunday, November 8

? p.m. - FLESH AND BONE - Starz

9 p.m. - AGENT X - TNT

Tuesday, November 10

10:00 p.m. - Chrisley Knows Best - USA

10:30 p.m. - DONNY!! - USA

Thursday, November 12

9:30 p.m. - Two Broke Girls - CBS

Friday, November 13

12:01 a.m. - W/ Bob & David - Netflix

Sunday, November 15

10:00 p.m. - Into the Badlands - AMC

Tuesday, November 17

9:00 p.m. - CHICAGO MED - NBC

Thursday, November 19

? p.m. - The Art of More - Crackle

Friday, November 20

12:01 p.m. - Jessica Jones - Netflix

? p.m. - The Man In The High Castle - Amazon

Saturday, November 21

8:00 p.m. - Jim Henson’s Turkey Hollow - Lifetime

Wednesday, December 2

10:00 p.m. - Top Chef - Bravo

Thursday, December 3

8:00 p.m. - THE WIZ Live! - NBC

Monday, December 14

12:01 1.m. - A VERY MURRAY CHRISTMAS - NETFLIX

8:00 p.m. - CHILDHOOD'S END - Syfy

10:00 p.m. - THE EXPANSE - Syfy

Thursday, December 17

9:00 p.m. - Luther one night event - BBC America

Friday, December 18

12:01 a.m. - F IS FOR FAMILY - Netflix

Photos Courtesy of NBC, Fox and CBS

Fall TV is just around the corner, but it looks like some people can’t wait for premiere week to get their hands on the latest upcoming TV programs. This morning, we learned that a ton of upcoming TV pilots have leaked onto torrent sites, including the heavily advertised Minority Report TV show, NBC’s high-profile drama Blindspot and the comic book-based pilot Lucifer. The three programs have now joined Supergirl in terms of leaked content.

LOL/DIMENSION made the leaks available, and apparently the Minority Report copy is available in 1080p, which is different than a lot of leaks that are only put out into the universe in standard definition. Both Lucifer and Blindspot are also available with better-than-average picture quality and no reported watermarks. There’s no word on how the leaks happened, although there are various possibilities, including screener copies, that could be the culprit.

Some screeners have already been released for certain fall TV shows, meaning that some of these pilots have been out there in the universe. In recent years, a lot of networks have moved towards digital screeners in order to protect footage from getting leaked. (This happened with early Game of Thrones episodes this spring; DVD screeners no longer go out for HBO shows.) Still, as evidenced by Supergirl getting downloaded hundreds of thousands of times earlier this spring, there’s a demand for this sort of content in the pirating world, and clearly pirates are looking for new TV all the time.

Buzz for Minority Report, but also Blindspot and Lucifer has been pretty high since the shows aired their first episodes (or portions of their first episodes in Minority Report’s case) earlier this summer at Comic-Con, which could possibly be the culprit. Torrent Freak first mentioned the leak, also noting that the Lucifer leak is a big deal, as that series isn’t slated for release until 2016. The other two shows will hit the TV schedule this fall.

Leaks sometimes can help shows to build buzz; this is the same reason a lot of networks will make Season 1 pilots available online before a show officially premieres, so they aren’t necessarily a death fate for an upcoming show. However, there’s still something buzzy and exciting about catching a new drama or comedy during pilot week and figuring out if it’s something you want to pursue over the long haul. It’s easier to make those decisions when you are watching a lot of shows when fall TV hits the schedule. It’s also the legal way to do it, too, which is a definite bonus.

That being said, since information about Blindspot, Lucifier and Minority Report is already available thanks to the Comic-Con screenings, I doubt the studios are sweating the leaks too much. Find out when you can catch the freshman dramas with our fall TV premiere schedule. in the meantime, here are all of the trailers for the fall TV shows.

Steven Spielberg's Minority Report is on its way from the big screen to the small screen, and now we’re starting to get some details about what the TV version will look like, beyond what we saw in the trailer. How will the America of 2065 look compared to the world we know? Well, among other things, they finally got around to changing the name of the Washington Redskins. They’re now known as the Washington Red Clouds.

Speaking with TV Line, executive producer Max Borenstein discussed how the show was putting together their future world:

The Washington Redskins team name has been under fire for years because of its use of a word that many Native Americans find offensive. Creating a future where the team name has been changed is far from a stretch, since it’s very possible it could happen in the next 50 years. But Red Clouds? Ok, Red Cloud was a Native American Chief and warrior. We can already see the Redskins press conference that took place sometime in 2020. “We’re changing the name, but it’s still a reference to brave Native Americans, and we’re keeping the word ‘red.’ Please don’t be mad.”

We’re not even going to focus on the fact that Red Cloud was one guy, so how the hell do you make a plural out of one guy’s name? It’s like naming a team the Virginia Thomas Jeffersons. Yeah, spell check is totally against the word Jeffersons. Instead, let’s talk about the fact that the wars Red Cloud waged took place in Wyoming and Montana, a couple thousand miles away from the series’ home of Washington D.C. They couldn’t find somebody a little bit closer?

The EP does not go into further detail about what the “larger things” that the show will be doing are. We know the series follows the original Tom Cruise movie by about 10 years, so while they have the film as a starting place, there is still a decent chunk of the future to create. The trailer is lacking in any world-building detail, so we’ll just have to wait and see. He does mention they are working with a lab at MIT that is focused on figuring out what the world will look like in 50 years. We’re really hopping MIT didn’t come up with that team name.

The whole Red Clouds thing is probably a simple throw away line, so we shouldn’t get too worked up about it. Although, we now have to wonder what else is in store for the world of 2065, and we'll find out when Minority Report premieres on Fox on September 21.

When you think of the career of Steven Spielberg, odds are what comes to mind are movies like Jaws, Raiders of the Lost Ark, or one of the other classic films he’s turned out in his career. But generally speaking, you associate him with movies. Well, one of his movies, Minority Report, is coming to the TV screen this fall, and there’s a very specific element that made the director want to make his film into a TV series.

You may have noticed that, unlike the 2002 film, Tom Cruise is not the center of the Minority Report series. The focus shifts instead to the so-called pre-cogs, and it is this change that finally piqued to Spielberg’s interest enough to turn the film into a show. TV Line saw executive producer Darryl Frank at the Television Critics Association press tour, and he said:

When Minority Report hits the airwaves this September, it’s not a reboot or a retelling of the film, or the Philip K. Dick story on which it’s based, instead it’s essentially a sequel, or a continuation. Set in Washington D.C. eleven years after the events of the movie, in the year 2065, the Precrime program has been disbanded, and the three pre-cogs, the mutated humans who could see crimes committed in the future, have scattered. However, one, Dash (Stark Sands), is still haunted by horrific visions of crimes that have yet to happen. He runs away from a remote retreat and teams up with a detective named Lara Vega (Megan Good) to stop murders that haven’t taken place.

Frank’s fellow executive producer, Max Borenstein, who wrote Godzilla and also the Minority Report pilot, talked about the decision to move away from Tom Cruise’s character, a cop who stops future crimes before they go down, and how this freed them to expand the thematic scope of the show. He said:

Even though it’s set in the same world, with a few of the same characters, we already knew that Minority Report the series was going to be drastically different than Minority Report the movie. From what Frank and Borenstein say, it sounds like these differences are what drew many participants to this project.

Minority Report also stars Wilmer Valderrama as Lara Vega’s colleague Will Blake, and Nick Zano and Laura Regan as Arthur and Agatha, the other two pre-cogs of the original trio. The series debuts on Fox on Monday, September 21.

Following the success of The Odd Couple, 24: Live Another Day and Fargo, TV production companies are looking more seriously at the potential to turn former TV and film projects into brand new shows. There are so many reboots, remakes and continuations in the works right now, it’s extremely hard to keep track of what is coming up, where those types of programs will be airing and when they will hit the schedule. So, we’ve done it for you. Without further ado, here are the top remakes, reboots and continuations in the works. This includes shows that are returning with original casts, shows that have been reworked with a new cast and movies that have been turned into shows. Trust us when we say there’s a lot of this going on.

Fuller House

Where Will It Air? Netflix

When Will It Air? Sometime in 2016

Who is involved? Most of the original cast will be back, including John Stamos, Andrea Barber, Candace Cameron Bure, Bob Saget, Jodie Sweetin, Dave Coulier, Lori Loughlin and Scott Weinger. Conspicuously absent will be both of the Olsen twins.

What is it about? Fuller House will follow D.J., a recently widowed veterinarian, who is trying to take care of her two sons with the help of her sister Stephanie and her friend Kimmy (who also has a kid of her own). Shenanigans ensue.

Minority Report

Where Will It Air? Fox

When Will It Air? Monday, September 21 at 9 p.m. ET

Who is involved? Steven Spielberg is executive producing. Minority Report film actor Daniel London will be back to play Wally the caretaker. The precogs will also be involved with the plot, although they will be played by different actors. Meagan Good, Stark Sands, Laura Regan, Li Jun Li, Nick Zano and Wilmer Valderrama star.

What is it about? Set after the events in the Minority Report movie, a precog, Dash, is still haunted by murders and wants to help the police department to solve crimes before they happen, again. Here’s the trailer.

The X-Files

Where Will It Air? Fox

When Will It Air? January 24, 2016

Who is involved? David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson are back as Mulder and Scully. Other returning characters include the Lone Gunmen, the Cigarette Smoking Man, and Walter Skinner (played by Mitch Pileggi). New actors set to appear include Lauren Ambrose, Robbie Amell, Joel McHale, Kumail Nanjiani, Annet Mahendru and Rhys Darby.

What is it about? Described as a revival and an event series, six episodes of The X-Files will be produced, and they sound very much in the same vein as the original series.

Ash Vs Evil Dead

Where Will It Air?Starz

When Will It Air? October 31, 2015

Who is involved? Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi are both involved, as is Sam’s brother Ivan Raimi. Campbell will return to play the lead Ash, and newcomers abound.

What is it about? A continuation of the franchise-turned TV show, Ash Vs Evil Dead will again follow Ash as he attempts to take down the Deadites. He has two young sidekicks this time around. Plus Lucy Lawless’ Ruby will also be around kicking ass.

Heroes Reborn

Where Will It Air?NBC

When Will It Air? Thursday, September 24 at 8 p.m. ET

Who is involved? Most of the original cast has moved on to other projects and will not return for Heroes Reborn, but we will see Greg Grunber, Masi Oka and Jack Coleman back. In addition, Zachary Levi will be headlining the brand new extension of the original series.

What is it about? The 13-episode event series is set in the same world as Heroes. Following a terrorist attack, the “Heroes” have gone into hiding. Meanwhile, Jack Coleman’s Noah Bennett is looking into the terrorist attack. Catch the trailer, here.

Coach

Where Will It Air? NBC

When Will It Air? Midseason?

Who is involved? Craig T. Nelson will be back to play Coach Hayden Fox. Bill Fagerbakke will return to play Dauber Dybinski. (Seriously, who came up with the names on this show?)

What is it about? This revival still sounds as if it will be a throwback sitcom, which makes sense, because the show originally aired in the 90s. Thirteen episodes are being produced, and they will be filmed in a multi-cam format with a live audience. It’ll pick up 18 years later, when Coach Fox comes out of retirement to assist his son at his new Ivy League gig. How cute.

Limitless

Where Will It Air? CBS

When Will It Air? Tuesday, September 22 at 10 p.m. ET

Who is involved? The biggest draw for Limitless as a TV series is that it is based on a movie starring Bradley Cooper, and Cooper is back for the TV series in a supporting role. Jake McDorman stars in the series.

What is it about? A young man named Brian Finch discovers NZT, a pill that allows him to have incredible abilities. It also places him in the middle of a conspiracy surrounding the drug, and gets him caught up with the FBI, who want to use his newfound skills. Check out the first look.

Rush Hour

Where Will It Air? CBS

When Will It Air? Midseason

Who is involved? Justin Hires from Key & Peele will star in the series along with Jon Foo. No characters from the original movie seem to be involved.

What is it about? Rush Hour will technically be a reimagining of the original movie of the same name. Detective Lee is a martial arts master who comes to Los Angeles to look into his sister’s death. He and Detective Carter are partnered up and begin to solve cases together, with a few bumps along the way.

Guardians of the Galaxy

Where Will It Air? Disney XD

When Will It Air? Saturday, September 5 at 9 p.m. ET

Who is involved? Marvel is involved, of course, and while this animated production will share characters—Groot, etc—with the original movie, the original actors are not going to be featured. Guardians of the Galaxy film director James Gunn has also said the series is not connected to the Marvel Movie Universe, but it is a continuation of sorts, as it is intended to follow the events in the movie.

What is it about? Star-Lord, Rocket Raccoon, Groot, Gamora, and Drax find an artifact that is keyed to Star-Lord’s DNA. Inside is a map to find an artifact known as the Cosmic Seed. The team wants to find it and destroy it before it can be used for villainous purposes. Give the trailer a watch.

Uncle Buck

Where Will It Air? ABC

When Will It Air? Midseason

Who is involved? James Lesure, Nia Long, Sayeed Shahidi, and Mike Epps star in this remake of the original film, which featured John Candy in the titular role.

What is it about? The original movie worked because it was about sending kids to stay with the irresponsible Uncle Buck for a short time after a medical emergency forces the parents to leave town. The new version has a similar premise, and we know the kids are expected to stay with Uncle Buck for the weekend, but I have no idea how ABC plans to keep this premise going for a whole season—especially if Uncle Buck ends up getting a Season 2 renewal. Here’s ABC’s first look at the new comedy.

Twin Peaks

Where Will It Air? Showtime

When Will It Air? 2017, although the behind-the-scenes drama means the date isn’t particularly stable.

Who is involved? A few of the original Twin Peaks cast members have already said they will be back for the continuation (and more are likely to be announced). In addition, original creators David Lynch and Mark Frost are also involved. I’m sure we’ll also see some damn fine coffee.

What is it about? We don’t know a ton about the premise, but we do know the show will be set in the same town and will focus on the storylines the show originally touched on when it aired on network TV in the early nineties. More to come.

This poll is no longer available.

Photos courtesy of Showtime, Fox, ABC, CBS, NBC, Disney XD, Starz

The 2015-2016 Network TV Upfronts are upon us. Along with news of renewals, cancellations and schedules, the major networks have released trailers for their upcoming Fall shows. We'll be adding all of the trailers as they're released, along with some information on each new series...

NBC

Heartbreaker

Air Day/Time: Tuesday at 9:00 p.m. ET

Type: hour-long medical drama

From: Jill Gordon

Starring: Melissa George, Dave Annable, Don Hany, Shelley Conn, D.L. Hughley, Jamie Kennedy, Maya Erskine, J. Louis Mills and Joshua Leonard.

What It's About: NBC's new medical drama is based on the life and work of Dr. Kathy Magliato. It centers on Melissa George's Dr. Alex Panttiere, a heart-transplant surgeon who does things her own way. She's also got a "racy personal life" that's almost like its own job.

Looks Like: A solid medical drama about a doctor who cares a lot and gets it done. And who doesn't love Melissa George? (#Alias4ever)

The Player

Air Day/Time: Thursday at 10:00 p.m.

Type: hour-long thriller/drama

From: John Rogers

Starring: Wesley Snipes, Philip Winchester, Charity Wakefield and Damon Gupton

What It's About: In The Player, a former military operative turned security expert is lured into a high stakes game where rich people bet on how well he can stop "the biggest crimes imaginable."

Looks like: USA and TNT had a thriller-TV baby that could kick like Wesley Snipes and grab our attention like The Blacklist. We'll see.

People Are Talking

Air Day/Time: Friday at 8:30 p.m. ET

Type: half-hour comedy

From:DJ Nash

Starring: Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Tone Bell and Bresha Webb.

What It's About: A comedy centered on two married couples who live near one another and obsess over everything. The trailer teases some amusing antics involving the babysitter, who might also be a porn star.

What it looks like: One of NBC's few half-hour comedies, relegated to Friday night already. Worth noting that Meaghan Rath's name is left off the cast list. The Being Human star had two comedies in the works this pilot season and as luck (or Rath's talent) would have it, both got picked up. Deadline says the Fox one (The Guide to Surviving Life) was in first position, so her role in NBC's People Are Talking will be recast.

Blindspot

Air Day/Time: Monday at 10:00 p.m.

Type: hour-long mystery/thriller

From: Martin Gero

Starring: Sullivan Stapleton, Jaimie Alexander, Audrey Esparza, Rob Brown, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Ukweli Roach and Ashley Johnson.

What It's About: A beautiful tattoo-covered Jane Doe is dropped off in the middle to Times Square with no memory of her own identity or what she's doing there. With the involvement of the FBI, it's discovered that her tattoos are clues to crimes that need to be solved.

Looks like: An intriguing mystery with the potential to offer TV a strong kickass female lead. (Worth noting: Greg Berlanti's involvement as executive producer.)

Heroes Reborn

(NBC hasn't release a new trailer for Heroes Reborn. The above video is a previously released teaser. Air Day/Time: Thursday at 8:00 p.m.

Type: hour-long drama

From: Tim Kring

Starring: Jack Coleman, Zachary Levi, Masi Oka, Judith Shekoni, Robbie Kay, Henry Zebrowski, Kiki Sukezane, Ryan Guzman, Danika Yarosh, Toru Uchikado, Eve Harlow and Gatlin Green.

What It's About: Following up on the previous series, Heroes Reborn will center on a new crop of heroes adjusting to having extraordinary abilities. And with new heroes, comes new villains looking to harness their powers. Some original Heroes characters will appear.

Looks Like: Remember when Heroes was all everyone wanted to talk about? And then when it wasn't? We're eying this one skeptically for now, but it's hard not to be curious about the direction this new drama will take.

View NBC's full Fall TV lineup here.

Check out the Fox trailers (including Minority Report) on the next page...

FOX

Minority Report

Air Day/Time: Monday at 9:00 p.m. ET

Type: hour-long drama

From: Max Borenstein

Starring: Meagan Good as Vega, Stark Sands as Dash/Arthur, Wilmer Valderrama as Will Blake, Daniel London as Wally, Laura Regan as Agatha, Li Jun Li as Akeela, Zhane Hall as Rico

What It's About: Adopting a bit of the tech and the premise of the film on which it's based, Minority Report is set in the future and centers on a cop and a man who can glimpse the future as they work together to try to stop crimes before they happen. Meagan Good plays Detective Lara Vega, while Stark Sands plays Dash (the mentioned man-with-visions) along with Dash's fellow-precog twin Arthur. Laura Regan plays the third pre-cog, Agatha.

Looks Like: Sci-fi on Fox. That rarely bodes well. /Pessimism. The premise of Minority Report seems perfect for a TV show. Here's hoping this lives up to its potential.

Grandfathered

Air Day/Time: Tuesday at 8:00 p.m.

Type: half-hour comedy

From: Chris Koch

Starring: John Stamos as Jimmy, Josh Peck as Gerald, Paget Brewster as Sara, Christina Milian as Vanessa, Kelly Jenrette as Annelise, Ravi Patel as Ken.

What It's About: Grandfathered brings John Stamos back to television in the form of Jimmy, a dreamy bachelor who learns that he's not only a father, but also a grandfather.

Looks Like: Adorable, charming, great hair. But enough about John Stamos. Grandfathered's cast -- which includes Josh Peck (The Wackness) and Paget Brewster -- looks great and the tone seems to be aiming for heart-warming and humorous. We'll see if it hits the mark.

The Grinder

Air Day/Time: Tuesday at 8:30 p.m.

Type:

From: Andrew Mogel, Jarrad Paul

Starring: Rob Lowe as Dean, Fred Savage as Stewart, Mary Elizabeth Ellis as Debbie, William Devane as Dean Sr., Hana Hayes as Lizzie, Connor Kalopsis as Ethan.

What It's About: Rob Lowe plays Dean, a former TV lawyer who wants to take his legal "expertise" to the actual courtroom. Fred Savage is Stewart, Dean's actual-attorney brother, who's planning to take over the family firm. As the trailer indicates, Dean returns to Boise and promptly (and humorously) inserts himself into Stewart's personal and professional life.

Looks Like: Fred Savage and Rob Lowe in the same TV show? Are we in 80s-heaven right now? Fox may be aiming for that nostalgic appeal in pairing The Grinder with Grandfathered on Tuesday nights. Beyond that, from what we've glimpsed in the trailer, the potential for great comedy is brimming with The Grinder.

Scream Queens

Air Day/Time: Tuesday at 9:00 p.m.

Type: hour-long comedy-horror

From: Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, Ian Brennan

Starring: Emma Roberts as Chanel Oberlin, Jamie Lee Curtis as Dean Munsch, Lea Michele as Hester, Abigail Breslin as Chanel #5, Nasim Pedrad as Gigi, Oliver Hudson as Wes, Skyler Samuels as Grace, Keke Palmer as Zayday, Billie Lourd as Chanel #3, Diego Boneta as Pete, Glen Powell as Chad, Lucien Laviscount as Earl, Niecy Nash as Denise, Nick Jonas as Boone, Ariana Grande as Chanel #2.

What It's About: Fox's new "killer comedy" brings murder to a college campus, as a "devil-clad killer" begins a killing spree during pledging season, claiming one victim, one episode at a time." Jamie Lee Curtis plays Dean Munsch, who's not a fan of the Kappa sorority and makes a rule that pledging must be open to all students, as opposed to being limited to the college's most elite. The way Fox describes it, it sounds like the series is set up to keep us guessing, as every character has a motive.

Looks Like: Scream Queens is described as part black comedy, part slasher flick, which seems like a perfect fit for a show that involves Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk. In that respect, this series fills the vacancy left by Glee, except it's removing music and adding murder and a college setting. As if to further remind us of its creators, the cast includes Emma Roberts (American Horror Story) and Lea Michele (Glee).

Rosewood

Air Day/Time: Wednesday at 8:00 p.m.

Type:

From: Todd Harthan

Starring: Morris Chestnut as Beaumont Rosewood, Jr., Jaina Lee Ortiz as Det. Villa, Gabrielle Dennis as Pippy, Anna Konkle as TMI, Maggie Elizabeth Jones as Bella.

What It's About: A dreamy private pathologist (Morris Chestnut) helps solve crimes in Miami. This involves a "widely sophisticated autopsy lab" where he performs autopsies for hire. As the trailer reveals, he may also solve crimes while out for a jog. Jaina Lee Ortiz plays Detective Villa, who finds Rosewood's optimism annoying. Also revealed in the trailer are Rosewood's health issues, which indicate he has less than a decade to live.

Looks Like: A Miami-set cop show, complete with beautiful people, beautiful surroundings and beautiful law enforcers. The twist on this one is that the lead is a private pathologist, which presumably gives him a bit more wiggle room for protocol and procedure. Also budget. And then there's Rosewood's health issues, which could present some unpredictable issues for the lead character, but also likely contribute to his live-each-day-to-the-fullest attitude.

View the full Fox 2015 Schedule here.

Check out ABC's trailers on the next page...

ABC

The Muppets

Air Day/Time: Tuesday at 8:00 p.m.

Type: half-hour comedy

From: Bill Prady and Bob Kushell

Starring: The Muppets.

What It's About: The Muppets are back! As the trailer indicates, The Muppets is set up documentary-style. The beloved Jim Henson characters are reunited and ready to live out their personal and professional lives in front of the camera.

Looks Like: In the words of Sam the Eagle, "God Bless America, and its magnificent Broadcasting Company!" Seriously, this looks exactly like what The Muppets should be as a modern day TV show, complete with meta humor and goofy Muppety jokes.

Quantico

Air Day/Time: Tuesday at 10:00 p.m.

Type: hour-long thriller/mystery/drama

From: Josh Safran

Starring: Priyanka Chopra as Alex, Dougray Scott as Liam, Jake McLaughlin as Ryan, Aunjanue Ellis as Miranda, Yasmine Al Massri as Nimah, Johanna Braddy as Shelby, Tate Ellington as Simon and Graham Rogers as Caleb.

What It's About: Quantico centers on Priyanka Chopra's Alex, a woman who's among numerous recruits hoping to make it through FBI training. A massive terrorist attack takes place and Alex one of the trainees may be responsible.

Looks Like: Quantico looks like it has the potential to be a winner, especially if the twists and turns teased in the trailer live up to their potential. It'll likely depend a lot on how organized the story is. In the meantime, looks like fun.

Dr. Ken

Air Day/Time: Friday at 8:30 p.m.

Type: half-hour comedy

From: Jared Stern, Ken Jeong and Mike O'Connell

Starring: Ken Jeong as Dr. Ken, Suzy Nakamura as Allison, Tisha Campbell-Martin as Damona, Dave Foley as Pat, Jonathan Slavin as Clark, Albert Tsai as Dave and Krista Marie Yu as Molly.

What It's About: Ken Jeong revisits his medical roots as a brilliant physician whose bedside manner leaves a lot to be desired. When he isn't attempting to be a good doctor, he's at home, trying to be a good husband to his therapist wife and a good father to their two kids. As the trailer implies, things don't always go as planned.

Looks Like: A multi-camera sitcom that'll likely be a perfect fit next to Last Man Standing on Friday night. Plus, it brings Ken Jeong back to network television.

Oil

Air Day/Time: Sunday at 9:00 p.m.

Type: hour-long drama

From: Josh Pate and Rodes Fishburne

Starring: Don Johnson as Hap, Chace Crawford as Billy, Rebecca Rittenhouse as Cody, Delroy Lindo as Tip, Amber Valletta as Carla, Scott Michael Foster as Wick, India de Beaufort as Jules, Yani Gellman as AJ and Caitlin Carver as Lacey.

What It's About: A young couple moves to North Dakota to a town where the oil industry is (or was?) booming, and eventually find themselves going up against a ruthless tycoon. Drama ensues.

Looks Like: Dallas meets Nashville? I don't love the title, but I have to admit, I got caught up in the trailer. Bring on the oil.

Of Kings and Prophets

Air Day/Time: Sunday at 10:00 p.m.

Type: hour-long

From: Adam Cooper and Bill Collage

Starring: Ray Winstone as King Saul, Haaz Sleiman as Jonathan, Maisie Richardson-Sellers as Michal, Oliver Rix as David, Simone Kessell as Ahinoam, James Floyd as Ish- Boseth, Mohammad Bakri as Samuel and Tomer Kapon as Joab.

What It's About: With Of Kings and Prophets, ABC promises "an epic Biblical saga of faith, ambition and betrayal," centering on a king, a prophet and a "resourceful young shepherd." Destiny awaits. Also violence, looks like.

Looks Like: It's hard to know what to expect from period pieces on network TV. Of Kings and Prophets looks like it's aiming for grand, epic, sexy and violent. We'll find out if it hits the mark this fall.

View the full ABC 2015 Schedule here. And check out the CBS trailers, including Supergirl and Limitless, next...

CBS

Life in Pieces

Air Day/Time: Monday at 8:30 p.m. ET

Type: half-hour comedy

From: Jason Adler, Aaron Kaplan

Starring: Dianne Wiest, James Brolin, Thomas Sadoski, Colin Hanks, Zoe Lister Jones, Dan Bakkedahi

What It's About: Life in Pieces is one of two new single-camera comedies coming to CBS this fall. This one splits its attention between the sub-families of one big family.

Looks Like: Modern Family with an entirely different family? That's ok. The cast looks pretty fantastic and the preview had some great moments.

Supergirl

Air Day/Time: Monday at 8:00 p.m. (starting in November)

Type: hour-long drama.

From: Greg Berlanti, Ali Adler, Sarah Schecter and Andrew Kreisberg

Starring: Melissa Benoist, Chyler Leigh, Calista Flockhart, David Harewood,

What It's About: Melissa Benoist plays Superman's cousin, Kara Zor-El. She's spent the last decade or so sitting on her superpowers. At 24, she's living in National City and working as an assistant to "media mogul" Cat Grant (Calista Flockhart.) As the preview indicates, she's finally ready to come into her own, putting her powers to use helping protect the city from threats. That includes working alongside Hank Henshaw (David Harewood).

Looks Like: A CW show. And with Greg Berlanti's involvement, that's no surprise, nor is it a complaint. Arrow and The Flash are great shows and they're proving how well DC properties can work for today's style of TV drama. Supergirl will hopefully serve as further proof of that, while also emphasizing a strong female lead.

Limitless

Air Day/Time: Tuesday at 10:00 p.m.

Type: hour-long drama

From: Craig Sweeny

Starring: Jake McDorman, Jennifer Carpenter, Hill Harper, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Bradley Cooper (recurring).

What It's About: Following up on the film by the same name, Limitless stars Jake McDroman as Brian Finch, a guy who learns that he can have super-brain-power through the drug NZT. As the preview indicates, he soon uses this gift to work alongside the FBI solving crimes.

Looks Like: Limitless comes complete with a great cast -- Dexter's Jennifer Carpenter and Shameless's Jake McDorman at the center -- and a premise that could work really well for a crime series. Plus, there's the occasional drop-in by Bradley Cooper to look forward to. Let's hope it hits the mark!

Code Black

Air Day/Time: Wednesday at 10:00 p.m.

Type: hour-long medical drama

From: Michael Seitzman

Starring: Marcia Gay Harden, Bonnie Somerville, Melanie Kannokada, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Harry M. Ford, Luis Guzman, Raza Jaffrey, William Allen Young

What It's About: Based in the "busiest, most notorious ER in the nation," Code Black centers on four first-year residents who are learning the ropes in the emergency room (and apparently ambulances as well). Marcia Gay Harden plays their "dad," Dr. Leanne Rorish, while Luis Guzman is the mother figure, senior nurse Jesse Sallander.

Looks Like: On the surface, a new medical drama. But the first look video makes it clear that Code Black's aiming to tug on our heart strings. Just watch the grieving daughter lean in to say goodbye to her deceased father by listening to his donated heart beat in the chest of a little girl. Or hear the sound of a newborn baby crying through a cell phone, moments after it's delivered via emergency C-section in the back of ambulance. It's probably safe to be prepared for lots of feelings with this one.

Angel from Hell

Air Day/Time: Thursday at 9:30 p.m. (starting in November)

Type: half-hour comedy

From: Tad Quill

Starring: Jane Lynch, Maggie Lawson, Kevin Pollak, Kyle Bornheimer

What It's About: In the other new single-camera comedy coming to CBS this fall, Jane Lynch plays Amy, a guardian angel determined to prove herself worthy of her status by inserting herself into the life of Allison (Maggie Lawson), a dermatologist who thinks she has everything in her life where it needs to be... until Amy shows up. Kyle Bornheimer plays Allison's brother Brad, who lives above the garage.

Looks Like: Jane Lynch is back on television! It's no surprise that the Glee star would find a new gig so fast after the Fox musical dramedy wrapped up, but it's great to see the project moving forward. From the preview, it looks like there might be some great chemistry between Lynch and Maggie Lawson too.

View the full CBS schedule here, and see what CW has coming up on the next page...

CW

Crazy Ex-Girllfriend

Air Day/Time: Monday at 8:00 p.m. ET

Type: hour-long

From: Rachel Bloom, Aline Brosh McKenna and Marc Webb

Starring: Rachel Bloom.

What It's About: A successful attorney decides to leave her work and life behind in New York to travel to West Covina, CA to reconnect with her old boyfriend. As the trailer indicates, Rebecca Bunch might be a little unstable, considering she's making a very drastic -- like full-on rom-com-level drastic -- life change in the hope that the guy who dumped her years ago might still be interested.

Looks Like: A mess of drama and humor... also possibly music? (There's singing in the preview, so maybe we should expect more of that?)The question is, will Crazy Ex-Girlfriend be the good kind of mess? Or the cringing kind? CW's banking on the former, and I'm hoping they're on to something. Jane the Virgin works because it embraces the drama and the humor with equal measure, allowing us to laugh and take it seriously simultaneously. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend could succeed with a similar format and its own signature tone. We'll see.

CW only has one new show debuting this Fall. But we they are adding the Arrow/Flash spinoff Legends of Tomorrow in 2016. Check out the trailer for that here.

View CW's Fall line-up here. And you can see how the full network TV primetime schedule breaks down this fall here.

Fox’s upcoming television adaptation of the Tom Cruise 2002 film vehicle, Minority Report has released its very first trailer showing a bright, futuristic aesthetic that we dare say is…almost human. Setting itself in the same world as the sci-fi hit (which itself was based on a Philip K. Dick story), the show explores the aftermath of the film’s events, in which the crime-divining Precogs were freed from their involuntary civil servitude. However, it appears that for one of them, the visionary itch hasn’t quite left.

The trailer reveal for Minority Report comes just a few days after it was announced that Fox has given the pilot a full series order. The show will carry the distinction of being the first television adaptation of a Steven Spielberg film and clearly shows an ambitious direction. In fact, it seems to have turned out well enough for Spielberg to jump on board the show as a producer. The series stars Meagan Good as police detective Lara Vega, who finds herself teamed up with Dash, one of the film’s depicted Precog prognosticators played by Stark Sands. The show, for all its visual grandiosity, seems set on establishing a solid crime procedural routine.

Unlike other television adaptations of major movies, Minority Report looks to be setting itself up as a direct continuation of the film’s storyline, rather than a reinterpretation. The show is set in 2065, which is about 10 years after the events in which Tom Cruise’s Captain John Anderton evaded his framing for murder and exposed the conspiracy to cover the Precogs’ fallibility. A decade later, criminal justice has apparently devolved back to being a cleanup operation.

However, the trio of Precog captives from the movie have resurfaced; notably, Dash, one of the young twin boys, who is now grown. Besides searching for his twin, Arthur (also played by Sands), Dash is unsuccessfully trying to use his visions to help murder victims. He teams up with Detective Lara Vega, and the duo try to utilize Dash’s fragmented visions to prevent tragedies.

Besides the connection to the Tom Cruise film, one look at this series will immediately evoke the recent memory of Fox’s canceled sci-fi futuristic crime procedural, Almost Human. There's the grand, futuristic setting, the buddy-cop dynamic on display between an unorthodox cop and an eccentric, super-powered asset, and even the presence of deeper philosophical quandaries; the comparison is hard not to make. Yet, unlike that prematurely unplugged series, Minority Report may enjoy the benefit of having its world essentially already established going in, set up with the 2002 film. While momentum gained from continuing the story of a 13-year-old movie is limited, the film did craft a solid mythology from which to draw ideas. A procedural series set in that world could yield intriguing possibilities.

The show certainly does look tremendous with several nods to the film. However, it will be interesting to see if the Fox network has learned anything from its experience with Almost Human, whose fate as a canceled series seemed to hinge not on its quality or audience reception, but on its production price tag and a ratings dip. Likewise, one would have to think that the network is banking on Minority Report being a runaway hit early on in its run this fall, lest it meet the same fate of being a highly-regarded series that found itself nevertheless nixed.

Also starring Li Jun Li, Wilmer Valderrama and Daniel London - who will reprise his role as Wally the Caretaker from the film - Minority Report is scheduled to air on Mondays this fall on Fox.

Fox lost a few dramas when the network cancelled Backstrom and The Following yesterday, and it looks like the network is looking to replenish its drama lineup with properties at least some people will be familiar with. This week, the network announced that the Minority Report-based project will be heading to series. In addition, comic book property Lucifer is also getting a shot at glory, joining the previously announced new shows Rosewood and The Frankenstein Code.

Of all of the rebooted, revitalized and reworked programs headed to TV next fall, Minority Report has one of the most interesting premises. Minority Report is expected to pick up about a decade after the events in the original Steven Spielberg film starring Tom Cruise. One of the three Precogs from the film, a character named Dash will be the lead in the TV series; Dash was used in the PreCrime unit a decade earlier to psychically live crimes before they happened. He’s been living in torment for some time, but in the series he will meet a detective who may find a new way to repurpose his special gifts.

Original cast member Daniel London, who played caretaker Wally in the 2002 movie, will be back for the new series. The cast will also feature Meagan Good, Stark Sands, Wilmer Valderrama, Laura Regan, Li Jun Li and Zhane Hall. Deadline reports that Spielberg was so pleased by the pilot that he opted for an executive producer credit on the drama, which will hopefully bode well.

In addition to the big Minority Report pickup, Fox is adding another comic book series to its lineup. Lucifer is headed to series, thanks to a pilot written by Tom Kapinos and directed by Len Wiseman. The plot of the comic has been retooled to follow Lucifer as he leaves “his kingdom” and heads to Los Angeles, where he will help the LAPD to wreak havoc on criminals. Tom Ellis will be the lead in that series and former Chicago Fire actress Lauren German has also taken a lead role.

Both shows based on comics and TV takes on old premises are super hot right now, but they also face stiff competition. Lucifer has the likes of Gotham, The Flash, Daredevil, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and many, many more to compete with. Minority Report is a little different, since a lot of the other revitalized shows do not have a science fiction bent, but the networks and streaming services are look to garner eyeballs from shows as diverse as Coach, The X-Files, Limitless and Rush Hour. It’ll be interesting to see which of the new shows will garner audiences during the 2015-2016 TV season and which won't.

Photo Credit@ Fox

The Fox pilot Minority Report, based on the 2002 science fiction thriller of the same name, has been moving forward in the development process fairly quickly over the last few months. In a move that's likely to please fans of the now 13-year-old Steven Spielberg-directed film, the studio has secured one of Minority Report's original cast members, Daniel London, for the pilot.

The Minority Report series may not have the world's #1 favorite action star Tom Cruise lined up, but thanks to the casting of London, at least we know an original Minority Report actor will be joining the drama. According to Deadline, London will reprise his role of Wally the Caretaker, a bumbling custodian employed at the Precrime Temple, in the Spielberg film. Joining London is Li Jun Li (The Following) in the role of crime scene investigation technician Akeela.

The series adaptation will act as a sequel to the original film, set about 10 years after Washington D.C.'s Precrime project has come to an end. One of the three iconic Precogs, Dash, will be struggling to lead a normal life amongst his lesser-intuitive human beings. During the project, he cannot seem to shake being tormented by futuristic visions from his past. Upon meeting a detective named Lara Vega, also haunted by her own past, he gains renewed hope that she may be able to help him find a purposeful application for his unique gift. Wally the Caretaker (London) is eager to help Vega and Akeela (Li) while assisting Dash in building his new identity.

Fans of the film Minority Report probably remember it as an exciting action suspense thriller with amazing visual imagery and killer CGI effects. The film was set in 2054 and follows Precrime Captain John Anderton (Cruise) as he performs regular raids on homes of future murderers and potential perpetrators of crimes not yet committed. When the drug-addicted Anderton is predicted to commit the murder of a man named Leo Crow, he finds himself the target in a manhunt, led by U.S. Department of Justice member Danny Witwer (Colin Farrell).

Provided it is picked up to series, Minority Report sounds promising, despite the fact it may not have the budget, effects or cast of its big brother studio film. The idea a sequel as opposed to a prequel opens up the possibilities for a TV drama that is entirely fresh. With the 2014 Godzilla screenwriter Max Borenstein on board as the writer and producer, there's hope that something interesting transpires.

It looks like the PreCrime ball is rolling for the potential Minority Report series. While it sometimes take a while for a new TV idea to get off the ground, just a few short weeks after news broke that a Minority Report project was in development, the project has nabbed a pilot commitment at Fox. Additionally, it looks like the potential series will also have a female lead.

Early reports indicated that the Minority Report project would focus on the PreCrime unit that is led by Tom Cruise at the beginning of the Steven Spielberg film. However, now it looks as if the series will be a sequel of sorts, focusing on a story set 10 years after the events in the movie. The project will focus on one of the male Precogs who was forced to psychically live crimes before they happened. He’s now attempting to live an average life, to various degrees of success. According to THR, the other lead in the series will be female. She’ll be introduced as a mentor to the former Precog who will help him to use his unique gifts.

It’s no surprise that Fox has nabbed Minority Report. The network is one of the few that will take a risk on chancy science fiction premises, although Fox doesn’t always follow through with a second season when a sci fi story does make it to series. Additionally, Minority Report was a pretty popular film for Twentieth Century Fox when it came out, making over 130 million domestically and crushing overseas. A TV series could also find success, and since Minority Report is a Fox property, it makes total sense that the network would have first dibs.

Fox isn’t the only group involved with production. Amblin Television and Paramount Television will also produce the project, and Amblin’s Justin Falvey and Darryl Frank will executive produce. As noted prior, Godzilla writer Max Borenstein is set to pen the script. Since he doesn’t have any monsters to hide behind this time, I’m really hoping he can write a character that is more compelling than Ford Brody. Still, it’s nice to hear he’s at least planning to give a female lead a shot in this project.

Part of the reason Minority Report was so compelling the first time around was due to the glass and steel world of the future Spielberg’s team created. I can vividly remember the automated cars sequence from the movie, as well as smaller touches, like a person’s eyes automatically triggering advertisements when they walk into a store. Of course, it was the PreCrime premise that made Minority Report a truly eventful story, and we’ll have to wait and see how futuristic the world of Minority Report seems a decade after PreCrime was considered a failure. The jumping point is certainly a nice tie-in to the movie, and that might be enough for Fox to pick it up to series if some good actors are cast.

Since the pilot is still in the early stages, there are a lot of details that still need to be filled in. Who will star in the pilot? Who will direct? And will Minority Report be a sound enough premise to move forward to series? Stay tuned for more information.

Steven Spielberg has his hand in a lot of pots, including in television production, and while some of his TV projects have not been as good as others, we’re very excited about a possible project the man has in the works. Spielberg is hoping to adapt his hit 2002 movie, Minority Report, for the small screen and he’s chosen a pretty interesting writer to develop the project, signing on Godzilla’s Max Borenstein.

When it was first released into theaters, Minority Report was an exciting and thought-provoking futuristic thriller following the head of a special police unit known as “PreCrime.” The goal of PreCrime is to catch criminals before they commit acts of violence, which the division can do with the help of omniscient individuals known as precogs. Tom Cruise stars in the movie, and while it probably doesn’t make his greatest films list, it’s an interesting sci fi romp, and sci fi is often what Spielberg does on TV best. Plus, according to TheWrap, a Minority Report TV series would focus on the PreCrime unit, which means there would be plenty of opportunity for an offbeat procedural format (and we all know how much TV loves procedurals).

Clearly, the Minority Report project is still in the early stages. Borenstein has been hired to pen the project, and Amblin television will produce. Regardless, no distributor has picked up a pilot, much less greenlighted a series order, and no star has been signed on to headline. The good news is that Spielberg and co. are looking for a big star to headline the project, and if they can get someone who is a pretty big deal, Minority Report has a much greater shot at moving forward.

Personally, I hope Minority Report does find a home. Even if the project does end up being a procedural, it would be a really funky one, with futuristic terminology and technology and police officers looking to stop crime before it happens. There are plenty of procedures on TV, but Minority Report could somewhat fill the gap left by Almost Human at Fox. In fact, 20th Century Fox actually distributed Minority Report; although that doesn’t mean Fox is the network looking to pick up the project, it would be an easy and tidy pick-up if Fox was behind the TV show, as well.

With the project still in its early stages, there are still a lot of details that need to shake out before Minority Report goes to series. In the meantime, what do you think? Would you like to see the PreCrime division in action each week?

This poll is no longer available.

With Jurassic Park coming back to theaters this week, we're looking back at the years when Steven Spielberg released two films, and how those films reflect on each other. Earlier this week Sean dug into 1993's double feature, Jurassic Park vs. Schindler's List, Kristy tackled 1989's Always and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and Katey took on 2005, when Spielberg released Munich and War of the Worlds. In today's final installment, Eric compares Catch Me If You Can and Minority Report.

One of the most interesting tonal shifts of Steven Spielberg’s career came in 2002 when he made both Minority Report and Catch Me If You Can. In his double film years, Spielberg has notably always balanced the more fun, adventurous sci-fi/fantasy movies – like Jurassic Park, The Adventures of Tintin and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade - with more serious, Oscar-oriented films – like Schindler’s List, War Horse, and Always. It’s a special twist on the Hollywood philosophy of “one for me and one for you” – where an artist gives up a bit of their integrity in one deal to make a big money-making picture in order to get a passion project made – as Spielberg is one of the few directors who has always maintained his artistic credibility even while going through the studio system, and earned respect on both sides.

But what makes his 2002 pairing such an interesting one is the way in which the director completely swapped tones between his summer and winter pictures, his Philip K. Dick adaptation being far more serious and dark than his tale true of a conman on the run.

As a pair, it’s interesting to see how both films actually tie together in terms of common themes and story elements. As follow-ups to A.I. Artificial Intelligence, the movies are the latter two-thirds of Spielberg’s unofficial chase trilogy, with the common thread of characters being on the run from the authorities, but also match as titles that reflect on false perceptions of reality and trust. John Anderton (Tom Cruise) puts his faith in the visions of the pre-cogs only to see it corrupted through echoes and minority reports, while Frank Abagnale Jr. (Leonardo DiCaprio) lives his life pretending to be someone else and taking advantage of the faith that people have in him. Both also play with damaged, anti-hero protagonists, thanks to John’s drug addiction due to the loss of his son and Frank’s less-than-legal way of making a living. The starkly different ways thatSpielberg approaches each one, however, is what makes them such an interesting pairing.

Coming from the same director who brought us E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Minority Report is a surprisingly dark piece of science-fiction. The movie does have touches of more fun, action elements, such as the sequence in the car building factory and John’s battle against a jet-pack wearing SWAT team, but overall is a terrifying, bleak, cynical look at our future. The rot in society is most evident when John travels to the slums to score some drugs and later when he visits the most horrific doctor’s office in the world to get his eyes switched out, but it’s just as evident in the bright and shiny cityscapes.Spielberg and cinematographer Janusz Kami?ski fill these areas with blooms and bright lights as a means to mask the darkness, but it’s never able to completely cover the ugliness of a world taken over by advertisements and technology that allows people to live out the fantasy of murdering their boss in a digital environment.

Catch Me If You Can, by contrast, actively takes what should be dark elements and turns them into escapade. The people that Frank bilks on a regular basis are legitimate victims, but the film operates as poppy fun, striking a tone somewhere in between Frank Capra and Howard Hawks. There are consequences demonstrated, but there’s also no question as to who the director wants the audience cheering for - even the title comes from something children shout to each other while playing a game of tag. The movie doesn’t exist against what we expect from Spielberg, who has many lighthearted romps on his resume, but it’s interesting to see him do it with material that could just as easily be adapted as a high-tension crime thriller.

While Spielberg had been developing Minority Report for years, diligently planning out the look of the science-fiction world, he was initially only planning to produce Catch Me If You Can, coming aboard as a director when the production schedule was pushed and Gore Verbinski was no longer available for the job. It was by happenstance that the two films would up coming together at the same time and released during the same year, but all the same, they both perfectly illustrate what makes him such a great filmmaker. He regularly defies expectation and comes up with something surprising, interesting and different with each new movie, and in 2002 he did just that.