Although it may feel like only a brief moment ago for some, the year 2004 marks a significant 21 years since its occurrence, leaving a lasting impression on those who lived through it. This year was marked by pivotal historical events such as the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami and the expansion of the European Union. Yet, many remember 2004 fondly for the iconic films that were released. Numerous films from this year have become widely beloved and critically acclaimed over time, earning their place within the broader film culture as classics that truly define the era.
From massive blockbuster hits that dominated the cultural landscape to smaller films that gradually attained cult classic status, 2004 showcased a rich and diverse array of influential cinematic masterpieces. While many other notable films were released that year, including Napoleon Dynamite, Shrek 2, and 50 First Dates, the following films stand out as the most prominent classics that encapsulate the essence of 2004.
10
‘Collateral’
Directed by Michael Mann
While Tom Cruise is often associated with his charismatic and dynamic hero roles in films like Top Gun and the Mission: Impossible franchise, his performance in Collateral illustrates his remarkable versatility as an actor, showcasing his ability to embody a villainous character. The gripping narrative follows taxi driver Max Durocher, portrayed by Jamie Foxx, who unwittingly becomes entangled in a perilous world of crime and drugs when he picks up a deadly assassin, played by Cruise, as a passenger.
This film stands out as one of the quintessential action thrillers directed by Michael Mann, masterfully blending thrilling action sequences with heightened tension to create an unforgettable cinematic experience. Both Cruise and Foxx deliver performances that infuse the film with emotional depth and entertainment, enhancing each action scene’s impact and dynamism as the intricately woven plot unfolds. Originally released to commercial success, Collateral has since garnered a cult following and is celebrated as a classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
9
‘Before Sunset’
Directed by Richard Linklater
Richard Linklater‘s Before Sunrise is widely regarded as one of the most critically acclaimed and cherished romantic dramas of the 1990s, offering an honest and introspective portrayal of love that remains unmatched by many contemporary romance films. In a rare twist of fate, the unexpected sequel, Before Sunset, was released nine years later and managed to not only uphold the legacy of the original, but surpass it in emotional depth, cinematic artistry, and romantic storytelling.
The narrative follows the two main characters, Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy), as they unexpectedly reconnect nearly a decade after their first encounter. Their lives have evolved, and they have pursued new relationships, yet the undeniable chemistry and connection between them linger, creating a compelling tension. Few films capture the essence of love and human connection on-screen as poignantly as Before Sunset, solidifying its status as one of the greatest romantic dramas of all time.
8
‘Saw’
Directed by James Wan
Saw presents a harrowing and shocking horror experience that has had a profound impact on the genre, significantly expanding the popularity of the “torture porn” subgenre. The film tells the gripping story of two bewildered victims who awaken to find themselves ensnared in a nightmarish situation, forced to participate in a sadistic game orchestrated by the notorious Jigsaw killer. As they struggle to decipher the clues left behind in their grim surroundings, they also grapple with the chilling realization of who the Jigsaw killer might be and the reasons behind their torment.
The film’s shocking content and gripping mystery were key factors in its success and its elevation to classic status, but it is also noteworthy for achieving these remarkable feats on an astonishingly modest budget. The unique personality of Saw, combined with its relentless tension and dread, quickly established it as an essential horror film of the 2000s. Furthermore, its influence has persisted throughout the decade and beyond, shaping the landscape of small-scale horror filmmaking.
Saw
- Release Date
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October 29, 2004
- Runtime
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103 minutes
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Leigh Whannell
Adam Faulkner-Stanheight
7
‘Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy’
Directed by Adam McKay
Among comedy actors, few achieved the level of iconic status and widespread popularity as Will Ferrell during the 2000s, solidifying his place as a comedic legend with films like Step Brothers, Elf, and various memorable supporting roles. Out of all the remarkable comedies he starred in during this period, none have made such a profound impact and lasting legacy quite like the 2004 hit, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.
This film perfectly showcases Ferrell’s comedic strengths, allowing him to fully embrace the chaotic absurdity of his character and the satirical nature of the narrative, resulting in a continuous stream of comedic brilliance. Moreover, the entire ensemble cast contributes to the film’s charm, delivering unforgettable quotes and hilarious moments that embody a lighthearted yet chaotic absurdism. Since its release, this film has become a staple of home video, recognized as a certified comedy classic of the 21st century.
6
‘Spider-Man 2’
Directed by Sam Raimi
Although the 2010s are often synonymous with the superhero film boom, one of the most significant and influential superhero films of all time was actually released back in 2004: Sam Raimi‘s Spider-Man 2. This sequel not only improves upon the original film but does so in nearly every aspect, delivering more captivating visuals, a deeply emotional narrative, and an exceptional understanding of how to craft a high-budget superhero story.
Even 21 years after its premiere, Spider-Man 2 continues to be celebrated as not just the pinnacle of the Spider-Man franchise but also as a masterfully directed superhero film that stands as a shining example of the genre’s best offerings. Its influence is palpable even today, as filmmakers strive to recapture the magic and excitement that Raimi infused into each moment of Spider-Man 2. Once considered the must-see blockbuster of 2004, Spider-Man 2 has gracefully aged into a timeless classic.
5
‘Shaun of the Dead’
Directed by Edgar Wright
Shaun of the Dead has emerged as a beloved cult classic in the realm of horror comedies, playing a significant role in reigniting interest in zombie narratives throughout the 2000s and 2010s. This film stands as a testament to the creative potential of combining humor with horror, expertly honoring the conventions and tropes of the genre while delivering a hilarious tribute to the undead. Edgar Wright infuses the film with a distinctive personality and charm that captivates audiences from start to finish.
Upon its initial release, Shaun of the Dead was merely a moderate success, lacking the impact of other horror films from 2004. However, it gradually garnered a devoted following, eventually achieving cult classic status due to its undeniable strengths and the power of word-of-mouth recommendations. Today, Shaun of the Dead is recognized as a crucial influence in the modern landscape of zombie films, catapulting Wright to fame as one of the most cherished comedic directors of the 21st century.
4
‘The Notebook’
Directed by Nick Cassavetes
Widely recognized as a quintessential romantic drama of the 21st century, The Notebook has garnered immense popularity due to its heartfelt exploration of love and passion. The film’s poignant portrayal of a love story set against the backdrop of World War II resonates deeply with audiences, capturing the enduring nature of love amid life’s challenges.
The Notebook has achieved iconic status beyond its narrative, becoming synonymous with the essence of 21st-century romantic dramas and is often referred to as a quintessential “chick flick.” Long after it became the must-see romance story of the 2000s, The Notebook retains a lasting legacy as a classic within both the romance genre and the cinematic landscape of its time. It is frequently referenced as the definitive example of highly emotional and dramatic romance films that gained popularity in the wake of its success.
3
‘The Incredibles’
Directed by Brad Bird
Throughout the 2000s, Pixar Animation Studios consistently delivered some of the most acclaimed and significant animated films in cinema history. In 2004, they released one of their major triumphs, The Incredibles, which stands as a highly successful and critically acclaimed superhero film that continues to be recognized as one of Pixar’s finest achievements. The compelling storytelling combined with stunning visual artistry remains relevant today, despite the tremendous advancements in 3D animation technology.
It is challenging to find another family film that has garnered the same level of widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike as The Incredibles. Many consider it a masterpiece within the realm of animation. Since its initial release, the film’s classic status has only grown, bolstered by the characters’ ongoing popularity and the success of its sequel, Incredibles 2, further solidifying its legacy as an iconic animated classic.
2
‘Mean Girls’
Directed by Mark Waters
Teen rom-coms were at their peak popularity during the late 90s and early 2000s, with Mean Girls serving as a quintessential example of the genre, embodying the best comedic elements of the era and creating a highly memorable cinematic experience. The film was an immediate success upon its release, but its true cultural significance blossomed during its home video release, where it solidified its status as a comedy classic.
Mean Girls is designed for endless viewing, much like the greatest comedies of all time, maintaining its comedic appeal through memorable quotes, clever humor, and engaging characters. During an era when DVDs were booming and home video became a dominant medium, Mean Girls emerged as the reigning queen of comedy, setting the standard against which all subsequent female-centric comedies would be measured.
Mean Girls
- Release Date
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April 30, 2004
- Runtime
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97 minutes
1
‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’
Directed by Michel Gondry
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