The University Observer's editorial team reflect on their favourite movies from the monumental year 2000.
Gladiator
John O’Connor Film and TV Editor
One could most certainly argue that Ridley Scott’s last masterpiece was 2000’s Gladiator. For those who haven't yet experienced it or may need a refresher, the story follows a former Roman general, now a gladiator, who embarks on a relentless quest for vengeance against the corrupt Emperor Commodus - the man responsible for the brutal murder of his family.
The film distinguishes itself from the epic period dramas of Hollywood's Golden Age by peeling back the layers of its characters, avoiding the trap of making them one-dimensional or bordering on the stereotypical. Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix deliver two of the finest performances of their careers - and of the 2000s - bringing vulnerability and emotional power to the screen.
Yet, it is Rome itself that serves as the true protagonist. Its grand theaters, bustling streets, and Colosseum all become the film's stage. The actors inhabit this world so fully we believe we are witnessing history truly unfold.
Final Destination
Vanshika Dhyani Business and Careers Editor
A serial killer that is not confined to the silver screen. He has dined with your family and whispered to your friends. He does not need an address, and has no need to stalk. He does not make phone calls and there is no final girl, no survivor, no escape. Such is the allure of Final Destination. The film is an exploration of horror through the suave lens of societal pariahs. It is a morbid understanding of the fundamental truth of life.
And this is why the film has not lost its relevance in the 25 years that have passed. The story is wrapped around the central body of fear—a plane crash, but it sprouts arms and legs that gnaw at the fear of death, trauma, survival and unpredictability. In this timeless cult classic, Death, the uncompromising anti-hero, is unbeknownst to none. It is a masterclass in momentum and sophisticated gore.
Best In Show
Robert Flynn Head of Reviews
Any insufferable comedy fanatic will jump at the chance to celebrate the mockumentaries of Christopher Guest. Today, I am the said insufferable fanatic. Best in Show may not be the best film from the year 2000 but it is undoubtedly the funniest. While Waiting for Guffman (1996) demonstrated Guest’s deft talent at creating a mockumentary so earnestly crafted and sincerely performed that it can often feel like a straight up documentary, he didn’t perfect his unmistakable comedic cadence until he entered the world of competitive dog shows.
Best in Show is coloured with the most eclectic group of Guest characters that boast career best performances from the likes of Guest regulars Fred Willard, Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara and Parker Posey. To not be familiar with Guest’s masterpiece is a disservice to oneself: Embrace the competition, give in to your pettiness, and strive to be the Best in Show!
Scary Movie
Kelly Smyth News Reporter
The year 2000 saw the launch of the Scary Movie franchise, a parody of popular horror films. Directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans and written by Shawn and Marlon Wayans (best known for White Chicks), the film featured a star-studded cast and became a cult classic.
The plot follows a group of teenagers who, after covering up a hit-and-run - à la I Know What You Did Last Summer - are stalked by a masked killer parodying Scream's Ghostface. The film satirizes slasher tropes, opening with a scene mocking horror victims' tendency to flee dramatically, only to be caught by a slow-moving killer.
Beyond its clever critique, Scary Movie cemented its place in pop culture with quotable lines like “Run, b*tch, run!” and “Wassap!” While some jokes have aged poorly, its impact on pop culture and commercial success cannot be ignored.