Babes's TOP 20 of the 21st Century

   Upon revisiting previous lists detailing my Top films of the 2010s and my Top 100 of all time (and then 200), I've come to realize that some that I once held in high regard have since come to pass. Films that initially made me ooh and ahh on their first viewing, and maybe even dug in their heels for a second watch, just didn't hold up. There are varying reasons for this and I'm not ashamed to say. Some were viewed under the influence, and things can often be more forgivable in those circumstance, while sobriety definitely changes how you interpret art. Others were initially forgiven for their dreadful bleakness, and the person I am now, can simply not overlook that. 

  I can beat a dead horse and remind you that this art medium has run dry after 1999, but it's been said, argued, and the point has been made. Instead I will highlight the shiny gems. These are forever rewatchable, which should really be the only reason to grant it permission to be on any list. I'm sure you've seen em, but if for some reason you missed one, add it to your queue. 

- Babes

20. Little Children (2006)

While the book was better, the film moves me to pieces. The adults all act like babies, ignore their offspring, and make terrible choices. It hurts so good.

19. Mud (2012)

As a boy's life is falling apart on a southern river bed, he finds hope in working to reunite an escaped convict with his long lost love. If he can bring them back together, then love can exist, even if his parents have failed at it. Your heart breaks with him through the entirety of the feature. 

18. The Wailing (2016)

This movie scared the shit out of me when nothing really can anymore. Enough said.  

17. A History of Violence (2005)

I can agree that Cronenberg isn't a great director, but he can get some incredible performances. While you don't remember the direction of this movie, you certainly remember every singe interaction between characters. 

16. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

This is arguably the defining hipster movie of this generation, with Kate Winslet specifically creating a character that every young woman of that time identified with. 

15. Birth (2004)

This movie gets better and asks more questions every single time you watch it. Expertly made, mysterious, and awe-inspiring.

14. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

Fewer movies make me laugh harder than this one. While over the years I've come to dislike this filmmaker's style, it works for this movie; adding to it even.

13. The Place Beyond the Pines (2012)

A modern twist on the classic story of how the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. No matter how much you try to protect your kids, and shield them from who you are and don't want them to become, it's gonna happen anyway. History has a funny way of repeating itself. 

12. Red Rocket (2021)

Nothing has come close to shining such a bright light on a such a pathetic loser than this. You love to hate him, but hope he wins so bad. 

11. Catch Me if You Can (2002)

This is the last best Spielberg movie. He does his family thing that he does so well, but without the eye wincing CGI. Bonus points that it's a Christmas movie. 

10. American Hustle (2013)

I loves me a big ensemble cast. Throw in some disco, comedy, and high class theft, and you've got an A+.

9. A Serious Man (2009)

This is epitome of existential dread, but funny haha. If you're ever in a crisis and need a movie for the mood, this is the one for you.

8. Seeking a Friend for the End of the World (2012)

I will defend this one forever as truly one of the most genuinely romantic movies of all time. 

7. Drive (2011)

Even revisiting this one I have to hold my breath in several places. The intensity is overwhelming. 

6. Zodiac (2007)

This is less about the Zodiac killer and more about Robert Graysmith's problems. Mostly with obsession. Literally going down the rabbit hole and possibly staring evil in the face does not deter him from pressing on.

5. The Lords of Salem (2012)

Of the many movies about witches out there, this one feels the most original and authentic to me. The entire viewing experience feels like a delve into the occult and you come out of it marked by the devil.

4. Prisoners (2013)

Every time I watch this I think it's about something else. I love something new about it. Everyone is great in it. Even though you know the outcome, you are white knuckled throughout, wondering if everything will turn out alright.

3. It Follows (2014)

Watch it a few times in a row and realize that there is so much more going on here than surface terror. 

2.  Inglourious Basterds (2009)

We all wish there was some singular Jewish heroine that blew away the bad guys of World War II. Quentin just actualized it in the most explosive and fucking amazing way you can possibly comprehend.

1. Phantom Thread (2017)

Not only the best film of the 2000s but my favorite movie. It's beauty is only stolen by its intelligence. 

NAME THAT MOVIE!

Welcome back from the break! Hope everyone enjoyed their bright copper kettles and cream colored ponies and so on, but now it's time to punch the clock and embrace the cold sunshine. In other words, a return to the grind. And what better way to welcome back the monotony of meat and pudding than with this obligation? The last set proved to be messy fun, and presented further proof that hardcore Braveheart fandom didn't last too long past the 1990s. Whatever, we don't have to go on celebrating every avenue of the culture, some things can just have their moment. 

As for this, the midpoint between "way too easy" and "way too hard" is always a moving target, and there's always the possibility we'll miss the mark. Differently put, sorry if we've insulted your intelligence/broke your brain. Your heart is free, have the courage to follow it. 

EASY

FAIR

DIFFICULT

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