The Greatest Films of the 21st Century

Description: Peter Jackson's adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy saga set a new standard for fantasy films with its stunning visuals, intricate world-building, and emotional depth.

Fact: The film was shot simultaneously with its sequels, and the New Zealand landscape was used extensively to represent Middle-earth.

Description: David Lynch's surreal narrative about Hollywood dreams and nightmares is a complex puzzle that invites multiple interpretations. Its dreamlike quality and exploration of identity make it a cult classic.

Fact: The film was originally intended as a TV pilot but was reworked into a feature film when the pilot was not picked up.

Description: This film redefined the superhero genre with its dark, gritty portrayal of Batman and the introduction of Heath Ledger's unforgettable performance as the Joker. It's a profound examination of chaos, order, and morality.

Fact: Heath Ledger posthumously won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and the film was the first comic book movie to win a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture - Drama.

Description: Paul Thomas Anderson's epic tale of ambition, greed, and the American Dream, this film features Daniel Day-Lewis in one of his most iconic roles. Its exploration of the oil industry and personal obsession makes it a cinematic masterpiece.

Fact: The film was inspired by Upton Sinclair's novel "Oil!", and the famous "milkshake" scene was improvised by Day-Lewis.

Description: The Coen Brothers' adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's novel is a tense, existential thriller about fate, morality, and the American West. Its minimalist style and chilling performances, particularly by Javier Bardem, are unforgettable.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and Bardem's character, Anton Chigurh, was inspired by a real-life killer.

Description: David Fincher's film about the founding of Facebook captures the zeitgeist of the digital age, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and the impact of technology on society.

Fact: Aaron Sorkin wrote the screenplay in just six months, and the film was shot in chronological order to reflect the rapid rise of the company.

Description: Christopher Nolan's mind-bending exploration of dreams within dreams, "Inception" is a landmark film for its complex narrative structure and groundbreaking visual effects. It delves into the subconscious, exploring themes of reality, memory, and identity.

Fact: The film required the creation of a new software to simulate the dream worlds, and it took 6 months to film the rotating hallway scene.

Description: Wes Anderson's visually stunning and whimsical tale about a legendary concierge and his lobby boy at a renowned European hotel. It's a love letter to cinema with its vibrant colors, meticulous set design, and a poignant story about art, politics, and legacy.

Fact: The film uses three different aspect ratios to represent different time periods, and the hotel's exterior was inspired by the architecture of the Hungarian Parliament Building.

Description: Barry Jenkins' coming-of-age story about a young black man grappling with his identity, sexuality, and the harsh realities of his environment. It's a deeply personal and universally resonant film that won Best Picture at the Oscars.

Fact: The film was shot in just 25 days, and its title refers to the nickname given to the protagonist by his mother, symbolizing his inner light and potential.

Description: A unique blend of science fiction and romance, this film explores the concept of erasing memories of a past relationship. Its non-linear narrative and emotional depth make it a standout in modern cinema.

Fact: The film was shot in reverse order to help the actors portray the disintegration of their characters' memories.