The 2000s were a time of great change for cinema.
However, few people would’ve foreseen Damon’s next career path: action hero.
Doubtfire,Aladdin, andThe Birdcage.
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Williams is good inChristopher Nolan’sInsomnia, but he is absolutely brilliant in the psychological thrillerOne Hour Photo.
Thus, it was the perfect time to take some acting risks; enterCollateral.
Cruise’s villainous turn inCollateralstands as one of the finest performances of his long and esteemed career.
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If a movie had Murphy, audiences could expect wild antics, irreverent humor, and endless energy.
In a purely villainous and despicable role,Washington is astounding and wholly believable.
It turns out King Kong, indeed, has nothing on him.
If Hayek wanted a change in her career, she knew she had to engineer it herself.
The actress spearheaded a biopic of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo.
However, her hard work paid off.
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In 2003,Salma Hayek became the first Mexican actressto earn an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.
For her work inMonster, Theron won a mountain of accolades, including the 2004 Oscar for Best Actress.
The actress completely disappears into the role, justifying her against-jot down casting from her first scene.
NEXT:The 10 Biggest Movie Stars of the 2000s, Ranked
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