The 2000s were a defining era for cinema.

Blooms work inKingdom of HeavenandTroysolidified his niche in epic historical dramas.

Bloom thrives in an ensemble cast.

Custom image of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie from Mr. & Mrs. Smith against a red background

Custom Image by Zanda Rice

Her Oscar-nominated role inMoulin Rouge!showcased her vocal talents and earned her critical acclaim.

The same year, she starred in the atmosphericThe Others, giving an emotional and suspenseful performance.

Today, Kidman remains one of the most daring and consistently interesting actresses of her generation.

Legolas (Orlando Bloom) stands next to a white horse with his bow across his back

Image via Warner Bros.

Confidential,Russell Crowequickly cemented his status as one of Hollywood’s most commanding actors.

His Oscar-winning portrayal of Maximus inGladiatorremains iconic, mixing physicality with emotional depth.

Crowes versatility shone inCinderella Man, where he transformed into Depression-era boxer James Braddock with remarkable authenticity.

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Whether leading epic dramas or exploring offbeat comedic roles,Crowe continues to captivate audiences with his intensity.

He is still a successful working actor, but the 2000s surely were his greatest epoch.

Cruise continues to dominate the box office and redefine action cinema.

Nicole Kidman as Joanna in the 2004 Frank Oz Remake of The Stepford Wives walking in a grocery store.

Image via Paramount Pictures

Indeed, he is among the rare actors who have been continuously on top for four decades and counting.

He headlined two blockbuster franchises, portraying the amnesiac assassin Jason Bournein theBournefranchiseand conman Linus Caldwell in theOceanstrilogy.

Damons range extended to acclaimed dramas likeThe Departed, where he duplicitous performance as an undercover cop.

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These roles showcased Damon’s talent for mixing intelligence and physicality, drawing praise for his nuanced performances.

Damon has maintained his status as one of Hollywoods most consistent talents.

He had just as great a time in the 2010s as he did in the 2000s.

Maximus yelling and spreading his arms while holding a sword in Gladiator

Image via DreamWorks Distribution

However,the noughties were the time when he truly became a movie star.

It’s even more impressive, considering he was also one of the biggest movie stars of the ’90s.

Still,his 2000s-era performances propelled his reputation as an actor on the silver screen.

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DiCaprio worked withMartin ScorseseinGangs of New YorkandThe Aviator.

In recent years, DiCaprio has continued to push artistic boundaries with transformative performances.

and Mrs. SmithandInglourious Basterds, emphasize his knack for both leading and ensemble roles.

Jason Bourne walking down the street and turning to his right in The Bourne Identity

Image via Universal Studios

He received the most acclaim during this decade, even earning an Oscar nod forBenjamin Button.

In the 2000s, Jolie achieved the status of a bonafide movie star.

She explored diverse genres, excelling in action withMr.

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and Mrs. Smith, drama with her Oscar-nominated turn inChangeling, and animation with the highly successfulKung Fu Panda.

Notably, she also starred as the eponymous character inMaleficentand its sequel.

Today,Jolie is renowned for her dynamic screen presenceand ability to balance strength with sensitivity.

Will Smith as Ali looking ahead in Ali (2001)

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

Depps dedication to complex, often challenging roles has kept him in the spotlight.

However,Deep remains the ultimate star of the 2000s, thanks to bold artistic choices and unmatched versatility.

NEXT:The 10 Best Movies That Defined the 2000s, Ranked

Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) turning to his left and staring intensely in The Departed

Image via Warner Bros.Pictures

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Aldo Raine talking to soldiers about killing Nazis in Inglourious Basterds.

Image via The Weinstein Company

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Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow looking confident in Pirates of the Caribbean The Curse of the Black Pearl

Image via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Angelina Jolie

Johnny Depp