2004 was a good year for cinema, delivering a diverse array of films that lefta lasting cultural impact.
Its gems range from deeply introspective dramas to high-energy action thrillers.
Both have their own problems, hopes, and regrets, responding to midlife crises in different ways.
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The movie also takes a refreshingly kind approach rather than a satirical one.
The characters' flaws aren’t ridiculed but observed with empathy.
The script is nuanced and fundamentally hopeful, rightly winning that year’s Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay.
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“Tom Cruisedeliversone of his best performancesin this sleek thriller, playing against punch in.
He is Vincent, a ruthless contract killer with a list of targets to eliminate in a single night.
The two polar opposite characters create an engaging dynamic.
Two men reaching middle age with not much to show but disappointment embark on a week-long road trip through California’s wine country, just as one is about to take a trip down the aisle.
In particular, the introspection and the intelligent, believable dialogue elevateCollateralover similar, more middling films.
“The Incrediblesis not just one ofPixar’s best filmsit’s one of the greatest superhero movies ever made.
Wright’s affection for the zombie genre shines through, and everything about this movie feels lovingly crafted.
The rapid-fire editing, clever foreshadowing, and endlessly quotable dialogue make it incredibly rewatchable.
6’Kill Bill: Vol.
While the first was a blood-soaked rampage of martial arts and revenge,Vol.
This movie just bursts with creativity and an unabashed love for cinema, making its charms hard to resist.
But unlike the youthful optimism ofBefore Sunrise, this film is tinged with regret and longing.
The stars co-wroteBefore Sunsetwith the director.
What a fantastic meeting of the minds.
Shes got talent and shes got heart.”
Eastwoods restrained direction allows the emotions to simmer, adding to their impact when they finally boil over.
It earned him his second directing Oscar, as well as the Best Actress award for Swank.
“Sam Raimi’sSpider-Manmovies helped forge the path for the superhero boom of the late 2000s.
They work so well because they serve up big spectacles along with compelling characters and a ton of emotion.
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When his powers start failing due to self-doubt, he faces an identity crisis.
Meanwhile, the threat of Doctor Octavius (Alfred Molina) looms.
This movie doubles down on everything that madeSpider-Manenjoyable: the action, the character work, the emotional stakes.
This is a blockbuster with soul.
This setsSpider-Man 2apart from many recent blockbusters, which heap spectacle upon anemic plots and flimsy protagonists.
Peter is real and relatable, which is essential to the movie’s success.
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Sadly, we’re unlikely to see many more superhero flicks like this anytime soon.
The leads are terrific.
Carrey is vulnerable and restrained, a far cry from the gonzo humor he became famous for.
Meanwhile, Winslet is warm and volatile, yet more complex than the stereotypical ‘manic pixie dream girl.
What a singular vision.
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