21 Best Films Of The 21st Century By Genre

A good case can be made that Science Fiction hit its peak in the 20th century, with the likes of 2001: A Space Odyssey often the first mentioned in discussions of best films ever. The likes of the Alien and Terminator franchise excelled by mixing sci-fi tropes with action and horror genres. There was a feeling of been there done that with more recent sci-fi offerings, in spite of the odd mode evoking gem like 2009's Moon.

Then along came Gravity, a perfect story supported by perfect cinematography. While other films of this ilk have asked the big questions in a non emotional academic manner, Cuaron's masterpiece has genuine soul. While effectively a two hander, the film works as a character study of Sandra Bullock's Ryan Stone, a grieving mother on her first mission in space.

It is impossible to describe the utter brilliance of the cinematography, with Cuaron seemingly executing the impossible. There is one moment displaying Ryan floating in space that has to be seen to be believed. Beginning with a long shot, the camera zooms in to a point of view shot inside Ryan's helmet, before pulling back to a long shot without a single edit. The complementing sound design and music score is also phenomenal.

At the end of the day though this movie is about life and death, and the ability for humans to move on from tragedy. Bullock gives a career best performance that has us sobbing as we marvel at the remarkable aesthetics on display.