The Big Picture: The 2000 Movie Mega-Draft
Hosted by Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins | Released June 4, 2025
Introduction to the 2000 Movie Mega-Draft
In this episode of The Big Picture, hosted by Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins of The Ringer, the team, along with special guests Rob Mahoney, Joanna Robinson, Mallory Rubin, Van Lathan, and others, embark on a comprehensive movie draft focused on the year 2000. The session involves categorizing and selecting standout films from various genres, reflecting on personal connections and the cultural impact of these movies.
Setting the Draft Order
The draft begins with Sean Fennessey introducing the participants and setting up the draft order with the help of producer Bobby Wagner.
Sean Fennessey (02:19):
"Selecting first overall will be Mallory Rubin."
Rob Mahoney follows as the second pick, with the order proceeding from there until Amanda Dobbins secures the final pick.
Category Descriptions and Rules Discussion
Sean outlines the seven categories for the draft:
- Classics
- Drama
- Comedy
- Action/Horror Thriller
- Oscar Nominee
- Original
- Blockbuster
- Wild Card
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the "Original" category, debating whether movies based on true events or adapted from other media should qualify.
Rob Mahoney (25:00):
"If it is a historical adaptation, if it is based on a book, if it is based on a play... we're saying that being based on real figures is the same as being an adaptation of a book, which to me is ludicrous."
After a lively debate, an allowance is made for "Billy Elliot" to be considered an original, despite its adaptations from a play.
Draft Selections and Rationale
Rob Mahoney: Gladiator as Oscar Nominee
Rob selects Gladiator for the Oscar Nominee category, highlighting its critical acclaim and lasting impact.
Rob Mahoney (31:08):
"I will be taking Gladiator, which I think is the closest in Oscar nominee."
Despite some mockery of Sean's slight whisper campaign against the film, Rob remains confident in his choice.
Mallory Rubin: Almost Famous as Comedy
Mallory chooses Almost Famous for the Comedy category, emphasizing its nostalgic value and personal significance.
Mallory Rubin (34:07):
"It's an undeniably charming, undeniable movie. It's so hard not to get swept away in it."
Joanna Robinson: O Brother, Where Art Thou? as Original
Joanna selects O Brother, Where Art Thou? for the Original category, praising its unique storytelling and cultural resonance.
Joanna Robinson (55:38):
"This is an incredibly important movie to me. It's the origin story of Joanna and a perfect movie."
Sean Fennessey: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon as Blockbuster
Sean picks Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon for the Blockbuster category, appreciating its cinematic beauty and martial arts choreography.
Sean Fennessey (37:15):
"It's a gorgeous wuxia film... incredible wire work. This movie made like $130 million."
Chris Ryan: Can You Count on Me as Original
Chris selects Can You Count on Me for the Original category, valuing its heartfelt narrative and authentic performances.
Chris Ryan (40:14):
"It's one of the most amazing portraits of family love that I've ever seen."
Van Lathan: Bamboozled as Original
Van chooses Bamboozled for the Original category, commending Spike Lee's audacity and the film's cultural critique.
Van Lathan (46:06):
"It completely reorients the way you look at yourself and the entertainment industry."
Amanda Dobbins: Virgin Suicides as Drama & Bring It On as Comedy
Amanda opts for The Virgin Suicides in Drama, citing its emotional depth, and Bring It On for Comedy, highlighting its cultural impact and memorable performances.
Amanda Dobbins (50:05):
"Great teen comedy with an incredible Kirsten Dunst performance."
Notable Debates and Insights
Defining the "Original" Category
A recurring theme is the challenge of categorizing films, particularly what qualifies as "Original." The group grapples with whether films based on true stories or adapted from existing works should be included.
Mallory Rubin (26:25):
"What if the figures are public domain but not directly based on someone's life?"
After deliberation, Billy Elliot is accepted as an Original, despite its adaptations.
Sequels and Franchises
The team discusses the scarcity of sequels in the 2000 draft, contrasting it with the trend of sequelization in the decades prior.
Sean Fennessey (23:46):
"There are only two sequels in the top 21 movies from this year."
Honorable Mentions
Several critically acclaimed films like Requiem for a Dream and Snatch are discussed, with some being selected in their respective categories and others passing unnoticed.
Conclusion: Wrap-Up of the Draft
As the draft concludes, each participant reviews their selections, reflecting on the diversity and personal significance of their choices. The hosts commend the participants for their engaging and passionate selections, setting the stage for future episodes where they delve deeper into these films.
Sean Fennessey (127:30):
"Thank you, guys. Nice job, everybody. Really nice job."
Amanda hints at upcoming discussions, promising to explore Wes Anderson's The Phoenician Scheme.
Notable Quotes
-
Sean Fennessey (23:48):
"They have to make original movies. This was the year they did it." -
Rob Mahoney (33:14):
"I've watched 'Gladiator' and 'Snatch' numerous times, and they hold up remarkably well." -
Mallory Rubin (34:05):
"I'm thrilled to take 'Almost Famous' as my comedy pick. It changed my life." -
Joanna Robinson (42:20):
"The soundtrack of 'Billy Elliot' has snippets of dialogue that I have memorized." -
Amanda Dobbins (50:06):
"I preferred 'Bring It On' to 'Ant-Man' because of its authentic cheerleading representation."
Final Thoughts
The 2000 Movie Mega-Draft episode showcases the hosts and guests' deep connections to the films from that year, blending personal anecdotes with critical analysis. Their passionate discussions highlight the enduring legacy of these movies and their impact on both individual lives and broader culture.