The Daily: The 100 Best Movies of the 21st Century

Host: Natalie Kitroeff
Guest: Kyle Buchanan, Senior Editor at The New York Times Culture Desk
Release Date: August 14, 2025

1. Introduction to the Top 100 Movies List

In this episode of The Daily, Natalie Kitroeff delves into the New York Times' ambitious project: ranking the top 100 movies of the 21st century. This initiative sparked intense debates about cinematic quality, cultural impact, and personal connections to film.

2. The Creation Process

Kyle Buchanan explains the meticulous process behind the list's creation. The team polled approximately 500 industry professionals, including directors, actors, writers, and other film experts, asking them to nominate their top 10 films released since January 1, 2020.

Kyle Buchanan [04:17]: "We went to about 500 people who work in the movie industry and around it, and we asked them to submit their ballots for what they thought were the 10 best movies released since January 1, 2020."

This diverse group included notable figures such as Pedro Almodovar, Sofia Coppola, Guillermo del Toro, and Christopher Nolan, ensuring a wide array of perspectives.

3. Highlights and Surprises in the List

The resulting list showcased unexpected inclusions alongside anticipated classics. Notably, Christopher Nolan dominated with five films, underscoring his status as a contemporary auteur.

Kyle Buchanan [12:42]: "If anybody could be regarded as the Spielberg of this century, it's Chris Nolan."

"Mulholland Drive" by David Lynch secured the second spot, illustrating the list's appreciation for avant-garde and psychologically complex narratives.

4. Notable Inclusions

Several films stood out for their cultural resonance and storytelling prowess:

• "Parasite": Ranked number one, this South Korean masterpiece highlighted the global relevance of class struggles and won international acclaim.

  Kyle Buchanan [19:07]: "Parasite is about the issues that we're contending with on a daily basis right now... it speaks to our current moment even better than it did when it came out."

• "Mad Max: Fury Road": Celebrated for its visceral action and practical effects, this film exemplified the enduring appeal of high-octane cinema.

  Kyle Buchanan [28:28]: "Mad Fury Road... you think I just don't feel anything anymore... it's visceral in a way that almost nothing is anymore."

• "Black Panther": Recognized for resetting the game in superhero cinema by infusing rich cultural elements and strong character development.

  Gina Prince-Bythewood [25:39]: "Black Panther just absolutely reset the game... showing black culture in such a beautiful way."

5. Surprising Exclusions

Despite the extensive list, certain genres and films were noticeably absent:

• Superhero Movies: Only "Black Panther" and "The Dark Knight" made the top 100, indicating the high standard required for genre films to be considered timeless.

  Kyle Buchanan [23:51]: "There are only two... indicating that the movie has to be really, really good to stand the test of time."

• "Mean Girls": A beloved teen comedy was notably omitted, sparking discussions about genre biases and nostalgia-driven selections.

  Molly Ringwald [10:38]: "And I wish Mean Girls had made the list. Huge snub."

6. Patterns and Themes

The list revealed a strong presence of auteur filmmakers, whose distinctive styles and personal visions shaped modern cinema. Directors like the Coen brothers and Paul Thomas Anderson were heavily represented, showcasing their significant influence.

Kyle Buchanan [11:14]: "Four movies on this list are made by the Coen brothers... that's the mark of a true auteur."

Additionally, the absence of streaming-exclusive films suggested a preference for theatrical releases that leave a lasting impression.

7. The Importance of the Theatrical Experience

Both Kyle and Natalie emphasized how watching films in a theater enhances their impact, creating memorable communal experiences that streaming often lacks.

Gina Prince-Bythewood [37:03]: "It's the shared experience of people you don't even know... an incredible thing."

Kyle Buchanan [34:39]: "Uncut Gems... it's such an intense, propulsive movie that being in the second row made it feel like I was in a car speeding down the highway."

8. The Future of Movies Amid Streaming Dominance

While acknowledging the rise of streaming platforms, the discussion highlighted cinema's enduring relevance. Kyle expressed confidence that movies would continue to thrive, asserting their unique ability to offer transformative experiences.

Kyle Buchanan [38:40]: "Movies will be around. The process of watching them may continue to change... movies will always offer something special."

9. Conclusion

The episode concluded with reflections on the timelessness of great cinema and its ability to mirror societal changes. The New York Times' Top 100 list not only celebrates exceptional films but also underscores movies' pivotal role in shaping and reflecting cultural narratives.

Notable Quotes:

• Kyle Buchanan [04:17]: "We asked them to submit their ballots for what they thought were the 10 best movies released since January 1, 2020."
• Gina Prince-Bythewood [25:39]: "Black Panther just absolutely reset the game."
• Kyle Buchanan [19:07]: "Parasite... speaks to our current moment even better than it did when it came out."
• Gina Prince-Bythewood [37:03]: "It's the shared experience of people you don't even know... an incredible thing."

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the podcast episode, highlighting key discussions around the New York Times' Top 100 Movies list, the selection process, standout films, and the enduring significance of the cinematic experience.