2005 Movies

Our 2005 Plex database serves as your go-to platform to quickly access an extensive array of films. This efficient and comprehensive page will save you time and simplify your movie selection process, allowing you to explore and enjoy the best 2005 films at your convenience.
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The Best Movies of 2005

The following list takes you through the top cinematic highlights of that year, selected based on their ingenuity, storytelling prowess, and unforgettable performances.

Batman Begins

We start with the iconic cinematic reboot—Christopher Nolan's Batman Begins. This film brilliantly resurrected the Batman franchise that had been lying dormant after the much-maligned Batman & Robin. Nolan's interpretation was not just a faithful rendering of the comic book source, but also an outstanding stand-alone entertainment piece that stirred the interest of non-comic fans. Christian Bale's portrayal of the haunted Bruce Wayne and his transformation into the Dark Knight remains a highlight.

Brokeback Mountain

Brokeback Mountain had a tumultuous journey before reaching the big screen. Yet, its cast and crew were unyieldingly exceptional. Heath Ledger's Oscar-worthy performance, Ang Lee's sensitive direction, and the compelling love story that unfolded over decades were remarkable.

Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith

The galactic saga continued with George Lucas's Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith. This installment served as the gripping conclusion to the prequel trilogy, where fans witnessed the downfall of Anakin Skywalker and the rise of Darth Vader. Obi-Wan Kenobi, portrayed by Ewan McGregor, battled the nefarious General Grievous, while Anakin's visions and the execution of Order 66 set a dark tone for the future of the Jedi.

A History of Violence

A History of Violence, based on a graphic novel, was a clever critique of American cinema's penchant for showcasing evil invading innocence. David Cronenberg, known for his audacious storytelling, created a thrilling yet amusing drama that left audiences grappling with the brutal violence displayed on-screen.

King Kong

Peter Jackson's King Kong was a magnificent homage to the film that inspired his filmmaking journey. Despite its extended runtime and a few casting missteps, the action sequences on Skull Island were grand and breathtaking, proving once again that Jackson was indeed a master of big-screen spectacles.

Kingdom of Heaven

Ridley Scott's Kingdom of Heaven transported audiences to the time of the Crusades, a pivotal period in history. The narrative followed Balian, a blacksmith who became a knight, defending Jerusalem against incredible odds. The film excellently portrayed the complexity of the era, with Orlando Bloom's Balian finding himself in the midst of political intrigues and religious wars. Furthermore, the film's depiction of the quest for peace and understanding between religions and cultures, despite the surrounding turmoil, was a remarkable element. Through the lens of this epic historical drama, Scott highlighted the power of hope, courage, and honor.

War of the Worlds

Steven Spielberg's War of the Worlds was an intense retelling of the classic H.G. Wells' tale. Not just another science fiction movie, it addressed the human subconscious fears stemming from recent historical traumas, providing a powerful metaphor for 9/11 and the Nazi holocaust.

Capote

Bennett Miller's Capote offered a chilling glimpse into the soul of an artist as Truman Capote, played by Phillip Seymour Hoffman, wrestled with the cost of his art while investigating a Kansas bloodbath. The stark narrative and outstanding performances offered a chilling examination of the artistry.

Me and You and Everyone We Know

Miranda July's Me and You and Everyone We Know offered an enchanting exploration of everyday life and relationships. The film, filled with unexpected moments and profound insights, successfully elevated the ordinary to extraordinary.

The Squid and the Whale

Finally, Noah Baumbach's The Squid and the Whale masterfully captured the reality of a family navigating divorce. Baumbach's apt direction and sharp wit elevated this seemingly simple narrative, offering an empathetic portrayal of each character's individual struggles.

2005 Movies & Industry Highlights

2005 Top-Grossing Films

Moving away from the thematic developments, 2005 was a blockbuster year in terms of box-office revenues. "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" topped the list, generating close to $896 million worldwide. Close on its heels was "Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith," which earned about $868 million.

"The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" followed suit with approximately $745 million. "War of the Worlds" came in fourth with roughly $604 million. In fifth place, we have "King Kong," raking in about $562 million worldwide.

Other notable mentions include "Madagascar," "Mr. & Mrs. Smith," "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," "Batman Begins," and "Hitch," each earning several hundreds of millions and contributing significantly to a successful year in the film industry.

2005's Takeaways

2005 was also a successful one in terms of revenue generation, with several films crossing significant milestones. In retrospect, it becomes clear that 2005 was a pivotal year, setting the tone for future years in the American film industry, both in terms of content and financial success.