The Best Movies Of 2004, Ranked

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Updated September 14, 2023 18.4K votes 1.0K voters 37.3K views
Over 1.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies Of 2004, Ranked
Voting Rules
Only movies released in theaters in 2004.

With over 1,000 votes cast, this list of the best movies from 2004 is sure to spark debate and nostalgia among movie fans. The year 2004 was a landmark one in film history, with blockbuster hits like Shrek 2, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and The Incredibles all vying for top honors.

But it wasn't just blockbusters that made their mark on audiences. Indie films such as Garden State, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Sideways, and Napoleon Dynamite were equally successful at making an impact on viewers around the world.

These iconic films stand out not only because they're filled with great performances but also because they tackle complex issues with wit and poise. From existential pondering to psychological thrillers to rom-coms about star-crossed lovers; there's something here for everyone.

Whether you've seen them all or whether you're just looking for some new flicks to add to your watchlist; make sure you check out this ranking of the best movies from 2004 and vote up your favorites.

Most divisive: Meet the Fockers
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  • Shrek 2
    1

    Shrek 2

    Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz
    494 votes
    • Directed by: Andrew Adamson, Kelly Asbury, Conrad Vernon
    In the genre-bending Shrek 2, Shrek (voiced by Mike Myers) and Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) set off on a new adventure. Fresh from their honeymoon, they're summoned to Fiona's homeland, Far Far Away, to meet her royal parents (John Cleese and Julie Andrews). A fairytale twist ensues as Prince Charming (Rupert Everett) plots to take Fiona's hand. The movie boasts a star-studded voice cast and has won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It also introduces the swashbuckling Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas), a memorable addition to the franchise. This sequel delivers a mix of humor, adventure, and romance while exploring themes of acceptance and identity.

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  • The Incredibles
    2

    The Incredibles

    Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson
    719 votes
    • Directed by: Brad Bird
    In The Incredibles, Bob Parr (Craig T. Nelson), once known as Mr. Incredible, is a superhero in hiding, tucked away in suburban monotony with his wife Helen (Holly Hunter), formerly Elastigirl, and their three children. When duty calls, the family must leave their ordinary lives behind to combat the nefarious Syndrome (Jason Lee). This Pixar animated film, a blend of action and comedy, takes us on an extraordinary journey of familial bond and heroism, while exploring themes like identity and societal expectations. Winner of two Academy Awards, The Incredibles is a testament to Pixar's prowess in storytelling and animation.

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  • Spider-Man 2
    3

    Spider-Man 2

    Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco
    643 votes
    • Directed by: Sam Raimi
    Spider-Man 2, a superhero flick directed by Sam Raimi, unravels the complex life of Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire). As Spider-Man, he battles with the duality of his existence - saving New York City while juggling college and love. His world intensifies with the emergence of Dr. Otto Octavius (Alfred Molina), a brilliant scientist turned villain 'Doc Ock' after a failed experiment. Amidst personal struggles and high-stakes action, Parker must find balance. This film won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects, highlighting its impressive cinematic prowess.

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  • Shaun of the Dead
    4

    Shaun of the Dead

    Simon Pegg, Kate Ashfield, Lucy Davis
    536 votes
    • Directed by: Edgar Wright
    Shaun of the Dead is a British horror-comedy film, where Shaun (Simon Pegg) plays an ordinary salesman whose life spirals into zombie-infested chaos. His best friend, Ed (Nick Frost), joins him in this unexpected journey. The duo's lackadaisical attitude towards the undead apocalypse creates a unique blend of horror and humor, making it a standout in its genre. Directed by Edgar Wright, the movie received critical acclaim upon release for its clever script and memorable performances. It's not just about surviving zombies; it's also about rekindling relationships and seizing control of one's life amidst all the madness.

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  • Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
    5

    Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

    Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson
    602 votes
    • Directed by: Alfonso Cuarón
    In the third installment of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) finds himself in danger from Sirius Black (Gary Oldman), an escaped convict believed to be one of Lord Voldemort's old allies. The movie, directed by Alfonso Cuaron, takes a darker turn than its predecessors. Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) return as Harry's loyal friends, navigating the treacherous grounds of Hogwarts School. Aided by Professor Lupin (David Thewlis), they unravel secrets about Harry's past while tackling creatures like Dementors and Werewolves. This film won a BAFTA for Best Production Design in 2004.

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  • The Bourne Supremacy
    6

    The Bourne Supremacy

    Matt Damon, Franka Potente, Brian Cox
    448 votes
    • Directed by: Paul Greengrass
    In The Bourne Supremacy, amnesiac assassin Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) is reluctantly thrust back into the deadly world of espionage. After a failed assassination attempt on his life, Bourne is driven to uncover fragments of his past while battling a sinister conspiracy within the CIA. Joan Allen plays Pamela Landy, a high-ranking officer determined to expose the truth. Set against an international backdrop, this action-thriller, second in the Bourne series, weaves suspense and intrigue into a complex narrative. The film won an Academy Award for Best Film Editing, underscoring its gripping pace and layered storytelling.

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