The year 2007 was a notable year for cinema, with many critically acclaimed films and box office successes. It was a year that saw a diverse range of films, from epic blockbusters to independent gems, and featured talented directors and actors from around the world.
Some of the standout films from 2007 include “No Country for Old Men,” directed by Joel and Ethan Coen and starring Javier Bardem and Tommy Lee Jones;
“There Will Be Blood,” directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Daniel Day-Lewis; “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly,” directed by Julian Schnabel; “Zodiac,” directed by David Fincher; and “Juno,” directed by Jason Reitman and starring Ellen Page.
Best 2007 Movies
These films and many others from 2007 continue to be celebrated for their originality, innovation, and impact on the film industry.
1. Atonement (2007)
“Atonement” is a romantic war drama film directed by Joe Wright and released in 2007. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Ian McEwan.
The story takes place in England during the 1930s and 1940s and follows the lives of three characters: Briony Tallis, played by Saoirse Ronan, Cecilia Tallis, played by Keira Knightley, and Robbie Turner, played by James McAvoy.
When Briony falsely accuses Robbie of a crime he did not commit, it sets off a chain of events that alters the course of their lives and relationships.
The film was praised for its stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and gripping storytelling. “Atonement” received numerous award nominations and won the Academy Award for Best Original Score.
It explored themes of love, guilt, and redemption, and left a lasting impression on audiences with its haunting and emotional ending.
2. American Gangster (2007)
American Gangster is a 2007 American biographical crime film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe.
The movie is based on the true story of Frank Lucas, a notorious drug lord who smuggled heroin into the United States during the late 1960s and early 1970s, and Richie Roberts, the detective who was determined to bring him down.
The film follows Lucas as he rises to power in the criminal underworld of Harlem, New York, by taking over the drug trade previously controlled by the Italian mafia.
Lucas uses his connections in Vietnam to smuggle high-grade heroin into the United States, making him one of the wealthiest and most powerful drug dealers in the country. Meanwhile, Roberts, a honest and determined cop, investigates Lucas’s activities and attempts to bring him to justice.
American Gangster was well-received by both critics and audiences, who praised its performances, direction, and screenplay.
The film was noted for its realistic portrayal of the drug trade and the corrupt nature of law enforcement in the 1970s. Denzel Washington’s performance as Frank Lucas was particularly praised, earning him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actor.
The movie was also a commercial success, grossing over $266 million worldwide against its $100 million budget.
3. Eastern Promises (2007)
“Eastern Promises” is a 2007 British-Canadian-American crime thriller film directed by David Cronenberg and written by Steven Knight.
The film stars Viggo Mortensen as Nikolai, a Russian-born member of the London-based Russian Mafia who becomes embroiled in a power struggle within the organization after a midwife, played by Naomi Watts, discovers evidence of their illegal activities.
The film is known for its graphic violence, intense performances, and complex exploration of the criminal underworld. Viggo Mortensen’s portrayal of Nikolai received critical acclaim and earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
“Eastern Promises” is a gritty and visceral film that explores the complex and violent world of organized crime, as well as the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by those caught up in it.
It is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller that delves into the depths of the human psyche and the lengths people will go to protect their own interests.
4. Juno (2007)
“Juno” is a 2007 American comedy-drama film directed by Jason Reitman and written by Diablo Cody. The film stars Ellen Page as Juno MacGuff, a teenage girl who becomes pregnant and decides to give the baby up for adoption.
The film also features Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner, and Jason Bateman in supporting roles.
The plot follows Juno as she navigates the challenges of her unexpected pregnancy, with the support of her best friend Leah (Olivia Thirlby) and her father (J.K. Simmons) and stepmother (Allison Janney).
She eventually chooses a couple, Mark (Bateman) and Vanessa (Garner), to be the adoptive parents of her child. Along the way, she learns about love, friendship, and the importance of family.
The film received critical acclaim for its witty dialogue, strong performances, and nuanced portrayal of a difficult topic. It was praised for its frank and realistic treatment of teenage pregnancy and adoption, as well as its positive depiction of female friendship.
“Juno” was a commercial success, grossing over $230 million worldwide against a budget of just $7.5 million. It was also a major awards contender, earning four Academy Award nominations and winning the award for Best Original Screenplay.
Overall, “Juno” is a heartfelt and humorous film that deals with serious issues in a lighthearted and approachable way. It remains a beloved classic of the indie film genre.
5. No Country for Old Men (2007)
“No Country for Old Men” is a 2007 neo-Western thriller film directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, based on the 2005 novel of the same name by Cormac McCarthy. The film stars Tommy Lee Jones, Javier Bardem, and Josh Brolin.
The film follows a hunter named Llewelyn Moss (Brolin) who stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong in the West Texas desert and takes off with a suitcase full of money.
He soon finds himself pursued by a psychopathic hitman named Anton Chigurh (Bardem), who is hired to retrieve the money. Meanwhile, Sheriff Ed Tom Bell (Jones) investigates the case and is troubled by the rising violence and depravity he encounters.
The film was widely praised for its direction, performances, and cinematography, winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actor for Bardem.
It was also nominated for several other awards, including Best Actor for Jones and Best Editing. “No Country for Old Men” is considered a modern classic and one of the best films of the 2000s.
6. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford is a 2007 American western film directed by Andrew Dominik and starring Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck. The film is based on the true story of the notorious outlaw Jesse James and his eventual assassination by his former friend and protégé, Robert Ford.
The film is noted for its contemplative and character-driven approach to the western genre, as well as its stunning cinematography and powerful performances. Brad Pitt delivers a nuanced and complex portrayal of Jesse James, while Casey Affleck shines as the enigmatic and troubled Robert Ford.
Upon its release, the film received critical acclaim and was praised for its thoughtful exploration of themes such as celebrity, obsession, and betrayal. It was also noted for its stunning visual style, with its lush cinematography and evocative score adding to its haunting and melancholic tone.
Despite its critical success, the film was a box office disappointment, but it has since gained a cult following and is considered by many to be a modern classic of the western genre.
7. There Will Be Blood (2007)
“There Will Be Blood” is a 2007 epic drama film directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Daniel Day-Lewis as an ambitious oil prospector named Daniel Plainview. The film is loosely based on Upton Sinclair’s 1927 novel “Oil!” and explores themes of greed, power, and corruption in early 20th-century America.
Set in the early 1900s, the film follows Plainview’s ruthless quest for wealth and power in the oil business. Along the way, he clashes with a charismatic evangelical preacher named Eli Sunday (Paul Dano), whose own ambitions threaten to derail Plainview’s plans.
The film received critical acclaim for its stunning cinematography, haunting score by Jonny Greenwood, and Day-Lewis’ powerful and intense performance, which won him an Academy Award for Best Actor. It was also nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
“There Will Be Blood” is a cinematic masterpiece that explores the darker aspects of the American dream and the human condition.
Its portrayal of ambition, greed, and the cost of success is both chilling and thought-provoking, and it remains a landmark achievement in American cinema.
8. Smokin’ Aces (2006)
“Smokin’ Aces” is an action crime thriller film directed by Joe Carnahan and released in 2006. The film features an ensemble cast including Jeremy Piven, Ryan Reynolds, Ben Affleck, Alicia Keys, and Common.
The story follows a group of hitmen and assassins who are all trying to kill a Las Vegas magician named Buddy “Aces” Israel, who has turned informant for the FBI.
The film is filled with intense action sequences, dark humor, and twists and turns that keep the audience guessing until the very end.
“Smokin’ Aces” received mixed reviews from critics, but it has since gained a cult following for its over-the-top action and memorable characters.
The film’s stylish cinematography, clever dialogue, and unpredictable plot make it an entertaining watch for fans of the action-thriller genre.
9. Ocean’s Thirteen (2007)
Ocean’s Thirteen is a 2007 American heist comedy film directed by Steven Soderbergh and starring an ensemble cast that includes George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, and Al Pacino. The movie is the third installment in the Ocean’s franchise, following Ocean’s Eleven (2001) and Ocean’s Twelve (2004).
In Ocean’s Thirteen, Danny Ocean (Clooney) and his team of skilled thieves reunite to carry out a sophisticated heist against Willy Bank (Pacino), a ruthless casino owner who double-crossed one of their own.
The group plans to rig the casino games in Bank’s new casino, ensuring that he will lose millions of dollars and be forced to close the casino.
As with the previous Ocean’s films, Ocean’s Thirteen was praised for its style, humor, and the chemistry of its cast.
The movie’s plot is intricate and full of twists, and the heist itself is both elaborate and entertaining.
The performances of the actors were also praised, particularly those of Clooney, Pitt, and Pacino. While the film did not receive the same level of critical acclaim as the first Ocean’s movie, it was still a commercial success, grossing over $311 million worldwide.
10. Transformers (2007)
“Transformers” is a 2007 American science fiction action film directed by Michael Bay and based on the Transformers toy line.
The film stars Shia LaBeouf as Sam Witwicky, a high school student who discovers that his car is actually an alien robot named Bumblebee.
As Sam becomes embroiled in a war between two factions of transforming robots, the Autobots and the Decepticons, he must work with the Autobots to stop the Decepticons from destroying Earth.
The film is known for its spectacular visual effects, action sequences, and the iconic designs of the Transformers themselves. It was a commercial success and spawned several sequels, spin-offs, and a live-action film franchise.
“Transformers” is a fun and thrilling film that appeals to fans of the Transformers franchise as well as general audiences. It combines action, humor, and spectacle to create a memorable and entertaining experience.
The film’s success helped to reignite interest in the Transformers brand and solidify it as a cultural phenomenon.
11. Zodiac (2007)
“Zodiac” is a 2007 American mystery-thriller film directed by David Fincher and starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, and Robert Downey Jr.
The film is based on the true story of the Zodiac Killer, a serial killer who operated in the San Francisco Bay Area during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Gyllenhaal plays Robert Graysmith, a newspaper cartoonist who becomes obsessed with the Zodiac case and begins his own investigation.
Ruffalo plays Inspector David Toschi, a detective who is also investigating the case, while Downey Jr. plays Paul Avery, a crime reporter who becomes involved in the investigation.
The film follows the three men as they try to track down the elusive Zodiac Killer, who taunts them with cryptic letters and codes.
As the case drags on for years without resolution, the men become increasingly obsessed with the killer and the case begins to take a toll on their personal lives.
“Zodiac” received critical acclaim for its atmospheric direction, strong performances, and detailed portrayal of the investigation. The film was also praised for its attention to detail and accuracy in depicting the real-life events of the case.
Despite its critical success, “Zodiac” was not a commercial success, grossing only $84 million worldwide against a budget of $65 million.
However, the film has since gained a cult following and is widely regarded as one of Fincher’s best films.
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12. The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)
“The Bourne Ultimatum” is a 2007 action thriller film directed by Paul Greengrass and starring Matt Damon, Julia Stiles, David Strathairn, and Joan Allen.
It is the third installment in the Bourne film series, based on the novels by Robert Ludlum.
The film picks up where the previous installment, “The Bourne Supremacy,” left off, with Jason Bourne (Damon) still on the run and searching for answers about his past.
The film follows Bourne as he continues to evade the CIA while trying to uncover the truth behind his past and the secret program that created him.
“The Bourne Ultimatum” was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $440 million worldwide and receiving three Academy Awards for Best Film Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing.
The film’s intense action sequences and Greengrass’s shaky-cam cinematography have since become a hallmark of the franchise and have been imitated by other action films. It is widely regarded as one of the best action films of the 2000s.
13. Knocked Up (2007)
Knocked Up is a 2007 American romantic comedy film directed by Judd Apatow and starring Seth Rogen and Katherine Heigl.
The film follows the story of Ben Stone, a slacker who impregnates Alison Scott, a successful television presenter, after a one-night stand. The two must navigate the challenges of an unexpected pregnancy, as they struggle with their personal goals and the changing dynamics of their relationship.
The film was praised for its honest and humorous portrayal of pregnancy and relationships, as well as its strong performances from the cast.
Seth Rogen’s performance as Ben was particularly noted for its charm and wit, while Katherine Heigl’s portrayal of Alison was praised for its realism and vulnerability.
Knocked Up was a commercial success, grossing over $219 million worldwide. It was also a critical success, with many critics praising its smart script, relatable characters, and excellent performances.
The film has since become a beloved classic in the romantic comedy genre and a testament to the enduring power of love and family.
14. 300 (2006)
“300” is a 2006 epic action film directed by Zack Snyder and based on the graphic novel by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley.
The film depicts the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC, in which King Leonidas of Sparta (played by Gerard Butler) and 300 Spartan warriors fought against the massive army of the Persian Emperor Xerxes I (played by Rodrigo Santoro).
The film is known for its highly stylized visuals, which use a combination of live-action and CGI to create a graphic novel-like appearance. The film’s action sequences are also highly stylized, with slow-motion shots and exaggerated violence.
While the film received mixed reviews from critics, it was a commercial success, grossing over $450 million worldwide. Its visual style and action sequences have been highly influential, and it has become a cult classic among action movie fans.
Overall, “300” is an entertaining and visually stunning film that tells a dramatic story of bravery and sacrifice in the face of overwhelming odds.
15. 3:10 to Yuma (2007)
“3:10 to Yuma” is a Western film directed by James Mangold and released in 2007. The film is a remake of the 1957 film of the same name.
The story follows a small-time rancher, played by Christian Bale, who is tasked with escorting a notorious outlaw, played by Russell Crowe, to the town of Contention to catch the 3:10 train to Yuma prison.
Along the way, they face various challenges and obstacles, including the outlaw’s ruthless gang and the elements of the desert.
The film was praised for its strong performances by Bale and Crowe, as well as its tight script and intense action sequences. It explores themes of honor, duty, and redemption, and is widely considered to be one of the best Westerns of the 21st century.
“3:10 to Yuma” received numerous award nominations and has since gained a cult following among fans of the genre. The film’s tense climax and unexpected ending make it a thrilling and satisfying watch for Western fans and general audiences alike.
16. The Simpsons Movie (2007)
The Simpsons Movie is a 2007 animated comedy film based on the popular television series The Simpsons. The movie was directed by David Silverman and features the voice cast of the television series, including Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, and Yeardley Smith.
In the film, Homer Simpson accidentally pollutes the town’s water supply, causing the Environmental Protection Agency to quarantine Springfield under a giant dome.
As the town faces disaster, Homer embarks on a mission to save his family and his beloved town from destruction.
The Simpsons Movie was well-received by audiences and critics alike, who praised the film’s humor, animation, and faithfulness to the television series.
The movie’s plot was seen as an extension of the themes and humor of the show, and the film was noted for its self-referential humor and satire of American culture.
The movie was a commercial success, grossing over $527 million worldwide, making it the eighth highest-grossing film of 2007.
17. Superbad (2007)
“Superbad” is a 2007 American coming-of-age teen comedy film directed by Greg Mottola and produced by Judd Apatow.
The film follows two high school seniors, played by Jonah Hill and Michael Cera, who plan to score alcohol for a party and win over their respective love interests.
The film is known for its raunchy humor, realistic portrayal of teenage friendship, and strong performances by its ensemble cast, which includes Emma Stone, Seth Rogen, and Bill Hader.
“Superbad” was a commercial success and received critical acclaim for its comedic writing, direction, and performances.
“Superbad” is a hilarious and endearing film that captures the awkwardness and uncertainty of adolescence.
It deals with themes of friendship, love, and growing up in a way that is relatable and entertaining. The film has become a cult classic and is considered one of the best comedies of the 2000s.
18. Halloween (2007)
“Halloween” is a 2007 American slasher film directed by Rob Zombie, serving as a remake and reimagining of the 1978 film of the same name by John Carpenter.
The film stars Malcolm McDowell as Dr. Samuel Loomis, the psychiatrist of the infamous serial killer Michael Myers, and Tyler Mane as Michael Myers.
The film explores the backstory of Michael Myers, depicting his troubled childhood and the events leading up to his first murder at the age of ten.
The film then follows Myers as he escapes from a mental institution and returns to his hometown of Haddonfield, Illinois, where he begins to stalk and kill teenage girls on Halloween night.
The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising Zombie’s direction and the film’s exploration of Myers’ backstory, while others criticized the film’s excessive violence and lack of suspense compared to the original.
Despite the mixed reception, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $80 million worldwide against a budget of $15 million.
The film spawned a sequel in 2009, “Halloween II”, also directed by Zombie and featuring Tyler Mane as Michael Myers once again.
19. National Treasure: Book of Secrets (2007)
“National Treasure: Book of Secrets” is a 2007 adventure film directed by Jon Turteltaub and starring Nicolas Cage, Diane Kruger, Justin Bartha, and Helen Mirren. It is the sequel to the 2004 film “National Treasure.”
The film follows treasure hunter Ben Gates (Cage) as he sets out to clear his family’s name after his ancestor is accused of conspiring in the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.
Along with his father (Jon Voight), friend (Bartha), and ex-girlfriend (Kruger), Gates travels across the globe to find a mysterious book that will prove his ancestor’s innocence and uncover a hidden treasure.
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, “National Treasure: Book of Secrets” was a commercial success, grossing over $457 million worldwide. The film’s mix of adventure, history, and humor made it popular with audiences and helped solidify the franchise’s status as a crowd-pleasing action-adventure series.
20. Charlie Wilson’s War (2007)
Charlie Wilson’s War is a 2007 American comedy-drama film directed by Mike Nichols and starring Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, and Philip Seymour Hoffman.
The film is based on the true story of Charlie Wilson, a US congressman who played a key role in the CIA’s covert efforts to fund and arm Afghan rebels during the Soviet-Afghan War.
Tom Hanks delivers a strong performance as Charlie Wilson, a charming and charismatic congressman who takes on the cause of supporting the Afghan rebels in their fight against the Soviet Union.
Julia Roberts also shines as a wealthy socialite who helps Wilson in his efforts, while Philip Seymour Hoffman delivers an outstanding performance as Gust Avrakotos, a CIA operative who works closely with Wilson to achieve their goals.
The film was praised for its intelligent script, sharp wit, and strong performances, particularly from Hanks, Roberts, and Hoffman. It was also noted for its thoughtful exploration of the complexities of foreign policy and the dangers of geopolitical meddling.
While the film was a modest box office success, it was well-received by critics and received several award nominations, including Golden Globe nominations for Hanks and Hoffman.
It remains a compelling and entertaining exploration of a little-known chapter in US history.
21. Across the Universe (2007)
“Across the Universe” is a 2007 musical romantic drama film directed by Julie Taymor and featuring a cast of young actors and singers. The film is set in the 1960s and tells the story of a young man named Jude (Jim Sturgess) who travels from Liverpool to New York City to find his estranged father.
The film features numerous songs by The Beatles, which are woven into the narrative and used to express the characters’ emotions and thoughts.
The film also explores themes of love, war, and social change, and features a vibrant visual style that incorporates surreal imagery and inventive musical sequences.
Despite mixed reviews from critics, “Across the Universe” has become a cult classic and is known for its unique blend of music, visuals, and storytelling. Its performances and musical arrangements have been praised, and the film’s themes of love and hope continue to resonate with audiences today.
Overall, “Across the Universe” is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that celebrates the music and spirit of The Beatles while also exploring important themes of its own.
22. Shrek the Third (2007)
“Shrek the Third” is an animated fantasy-comedy film directed by Chris Miller and released in 2007. It is the third installment in the “Shrek” film franchise.
The film follows Shrek, voiced by Mike Myers, who is struggling to balance his role as the new king of Far Far Away with his desire for a simple life.
When his father-in-law, King Harold, falls ill, Shrek sets out with Donkey and Puss in Boots to find the only heir to the throne, a young man named Arthur.
“Shrek the Third” received mixed reviews from critics but was a box office success, grossing over $800 million worldwide. The film’s humor, colorful animation, and catchy musical numbers appealed to both children and adults.
While not as critically acclaimed as its predecessors, “Shrek the Third” still manages to entertain with its memorable characters and heartfelt themes of friendship and self-discovery. It is a fun and enjoyable watch for fans of animated films and the “Shrek” franchise.
23. The Number 23 (2007)
The Number 23 is a 2007 psychological thriller film directed by Joel Schumacher and starring Jim Carrey in a rare serious role. The film tells the story of Walter Sparrow, a man who becomes obsessed with the number 23 after reading a book that seems to mirror his own life.
As Sparrow delves deeper into the book’s mysteries, he begins to see the number 23 everywhere and becomes convinced that it holds a secret power over his life.
His obsession leads him to uncover a dark past and a series of murders connected to the number 23.
The Number 23 received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising Carrey’s performance and the film’s visual style, while others criticized the plot’s lack of coherence and believability.
The movie was also a commercial disappointment, grossing only $77 million worldwide against its $30 million budget.
Despite its mixed reception, The Number 23 has since gained a cult following among fans of psychological thrillers and Jim Carrey’s dramatic work, with some appreciating the film’s themes of obsession and numerology.
24. The Ultimate Gift (2006)
“The Ultimate Gift” is a 2006 American drama film directed by Michael O. Sajbel and starring Drew Fuller, James Garner, and Abigail Breslin.
The film follows the story of Jason Stevens, a young man who is set to inherit a vast fortune from his late grandfather, Red Stevens, but only if he completes a series of twelve tasks, or “gifts,” that will teach him the values of hard work, responsibility, and compassion.
The film is based on the novel of the same name by Jim Stovall and features strong performances by its cast, particularly James Garner in his final film role.
“The Ultimate Gift” has been praised for its inspirational themes and messages, and its positive portrayal of values such as family, friendship, and selflessness.
“The Ultimate Gift” is a heartwarming and thought-provoking film that encourages viewers to reflect on the importance of living a meaningful and purposeful life.
It promotes values such as generosity, gratitude, and humility, and offers a compelling message about the power of personal transformation and growth.
25. Alpha Dog (2006)
“Alpha Dog” is a 2006 crime drama film directed by Nick Cassavetes and based on the real-life kidnapping and murder of Nicholas Markowitz in 2000. The film stars Emile Hirsch, Justin Timberlake, Ben Foster, Shawn Hatosy, and Anton Yelchin.
The film is set in the San Fernando Valley in California and follows the story of a drug dealer named Johnny Truelove (played by Hirsch) who kidnaps the younger brother of a debtor (played by Yelchin) and holds him for ransom. As time goes on, the situation spirals out of control and leads to a tragic conclusion.
“Alpha Dog” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the film’s performances and its portrayal of the real-life events, while others criticized its glorification of violence and drug culture. The film was a modest box office success, grossing over $32 million worldwide against a budget of $15 million.
The film’s cast includes several actors who went on to become major stars in Hollywood, such as Timberlake, who received critical acclaim for his performance, and Yelchin, who tragically passed away in 2016 at the age of 27.
Best 2007 Movies – Wrap Up
Here are some of the best movies from 2007:
No Country for Old Men
There Will Be Blood
The Bourne Ultimatum
Ratatouille
Zodiac
Juno
Atonement
Michael Clayton
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford
Eastern Promises
These movies span across various genres including drama, thriller, animation, and crime, and were widely acclaimed by critics and audiences alike.
