Recently, the 2000s have been a huge trend. Between the Y2K aesthetic, older songs becoming popular again, and the trend where people rewatch old TV shows, the 2000s are in the spotlight. Even big brands such as Hollister are bringing back the decade with new collections featuring the biggest trends from the beginning of the century.
However, the most prominent pop culture aspect to come out of the 2000s was the movies. So many iconic films premiered during this time, before quickly becoming cult classics. If you want to be transported back 20 years, watch any of these films.
Legally Blonde
Legally Blonde is still relatable almost twenty-five years later. It is the perfect mix of comedy and empowerment. It shows the struggles that we all go through, such as mean girls, a balance between school and life, being underestimated, struggles with significant others, and finding yourself. The comedy aspect is depicted through the bend and snap, which is one of the most iconic parts of the movie, along with Bruiser and Elle in general.
Throughout the course of the movie, Elle is constantly overlooked. People believe that because she was in a sorority and loves fashion that she cannot do anything worthwhile. However, she proves them wrong time and time again, with her acceptance to Harvard, great grades, prestigious internship and courtroom win.
Elle Woods is such a strong protagonist, reinforcing the idea that girls can do whatever they put their minds to. If you are ever in doubt that you can do something, just remember the most iconic quote from the film: “What, like it’s hard?”
Image Credit: Emily Karakis from Unsplash
Mean Girls
Mean Girls is the most iconic film to come out of the 2000s. The film depicts what it was like to be a teenager in this era. Between last minute plans, friend drama, crushes, and multiple-way phone calls, we can perfectly understand all of the important aspects of high school life.
It acts as the ultimate Y2K style inspiration, with patterned mini skirts, baby tees and low-rise jeans. Also, the super feminine looks from the main characters embody girls’ fashion from this decade.
We also quote Mean Girls more than we realize. Sometimes it is for jokes, such as “Stop trying to make fetch happen,” or “I’m not a regular mom, I’m a cool mom.” Other times it comes up naturally in conversations, some examples being “She doesn’t even go here,” or “Get in loser, we’re going shopping.”
If you have not seen Mean Girls yet, it is a must-watch. This movie is hilarious and has a good message.
The Devil Wears Prada
This movie has great fashion, a great cast and an even better storyline. Focusing on protagonist Andie, the film focuses on her hard work at Runway magazine. The movie is not all fashion, it actually shows character growth and how easy it is to lose yourself in your job. Andie quickly became a clone of the other Runway workers before she realized that she wanted to be her own person.
It is classic 2000s, with the focus of the movie being print magazines. The Devil Wears Prada also highlights the impossible body standards from the time, and thankfully we left this trend in the past.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 is set to release in May, making this cult classic even more relevant than ever. If you have not seen the first film, make sure to catch up before the sequel premieres.
Image Credit: Felix Ngo from Unsplash
Mamma Mia
Mamma Mia is the best musical to come out of this decade. Between the engaging plot, fun musical numbers, and amazing cast, this movie is top-tier. This film has a huge fan base – as it should. If you are looking for a break from reality, Mamma Mia is the perfect movie to watch.
The ABBA songs are iconic – they are still hits today that are played around the world. The movie has been turned into a hit musical. The sequel was also great, with most of the original cast returning. Not to mention there are themed dinners and the film locations have become iconic Greek vacation destinations.
The Notebook
This is the ultimate love story. The protagonists fall in love, before breaking up and eventually making their way back to each other. It focuses on fighting for the relationships you want to have in the future, while simultaneously teaching us the same lesson. However, The Notebook will make you cry, which is why it is perfect for when you are sad.
The main characters are played by Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling, making the movie even better (who does not love Ryan Gosling?). It is a must-watch, with its great acting, directing and storyline. Next time you have girls’ night, this movie is a good choice.
Image Credit: Christina Spiliotopoulou from Unsplash
Aquamarine
Aquamarine was trending last year during Halloween, with many girls dressing up as Aquamarine. While the iconic characters are just one intriguing element, this movie focuses on much more than that. The main characters prove that they do not need a man to accomplish their mission, instead they just need each other.
Let’s face it; we all grew up with Aquamarine. It is the perfect movie to transport you back to your childhood, with its fantasy elements and strong female characters. If you are feeling nostalgic, this film could be the perfect movie night.
A Cinderella Story
A Cinderella Story is the classic love story, however it is unclear if fans prefer the movie’s plot or Chad Michael Murray. This movie has a feel-good vibe because it reimagined the fairytale we all grew up with. It also gives the classic story a modern twist, with online dating and prom.
This movie is perfect for a chill night at home or to watch with younger relatives. It is such a cute movie with a great ending.
Conclusion
Any of these movies will take you back to the 2000s. They are all enjoyable with star-studded casts. Every film has a huge fan base, which makes the movies even more fun. If you need ideas for your next girls’ night or just a night in, these are seven great ideas.