The Independent's culture desk has released its ranking of the 50 best movie performances of the 21st century to date. The compilation considers films that premiered between January 1, 2000, and today, August 23, 2026.
Among the performances highlighted are Natalie Portman's role as pop star Celeste in 2018's Vox Lux, Russell Crowe's portrayal of naval officer Jack Aubrey in Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World from 2003, and Reese Witherspoon's turn as Elle Woods in 2001's Legally Blonde.
Other actors recognised include Lupita Nyong’o for her dual role in Us (2019), James Gandolfini in Enough Said (2013), Gene Hackman in The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), and Emily Blunt in The Devil Wears Prada (2006).
The ranking criteria included charisma, emotional range, logistical difficulty, and cultural impact. Each actor was limited to one appearance on the list, which was assembled by committee and acknowledged as a matter of subjective taste.