Previous Next As we approach 2025 and the end of the 21st century’s first quarter, we wanted to look back to see which actors, actresses, directors, and movies have stood the test of time. With that in mind, for the rest of the year, the Bitesize Top Five will be giving a consensus view on what we think are the Bests of everything since 2000. We are only looking at work released since January 1, 2000, so don’t get mad because your favourites of the 90s didn’t make it. Over the next four months we will do Top Five Dramas, Comedies, Horrors, and Action Films of this century. For our purposes, we worked with the idea that every movie falls under one of those broad umbrellas. It’s imperfect, but it felt like the best course of action. As always, each writer ranks his or her top 15 in the category. Those lists are then weighted on a reverse point system. After all the points are tallied up, the entries with the most total points make up the Bitesize Top Five. 5. CASINO ROYALE For me, the Daniel Craig era of James Bond wasn't the grandest, if I’m being honest. Craig was an excellent Bond, no doubt, but the franchise misses were pretty big during this time. However, without a doubt, it did produce two of the absolute best James Bond movies ever: Casino Royale and Skyfall . In both cases, directors Martin Campbell (Casino Royale ) and Sam Mendes (Skyfall ) deliver some of the most thrilling action and tension, not just in 007 history, but in recent action cinema, not to mention some genuinely outstanding villains. The epic scales of these films take the franchise to new and exciting stakes too. These movies just have everything you want in an action spy movie, and they successfully set the bar high for what 007 can be. - Adriano 4. JOHN WICK At least one installment of John Wick made almost every single one of our shortlists when considering the best action films of this century. I get the privilege of highlighting it here because it just happened to be my number one action film since 2000. Its ever-present fidelity to a stylized fighting style that mimics optimal real-life, gun and hand-fighting combat techniques lets us relax into the controlled mayhem without ever needing to call bullshit. Perhaps it is director Chad Stahelski’s history as a martial artist and stuntman that drives this commitment. Keanu Reeves’ hardworking nature and stoic mindset provides the perfect conduit for unleashing the awesome violence, where his real-life 3-gun and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training allow him to truly shine on screen. Wherever John Wick goes, I shall follow. - Preston 3. MAD MAX: FURY ROAD On paper, Fury Road has no right being as good as it is. It’s a 30-years later sequel that languished for nearly 28 years, directed by a man who had only directed two Happy Feet movies and two Babe movies in the 20 years prior to Fury Road ’s release. However, franchise steward George Miller proved he hadn’t missed a beat since his last time in The Wasteland, crafting an action movie masterpiece built on pure adrenaline, unbelievable practical effects, and a tremendous action duo in Tom Hardy and (even more so) Charlize Theron. On top of that, he expertly weaves in themes of survival, humanity, feminism, vengeance, redemption, and family. If you don’t want to take my word for it, let its ten Oscar nominations (six wins), seven BAFTA nominations (four wins), and 15 AACTA nominations (ten wins, including Best Film) do the talking. - Quentin 2. THE DARK KNIGHT The masterpiece The Dark Knight is not only one of my favourite action films, but also one of the best superhero movies, best comic book movies, and amongst Christopher Nolan’s finest, most iconic works. Everything about this film is deserving of the highest praise, from the dizzying scale of its special effects and thrilling action set-pieces to the legendary performances and nuanced, character-driven approach to the morally ambiguous story. Nolan’s The Dark Knight redefined the genre, introduced one of the most compelling villains ever to grace the screen, and effortlessly takes its place as one of the best action films of the past 25 years. - Katie 1. INCEPTION Inception has been my favorite movie of all time for going on 12 years now. It’s the movie that made me want to write. The level of thought, detail, and perfection that director Christopher Nolan puts into what might be the most original concept of the 21st century will leave you waxing poetic about it for years. With all that, one would think the action is just a bonus. NOPE! The spinning hallway, the real-life avalanche, the three-level kicks without gravity, and A TRAIN THROUGH A CITY. If you know what I’m talking about, you’ve been blessed. If you don’t, go get blessed. - Amarú HONORABLE MENTIONS EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE DJANGO UNCHAINED AVENGERS: ENDGAME MISSION IMPOSSIBLE (III/GHOST PROTOCOL) THE RAID: REDEMPTION

COWBOY CARTEL Creators: Dan Johnstone and Castor Fernandez QUENTIN Though at least one episode too long and short on colorful characters, Apple TV+’s Cowboy Cartel is a solid watch for anyone interested in horse racing or documentaries on criminal investigations into drug trafficking and Mexican cartels. I admit, as a Louisville native who grew up around The Kentucky Derby and a person who used to work in counternarcotics, this series features several things that appeal to my personal interests, so it’s possible I got more out of it than most others will. Nevertheless, it’s a relatively short four-hour docuseries that both engages and educates. That’s a decent win if you ask me.

THE BEAR: SEASON ONE Starring: Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri, Abby Elliott, Lionel Boyce, and Liza Colón-Zayas Creator: Christopher Storer QUENTIN I’ve never had to work in food service, but after watching The Bear , I feel like I have because it carries an air of gritty authenticity that is further amplified by the identifiable blue-collar Chicago atmosphere. It radiates the constant stress and anxiety of working in a professional kitchen. It can be a bit much, like Uncut Gems for chefs, but the performances are so natural that it makes for an intimately addicting series about grief, loss, the drive for success, and, of course, food. Overall, it’s a genuinely pleasant surprise that made me hungry for more episodes and an actual Chicago-style Italian Beef.

Previous Next With the release of Universal's latest film, Renfield, the crew decided not to wait until October to compile Bitesize Breakdown's consensus Top Five Vampire Films/Series. Each writer ranks his or her top 15 films or series in the category. Those lists are then weighted on a reverse point system. After all the points are tallied up, the entries with the most total points make up the Bitesize Top Five. 5. BRAM STOKER'S DRACULA To me, director Francis Ford Coppola made the gold standard when it comes to Dracula. Bram Stoker’s Dracula is scary, romantic, strangely funny, and exciting, all in a stylish and haunting package that features a career-best performance from Gary Oldman as the titular vampire. The look and feel are way too iconic for me to ever forget the vibe and tone of this monster classic. - Adriano 4. INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE The Lost Boys may have brought vampires into modernity, but it’s Anne Rice’s novel and subsequent film adaptation, Interview with the Vampire , that solidified the sexy vampire trend. The influence the film has had on the vampire genre as it stands now cannot be understated, and it still holds up as a heartbreaking and fascinating character study on the price of eternal life. From the A-list cast to the gorgeous costumes and the grandiose scope, Interview with the Vampire is a certified and underappreciated classic. - Joseph 3. THE LOST BOYS The best thing about The Lost Boys is that it’s more than just another vampire movie. Despite the genuine scares and visceral gore, it’s also a very funny coming-of-age story. But more importantly, it is one of the first movies to introduce teenage vampires, paving the way for the likes of Twilight and Buffy the Vampire Slayer . If you need further evidence of its lasting influence, consider that the opening scene of Jordan Peele’s Us is one long The Lost Boys Easter Egg. Plus, who can forget 80s iconography like Kiefer Sutherland’s delightfully rad spiky-topped mullet, original song “Cry Little Sister,” the Two Coreys, and, of course, the oiled-up Sax Man. - Quentin 2. WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement took a page right out of Christopher Guest’s playbook when they developed one of the all-time great mockumentaries. What We Do in the Shadows is a hilarious, blood-sucking comedy spoof that got its start as a short film before being expanded into a feature and one of the funniest series on television. It’s inventive and filled with extremely amusing and committed performances from some of the funniest actors and actresses in the business. - Paige 1. FROM DUSK TILL DAWN The greatest trick From Dusk till Dawn pulls is having Quentin Tarantino’s writing drive the whole affair right up to the minute that it goes full Robert Rodriguez. Half of what makes it a great vampire film is that it was already a good movie before the vampires even show up, the cringe fest that is Tarantino’s character notwithstanding. I can only imagine what the original theater reactions must have been like at the turn. - Jacob HONORABLE MENTIONS BLADE 30 DAYS OF NIGHT FRIGHT NIGHT (2011) LET THE RIGHT ONE IN NOSFERATU Photo Credits: Photo 1 - Columbia Pictures; Photo 2, 3 - Warner Bros.; Photo 4 - Madman Entertainment; Photo 5 - Miramax Films

MAYOR OF KINGSTOWN: SEASON THREE Starring: Jeremy Renner, Hugh Dillon, Tobi Bamtefa, Taylor Handley, Emma Laird, Derek Webster, Michael Beach, and Hamish Allan-Headley Creators: Taylor Sheridan and Hugh Dillon QUENTIN Mayor of Kingstown is weird because very little happens throughout the season, yet I’m still committed to watching it every week. I am wholly invested in most of the characters and the various subplots that often don’t lead anywhere. In fact, a lot of this series is just Mike (Jeremy Renner) driving around and telling people to stand down, which doesn’t sound exciting, but he’s so good at it that I remain engaged (plus, it’s great to see Renner back after almost dying). That said, the season finale is explosive and surprising, and it closes several storylines while setting up interesting pathways for Season Four.

MINX: SEASON TWO Starring: Ophelia Lovibond, Jake Johnson, Idara Victor, Jessica Lowe, Oscar Montoya, and Lennon Parham Creator: Ellen Rapoport QUENTIN In its second season, Minx , which had a bumpy ride from renewed to canceled to a new network in a matter of months, still ably explores themes of women's sexual liberation and feminism in the 70s. However, it’s not quite as sharp or funny this time around, seemingly content to play it relatively safe by leaning more into its soapier elements. Plus, some story threads feel half-done, mostly because the series just has too many characters to give them all equal time. That said, it's not a bad show now, but Season Two is a bit of a sophomore slump.

WACO: THE AFTERMATH Starring: Michael Shannon, Giovanni Ribisi, Keean Johnson, Abbey Lee, Alex Breaux, John Hoogenakker, Kali Rocha, Michael Luwoye, Michael Cassidy, Sasheer Zamata, and David Costabile Creators: John Erick Dowdle and Drew Dowdle QUENTIN On one hand, the fact that someone thought we needed a follow-up to 2018’s Waco , a miniseries that garnered little fanfare and mixed reactions, is odd. On the other hand, the storyline of The Aftermath is still so damn topical and relevant given the current state of divisive politics and government mistrust in America that it’s almost a no-brainer. As for the show itself… it’s pretty solid, but with three separate storylines, each one compelling in its own right, five episodes just isn’t enough to do them all justice. It works as a well-acted, wavetop view of events, but it would have benefitted from being longer.

OBLITERATED: SEASON ONE Starring: Nick Zano, Shelley Hennig, Terrence Terrell, Alyson Gorske, C. Thomas Howell, Eugene Kim, Kimi Rutledge, and Paola Lázaro Creators: Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg, and Josh Heald QUENTIN Obliterated is by no means necessary viewing…and it won’t be for people looking for high art…but as an action comedy that only aims to provide raunchy, escapist entertainment, it’s mostly successful. Having said that, I’m not saying it’s “good.” The dialogue is pedestrian, the acting is fine but nothing to write home about, and the general plot is fairly predictable. However, at least for me and my immature sensibilities (not to mention my affinity for Las Vegas), mixing The Hangover with 24 results in a decently fun time filled with sex, drugs, booze, twists, gun fights, and explosions.

ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUILDING: SEASON TWO Starring: Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez Creators: John Hoffman and Steve Martin AMARÚ Season Two of Only Murders in the Building continues what it does best while also giving more depth to the main cast, especially Selena Gomez’s Mabel. Steve-Martin-Short (yes, I did it again) are as funny as ever, but aren’t shortchanged to make room for Mabel’s story. Similarly, the supporting cast isn’t sidelined for the main trio. In getting more from every character on screen, the mystery is actually more meaningful. And although there are some B-plots that don’t work as well, they don’t get enough screen time to be distracting. Residents of The Arconia better lookout because I’m ready for the next murder. QUENTIN In its second season, Only Murders in the Building features many of the things that made Season One a delight: excellent cast chemistry, an elegant score, and charming mockery. It also adds in a great self-aware meta component. That said, the story tries to do too much, with subplots that often don’t go anywhere. Generally speaking, those subplots prioritize character development over the murder mystery, which…it’s fine. Still, while I wouldn’t call it a sophomore slump, it wasn’t quite as good this season. Admittedly, that could have more to do with increased expectations after the surprising first season than an actual reduction in quality. ADRIANO Only Murders In The Building ’s second season features a lot of what made the first season so great. Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez remain an absurdly entertaining trio, with Gomez especially getting more to do this season. Plus, the writing is still hilariously smart, featuring a good blend of character drama and a witty murder mystery. That said, while the actual reveal didn’t completely shock me, it worked just well enough. Quite frankly, I can’t wait for the next murder… I mean season.

SUGAR: SEASON TWO Starring: Colin Farrell, Tony Dalton, Jin Ha, Raymond Lee, Sasha Calle, Laura Donnelly, and Shea Whigham Creator: Mark Protosevich QUENTIN If you’re hoping Sugar ’s second season will further explore the first season’s bonkers twist, you’ll be mostly disappointed. For the vast majority of Season Two’s runtime, that twist is an afterthought, left in the background to merely inform Sugar’s (Colin Farrell) decisions and seeming detachment from the world around him. As such, this is just another hardboiled case for Sugar, which is fine. His quiet aloofness and emotionless narration make it play a little slower than I’d like, but if you dig noir vibes, it works decently enough. Admittedly, it eventually comes back to the twist, but by that point, it all feels tacked on and unnecessary. Check out our reviews for Season One HERE .

SEVERANCE: SEASON TWO Starring: Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, Britt Lower, John Turturro, Zach Cherry, Tramell Tillman, Christopher Walken, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, Sarah Bock, Alia Shawkat, Bob Balaban, and Merritt Weaver Creator: Dan Erickson KATIE I am pleased to report that the second season of Severance was worth the agonisingly long wait, and it lives up to the first season’s absurdly funny satirisation of corporate culture and strained office dynamics, surreal visuals, and stylish direction. Season Two is darker than the first, delving deeper into the ominous world of Lumon Industries and the increasingly blurred lines between the innie’s work and personal life. Whilst some questions are answered, many more arise, making for an utterly addictive watch. As the interwoven narratives become increasingly existential and complex, I eagerly await tantalizing revelations and, hopefully, some satisfying answers. PAIGE Though it lacks the humanity and bizarre humor of Season One, Severance's second season is nevertheless an engaging brain-teaser that expands the scope of its intriguing premise in numerous ways. It's a whirlwind that I consider a must-watch, even if it doesn't quite reach the heights of its predecessor; however, it would have been undoubtedly difficult to top the brilliance that Season One provided. This time around, the Lumon employees are more complex, the story is certainly more ominous, and the futuristic workplace visuals are once again of the highest caliber. Despite the fact that I have no idea where this show is going, I’m sticking along for the ride. QUENTIN Throughout the season, I’ve frequently flipped between “fuck this show” and “this show fucks!” For better or worse, that is the power of Severance . It’s equal parts captivating, thanks to tremendous performances, stellar direction, and an impeccable score; and frustrating, thanks to a puzzle-box mystery that never hints at a destination (or even a point). It’s weird. I want answers, but I don’t really know what the questions are since the story slowly meanders so densely. Hell, some episodes start in places that make me feel like I missed an episode. Severance is an excellently crafted series, but that doesn’t make it an excellent watch. ADRIANO I waited three years for Severance to return, and it exceeded my already high expectations. Continuing its commentary on corporate malpractice and the way they take advantage of their employees, including the ones who comply, this season doubles down on its mystery, answering many of our questions while giving us more to ponder, mixed in with devastating heartbreak and a twisted sense of humour. The entire ensemble is amazing (Tramell Tillman is this season's MVP) and the direction across the season is excellent. I just hope I don't have to wait another three years for the next season. Check out our reviews for Season One HERE .

Previous Next It's the spookiest month of the year, so it's fitting that Blumhouse would have THREE horror releases (Totally Killer, The Exorcist: Believer, and Five Nights at Freddy's). So, what better time to look over their past horror filmography! The Bitesize crew has put their brains together to compile Bitesize Breakdown's consensus Top Five Blumhouse Horror Films. Each writer ranks his or her top 15 films in the category. Those lists are then weighted on a reverse point system. After all the points are tallied up, the entries with the most total points make up the Bitesize Top Five. 5. THE INVISIBLE MAN Over the years, Blumhouse has proven that they are THE horror studio to distribute spooky content, and while they have certainly had some misses, they definitely hit the mark with Leigh Whannell’s retelling of The Invisible Man . Filled with scares and stellar action pieces, this remake flips the classic story with a technology-enhanced suit while diving deep into themes of abuse. Focusing on the victim, Cecilia (played flawlessly by Elisabeth Moss), instead of the invisible man himself allows the story to take a unique approach to exploring how an abuser can continue to haunt their victim long after the relationship is over. - Paige 4. HALLOWEEN (2018) Although the full trilogy may not have been a success, it's hard to argue against the quality of David Gordon Green's Halloween . From the return of Jamie Lee Curtis as a seasoned and badass Laurie Strode to the homages to the 1978 classic, this continuation of Michael Myers' story is near perfect as far as horror sequels go. Green presents us with a particularly brutal version of Myers (as played by James Jude Courtney), who is able to be just as menacing in spite of being 40 years older. Halloween (2018) is a fitting continuation to the original. If only it had kept that momentum going into the rest of the trilogy. - Nick 3. US Yes, a second Jordan Peele film. Does that say more about Blumhouse’s catalog or Peele as a director? Either way, Us is inventive, tense, brutal, ambitious, thrilling, suspenseful, and just about every term one could use to describe a great horror movie. More importantly, though, it’s incredibly layered and extremely thought-provoking (especially considering the political divide that was happening in the U.S. in 2019 when it was released), featuring tremendous performances (Lupita Nyong’o was robbed of an Oscar nomination) and beautiful cinematography. So, yeah… I think it definitely says more about Peele’s talent. - Quentin 2. SPLIT It's not often that I find myself praising an M. Night Shyamalan movie, yet here we are. He ended a horrendous streak of movies with The Visit , then followed it up with Split , his best film in more than a decade. Split incorporates what Shyamalan once was great at, letting the tension actually sit with the audience and the characters while having a twist ending that improves the film rather than feeling strangely tacked on. Honestly, James McAvoy's captivating multiple-personality performance alone would've made this movie watchable, but there's much more to chew on than that. - Adriano 1. GET OUT Get Out is a special film, man. It transcended the horror genre to become a cultural and cinematic phenomenon that not only launched Daniel Kaluuya’s career, but also started Jordan Peele’s trajectory towards becoming an event movie director. That isn’t just because of its significance to African American culture and the pop culture lexicon (The Sunken Place is forever a thing now), but also because it’s an amazingly acted, superbly paced, well-directed thriller of a film. Get Out will go down as an all-time classic, and anyone who says it’s just OK is playing themselves. - Amarú HONORABLE MENTIONS SINISTER HAPPY DEATH DAY PARANORMAL ACTIVITY THE BELKO EXPERIMENT THE PURGE Photo Credits: Blumhouse Productions