Oldboy and Memories of Murder Named in NYT's "100 Best Films of the 21st Century"

Oldboy and Memories of Murder Chosen as Top 100 Films of the 21st Century
Korean Directors Shine in NYT’s Best Films List

Oldboy, directed by Park Chanwook, and Memories of Murder, directed by Bong Joonho, have been selected by The New York Times (NYT) as two of the "Best Films of the 21st Century."

In the "100 Best Films of the 21st Century" list released by the NYT on June 26 (local time), Oldboy ranked 43rd and Memories of Murder ranked 99th.

The NYT surveyed 500 individuals, including internationally renowned directors, actors, producers, and film enthusiasts, focusing on films released since January 1, 2000, and published the results. As of this date, the list up to 21st place has been revealed, with the top 20 films set to be announced on June 27.

A scene from director Park Chanwook's film Oldboy. Source: American film distributor NEON Rated website

The NYT highlighted a scene from Oldboy in which Choi Minshik wields a hammer and exits a hallway covered in blood, describing it as "symbolizing the operatic violence of a twisted thriller, while also driving the emotions to dramatic extremes."

Regarding Memories of Murder, the NYT commented, "From the very first scene, it is clear that this Korean police procedural is not bound by Hollywood conventions," adding, "Director Bong Joonho has a firm perspective on the limits of humanity when faced with unfathomable evil, and he explores this through his unique blend of unexpected humor and sharp drama."

A scene from the film Fast Lives directed by Celine Song. CJ ENM

Korean diaspora directors also stood out on the list. Past Lives, a 2023 autobiographical film by Korean-Canadian director Celine Song, ranked 86th.

The NYT stated, "Song’s story, unfolding between New York and Seoul, is filled with exquisite reflections on time, love, fate, and reinvention," and noted, "The final scene will break your heart."

Meanwhile, two films directed by Greta Gerwig were also included in the top 100, drawing attention. Frances Ha, which captures the joys and sorrows of youth, ranked 90th, while Lady Bird ranked 39th. Lady Bird tells the story of a headstrong teenage girl who gives herself the nickname 'Lady Bird' and, during an argument with her mother, opens the car door and jumps out while the vehicle is moving.