Critics Name 4 Epic 21st-Century Films They Claim Outshine ‘Oppenheimer’ in Scale and Impact
Film critics have shared a selection of modern epic movies they believe represent some of the strongest large-scale storytelling in recent decades. These films are often compared to major titles like Oppenheimer, but the list focuses on works that critics feel deliver equal or even stronger impact in terms of scale, emotion, and storytelling.
The discussion starts with the idea that epic films may seem less common today than in earlier film eras. In the past, movies like Gone with the Wind and Ben-Hur dominated cinemas and award seasons, partly because they stood out in a time when television was their main competition. Now, audiences have far more content available, but big cinematic productions still appear and continue to draw attention when done well.
One of the films included in the critics’ selection is Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (2001). The story is set in colonial India during the late 19th century. A village struggling under heavy taxation is challenged by British officers to a cricket match. If they win, the taxes are lifted. The villagers have almost no experience with the sport, but they train together and rely on unity to face the challenge. The film mixes sports drama with romance and musical elements, and it maintains tension despite its long runtime.
Another film on the list is Babylon (2022). This movie explores the early years of Hollywood when the industry was going through major changes. It shows a world filled with excess, parties, and ambition, while the arrival of sound films disrupts everything. As the story moves forward, the characters face personal and professional breakdowns. The film shifts between chaotic energy and darker emotional tones, offering both a celebration and critique of the film industry itself.
The third selection is The Irishman (2019), directed by Martin Scorsese. It follows an aging former mob associate reflecting on his life and the choices he made within organized crime. Robert De Niro plays the central role, with Al Pacino and Joe Pesci also featured. Unlike many earlier Scorsese crime films, this one is slower and more focused on reflection and regret rather than action, building a story around memory and consequences.
The final film mentioned is The Lord of the Rings trilogy (2001–2003), directed by Peter Jackson. Based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels, the story centers on a group tasked with destroying a powerful ring. What begins as a journey gradually expands into a massive conflict involving entire kingdoms and armies. The trilogy is widely recognized for its large battle scenes, strong emotional storytelling, and high production quality, and it remains one of the most influential fantasy film projects of the 21st century.
These four films show different approaches to epic filmmaking but share a common trait: ambition on a large scale combined with strong storytelling.
From a broader view, it is interesting how these films span very different genres, from fantasy to historical drama to crime and Hollywood history. Each one builds its epic scale in a different way, which is likely why they continue to be discussed together.
What do you think about this selection? Do you agree with these choices, or would you include other modern films in the list? Share your thoughts in the comments.
