The Best Movies Of 2006

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Updated June 1, 2024 31.2K views 101 items
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Only movies released in theaters in 2006.

Over 900 movie fans have come together to cast their votes for the best movies of 2006. This list is packed with a variety of genres - from comedies to dramas, sci-fi epics to romances - and features some of the most iconic films in modern cinema.

Featuring performances by some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, these are the movies that defined 2006 as one of the greatest years in film history. From quirky indie hits like Little Miss Sunshine to blockbuster smash The Departed, there's something here for everyone. Fans particularly love Pan's Labyrinth for its imaginative visuals and compelling story about a young girl's struggle against an oppressive regime while trying to find her way back home. Meanwhile, Borat provides nonstop laughs thanks to Sacha Baron Cohen’s outrageous portrayal of a bumbling Kazakh journalist on an ill-fated journey across America. Other popular 2006 films include The Prestige, The Devil Wears Prada, 300, and Casino Royale.

These movies prove why 2006 was such an incredible year at the box office, making it clear why they've earned so many votes on this list from movie fans around the world. If you're looking for your next must-watch flick or just want a trip down memory lane, then check out this comprehensive ranking and vote up your favorite flicks from 2006.

Most divisive: Idiocracy
Over 1.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Movies Of 2006
  • The Departed
    1

    The Departed

    Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson
    615 votes
    In the gritty crime thriller, The Departed, Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a young undercover cop in Boston who infiltrates an Irish mob run by the ruthless Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson). Simultaneously, Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon), a criminal planted within the state police, climbs the ranks. As both sides become deeply entrenched in their disguises, they grapple with divided loyalties and deadly stakes. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this intense cat-and-mouse game won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. The movie's layered plot mirrors a complex labyrinth of deception and betrayal.
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  • Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
    2

    Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest

    Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley
    486 votes
    Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, a swashbuckling adventure film, sees Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) back in action. This time around, he's on a quest to find the fabled Dead Man's Chest to ward off the ghostly Davy Jones (Bill Nighy), who seeks to ensnare him into eternal servitude. With his crewmates Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) and Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) entangled in his perilous voyage, Sparrow must navigate treacherous waters and supernatural dangers. The movie won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, testament to its stunning cinematic spectacle.
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  • The Prestige
    3

    The Prestige

    Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, Michael Caine
    579 votes
    In the dark thriller, The Prestige, Robert Angier (Hugh Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Christian Bale) are rival stage magicians in London at the end of the 19th century. Obsessed with creating the best stage illusion, they engage in competitive one-upmanship, with tragic results. The film, directed by Christopher Nolan, delves into themes of obsession, secrecy, and sacrifice. Twisted turns abound as both men vie for supremacy in their craft. A tense narrative filled with surprises, The Prestige is a cinematic magic trick in itself.
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  • Casino Royale
    4

    Casino Royale

    Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen
    585 votes
    After receiving a license to kill, British Secret Service agent James Bond (Daniel Craig) heads to Madagascar, where he uncovers a link to Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen), a man who finances terrorist organizations. Learning that Le Chiffre plans to raise money in a high-stakes poker game, MI6 sends Bond to play against him, gambling that their newest "00" operative will topple the man's organization.
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  • Night at the Museum
    5

    Night at the Museum

    Ben Stiller, Carla Gugino, Dick Van Dyke
    473 votes
    Larry Daley (Ben Stiller), a down-on-his-luck dreamer, lands a job as a night watchman at the Museum of Natural History. He's tasked with ensuring everything runs smoothly, but little does he know that after sunset, the exhibits spring to life. Teddy Roosevelt (Robin Williams), an adventurous T-Rex skeleton, and a mischievous monkey are just some of the characters he encounters. As Larry navigates this wild new world, he finds himself in the middle of an epic struggle for power. Night at the Museum, directed by Shawn Levy, is a whimsical family comedy-adventure that combines historical figures with modern-day humor.
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  • Blood Diamond
    6

    Blood Diamond

    Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Connelly, Djimon Hounsou
    446 votes
    As civil war rages through 1990s Sierra Leone, two men, a white South African mercenary (Leonardo DiCaprio) and a black Mende fisherman (Djimon Hounsou), become joined in a common quest to recover a rare gem that has the power to transform their lives. With the help of an American journalist (Jennifer Connelly), the men embark on a hazardous trek through rebel territory to achieve their goal.
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  • Pan's Labyrinth
    7

    Pan's Labyrinth

    Sergi López, Maribel Verdú, Ivana Baquero
    569 votes
    In 1944 Spain young Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) and her ailing mother (Ariadna Gil) arrive at the post of her mother's new husband (Sergi López), a sadistic army officer who is trying to quell a guerrilla uprising. While exploring an ancient maze, Ofelia encounters the faun Pan, who tells her that she is a legendary lost princess and must complete three dangerous tasks in order to claim immortality.
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  • Cars
    8

    Cars

    Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, Bonnie Hunt
    433 votes
    In the animated film Cars, Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson), a brash racecar finds himself in a forgotten town, Radiator Springs. There, he meets an array of unique characters like Mater (Larry the Cable Guy) and Doc Hudson (Paul Newman). Through these interactions, McQueen learns the value of friendship and humility. Directed by John Lasseter, this film won the first Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film. A blend of comedy, adventure, and drama, Cars is a heartwarming tale about slowing down to appreciate life's simpler pleasures.
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  • Children of Men
    9

    Children of Men

    Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine
    514 votes
    In the dystopian genre film Children of Men, humanity grapples with infertility, a crisis threatening extinction. The protagonist, Theo Faron (Clive Owen), is a disillusioned bureaucrat who gets entangled in a mission to protect the world's only pregnant woman. Julian Taylor (Julianne Moore), an activist and Theo's ex-lover, leads this desperate quest for survival. The movie, directed by Alfonso Cuarón, won acclaim for its immersive storytelling and technical excellence, particularly its long-take action sequences. It offers a bleak yet poignant exploration of hope amid despair, challenging viewers to reflect on society's resilience in the face of impending doom.
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  • V for Vendetta
    10

    V for Vendetta

    Natalie Portman, Hugo Weaving, Stephen Rea
    499 votes
    V for Vendetta is a provocative dystopian political thriller. In this film, Evey Hammond (Natalie Portman) is rescued from a life-and-death situation by a masked vigilante known only as V (Hugo Weaving). Set in an alternative future where a totalitarian government has seized control of the United Kingdom, V ignites a revolution when he detonates two London landmarks and takes over the state-run television network, urging his fellow citizens to rise up against oppression and tyranny. As Evey uncovers the truth about V's mysterious past, she also discovers her own path to personal freedom. The film won Saturn Award for Best Actress and Best Horror Film.
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  • Over the Hedge
    11

    Over the Hedge

    Bruce Willis, Garry Shandling, Steve Carell
    256 votes
    In DreamWorks' animated comedy, Over the Hedge, RJ (Bruce Willis), a mischievous raccoon, and Verne (Garry Shandling), a cautious turtle, find themselves in an unfamiliar suburban world while seeking food. They befriend fellow animals like Stella (Wanda Sykes), a skunk, and Hammy (Steve Carell), a hyperactive squirrel. As they navigate the new territory, their survival instincts are put to test against humans and exterminator Dwayne (Thomas Haden Church). This film intertwines humor with environmental commentary, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The movie's vibrant animation and witty dialogue have earned it acclaim.
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  • 300
    12

    300

    Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, David Wenham
    425 votes
    In the epic movie 300, King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) leads his Spartan warriors into battle against the massive Persian army. Based on Frank Miller's graphic novel, this film is a historical fantasy war spectacle, directed by Zack Snyder. With just 300 men, Leonidas seeks to halt the advancing Persian forces led by god-king Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro). This visually stunning film won several awards for its unique visual effects and production design. Despite facing overwhelming odds, Leonidas and his men display an unwavering resolve and loyalty to their homeland, resulting in a gripping tale of courage and sacrifice.
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  • Little Miss Sunshine
    13

    Little Miss Sunshine

    Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, Toni Collette
    478 votes
    In the indie comedy-drama Little Miss Sunshine, the dysfunctional Hoover family embarks on an unpredictable road trip. Richard (Greg Kinnear), a motivational speaker, his wife, Sheryl (Toni Collette), their rebellious teenage son Dwayne (Paul Dano), and quirky 7-year-old Olive (Abigail Breslin) are joined by Edwin (Alan Arkin), a drug-addicted grandfather, and Frank (Steve Carell), Sheryl's suicidal brother. The ragtag group journey in their VW bus to California for Olive's chance to compete in the Little Miss Sunshine Pageant. This Academy Award-winning film is a poignant exploration of family dynamics and personal ambitions, each character grappling with their own dreams and disappointments.
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  • Charlotte's Web
    14

    Charlotte's Web

    Julia Roberts, Dakota Fanning, Steve Buscemi
    203 votes
    In the heartwarming film Charlotte's Web, a young farm girl named Fern (Dakota Fanning) befriends a runt pig, Wilbur. Voiced by Dominic Scott Kay, Wilbur is destined for slaughter until Charlotte (Julia Roberts), an eloquent spider, weaves words into her web to save him. The movie, adapted from E.B. White's timeless novel, is an enchanting blend of drama and fantasy that showcases the power of friendship and selflessness. Garnering critical acclaim, it brings to life vividly animated characters and a compelling narrative that appeals to both children and adults.
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  • Inside Man
    15

    Inside Man

    Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Jodie Foster
    320 votes
    In the heart of New York, a meticulously planned bank heist takes an unexpected turn in Inside Man. Dalton Russell (Clive Owen) is the enigmatic mastermind behind the operation. Smooth-talking Detective Keith Frazier (Denzel Washington) steps up to negotiate, but finds himself entangled in a web of deceit. The plot thickens with the entrance of Madeline White (Jodie Foster), a power broker with hidden agendas. This riveting crime thriller, directed by Spike Lee, weaves together tension, intrigue and unexpected alliances, keeping viewers on the edge until the very end.
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  • Eight Below
    16

    Eight Below

    Paul Walker, Bruce Greenwood, Moon Bloodgood
    158 votes
    The frozen wasteland of Antarctica serves as the background for a tale about the bonds of friendship and loyalty. Three members of a scientific expedition, Jerry Shepard (Paul Walker), his friend Cooper (Jason Biggs) and an American geologist (Bruce Greenwood), must leave their beloved sled dogs behind after a devastating accident and increasingly perilous weather conditions. Alone, the dogs struggle to survive the harsh Antarctic winter.
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  • Déjà Vu
    17

    Déjà Vu

    Denzel Washington, Val Kilmer, Jim Caviezel
    271 votes
    Déjà Vu is an intense science fiction thriller led by ATF agent Doug Carlin (Denzel Washington). After a tragic ferry explosion in New Orleans, Carlin is enlisted to help with the investigation. Aided by unique technology that allows him to look back in time, he soon uncovers a sinister plot. The film, directed by Tony Scott, marries elements of crime and time-travel genres. Val Kilmer co-stars as Agent Pryzwarra. The movie's enigmatic storyline intertwines past and future events, creating a complex narrative web that keeps viewers on their toes.
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  • Letters from Iwo Jima
    18

    Letters from Iwo Jima

    Ken Watanabe, Kazunari Ninomiya, Tsuyoshi Ihara
    275 votes
    Letters from Iwo Jima, a war drama directed by Clint Eastwood, peers into the battle of Iwo Jima from the Japanese perspective. The narrative pivots around the experiences of General Tadamichi Kuribayashi (Ken Watanabe) and Saigo (Kazunari Ninomiya), a low-ranking soldier. Their lives intertwine in the heat of conflict, offering an intimate glimpse into wartime struggles. The film's stark portrayal of human resilience against overwhelming odds garnered it an Academy Award for Best Sound Editing in 2007. Eastwood's directorial prowess, combined with the poignant performances of Watanabe and Ninomiya, make Letters from Iwo Jima a compelling cinematic experience.
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  • Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan
    19
    Take a journey across the United States with Borat Sagdiyev (Sacha Baron Cohen), a journalist from Kazakhstan. In Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan, Borat sets off on an enlightening mission to understand American society and culture. His travels are both humorous and shocking, often challenging social norms and revealing deep-seated prejudices. Alongside him is his producer Azamat Bagatov (Ken Davitian), who aids in navigating this foreign terrain. This satirical mockumentary, directed by Larry Charles, won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor - Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for Cohen's unflinchingly bold performance.
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  • Underworld: Evolution
    20

    Underworld: Evolution

    Kate Beckinsale, Scott Speedman, Tony Curran
    198 votes
    Seductive vampire Selene (Kate Beckinsale) and renegade werewolf Michael (Scott Speedman) love one another, but find themselves abhorred by the members of their own clans. Seeking clues that might provide a key to healing the rift between their species, they are hounded by Marcus (Tony Curran), an ancient creature obsessed with perpetuating the war between them. Continually beset by enemies from both sides, the lovers explore their pasts as they seek their destiny.
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  • X-Men: The Last Stand
    21

    X-Men: The Last Stand

    Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen
    421 votes
    In X-Men: The Last Stand, the mutant community faces its most formidable challenge yet. The discovery of a cure for mutation sparks a battle that will define their destiny. Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart) and his X-Men, including Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) and Storm (Halle Berry), stand against their former ally Magneto (Ian McKellen), who sees this cure as a threat to mutant existence. A war ensues, with Jean Grey's (Famke Janssen) rebirth as the powerful Phoenix adding an unpredictable element. Directed by Brett Ratner, this action-packed superhero film is third in the X-Men series. It won the Saturn Award for Best Science Fiction Film 2007, reflecting its compelling mix of drama, action, and thought-provoking themes.
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  • The Devil Wears Prada
    22

    The Devil Wears Prada

    Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Adrian Grenier
    397 votes
    The Devil Wears Prada, a drama-comedy directed by David Frankel, showcases the fashion world's thrilling yet cutthroat landscape. The film features Andrea Sachs (Anne Hathaway), a budding journalist who lands a demanding job as an assistant to the ruthless editor-in-chief of Runway magazine, Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep). As Andrea navigates through high-fashion chaos and Miranda's relentless expectations, she wrestles with her identity and integrity. Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci co-star, adding depth to this tale of ambition and sacrifice. This Oscar-nominated film offers a peek into the glitz and glamour cloaking the fashion industry's merciless reality.
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  • Apocalypto
    23

    Apocalypto

    Rudy Youngblood, Raoul Max Trujillo, Dalia Hernandez
    304 votes
    The Mayan kingdom is at the height of its opulence and power but the foundations of the empire are beginning to crumble. The leaders believe they must build more temples and sacrifice more people or their crops and citizens will die. Jaguar Paw (Rudy Youngblood), a peaceful hunter in a remote tribe, is captured along with his entire village in a raid. He is scheduled for a ritual sacrifice until he makes a daring escape and tries to make it back to his pregnant wife and son.
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  • Mission: Impossible III
    24

    Mission: Impossible III

    Tom Cruise, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Ving Rhames
    273 votes
    Mission: Impossible III is an adrenaline-fueled action thriller, the third installment in the globally acclaimed franchise. The film pivots around super-spy Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise), who is pulled back into action after a period of semi-retirement. Hunt's mission, should he choose to accept it, involves stopping a ruthless arms dealer named Owen Davian (Philip Seymour Hoffman). Amidst high-stakes espionage and heart-stopping stunts, Hunt must also protect his beloved Julia Meade (Michelle Monaghan) from danger. Directed by J.J. Abrams, this movie adds a layer of personal stakes to the usual explosive spectacle that defines the Mission: Impossible series.
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  • The Pursuit of Happyness
    25

    The Pursuit of Happyness

    Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Thandie Newton
    332 votes
    In The Pursuit of Happyness, Chris Gardner (Will Smith) is a struggling salesman in San Francisco. With his son Christopher (Jaden Smith), he faces the harsh reality of homelessness after an unfortunate series of events. Amidst this, Gardner lands an unpaid internship at a prestigious brokerage firm. The film, based on a true story, follows their journey as Gardner, with unwavering determination and resilience, fights against all odds for a better future. The movie earned Will Smith an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
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  • Rocky Balboa
    26

    Rocky Balboa

    Sylvester Stallone, Burt Young, Antonio Tarver
    297 votes
    Now long-retired, Rocky (Sylvester Stallone) runs a Philadelphia eatery and mourns the loss of his beloved wife, Adrian. Yearning to recapture a bit of his glory days, he plans to re-enter the ring for a few low-profile, local matches. All that changes when Rocky accepts a challenge to fight the world's reigning heavyweight champion, Mason "the Line" Dixon (Antonio Tarver).
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  • Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby
    27

    Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby

    Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, Sacha Baron Cohen
    299 votes
    Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, a sports comedy, features the adventures of NASCAR driver, Ricky Bobby (Will Ferrell). Raised in the world of speed, his life shifts gears when French Formula One driver, Jean Girard (Sacha Baron Cohen), challenges his throne. This film intertwines humor with racing drama, providing a unique look into the sport's culture. It was directed by Adam McKay and received two MTV Movie Award nominations for Best Comedic Performance and Best On-Screen Team. Packed with high-speed thrills and laughs, it's an entertaining ride through the fast-paced world of NASCAR.
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  • The Illusionist
    28

    The Illusionist

    Ed Norton, Paul Giamatti, Jessica Biel
    291 votes
    In the heart of Vienna, a magician named Eisenheim (Edward Norton) beguiles his audiences with seemingly impossible feats. Inspector Uhl (Paul Giamatti), under orders from Crown Prince Leopold (Rufus Sewell), is tasked to expose Eisenheim's tricks. Amidst this, Sophie (Jessica Biel), the Duchess von Teschen and Eisenheim's childhood friend re-enters his life, igniting a dangerous love triangle. A narrative imbued with mystery and romance, The Illusionist is a period drama that deftly explores themes of power, love, and illusion. The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Cinematography in 2007.
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  • Flags of Our Fathers
    29

    Flags of Our Fathers

    Ryan Phillippe, Jesse Bradford, Adam Beach
    272 votes
    In Flags of Our Fathers, director Clint Eastwood delves into the gritty realities of war. The film, based on a true story, follows the lives of six soldiers - John Doc Bradley (Ryan Phillippe), Rene Gagnon (Jesse Bradford), and Ira Hayes (Adam Beach) among them - thrust into fame as the men who raised the flag on Iwo Jima, a potent symbol of victory during World War II. However, their experiences on the battlefield tell a different tale. This historical drama explores themes of heroism and the harsh truths behind glorified images of war.
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  • Ice Age: The Meltdown
    30

    Ice Age: The Meltdown

    Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary
    284 votes
    With global warming threatening their once-icy domain with widespread flooding, Manny (Ray Romano), Sid (John Alberto Leguizamo) and Diego (Denis Leary) set out to find a safe haven. Along the way, another mammoth (Queen Latifah), who thinks she is an opossum, joins the travelers on their perilous quest.
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