This week, The Guide celebrates 200 issues by delving into a comprehensive look back at popular culture over the past 25 years. Rather than claiming to present a definitive ranking, the Guide has curated a selection of notable films, TV shows, and artworks that illustrate the evolution of cultural expressions in the 21st century, with a chosen highlight for each year.
Kicking off in 2000, the reality TV phenomenon “Big Brother” set a precedent for subsequent shows, laying the groundwork for reality television’s evolution into a cultural mainstay. The year also saw Radiohead’s groundbreaking album “Kid A,” which helped redefine rock music by prioritizing experimental sound and ambiance.
In 2001, the mashup hit “A Stroke of Genius” captured the zeitgeist and laid the foundation for a new wave of inventive pop music that continues to inspire contemporary artists. The animated masterpiece “Spirited Away” marked the beginning of Western audiences embracing Studio Ghibli’s enchanting storytelling.
As the years unfolded, cultural landmarks continued to define their respective eras. In 2004, “World of Warcraft” ushered in a new gaming experience, connecting millions in a fantasy online environment, while 2007’s “The Masque of the Red Death” exemplified a burgeoning trend towards immersive theatre.
2010 introduced us to Robyn’s album “Body Talk,” which not only spawned hits like “Dancing on My Own” but also reshaped the landscape of pop music to include more personal and nuanced narratives. The following years brought forth streaming service shifts with 2013’s “Breaking Bad: Ozymandias,” which contributed to the rise of Netflix as a powerhouse in original content.
More recent highlights include 2020’s groundbreaking series “I May Destroy You,” which pushed boundaries in narrative storytelling, and the global phenomenon of Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour” in 2023, signifying a robust return to live entertainment post-pandemic with unprecedented engagement.
As we look towards 2024, the cultural landscape remains vibrant, with authors like Miranda July leading new literary trends and rising incredibly innovative works capturing the imagination of audiences.
The Guide’s retrospective not only celebrates key moments in modern culture but also points towards ongoing dialogues and evolutions that promise to shape the future of our creative landscape. As artists continue to reach new heights, we may only begin to imagine the impact art and media will continue to have in the years to come.