These great movies that came out 15 years ago will make you feel really old

New Line Cinema

2001 launched a number of hit franchises that are still with us today.

From "Harry Potter" to "The Lord of the Rings," fan bases were thrust into new cinematic worlds and would follow the series through their conclusions and beyond. 

As these and other major movie touchstones celebrate their 15th anniversary, we look back at 20 such memorable titles that will make you really appreciate how quick the passage of time is.

"Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone"

Only four books in the "Harry Potter" series were out when the first film hit the big screen. Fifteen years later, both the book and film series have concluded and a new saga has begun. The two-part London play "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" will take place 19 years after the final novel. 

"The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring"

Based on J.R.R. Tolkien's series, "The Fellowship of the Ring" was critically acclaimed, a box-office smash, and earned 13 Oscar nominations. It launched one of the most successful fantasy film franchises of all time.

"Donnie Darko"

This cult film stars Jake Gyllenhaal as a troubled teen who is visited by a freaky rabbit figure named Frank. It also featured Jake's real-life sister Maggie, Drew Barrymore, Patrick Swayze, Jena Malone, Mary McDonnell, and Seth Rogen in his feature film debut.