Deep Impact (1998)

A seven-mile-wide space rock is hurtling toward Earth, threatening to obliterate the planet, forcing the President of the United States to orchestrate a desperate last-ditch effort. He entrusts the mission to a seasoned astronaut, who must lead a combined American-Russian crew into the vastness of space with the monumental task of destroying the comet before it makes catastrophic impact. As the world holds its breath, an ambitious reporter works tirelessly to uncover the story of the century, adding a human element of hope and resilience amidst the existential threat. "Deep Impact" earns its place on a "Best Mimi Leder Movies" list due to Leder's masterful direction in weaving together grand-scale disaster spectacle with intimate human drama. She expertly balances the awe-inspiring visual effects of the impending comet with the deeply emotional journeys of the characters, from the astronauts facing their mortality to the families on Earth grappling with the end of everything they know. Leder's ability to imbue such a high-concept premise with genuine emotional resonance, showcasing both the immense power of nature and the indomitable spirit of humanity, solidifies its status as a standout film in her directorial career.