The Best Movies Of The ’90s, Ranked

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The 1990s was a golden age for cinema, producing numerous outstanding films and launching the careers of talented actors such as Will Smith and Uma Thurman, while also fostering the directorial debuts of Quentin Tarantino, Richard Linklater, and Wes Anderson. This decade brought innovations like found-footage horror with “The Blair Witch Project,” teen party movies with “House Party” and “Can’t Hardly Wait,” and revolutionized film animation with Pixar’s first feature project. However, it is challenging to rank the quality of every movie produced in this era due to the multifaceted nature of creative value and the lack of a universal standard for comparing drama and comedy. The list includes several Oscar-winning films, but success according to traditional Hollywood standards isn’t the only factor that shaped it.

This list aimed to encompass numerous genres and accommodate diverse levels of quality. We also focused on films that continue to resonate strongly in today’s world, as well as those that were initially less successful in the 1990s but have since gained renewed popularity in 2025. Unfortunately, due to space constraints, we couldn’t delve deeper into the intellectual wit of “Being John Malkovich,” the quirky action of “Men in Black,” and numerous other outstanding movies, but there can only be 15 selections on this list.

12. Toy Story (1995)

Pixar is recognized as one of the leading animation studios within the movie industry. As an independent studio and later as part of Walt Disney, it has churned out numerous box-office hits over the past three decades. Some of the most delightful films from the last 30 years include “Finding Nemo,” “The Incredibles,” and “Up,” which was one of the first animated movies to be nominated for the prestigious Best Picture award (alongside “Beauty and the Beast” and “Toy Story 3,” both of which are also Pixar productions). However, it was the adorable film “Toy Story” that initially put Pixar on the map.

In simpler terms, “Toy Story” stands out because it appeals equally to both children and adults, which is unusual for animated films but was pioneered by Pixar. Unlike later movies from this studio, “Toy Story” doesn’t have the same level of corporate polish, giving it a unique charm. One of the ways Pixar achieves this appeal is through hidden references that only grown-up viewers can truly appreciate. The film manages to tap into both the nostalgia of its adult audience and their children’s enthusiasm. Overall, the “Toy Story” series embodies the carefree spirit of childhood and the mixed feelings that come with growing up.

Cast: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts

Director: John Lasseter

Rating: G

Runtime: 1h 21m

Where to watch: Disney+

11. Boyz N the Hood (1991)

At 24 years old, John Singleton made history by directing “Boyz N the Hood,” which was not only one of the best films of the ’90s but also a groundbreaking movie that delved into the lives of people of color living in urban areas. This film, his debut feature, paved the way for the hood genre and catapulted Cuba Gooding Jr., Morris Chestnut, and rapper Ice Cube’s careers. Furthermore, Singleton made history again when he received an Academy Award nomination for best director, becoming both the first Black director in that category and the youngest ever nominated.

The movie “Boyz N the Hood” vividly portrays the hardships and struggles of living in a hood environment, characterized by poverty, violence, and relentless labor from which it’s difficult to break free. When it seems that Ricky (Chestnut) might find a way out through his athletic skills and academic ambition, this hope is tragically snatched away with his gang-related demise, affecting not just him but also his family, friends, and viewers. The film underscores how even exceptional individuals can be swallowed by the tumultuous tragedies that were commonplace in areas like South Central during the ’90s.

Cast: Ice Cube, Cuba Gooding Jr., Morris Chestnut

Director: John Singleton

Rating: R

Runtime: 1h 52m

Where to watch: Pluto TV

10. GoodFellas (1990)

Among Martin Scorsese’s ’90s films like “Cape Fear” and “Casino,” it is widely agreed that “Goodfellas” stands out as his finest work for that decade, if not his entire career. Based on Nicholas Pileggi’s non-fiction book, “Wiseguy,” the film chronicles the life of a character named Henry Hill (portrayed by Ray Liotta), who grows up and immerses himself deeper into the criminal activities managed by the mafia. Although the movie doesn’t cover every detail of Henry Hill’s true story, it provides a captivating portrayal of an individual ensnared in the thrill and allure of the criminal underworld.

In the movie “GoodFellas,” Robert De Niro as Jimmy Conway and Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito deliver chilling, powerful performances. However, it is Ray Liotta, through his readiness to embody Henry’s imperfections, that truly brings the film to life. “GoodFellas” stands out among all gangster films for Looper, even surpassing other Scorsese works like “Casino” and “The Irishman,” as it is considered the finest post-“The Godfather Part II” gangster movie ever made. While Scorsese has explored the gangster genre with other productions, nothing he’s done has matched the brilliance of “Goodfellas.

Cast: Ray Liotta, Robert de Niro, Joe Pesci

Director: Martin Scorsese

Rating: R

Runtime: 2h 26m

Where to watch: HBO Max, Hulu

9. Thelma & Louise (1991)

In ‘Thelma & Louise,’ we follow two lifelong friends, Thelma (played by Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon), as they embark on an impromptu getaway from Thelma’s oppressive husband. Their journey leads them to cross paths with various types of men – some good, some bad, even criminals, and former lovers. However, the film’s central theme revolves around Thelma and Louise’s unbreakable friendship and their shared discontent with their mundane, restrictive lives. Directed by Ridley Scott and written by Callie Khouri, ‘Thelma & Louise’ sought to portray a unique perspective on a road trip movie, focusing on the dynamic of female friendship.

In a standout film featuring captivating performances by Sarandon and Davis, critics and audiences alike found themselves divided upon its release, with numerous points of contention, such as the portrayal of unsafe sex. The New York Times, however, pinpointed the root cause of this controversy: “The men in this narrative are merely background elements, serving as scenery for these characters to traverse […] Historically, female characters in road movies have been treated similarly.” Notably, “Thelma & Louise” offers a unique perspective on women’s empowerment and self-determination. Regrettably, the conclusion of this groundbreaking movie remains one of the most shocking moments ever depicted on screen.

Cast: Geena Davis, Susan Sarandon, Harvey Keitel

Director: Ridley Scott

Rating: R

Runtime: 2h 9m

Where to watch: Amazon Prime

8. The Matrix (1999)

The Matrix,” released in 1999, is widely regarded as one of the greatest science fiction films ever produced and one of the genre’s most financially successful. Remarkably, a similar film was attempted a year prior in 1998 with “Dark City,” but it failed at the box office. While “Dark City” isn’t a poor movie, “The Matrix” surpasses it in numerous aspects. For instance, “The Matrix” boasts more stylish production, featuring polished set designs and fashionable, attention-grabbing costumes for its protagonists. Moreover, the film boasts an exceptional cast of talented actors delivering stellar performances, with Keanu Reeves (Neo) and Laurence Fishburne (Morpheus), both veterans in their respective fields, among them.

In “The Matrix,” the fight scenes are a memorable aspect, featuring slow motion, extraordinary actions, and weightless firearm battles in mid-air. This film is fantastic from beginning to end, and its storyline has sparked countless existential contemplations among viewers. Could it be that our reality is merely a digital construct like the Matrix? Or might we be subjects of study for extraterrestrial beings at this moment? While these ideas may seem improbable, some individuals claim to find inconsistencies in the simulation. A good science fiction movie captivates and astonishes its audience; however, a great one does more than that – it also raises profound, enduring philosophical questions. “The Matrix” falls into the latter category.

Cast: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving

Director: The Wachowski sisters

Rating: R

Runtime: 2h 16m

Where to watch: Peacock

7. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

On this list, there’s only one Academy Award best picture winner, and that is “The Silence of the Lambs.” This chilling masterpiece features Jodie Foster portraying FBI agent Clarice Starling in an exceptional performance. Known for its 95% approval rating from both viewers and critics on Rotten Tomatoes, “The Silence of the Lambs” is a highly esteemed film from the ’90s. Foster brings a sense of reality and depth to Clarice, while Anthony Hopkins delivers an unforgettable performance as Hannibal Lecter, a notorious cannibalistic serial killer who also excels in manipulation.

As a devoted fan, I must say that it’s not often you come across a masterpiece like “The Silence of the Lambs” that seamlessly blends crime and horror genres. Typically, crime narratives are presented in noir or docudrama styles, but this film stands out as a genuine thriller, providing a chilling, first-person perspective on an objectively terrifying scenario. After all, it delves deep into the psychological abyss of depravity that humans can sink to, as portrayed by characters like Dr. Hannibal Lecter and Buffalo Bill (Ted Levine).

The intriguing pathology of killers such as these will forever captivate those fascinated by crime and serial murder. However, what makes “The Silence of the Lambs” truly exceptional is its intimate exploration of its protagonist, a noble woman struggling to survive in a frightening world, alongside its terrifying antagonists.

Cast: Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn

Director: Jonathan Demme

Rating: R

Runtime: 1h 58m

Where to watch: HBO Max, Hulu

6. Saving Private Ryan (1998)

At the 1999 Oscars, one of the most unexpected outcomes occurred when a sweet romantic comedy titled “Shakespeare in Love” triumphed over the critically acclaimed war film, “Saving Private Ryan.” Directed by Steven Spielberg, who aimed to portray the brutal and grim aspects of war without glorifying it, the movie was incredibly realistic. Despite no film being able to truly replicate the raw truth of war, “Saving Private Ryan” came extremely close in capturing its essence.

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but reflect on the fascinating turn of events surrounding the Oscars. While “Shakespeare in Love” was crowned best picture due to political maneuverings known as backdoor nominations, a strategy that Steven Spielberg chose to avoid. However, this decision didn’t diminish the extraordinary impact of his subsequent work, “Saving Private Ryan.”

This masterpiece, released after his critically acclaimed “Schindler’s List,” was undeniably deserving of the top honor. Its loss at the Oscars marked a shift in Hollywood, ushering in an era of intense awards campaigning and publicity obligations.

Intriguingly, recent changes at the Academy might help prevent such “Saving Private Ryan”-sized upsets. Now, every member must watch each movie under consideration for awards before voting. This could lead to a more objective evaluation process, ensuring that the most deserving films truly shine on Hollywood’s biggest stage.

Cast: Tom Hanks, Ed Burns, Matt Damon

Director: Steven Spielberg

Rating: R

Runtime: 2h 50m

Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Youtube TV

5. The Big Lebowski (1998)

As a gamer, I remember when I first watched “The Big Lebowski” – a quirky film that served as a sequel to the critically acclaimed “Fargo” by the Coen Brothers. It didn’t exactly set the box office on fire or win over all the critics, but for those who gave it a chance, it became a cult classic. The story revolves around this laid-back guy, The Dude (Jeff Bridges), who’s more concerned about finding a missing rug to complete his living room than anything else. There’s an undeniable whimsical charm to the movie that its fans adore, a kind of absurdity that feels humble and endearing.

This movie garners enthusiasts who rate the top “Big Lebowski” lines or memorable instances featuring The Dude, yet it transcends merely style and humor by providing depth. Some devotees of “The Big Lebowski” have discovered a sense of tranquility and purpose similar to what religion offers, considering the film as a sort of spiritual text for a philosophy called dudeism. Interestingly, it features Tara Reid and manages to make John Goodman’s character, Walter (The Dude’s best friend), somewhat unsympathetic. Despite its differences from “Fargo,” it maintains a common thread of darkly comedic self-awareness, which is characteristic of most films directed by The Coen Brothers.

Cast: Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Julianne Moore, Steve Buscemi

Director: The Coen brothers

Rating: R

Runtime: 1h 57m

Where to watch: Peacock

4. Apollo 13 (1995)

The enduring quality of the movie “Apollo 13” is striking. Set in the late ’60s at the time of the Apollo 13 moon mission launch, this film manages to maintain a contemporary feel despite its heavy emphasis on depicting historical technology. Remarkably, “Apollo 13” seems as engaging today as it did upon its initial release. This cinematic masterpiece follows a group of courageous astronauts, detailing their struggle to embark on a space journey and subsequently ensure their safe return home.

After winning back-to-back Best Actor awards at the 1993 and 1994 Academy Awards for his roles in “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump,” respectively, Tom Hanks starred in “Apollo 13.” At that time, he was already a highly recognizable film star, and “Apollo 13” further boosted his stardom. Notable performances by Gary Sinise and Ed Harris accompanied Hanks’s self-assured portrayal in the movie, reinforcing the leading man talent he had already demonstrated.

Cast: Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton

Director: Ron Howard

Rating: PG

Runtime: 2h 20m

Where to watch: Hulu, Youtube TV

3. Pulp Fiction (1994)

In the realm of Hollywood, Quentin Tarantino set fire to the landscape with his groundbreaking films such as “Jackie Brown,” “Reservoir Dogs,” and most notably, “Pulp Fiction.” Each of these 90’s masterpieces could comfortably claim a spot on this list, but it is widely debated that “Pulp Fiction” stands as Tarantino’s magnum opus. Over the years, its popularity has grown significantly, particularly due to the rise of streaming services making older movies more accessible. Despite its controversial themes like violence, gore, drug use, and adult situations, it has gained a level of cultural ubiquity for an independent film. Even those who didn’t appreciate “Pulp Fiction” find themselves intrigued by the mystery surrounding the contents of that enigmatic briefcase.

Pulp Fiction” signified a rejuvenated acting career for John Travolta (as Vincent Vega), chosen by Tarantino for good reason. It also introduced Samuel Jackson as Jules Winnfield, portraying him brilliantly, and young Uma Thurman as Mia Wallace on screen. Familiar faces like Tim Roth, Harvey Keitel, Ving Rhames, and Bruce Willis were also included in the cast. The movie narrates its tale through a fragmented, non-chronological plotline and incorporates dark humor instead of the somber mood typically seen in crime films. A testament to indie filmmaking in the 1990s, “Pulp Fiction” remains one of Tarantino’s earliest masterpieces and is a prime example of his exceptional storytelling abilities.

Cast: John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman

Director: Quentin Tarantino

Rating: R

Runtime: 2h 34m

Where to watch: Paramount+, Youtube TV

2. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

Stephen King is known for writing extensively, with most of his works falling under the horror genre. Many of his stories have been turned into films, but when asked about his favorites, he mentioned “The Shawshank Redemption” and “Stand By Me”. While not as gory as many of his other tales, “The Shawshank Redemption” is still deeply unsettling. As Roger Ebert put it, the horror in this movie isn’t supernatural, but rather stems from the profound realization that a man has spent decades of his life confined within the monotonous routine of prison walls.

The movie serves as a moving tribute to the ideals of honesty and resilience within the human spirit, masterfully portrayed by selfless acting from stars Morgan Freeman (as Red, the story’s narrator) and Tim Robbins (as Andy, the main character). “The Shawshank Redemption” carries a profound weight, but manages to share it in such a way that it doesn’t feel melancholic. Unfortunately, prison conditions and sentencing reform have not seen significant progress in America, making this film even more pertinent as a powerful symbol in the ongoing struggle to instill empathy within our criminal justice system.

Cast: Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton

Director: Frank Darabont

Rating: R

Runtime: 2h 22m

Where to watch: Apple TV+, Amazon Prime

1. Jurassic Park (1993)

Jurassic Park” stands out as a movie that captivates viewers’ hearts. Known for its exceptional practical effects, thanks to incredible animatronics, it boasts one of the most iconic film scores ever composed by John Williams. The narrative is so gripping it transcends genre boundaries; some might even categorize “Jurassic Park” as a horror movie. As expected, this classic film has garnered widespread acclaim from both critics and viewers, with an impressive average approval rating of 91% across critical and audience aggregate scores.

Listening to snippets of its famous theme or reading articles about the science behind Jurassic Park can instantly bring back memories of movie nights filled with the scent of popcorn and thrilling moments when a velociraptor unexpectedly appeared. The film also introduced us to an intriguing trio led by Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum – all talented actors who remain captivating due to their individual charm. Jurassic Park represents a flawless blend of skill and appeal, and without a doubt, it stands as the top film from the 1990s.

Cast: Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Richard Attenborough

Director: Steven Spielberg

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 2h 7m

Where to watch: Peacock

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2025-07-06 00:32