10 Movies From The '90s You Didn't Realize Had Casts Full Of Future Stars

These 1990s movies might seem familiar to you, but you could be astonished by the number of rising stars who appeared in their casts. Some films from this era boast star-studded lineups, such as “Heat” and “The Thin Red Line”. Similarly, films like “True Romance” and “Dazed and Confused”, while already well-known, are particularly notable for their future stars. However, there are some 90s movies that, upon rewatching, may leave you astonished by the number of faces you recognize as they were on their way to fame.

In some cases, these films were headlined by major stars from the ’90s, with their supporting cast often being eclipsed during their initial release. However, other movies from this era have been somewhat overlooked and haven’t been revisited as much over time. Reflecting on them now, it’s fascinating to recognize how many famous faces were part of these productions, and knowing that some of these up-and-coming actors would go on to achieve great success in the future.

10. Armageddon (1998)

Future Stars: Ben Affleck, Owen Wilson, Steve Buscemi, Jason Isaacs

1998’s “Armageddon” might have seemed like a big-budget blockbuster filled with A-list celebrities when it was first released, but it’s surprising just how little-known most of the cast actually were. Leading man Bruce Willis was already one of Hollywood’s top stars at that time, but director Michael Bay and the studio chose an intriguing approach by surrounding Willis with actors from the independent movie scene of the 90s to flesh out this large-scale action film.

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but reminisce about the captivating ensemble cast that graced our screens in this particular movie. Notably, Ben Affleck, riding high on the success of Good Will Hunting, took on another significant role post-acclaim. Meanwhile, Steve Buscemi and Billy Bob Thornton, fresh off their respective triumphs with Fargo and Sling Blade, added depth to the narrative. Owen Wilson, then an emerging talent, had only just made waves in the cult comedy Bottle Rocket. And lastly, there were veterans like Michael Clarke Duncan and Jason Isaacs, whose contributions to this film may have been overshadowed by their extensive filmographies but are certainly not forgotten by those who appreciate a good cinematic ensemble.

9. Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1992)

Future Stars: Hilary Swank, Ben Affleck, David Arquette, Thomas Jane

Back in the ’90s, before “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” became a beloved TV series, it started off as a lesser-known movie from the early 90s. It was none other than Joss Whedon who penned this tale about an average high school student (Kristy Swanson) discovering her destiny as the next in line of vampire slayers. Joining Swanson in the starring role, the movie also boasted some seasoned actors like Donald Sutherland and Rutger Hauer.

In addition to the main stars, there were several well-known actors in minor roles in the film that didn’t receive much attention at first. Actors like Thomas Jane, David Arquette, and Stephen Root can be seen in smaller parts, contributing to the high school atmosphere with Root portraying the principal. Furthermore, the movie features a couple of future Academy Award winners: Hilary Swank played one of Buffy’s popular friends, while Ben Affleck had a brief appearance as a basketball player. Since this was early in his career, Affleck’s single line was actually spoken by another actor.

8. Go (1999)

Future Stars: Sarah Polley, Katie Holmes, Timothy Olyphant

The ’90s cult classic film “Go” showcases the fast-paced, energetic style of emerging young filmmakers, particularly director Doug Liman. This action-packed, humorous, and chaotic movie unfolds as a series of interconnected stories set in Los Angeles, exploring different viewpoints on a drug deal gone awry.

Prior to earning an Oscar as a filmmaker, Sarah Polley played the daring and impulsive character Ronna in the movie “Go.” This film also served as an early stepping stone for several ’90s TV stars such as Katie Holmes and Scott Wolf. Timothy Olyphant, known today as a Western icon, delivered a remarkable performance as the rogue drug dealer in this movie. Go also boasts a small role from Melissa McCarthy, who would later be nominated for an Oscar for her work in Bridesmaids.

7. School Ties (1992)

Future Stars: Brendan Fraser, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Cole Hauser

In a notable turn of events, School Ties marks the first time Matt Damon and Ben Affleck shared the screen as leading actors, a film that also featured several other rising stars. Notably, Brendan Fraser made his mark with one of his initial lead roles, portraying a Jewish student grappling with discrimination at a prestigious school. This role was just the beginning for Fraser; he later found box-office glory in the Mummy series and garnered an Oscar win for his performance in The Whale.

In the movie, Damon and Affleck play Fraser’s peers and tormentors with a prejudiced attitude. Interestingly, a year before the premiere of Dazed and Confused, several cast members from this film can be found in School Ties. Affleck teamed up again with Anthony Rapp, who later became known for his role in Yellowstone, while Cole Hauser also made an appearance. Chris O’Donnell was among the kinder students, portraying one of his early roles before joining the cast of School Ties.

6. Crimson Tide (1995)

Future Stars: Viggo Mortensen, James Gandolfini, Steve Zahn, Ryan Phillippe

In another hit collaboration, the film “Crimson Tide” marked the initial teamwork of Denzel Washington and Tony Scott. This underwater suspense drama pitted Washington against Gene Hackman as feuding commanders on a nuclear submarine amidst escalating global conflicts. The outstanding acting abilities of these two prominent actors may have overshadowed other talented cast members.

In one of its early blockbuster films, Crimson Tide featured rising stars such as Steve Zahn, Scott Grimes, and Ryan Phillippe in their breakout roles as junior sailors stationed aboard the ship. Notably, it also showcased several talented actors who would later become household names, including Viggo Mortensen prior to his iconic roles in the Lord of the Rings series and James Gandolfini before he embodied Tony Soprano’s defining character.

5. Hard Eight (1997)

Future Stars: John C. Reilly, Gwyneth Paltrow, Samuel L. Jackson, Philip Seymour Hoffman

As a cinephile, I’d say: Paul Thomas Anderson’s debut film didn’t receive the same level of acclaim as Boogie Nights, but it shares an impressive ensemble cast of rising stars. Hard Eight is a polished and engaging crime flick that places Philip Baker Hall in the pivotal role of Sydney, a seasoned gambler who mentors a young hustler on a journey toward redemption.

The film Hard Eight played a significant role in fostering key creative partnerships for Anderson. John C. Reilly portrayed the green young hustler guided by Sydney, while Philip Seymour Hoffman delivered a captivating performance as an irritating gambler. Both actors graced several other films directed by Anderson. In addition to these stellar performances, Gwyneth Paltrow appeared as Reilly’s romantic interest and Samuel L. Jackson portrayed a rival to Sydney in the movie.

4. Never Been Kissed (1999)

Future Stars: Jessica Alba, James Franco, John C. Reilly, Octavia Spencer

In the 1990s, Drew Barrymore solidified her return to stardom with her witty and endearing portrayal in the film “Never Been Kissed.” This comedy finds Barrymore as a mature woman who was once ridiculed at high school, transforming into an investigative journalist. However, she must revisit her alma mater undercover as a student again for a story. Barrymore’s performance is what makes the movie memorable, although it boasts an excellent ensemble cast.

In many teenage-themed movies from high school, it’s common for actors portraying younger students to later achieve significant success in their careers. For instance, Jessica Alba, Mary Shelton, and James Franco had early roles before they became famous for films like “Sin City” and other projects. Interestingly, Barrymore’s colleagues at the newspaper in this movie are themselves notable stars. John C. Reilly plays her boss, Molly Shannon is her friend, and even Octavia Spencer, who later won an Oscar, appears in the film.

3. King Of New York (1990)

Future Stars: Laurence Fishburne, Wesley Snipes, Steve Buscemi, Giancarlo Esposito

One of the unsung crime masterpieces from the 1990s, “King of New York,” boasts an outstanding lead role by Christopher Walken. He portrays Frank White, a former gangster who emerges from prison and aims to reclaim dominance in his city. In this endeavor, he clashes with rival gangs and the police. Essentially, it’s Walken’s film, providing him an exceptional central character, as he is typically known for stealing scenes rather than leading them.

In this film, Walken is supported by a remarkable ensemble cast. Laurence Fishburne portrays Frank’s devoted right-hand man, delivering an impressive performance that contributed significantly to his success in the ’90s. Wesley Snipes makes an appearance as one of the officers pursuing Frank, long before he established himself as an action hero. Notable members of Frank’s team also include Steve Buscemi and Giancarlo Esposito.

2. Angels In The Outfield (1994)

Future Stars: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Adrien Brody, Matthew McConaughey

As a nostalgic movie aficionado, I must confess that “Angels in the Outfield” may not rank among the all-time great baseball flicks, but it holds a special place in my heart for those reminiscent of their youthful days. A modern take on the 1951 original film, “Angels in the Outfield” tells the tale of a passionate young fan who implores heavenly intervention for his cherished team to clinch the pennant. To his astonishment, he begins to witness divine beings lending a hand on the baseball field!

The film showcased many prominent actors from that period, such as Christopher Lloyd, Danny Glover, and Tony Danza. Yet, it was the less recognized performers who truly brought stardom to the production. Joseph Gordon-Levitt had just started his acting career when he starred in this movie, whereas Adrien Brody and Matthew McConaughey, both future Oscar winners, portrayed baseball players.

1. Airheads (1994)

Future Stars: Brendan Fraser, Steve Buscemi, Adam Sandler, Chris Farley, David Arquette

Airheads, a hilarious comedy from the 1990s that’s worth revisiting, showcases an impressive lineup of stars you might not realize were in it. The story revolves around three aspiring musicians who seize a radio station to make sure their song gets played on air. In its early stages, the film shines with the charisma of its main actors – Brendan Fraser, Steven Buscemi, and Adam Sandler – all poised on the brink of major success.

At that point, Fraser was the most renowned actor, yet Buscemi was rising in independent films, while Sandler had not yet achieved fame as a comedy sensation in movies like Happy Gilmore and Billy Madison. They were accompanied by other notable actors in the cast, such as Chris Farley playing an overexcited policeman, David Arquette portraying an animated hostage, and Michael Richards, known for Seinfeld, as a bumbling accountant.

2025-06-07 12:59

10 Movies From The ’90s You Didn’t Realize Had Casts Full Of Future Stars