25 ’90s Movies That Should Have Been Bigger

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It seems quite strange to label ’90s films as “classics” if you spent your childhood watching them repeatedly during afternoons on TBS. After all, they’re more like cherished memories from your youth rather than timeless masterpieces.

However, the truth of the matter is that the ’90s are now three decades in the past. And let me tell you, The Fugitive is a timeless masterpiece! It’s not just your everyday cable classic or a movie for old-school dads. Nope, it’s a true classic, without a doubt. That film is absolutely top-notch.

Among the widely acclaimed ’90s movies are titles such as Jurassic Park, The Matrix, Clueless, Goodfellas, The Truman Show, Pulp Fiction, Fargo, and even Troll 2 (though it seems I’m in a minority here). However, merely a handful of the ’90s films have the ability to surpass their time period and remain evergreen, much like Troll 2.

To put it simply, this collection is my pick of 25 movies that didn’t quite fit the mold of ’90s classics as commonly perceived by many film enthusiasts. These are films that initially failed to capture the box office magic and, subsequently, never garnered a significant cult following. They reside in a peculiar realm today – they’re out there, and you can indeed watch them on streaming platforms or home video, but only if you know where and how to find them.

This list serves as a showcase for it. Here are 25 films from the ’90s that, in hindsight, deserved more recognition at the time and deserve to be more fondly recalled today.

25 ’90s Movies That Should Have Been Bigger

Reversal of Fortune (1990)

1990s marked a golden era for gripping legal dramas such as this one, which re-enacts the notorious Claus von Bülow case. Jeremy Irons bagged an Oscar portraying von Bülow, while director Barbet Schroeder masterfully delves into the complexities of the case without explicitly vindicating his controversial protagonist. Though Ron Silver’s Alan Dershowitz persistently argues for his client’s innocence, Schroeder is more intrigued by the elusive concept of reasonable doubt. Glenn Close leaves an indelible impression as Sunny von Bülow, despite narrating most of the film while in a vegetative state. Although the real Sunny remained comatose until her passing in 2008, Close has the honor of delivering the film’s chilling final lines.

The Two Jakes (1990)

The Two Jakes”

“The Two Jakes” might seem an unnecessary sequel to you until you watch it, at which point it becomes the answer to a half-heard question. Set following the events of “Chinatown”, Jake Gittes (played by Jack Nicholson, who also directed) finds himself entangled in a complex case involving a client, Harvey Keitel, who may have used him as a cover for a premeditated murder. During his investigation, Gittes uncovers links to his own past. A challenging production that became infamous for its flop, “The Two Jakes”, penned by the original “Chinatown” screenwriter Robert Towne, offers a poignant and melancholic account of the dangers of dwelling on the past. The final line of “Chinatown”, though iconic, is surpassed in impact by the final line of “The Two Jakes” – “It never goes away”.

The Man in the Moon (1991)

Reese Witherspoon’s breakthrough roles in “Election” and “Cruel Intentions” propelled her to fame, but her exceptional talent was evident even in her very first film role. At just 14 years old, she starred in the heartfelt indie drama “The Man in the Moon,” set in 1950s Louisiana, where she portrayed a young girl grappling with her initial crush (played by Jason London). Despite being her debut movie, Witherspoon’s performance suggested the poise and experience of a seasoned screen actor. Those who watched this film in the early 1990s may not have been shocked when she achieved major film stardom later on.

Deep Cover (1992)

This gripping drama directed by and starring Bill Duke offers a deep exploration of a police officer who becomes ensnared in his undercover assignment, also serving as a powerful critique of the war on drugs. The film is memorable for scenes like Jeff Goldblum shouting “We’ll have shrimp!” while throwing someone out of a speeding car. Essentially, there’s much to appreciate here. Despite its numerous appeals, the movie ‘Deep Cover’ was relatively obscure for many years, even among dedicated movie enthusiasts. However, it has been receiving more recognition in recent times; the Criterion Collection added it to their collection in 2021.

Army of Darkness (1992)

In a straightforward manner:

Sam Raimi, during the ’90s, was unparalleled in his camera manipulation. A comprehensive course on visual storytelling could be developed just from watching the first 20 minutes of “Army of Darkness”. His use of pans, shifts, zooms, and dollies is both chaotic and energetic yet crystal clear, effectively amplifying the narrative, humor, and horror. Moreover, his frequent transitions between terrifying scares and humorous comedy are second to none. To top it off, Bruce Campbell delivers a standout performance as an annoyingly arrogant character, making “Army of Darkness” a remarkable piece of comic horror.

Guilty As Sin (1993)

In a surprising pairing, filmmakers Sidney Lumet, famed for his gritty New York crime dramas such as “Dog Day Afternoon” and “12 Angry Men,” and Larry Cohen, a master of exploitation films, seemed like an unusual duo. However, their collaboration resulted in the creation of the intriguing movie “Guilty As Sin“. The plot revolves around a unique concept, a reversal of “Basic Instinct,” where a female lawyer (Rebecca De Mornay) becomes captivated by the prime suspect (Don Johnson) in the murder of his wife. Lumet primarily adopts a straightforward approach, allowing his actors to take center stage. This results in Don Johnson’s character being portrayed as the epitome of a charming gigolo, and he delivers an entertaining performance that leaves you eagerly anticipating his downfall. For instance, in one scene, a woman attempts to buy him a drink at a bar. He declines her offer, instead asking her to pay for the drink he is currently consuming, then promptly abandons her with an empty glass and the bill.

Household Saints (1993)

Nancy Savoca’s “Household Saints” is an exceptional film that skillfully blends humor with despair, and explores spirituality in a unique way that is both heartfelt and questioning. The movie’s elusive quality might explain why it spent decades unnoticed; it seems marketing it would have been challenging. It’s too passionate to captivate a religious audience, yet it’s not a film that mocks Catholicism either. This was one of the reasons I found it appealing; it’s unlike any other portrayal of these subjects or characters. Lili Taylor delivers an outstanding performance at the heart of this intergenerational tale about an Italian-American family. To my knowledge, I haven’t encountered a character quite like hers in films before. Fortunately, the movie has regained interest due to a recent restoration and re-release in cinemas. Kino Lorber made it available for home viewing in 2024. Don’t miss out on it!

Matinee (1993)

In a refreshing and nostalgic twist, Joe Dante’s film “Matinee” delves deeper than mere reminiscence of ’60s B-movies. It subtly examines the disparity between authentic horror and the sensationalized versions peddled by John Goodman’s character, Lawrence Woolsey, and his peers in the movie industry. However, one might wonder, how can a film about a low-brow producer be so insightful?

The movie offers a glimpse into the life of its teen protagonist, Gene (Simon Fenton), who lives with his mother and younger brother on a military base, where their father is absent, serving aboard a Navy vessel during the Cuban Missile Crisis. With their mother often preoccupied, the responsibility of caring for Dennis (Jesse Lee) falls on Gene’s shoulders. The family’s frequent relocations due to the father’s job make them perpetual outsiders at school. The local movie theater serves as a sanctuary of joy amidst their troubles.

In essence, “Matinee” presents a heartfelt portrayal of how the allure of cinema can provide solace and camaraderie in the face of adversity and displacement.

Last Action Hero (1993)

In stark contrast to the blockbuster success of Jurassic Park, which premiered a week prior and dominated box office sales in 1993, Last Action Hero became largely forgotten. However, it’s worth revisiting due to its unique self-critical approach. The screenwriter Shane Black humorously pokes fun at the action films that made him wealthy, while Arnold Schwarzenegger engages in an intriguing self-interrogation, portraying both fictional character Jack Slater and himself, the actor behind Slater. In one captivating scene, he even meets his own on-screen double. Although its child sidekick character is a less effective version of the one in Terminator 2, the satire and mock trailers are spot-on.

Despite being overshadowed by Jurassic Park, Last Action Hero is still worth watching due to its self-critical nature and clever humor. The movie features Arnold Schwarzenegger questioning his own action hero image, while the writer pokes fun at action films in general. Although the child sidekick character isn’t as strong as in Terminator 2, the satire and mock trailers are well done.

The Paper (1994)

Amongst the well-known films Ron Howard directed in the ’90s, “The Paper” might be the least recognized. Notable hits from this era include “Backdraft,” “Apollo 13,” and “Ransom.” However, it could very well be his most impressive work of the decade. This movie is a vibrant ensemble piece that delves into the intricacies of a big-city newspaper. Michael Keaton plays the hardworking editor of a New York City tabloid, whose relentless pursuit of a story risks jeopardizing both his career and his marriage. If you’re a fan of investigative journalist films, this one is highly recommended. It features an exceptional cast that includes Robert Duvall, Glenn Close, Jason Alexander, Marisa Tomei, and Jason Robards.

Cabin Boy (1994)

The film “Cabin Boy” didn’t exactly receive a warm welcome when it first came out, given its peculiar nature. Starring Chris Elliott as a posh character who finds himself in trouble on a ship and experiences various bizarre incidents at sea, the movie may have initially seemed odd to viewers. However, with time, its unique humor and creative visual style have proven timeless, making it appear as if it was an innovative anti-comedy that was way ahead of its era.

Ed Wood (1994)

Director Tim Burton transformed the life story of Edward D. Wood Jr., a man whose work could have been reduced to mere camp in less capable hands, into one of the most sincere and truthful portrayals of filmmaking ever made. In “Ed Wood,” portrayed by Johnny Depp, we find a dreamer struggling against Hollywood’s hierarchical constraints, where finances often overshadow artistic expression. Essentially, Ed Wood is an embodiment of a typical Tim Burton protagonist.
Although I’ve always admired “Ed Wood,” I’ve occasionally felt troubled by its conclusion. The life of Ed Wood was marked by sadness and despair, as his films were met with ridicule and commercial failure. He died a drunk and penniless man. However, the film ends on a positive note, with Ed Wood experiencing success at the premiere of “Plan 9 From Outer Space” and proposing to his girlfriend Kathy.
Upon reflection, I now understand that part of the appeal of “Ed Wood” lies in its underlying sadness. Beneath the triumphant story of an indomitable dreamer, there is a hidden ending tinged with sadness – that of Bela Lugosi, who appears in the film already near death (literally, trying out coffins). By the end of the movie, it becomes clear that Bela’s (portrayed by Martin Landau) fate mirrors Ed Wood’s own, 20 years into the future. Ed may not yet realize this, but when he looks at Bela, he sees his own destiny.

The Road to Wellville (1994)

Upon its debut, this film received heavy criticism from critics and didn’t resonate well with audiences. Given that it revolves around Anthony Hopkins peddling alternative medicines while performing colonics on Matthew Broderick, it wasn’t surprising that the audience response was lackluster. Yet, I can see why it garnered negative reviews, but I still find merit in it. The film is undeniably eccentric and unconventional, which makes a traditional biopic about such an unusual character implausible. The film’s humor, with its constant shifts between sexual and scatological, may not appeal to everyone. In fact, it was this audacity that drew me towards the movie even more. It was rather uncommon in 1994 to witness a Hollywood production so deliberately uncommercial. This movie feels like a challenge – I dare you not to keep watching!

24. Devil in a Blue Dress (1995)

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but wonder if any man has ever radiated more charm in a pristine white tank top than Denzel Washington did in “Devil in a Blue Dress”. Granted, this isn’t a rigorous method to evaluate a film’s greatness, but it’s worth mentioning that this movie, adapted from Walter Mosley’s detective novel, showcases one of the most captivating leading performances of the 1990s. Denzel Washington portrays Easy Rawlings, an unemployed factory worker who becomes embroiled in a complex, unexpected mystery after agreeing to help find a missing person. The ensemble cast, featuring Tom Sizemore, Jennifer Beals, and a young Don Cheadle as Easy’s friend Mouse, is outstanding, and the script by director Carl Franklin deftly explores the racial disparities of 1940s Los Angeles. What’s more, Denzel Washington’s performance in this film is so captivating that you can barely tear your eyes away from him for a moment.

The Quick and the Dead (1995)

Among the ’90s movies that critics initially misjudged, this one could be their greatest oversight. Despite my admiration for director Sam Raimi, I hesitated watching it for quite some time due to the common perception that it was a shallow, superficial, melodramatic Western. Contrary to popular belief, it features one of the decade’s most talented ensembles – including Gene Hackman, Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobin Bell, Lance Henriksen, Keith David, Gary Sinise, Woody Strode, Pat Hingle, Mark Boone Junior, and a pre-“L.A. Confidential” Russell Crowe. The script is rich with sharp frontier dialogues, and Raimi skillfully employs his signature camera techniques to create gripping Western gunfights. In summary, there’s plenty to appreciate about this film.

Johnny Mnemonic (1995)

Johnny Mnemonic, initially a quirky sci-fi film, faced unfortunate timing, debuting shortly after Speed catapulted Keanu Reeves into mainstream action stardom. Studios, attempting to capitalize on the Speed success, attempted to soften Johnny Mnemonic’s rough edges for fans of that film. However, this alteration received negative reviews, flopped at the box office, and largely faded into insignificance in Reeves’ career (particularly after The Matrix turned him into a sci-fi icon).

But here’s an interesting point: Despite its altered state, Johnny Mnemonic foreshadowed many aspects of life in the 2020s, even predicting that Keanu Reeves would remain virtually unchanged from his 1995 appearance. In this film, Reeves portrays a courier with confidential data stored in a brain implant. Johnny Mnemonic’s production design is stylish, and the movie abounds with intriguing ideas and prescient glimpses into the future. Could it be possible to create a sequel titled Johnny 2monic now?

Strange Days (1995)

As a devoted cinephile, I’ve been captivated by the masterful storytelling of Kathryn Bigelow, a director whose work, such as “The Hurt Locker” and “Zero Dark Thirty,” has solidified her place among our contemporary greats. However, it’s important to remember that her early films didn’t always receive the recognition they deserved. A prime example is her 1995 sci-fi thriller, “Strange Days,” which followed her breakout hit, “Point Break.” This film, despite initial mixed to negative reviews, has proven to be a fascinating piece of cinematic history.

In “Strange Days,” Ralph Fiennes plays a dealer of virtual reality experiences who finds himself entangled in a dangerous conspiracy. Although the technology depicted in the movie, which relies on MiniDiscs, is now obsolete, the film’s cautionary tale about deepfakes seems remarkably prescient given our current technological landscape. Moreover, Bigelow’s direction remains as tough and striking as ever.

Night Falls on Manhattan (1996)

In a different take, here’s another Sidney Lumet drama from the ’90s that didn’t quite resonate with audiences, unlike his other works. Unlike its title might suggest, this film is not a flamboyant neo-noir but rather a subtle exploration of deep-rooted corruption within New York City. Despite Lumet’s understated style, the movie failed to captivate viewers in 1996 and hasn’t garnered a cult following since then. However, its intricate portrayal of complex themes seems to make it a compelling choice for rediscovery as a unique piece of mainstream cinema that foreshadowed the antiheroic narratives of the subsequent decade, particularly on television. Notably, this movie boasts several future stars from “The Sopranos,” including James Gandolfini and Dominic Chianese.

Lone Star (1996)

I’ve always admired John Sayles, whose groundbreaking independent films made waves throughout the ’80s and ’90s. Regrettably, his output has dwindled since the 2000s, with his latest directorial effort in 2013. This seems to have left a mark on younger film enthusiasts.

It’s unfortunate because John Sayles’ masterpiece, “Lone Star,” was a standout film from 1996. It was not only critically acclaimed but also one of the biggest arthouse hits that year, featuring an early and powerful performance by Matthew McConaughey as a legendary Texas sheriff. The death of this sheriff sets off an investigation led by his son (Chris Cooper), which uncovers potential secrets about the community that could tarnish its image. “Lone Star” is a captivating mystery and a thoughtful examination of the mythology surrounding small-town America.

Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie (1996)

The creators of the television show “Mystery Science Theater 3000,” known for poking fun at bad movies, found it challenging to bring their series to the big screen. Their distributor often resisted the team’s usual methods used in cable television production, leading to a movie version of “Mystery Science Theater 3000” that was shorter than typical episodes on Comedy Central. This unconventional marketing strategy offered viewers less content than they could watch at home for free. Despite this, the final product proved to be quite hilarious, matching or even surpassing some of the series’ finest installments in humor.

Trial and Error (1997)

In the ’90s, many stars from popular sitcoms struggled in movies, both critically and financially. However, this era produced an endearing anomaly – a courtroom comedy spinoff of “Kindergarten Cop,” featuring Michael Richards from “Seinfeld” as a man forced to pose as a lawyer because his friend (Jeff Daniels) was too drunk after his bachelor party to attend a hearing. It’s a rare example of the screwball comedy genre, which we don’t see much nowadays, and it also features one of Charlize Theron’s early big-screen appearances.

G.I. Jane (1997)

As a cinephile reflecting on the infamous Oscar moment involving Will Smith, I can’t help but think that it might have been triggered by a dig from Chris Rock about the movie “G.I. Jane,” a film that didn’t quite live up to Ridley Scott’s usual standards yet still managed to be a solid watch. The movie, starring Demi Moore as a trailblazing female military officer, had already been the target of jokes by talk shows and the media long before Rock made it the punchline of his remark about Jada Pinkett Smith.

Despite being subjected to ridicule over her shaved head for the role, “G.I. Jane” is a movie worth appreciating. It may not be Scott’s best work as a director, but it certainly deserves more credit than it gets.

The Rainmaker (1997)

In its time, “The Rainmaker” was often viewed by critics as a mere job for Francis Ford Coppola, a film adaptation of one of John Grisham’s popular legal thrillers that could easily make it onto best-seller lists and attract Hollywood studios. However, it’s important to note that “The Rainmaker” isn’t “The Godfather,” but Coppola didn’t phone in the movie either. His adaptation displays a rough, genuine charm. While it runs for 135 minutes, it doesn’t rush to focus on a specific case. At first glance, the film appears to revolve around Matt Damon’s character, a young attorney, and his conflict with his shady boss played by Mickey Rourke. I haven’t read “The Rainmaker,” but I’ve certainly read many other Grisham novels of that era, and Coppola captures the essence of those stories perfectly; a blend of moral parable, legal thriller, and character-driven drama. He truly understood the task at hand.

The Spanish Prisoner (1998)

The Spanish Prisoner”, a cunningly complex film about con artists, features a witty script by David Mamet and an intriguing ensemble including Campbell Scott, Ben Gazzara, Ricky Jay, Ed O’Neill, and Steve Martin. The protagonist, Joe (Scott), has developed a mysterious invention that could be incredibly valuable, and into the picture steps Martin’s Jimmy, a wealthy entrepreneur who seems to have an uncanny interest in the inventor. However, one must wonder if anyone truly supports Joe or if they are all attempting to swindle him. And what about this “Spanish Prisoner”? It turns out it’s just a nickname for an old confidence trick.

Cookie’s Fortune (1999)

In the 90s, renowned filmmaker Robert Altman, known for his work in the ’70s, saw a resurgence in his career. Films such as “The Player” and “Short Cuts” contributed significantly to this revival. However, even his less acclaimed ’90s films are noteworthy, one being the 1999 release, “Cookie’s Fortune.” This film is characteristic of Altman’s style, presenting an intricate narrative about the aftermath of a wealthy elderly woman’s suicide. Her death sets into motion events that could wrongfully incarcerate an innocent man (Charles S. Dutton). The woman’s greedy niece (Glenn Close), who overacts, attempts to make the suicide appear as a murder. The cast is exceptional, and the film is rich with Altman’s signature cinematic elements. For instance, the plot revolves around a cabinet door that refuses to stay shut – symbolizing the impossible task of locking away the past.

10 VHS Tapes You Totally Owned As A ’90s Kid

1. Home Alone (1990)

In the ’90s, there wasn’t a household that didn’t have “Home Alone” ready on VHS during the holiday season. Fox Video had sold an astounding 11 million copies, making it the best-selling video of all time at that point. Starring Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McAllister, a resourceful young boy who has to protect his home from burglars when his family accidentally leaves him behind, “Home Alone” was more than just a December viewing pleasure for me. The joy of being able to rewatch it any time of the year made it even more special.

2. Aladdin (1992)

Bursting with catchy tunes and a generous dose of Disney Renaissance enchantment, the movie Aladdin was incredibly sought-after on VHS. In fact, an astonishing 10.8 million copies were sold within the first three days of its release, demonstrating the growing popularity of VHS players and the eagerness of Disney enthusiasts to own this recently released gem. Children, in particular, seemed drawn to rewatching this movie repeatedly, as it boasted stunning visuals, engaging personalities, and the iconic song “A Whole New World”. What more could one ask for?

3. Babe (1995)

If you grew up in the 1990s, there’s a good chance your teacher would put on the movie “Babe” for a rainy day at school. A unique blend of live barnyard animals and animatronic puppets made this film slightly unsettling yet endearingly cute. Upon its release, “Babe” became a commercial hit. When it came out on VHS in 1996, it sold an impressive 10 million copies. “Babe” is one of those heartwarming children’s movies that gives you a cozy feeling, and it’s not surprising that many people chose to watch it as they were growing up.

4. The Land Before Time (1988)

Amidst the stacks of Disney VHS tapes you likely owned back in the day was “The Land Before Time,” an animated movie about a gang of young dinosaurs embarking on thrilling journeys. This flick was executive produced by George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, with Don Bluth at the helm – the same guy who brought us darker animated films like “The Secret of NIMH” and “All Dogs Go To Heaven.” Dark undertones are prevalent in “The Land Before Time,” too, such as the tear-jerking scene involving Littlefoot’s mother that left ’90s kids in tears. By the time the ’90s ended, it seemed like every family household had a copy of this timeless classic. The movie spawned 13 direct-to-video musical sequels throughout the 2010s, but nothing quite compared to the magic of that original film.

5. Titanic (1997)

In 1998, Paramount put a massive marketing effort behind the VHS release of “Titanic”, investing around $50 million. The film was available in two formats – widescreen and pan and scan – since it’s quite lengthy. They also offered deluxe gift sets containing movie strips and prints as exclusive items. With over 59 million VHS copies sold, “Titanic” remains one of the most successful home media releases ever made. The fact that many viewers were willing to rewind both tapes for repeated viewings speaks volumes about the timelessness of this classic film.

6. Some Bizarre Workout Video

The ’90s were brimming with peculiar workout videos, fronted by instructors dressed in neon attire and sporting flawlessly styled hairdos. Ranging from Paula Abdul’s precursor to Zumba, “Get Up and Dance”, to Cindy Crawford’s demanding “Shape Your Body”, there was an overwhelming selection of exercise videos available. It’s likely that either your family members or you yourself owned one of these tapes, as they were more accessible than a gym membership and only needed a living room and the determination to perspire.

7. Cats (1998)

It appears that many households owned a recorded version of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical “Cats”. Unlike the controversial 2019 film adaptation directed by Tom Hooper, this rendition is a filmed adaptation of the live stage production in London. When it was first released on VHS, it reached No. 6 on the Billboard Top Video Sales chart. Regardless of whether people had seen the stage show before, they now had an opportunity to enjoy it at home. Advertisements for “Cats” were commonly shown before other children’s films such as “Barney’s Great Adventure” and “The Borrowers”, sparking curiosity, confusion, or fear in a whole generation of ’90s kids about the surreal spectacle of dancing cats.

8. Independence Day (1996)

In this rendition, “Independence Day,” featuring Will Smith as a military captain battling an aggressive alien species, proved to be a box office hit. Capitalizing on its success, 20th Century Fox invested $30 million in marketing for home release. The strategy worked, and “Independence Day” claimed the title of best-selling VHS upon its debut. Although the storyline could be considered shallow, along with its character development, it can accurately be classified as a relaxing action movie, if such a genre truly exists. It requires minimal engagement from viewers, making it effortless to insert the VHS and simply press play.

9. Jurassic Park (1993)

It’s no surprise that Jurassic Park was a staple in many people’s VHS collections, as this timeless movie is one you can enjoy repeatedly. The animatronic dinosaurs from the early ’90s remain impressive even today. In fact, Jurassic Park is the fifth-best selling VHS tape of all time, and if you had a fondness for dinosaurs as a child, it was likely your favorite movie. Although there are instances of violence, Jurassic Park has an inherently family-friendly vibe that appeals to families of all ages.

10. The Lion King (1994)

Without a doubt, this is the most popular VHS of all time – “The Lion King.” Since its home media release in 1995 under Disney’s “Masterpiece Collection,” an astonishing 32 million copies have been sold. It seemed like every household had a copy of “The Lion King” in their video library. Who wouldn’t? From the remarkable music, captivating animation, to the compelling cast of characters, “The Lion King” offers something for almost everyone. It’s the epitome of a Disney movie that any ’90s kid would love to own on VHS.

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2025-01-17 20:25