Buzz
While the 1970s are celebrated for their auteur-driven films and the 1980s for their vibrant, neon-lit charm, the 1990s stood out as a bold and transformative decade in cinema. Romantic comedies delved into more profound and somber themes; Black filmmakers emerged as leading voices, sharing powerful, authentic stories; and technological advancements made the impossible possible on screen. Remarkably, it was also a time when a blockbuster could be a lavish period piece set on a ship, completely free of superheroes. Truly an extraordinary era for film.
Boyz n the Hood (1990)
John Singleton’s debut as a writer and director garnered him an Oscar nomination, and the film’s legacy has only strengthened over the years. The story centers on Tre (Cuba Gooding Jr.), who moves in with his father (Laurence Fishburne) in South Central LA, navigating the challenges of gang culture in the 1990s.
Where to stream: Netflix
Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
Despite Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan sharing almost no screen time until the end, their on-screen connection is unforgettable. The story revolves around a child’s plea on a quintessentially '90s radio show, seeking a new partner for his widowed father, leading to an iconic rendezvous at the Empire State Building.
Where to stream: Max
Groundhog Day (1993)
Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell shine in this whimsical holiday tale about a self-centered weatherman who undergoes a transformative journey by reliving the same day repeatedly in a quaint town.
Where to stream: Fubo
Waiting to Exhale (1996)
This mid-'90s adaptation of Terry McMillan’s novel, celebrating the strength of female bonds, boasts an iconic ensemble cast featuring Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon.
Where to stream: Hulu
The Crow (1994)
Brandon Lee’s iconic appearance and performance, coupled with the film’s tragic backstory, turned this movie into a cultural landmark for a generation of brooding, tattooed goth enthusiasts. Director Alex Proyas’ distinct visual flair is brilliantly showcased throughout.
Where to stream: Prime Video
Dazed and Confused (1993)
Richard Linklater’s clever take on the high school stoner genre, Dazed and Confused, captures the chaotic energy of Austin teenagers on the final day of school in 1976. Featuring an outstanding cast and a stellar '70s soundtrack, the film remains a cult classic.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Terminator 2 (1991)
James Cameron reunited Linda Hamilton and Arnold Schwarzenegger for this explosive sequel, amplifying the best elements of the original to create a groundbreaking action masterpiece. A thrilling sci-fi experience that delivers on every level.
Where to stream: Paramount+, Showtime, Fubo
Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993)
While both Sister Act films are fantastic, this sequel captures the essence of the '90s perfectly. Whoopi Goldberg’s Deloris Van Cartier reunites the choir of nuns to rescue a struggling city school from shutting down. The film builds to a memorable stage performance featuring catchy tunes, baggy overalls, white-boy rap, and a young Lauryn Hill. It’s a cultural time capsule for the decade.
Where to stream: Disney+
The Blair Witch Project (1999)
The found-footage style of this film was so realistic that many viewers initially believed it was authentic. While audiences today are more skeptical, the movie remains a groundbreaking piece of horror cinema.
Where to stream: The Criterion Channel, Mubi, Freevee
The Watermelon Woman (1996)
Cheryl Dunye’s indie romantic comedy follows Cheryl as she delves into the story of a fictional Black actress from Hollywood’s golden age, all while navigating her own love life and struggling to keep her job at a video store. The film tackles complex themes with a lighthearted, witty approach.
Where to stream: The Criterion Channel, Showtime
Candyman (1992)
In a time when Black characters in horror films were often relegated to victim roles, Tony Todd’s haunting and magnetic portrayal of Daniel Robitaille brings a chilling presence to Chicago’s Cabrini-Green. His character seeks vengeance for historical racial injustices while pursuing a lost love.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Mulan (1998)
The song 'Be a Man' carries a dual meaning, as the story follows a courageous young woman who disguises herself as a man to replace her father and protect Imperial China from a Xiongnu invasion. Often overlooked among Disney classics, this action-packed musical is both entertaining and empowering, showcasing that women can achieve anything men can—and that cross-dressing can be a surprisingly effective strategy.
Where to stream: Disney+
Office Space (1999)
With King of the Hill still in its early seasons and Mike Judge’s Beavis and Butt-head in the rearview, few anticipated the sharp, biting satire of Office Space. The film’s portrayal of the absurdities of white-collar life—endless paperwork, stapler obsessions—feels even more relevant today than it did at the time.
Where to stream: Max
Jurassic Park (1993)
Steven Spielberg’s dinosaur epic continues to captivate audiences. Remarkably, the visual effects still hold up, even after years of technological advancements. It remains the gold standard for dinosaur-themed action films.
Where to stream: Netflix
The Fugitive (1993)
Harrison Ford delivers a standout performance in this gripping adaptation of the 1960s TV series. It stands out as one of the few successful '90s reboots, capturing the essence of the original while adding its own flair.
The Addams Family (1991)
Barry Sonnenfeld and his team bring the eccentric Addams Family to life with a celebration of all things bizarre and unconventional. Featuring a stellar cast including Anjelica Huston, Raul Julia, Christopher Lloyd, and Christina Ricci, the film is a quirky delight.
Where to stream: Paramount+
The Brady Bunch Movie (1995)
The film’s humor stems from placing the quirky, quintessentially '70s Brady family in the grungy, edgy world of the '90s. Despite the absurd premise, the dedication to recreating the sitcom’s aesthetic and tone transforms it into a campy, nostalgic gem.
Where to stream: Paramount+, Prime Video, MGM+
Poetic Justice (1993)
John Singleton’s follow-up to Boyz N the Hood is this tender romantic drama, featuring standout performances by Janet Jackson and Tupac Shakur that are both heartfelt and compelling.
Where to stream: Digital rental
The First Wives Club (1996)
While not a literary masterpiece, this film shines thanks to the dynamic trio of Bette Midler, Goldie Hawn, and Diane Keaton as three scorned women plotting payback against their ex-husbands. The climactic scene, set to 'You Don’t Own Me,' is pure cinematic joy.
Where to stream: Showtime, Paramount+
GoldenEye (1995)
Pierce Brosnan’s debut as James Bond struck the perfect balance of sophistication and action, delivering a lighter tone that resonated with fans. The film also marked a significant moment with Judi Dench’s introduction as M, adding a fresh dynamic to the franchise.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
This iconic romantic comedy begins with a heartbreaking premise but evolves into a tale of love and redemption, punctuated by unforgettable Bollywood dance sequences that have become legendary.
Where to stream: Netflix, Prime Video
Princess Mononoke (1997)
Hayao Miyazaki’s Princess Mononoke transports viewers to a mythical version of medieval Japan. The story follows Ashitaka, who, after being cursed by a demonic boar, embarks on a quest for a cure, only to uncover the devastating impact of human greed on nature and the wrath of the gods. While it may not be Miyazaki’s absolute masterpiece, it encapsulates his storytelling genius and thematic depth.
Where to stream: Max
Run Lola Run (1998)
Lola (Franka Potente) must secure 100,000 Deutschmarks in just 20 minutes to save her boyfriend Manni from his dangerous boss. She sprints through the city, and when her initial attempt fails, she relives the scenario multiple times, exploring alternate outcomes until she succeeds. A thrilling exploration of fate and determination.
Where to stream: Digital rental
William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet (1996)
Following the success of Strictly Ballroom, Baz Luhrmann catapulted to fame with this bold adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic. His trademark blend of visual grandeur and frenetic energy breathes new life into the timeless tale, with Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes delivering unforgettable performances as the star-crossed lovers.
Where to stream: Paramount+, Hulu, Showtime
Pulp Fiction (1994)
Quentin Tarantino’s groundbreaking neo-noir, with its retro aesthetic and non-linear storytelling, is filled with iconic moments and unforgettable dialogue. Uma Thurman delivers a standout performance, but the entire ensemble cast shines in this cinematic masterpiece.
Where to stream: Max
Ghost in the Shell (1995)
This visually stunning film seamlessly combines CGI and traditional cel animation, following cyborg agent Maj. Motoko Kusanagi as she hunts a hacker who manipulates minds. Like Blade Runner, it delves into profound questions about human consciousness and the blurred line between man and machine.
Where to stream: Prime Video, Tubi, Freevee
Blade (1998)
Long before the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Blade introduced audiences to Wesley Snipes as the ultimate vampire hunter. As a day-walking vampire, Blade takes on his evil counterparts with unmatched skill and style. The film’s gritty action and sleek visuals paved the way for an even more impressive sequel by Guillermo del Toro.
Where to stream: TNT, TBS, TruTV
Twister (1996)
While not revolutionary, this disaster film delivers thrilling entertainment as Bill Paxton, Helen Hunt, and Philip Seymour Hoffman chase storms while chaos unfolds around them. With a strong cast and a more realistic premise compared to other '90s action blockbusters, it stands out as a slightly more intelligent entry in the genre.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Election (1999)
Reese Witherspoon and Matthew Broderick shine as rivals in this biting comedy. While it humorously critiques high school dynamics, the film also serves as a clever allegory for the absurdities of American politics, making it both hilarious and thought-provoking.
Where to stream: Max, Kanopy
The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Each era seems to produce its own version of Tom Ripley, with adaptations of Patricia Highsmith’s novels appearing in various forms, from Purple Noon and The American Friend to Ripley's Game and the recent Saltburn, not to mention the upcoming Netflix series Ripley. Anthony Minghella’s take on the character, portrayed by Matt Damon, stands out as one of the best, blending charm and menace in a way that makes Ripley’s crimes almost sympathetic.
Where to stream: Showtime
Se7en (1995)
David Fincher’s breakout film is a chilling exploration of a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as inspiration for his crimes. Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman deliver gripping performances as detectives on the case, while Fincher’s masterful direction transforms what could have been a simple thriller into a haunting, visually stunning masterpiece.
Where to stream: Max
Happy Together (1997)
Wong Kar-wai’s romantic drama features Leslie Cheung and Tony Leung Chiu-wai as lovers navigating a turbulent and dysfunctional relationship in Buenos Aires. While the plot is minimal, the magnetic performances, Wong’s deliberate pacing, and Christopher Doyle’s stunning cinematography make it an unforgettable experience.
Where to stream: Max, The Criterion Channel
Showgirls (1995)
Like many of Paul Verhoeven’s works, this polarizing film can be interpreted as either biting satire or unintentional camp. Regardless of perspective, it’s wildly entertaining and, despite its initial reputation as a flop, remains far more engaging than many critically acclaimed films.
Where to stream: The Criterion Channel, Tubi
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Tim Burton’s creative peak is evident in this bizarre yet heartwarming fairy tale, which also serves as a poignant farewell to Vincent Price. The film’s unique blend of whimsy and melancholy has cemented its status as a cult classic.
Where to stream: Max
The Fifth Element (1997)
This eccentric sci-fi tale follows a cab driver (Bruce Willis) who must protect a mysterious woman (Milla Jovovich) believed to hold the key to humanity’s survival. Packed with bold ideas, quirky humor, and operatic space sequences, the film’s chaotic charm and boundless creativity make it an unforgettable ride.
Where to stream: AMC+
Dead Presidents (1995)
After struggling to reintegrate into civilian life post-Vietnam, Anthony Curtis (Larenz Tate) and his friends from the Bronx orchestrate a tense bank heist. Loosely inspired by true events, the film blends action with social commentary.
Where to stream: Peacock
Clueless (1995)
After crafting one of the quintessential teen comedies of the 1980s, writer-director Amy Heckerling struck gold again with this modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma, set in the glamorous world of Beverly Hills’ elite high schoolers.
Where to stream: Paramount+
Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion (1997)
As they near their 30s, the protagonists (Mira Sorvino and Lisa Kudrow) realize they haven’t accomplished much, prompting them to embellish their resumes—with hilariously mixed outcomes. Their endearing cluelessness makes it easy to cheer for them as they face off against their high school rivals. Beneath the humor, the film subtly argues that being carefree is preferable to being ruthlessly ambitious.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Love Jones (1997)
Larenz Tate and Nia Long share undeniable chemistry after meeting at a Chicago nightclub. Their budding romance faces challenges from past relationships and her planned move to New York, creating a poignant and relatable love story.
Where to stream: Paramount+
Ring (1998)
Before the acclaimed American adaptation, this Japanese original introduced audiences to a chilling tale of a cursed videotape that dooms its viewers to die within seven days. The haunting scene of Sadako emerging from a television screen remains unforgettable.
Where to stream: Shudder, Tubi, Arrow
Malcolm X (1992)
Spike Lee’s distinctive direction elevates this biopic into a cinematic masterpiece. Denzel Washington delivers a transformative performance, fully embodying the iconic civil rights leader.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Before Sunrise (1995)
Richard Linklater’s film follows Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy), two strangers who meet on a train and spend a magical night wandering Vienna, discussing life, love, and everything in between. Though the premise is simple, the film’s heartfelt writing and authentic performances make it deeply satisfying, setting the stage for its even more remarkable sequel in 2004.
Where to stream: Digital rental
Friday (1995)
Craig and Smokey (Ice Cube and Chris Tucker) are two friends killing time on a lazy Friday, but their day takes a wild turn as they find themselves caught up in burglaries, shootouts, and the antics of an overly amorous pastor. Like the best buddy comedies, it’s all delivered with a lighthearted, comedic touch.
Where to stream: Tubi
Babe (1995)
George Miller, known for Mad Max, teamed up with Chris Noonan to create this charming yet subtly dark barnyard tale. The film’s impact was so profound that James Cromwell, who starred in it, became a vegetarian shortly after.
Where to stream: Starz
Heat (1995)
Michael Mann’s gripping crime thriller showcases the intense rivalry between an LAPD detective and a seasoned thief, highlighting their striking similarities despite being on opposite sides of the law. Al Pacino and Robert De Niro deliver powerhouse performances, cementing their status as legends.
Where to stream: Hulu
Scream (1996)
Wes Craven revolutionized the slasher genre with this smart, gory, and self-aware film that deconstructs horror movie tropes while paying homage to them. Its influence continues to shape the genre, and the franchise remains as popular as ever.
Where to stream: Max
Menace II Society (1993)
The Hughes Brothers’ debut film is a raw and unflinching portrayal of life in LA’s Watts and Crenshaw neighborhoods during the early '90s. Tyrin Turner’s character, Caine, dreams of escaping the cycle of violence but finds himself increasingly entangled in it.
Where to stream: Tubi
White Men Can’t Jump (1992)
Wesley Snipes delivers a sharp and humorous performance in this basketball-centric comedy-drama, matched by Woody Harrelson’s charm. However, Rosie Perez effortlessly steals every scene she appears in. Interestingly, this film was one of Stanley Kubrick’s personal favorites.
Where to stream: Max
Party Girl (1995)
Parker Posey shines as a carefree club kid who, after being bailed out of jail by her librarian godmother, takes a job cataloging books to turn her life around. This indie comedy is both hilarious and an authentic snapshot of '90s rave culture, avoiding clichés and celebrating diversity.
Where to stream: Peacock, The Criterion Channel, Tubi, Freevee
Titanic (1997)
In an era of safe, predictable blockbusters, this film stands out as the one that brought an entire generation to tears, leaving audiences emotionally devastated in the best way possible.
Where to stream: Paramount+, Apple TV+
