Welcome to our celebration of the 100 Best Films of the 1990s, a decade of cinematic innovation and cultural transformation. The ’90s brought a fresh wave of creativity, blending experimental storytelling with mainstream appeal and marking a significant shift in the film landscape.
In this list, we spotlight the 100 highest-rated and most critically acclaimed films of the decade, showcasing the diverse styles and groundbreaking approaches that defined this dynamic period. From genre-defining blockbusters to thought-provoking indies, these films offer a vivid snapshot of ’90s cinema.
Explore an era when Quentin Tarantino reinvented storytelling with his sharp dialogue and non-linear narratives, Steven Spielberg captivated audiences with his blend of adventure and emotional depth, and The Coen Brothers brought their distinctive dark humor and intricate narratives to the forefront of cinema.
Join us as we honor the films that not only captured the spirit of the 1990s, but also left an enduring impact on the world of cinema. Each film on this list stands as a testament to the innovation and creativity that characterized the ’90s.
Click below to delve deeper into our rating system and learn all about the inner workings of our algorithm.
Top10nerScore78.249 / 100
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DIRECTOR: James Foley
WRITERS: David Mamet
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Juan Ruiz Anchía
STARRING: Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Alan Arkin, Ed Harris, Alec Baldwin, Kevin Spacey, Jonathan Pryce
GENRE: Drama, Satire
When an office full of New York City real estate salesmen is given the news that all but the top two will be fired at the end of the week, the atmosphere begins to heat up. Shelley Levene, who has a sick daughter, does everything in his power to get better leads from his boss, John Williamson, but to no avail. When his coworker Dave Moss comes up with a plan to steal the leads, things get complicated for the tough-talking salesmen.
Glengarry Glen Ross is a riveting exploration of the cutthroat world of real estate, boasting powerhouse performances from an ensemble cast. Its sharp dialogue and intense atmosphere make it a must-watch for anyone craving a glimpse into the high-stakes game of salesmanship.
Top10nerScore78.442 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Majid Majidi
WRITERS: Majid Majidi
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Parviz Malekzaade
STARRING: Amir Farrokh Hashemian, Bahare Seddiqi, Mohammad Amir Naji, Fereshte Sarabandi
GENRE: Drama, New Iranian Cinema, Family Drama
Zohre’s shoes are gone; her older brother Ali lost them. They are poor, there are no shoes for Zohre until they come up with an idea: they will share one pair of shoes, Ali’s. School awaits…
Children of Heaven impresses with its heartfelt storytelling, transcending cultural boundaries. Its universal themes and touching portrayal of sibling love make it a remarkable cinematic achievement, earning well-deserved acclaim from critics worldwide.
Top10nerScore78.459 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Hayao Miyazaki
WRITERS: Hayao Miyazaki
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Mark Henley, Atsushi Okui
STARRING: Shuichiro Moriyama, Akio Ōtsuka, Akemi Okamura, Tokiko Kato
STARRING (ENGLISH): Michael Keaton, Cary Elwes, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Susan Egan
GENRE: Anime, Adventure, Low Fantasy, Comedy
In 1930s Italy, a veteran World War I pilot is cursed to look like an anthropomorphic pig.
Porco Rosso elegantly captures the whimsical spirit of Ghibli, blending exquisite animation with a captivating tale of a flying ace turned pig in post-WWI Italy. Its unique take on love, identity, and heroism resonates with both young and adult audiences, making it a timeless classic
Top10nerScore78.579 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Guy Ritchie
WRITERS: Guy Ritchie
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tim Maurice-Jones
STARRING: Jason Flemyng, Dexter Fletcher, Nick Moran, Jason Statham, Steven Mackintosh, Vinnie Jones
GENRE: Black Comedy, Heist Film, Gangster Film, Hyperlink Cinema
A card shark and his unwillingly-enlisted friends need to make a lot of cash quick after losing a sketchy poker match. To do this they decide to pull a heist on a small-time gang who happen to be operating out of the flat next door.
In Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Ritchie crafts a rollercoaster of wit and adrenaline. Its clever narrative twists, dynamic characters, and stylish direction redefine the crime genre with a fresh, exhilarating flair. A must-watch for cinephiles seeking pure cinematic thrill.
Top10nerScore78.625 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Todd Solondz
WRITERS: Todd Solondz
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Maryse Alberti
STARRING: Jane Adams, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Dylan Baker, Cynthia Stevenson, Lara Flynn Boyle, Ben Gazzara
GENRE: Black Comedy, Drama, Hyperlink Cinema
The lives of many individuals connected by the desire for happiness, often from sources usually considered dark or evil.
Happiness is a daring exploration of dark human desires and suburban dysfunction. Todd Solondz’s unflinching approach and the exceptional ensemble cast offer a thought-provoking and discomforting experience, making it a significant work in indie cinema.
Top10nerScore78.725 / 100
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DIRECTOR: James Ivory
WRITERS: Ruth Prawer Jhabvala
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tony Pierce-Roberts
STARRING: Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson, Christopher Reeve, James Fox
GENRE: Period Drama, Romance
A rule bound head butler’s world of manners and decorum in the household he maintains is tested by the arrival of a housekeeper who falls in love with him in post-WWI Britain. The possibility of romance and his master’s cultivation of ties with the Nazi cause challenge his carefully maintained veneer of servitude.
The Remains of the Day is a cinematic triumph driven by Hopkins and Thompson’s impeccable performances. Their nuanced portrayals, coupled with the film’s evocative storytelling, create a lasting impact, making it a must-see for fans of powerful character-driven narratives.
Top10nerScore78.745 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Oliver Stone
WRITERS: Oliver Stone, Zachary Sklar
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Richardson
STARRING: Kevin Costner, Tommy Lee Jones, Gary Oldman, Sissy Spacek, Joe Pesci
GENRE: Period Drama, Legal Drama, Political Thriller, Political Drama
This acclaimed Oliver Stone drama presents the investigation into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy led by New Orleans district attorney Jim Garrison. When Garrison begins to doubt conventional thinking on the murder, he faces government resistance, and, after the killing of suspected assassin Lee Harvey Oswald, he closes the case. Later, however, Garrison reopens the investigation, finding evidence of an extensive conspiracy behind Kennedy’s death.
Oliver Stone’s JFK is a riveting plunge into conspiracy, blending historical scrutiny with cinematic bravado. Gripping performances and meticulous direction elevate it into an enduring exploration of truth and power. A tour de force that ignites discussion long after the credits roll.
Top10nerScore78.821 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Yoshifumi Kondo
WRITERS: Hayao Miyazaki
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Atsushi Okui
STARRING: Yoko Honna, Issey Takahashi, Takashi Tachibana, Shigeru Muroi, Shigeru Tsuyuguchi
STARRING (ENGLISH): Brittany Snow, David Gallagher, James Sikking, Jean Smart, Cary Elwes
GENRE: Anime, Coming-of-Age, Romance, Drama
Shizuku lives a simple life, dominated by her love for stories and writing. One day she notices that all the library books she has have been previously checked out by the same person: ‘Seiji Amasawa’.
Whisper of the Heart has garnered praise for its heartfelt storytelling, beautifully detailed animation, and relatable coming-of-age themes. Kondō’s sensitive approach and the film’s enchanting portrayal of youth make it a standout in Studio Ghibli’s extensive catalog.
Top10nerScore79.066 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Michael Mann
WRITERS: Eric Roth, Michael Mann, Marie Brenner
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Dante Spinotti
STARRING: Al Pacino, Russell Crowe, Christopher Plummer
GENRE: Thriller, Legal Drama, Drama
Tells the true story of a 60 Minutes television series exposé of the tobacco industry, as seen through the eyes of a real tobacco executive, Jeffrey Wigand.
The Insider delivers an intelligent and captivating corporate thriller, boasting powerful performances that deepen its impact. This thought-provoking film offers a gripping exploration of corporate intrigue and the moral dilemmas it presents, leaving a lasting impression.
Top10nerScore79.162 / 100
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DIRECTOR: David Lynch
WRITERS: David Lynch, Robert Engels, Mark Frost
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Ronald Víctor García
STARRING: Sheryl Lee, Ray Wise, Kyle MacLachlan, Mädchen Amick, Dana Ashbrook, Phoebe Augustine
GENRE: Surrealism, Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Psychological Horror
In the questionable town of Deer Meadow, Washington, FBI Agent Desmond inexplicably disappears while hunting for the man who murdered a teen girl. The killer is never apprehended, and, after experiencing dark visions and supernatural encounters, Agent Dale Cooper chillingly predicts that the culprit will claim another life. Meanwhile, in the more cozy town of Twin Peaks, hedonistic beauty Laura Palmer hangs with lowlifes and seems destined for a grisly fate.
Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me skillfully delves into the enigmatic and haunting world of David Lynch’s beloved TV series, offering a mesmerizing prequel that fleshes out characters and deepens the mystery. A captivating journey into the heart of darkness.
Top10nerScore79.424 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Mohsen Makhmalbaf
WRITERS: Mohsen Makhmalbaf
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Mahmoud Kalari
STARRING: Mirhadi Tayebi, Mohsen Makhmalbaf
GENRE: Docudrama, New Iranian Cinema
A semi-autobiographical account of Makhmalbaf’s experience as a teenager when, as a 17-year-old, he stabbed a policeman at a protest rally. Two decades later, he tracks down the policeman he injured in an attempt to make amends.
A Moment of Innocence skillfully interweaves reality and fiction to explore themes of memory and reconciliation. This cinematic work showcases Mohsen Makhmalbaf’s profound storytelling, creating a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience.
Top10nerScore79.602 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Zhang Yimou
WRITERS: Lu Wei
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Lu Wei
STARRING: Ge You, Gong Li, Ben Niu, Guo Tao
GENRE: Period Drama, Political Drama, Fifth Generation, Family Drama
Fugui and Jiazhen endure tumultuous events in China as their personal fortunes move from wealthy landownership to peasantry. Addicted to gambling, Fugui loses everything. In the years that follow he is pressed into both the nationalist and communist armies, while Jiazhen is forced into menial work.
To Live resonates with historical accuracy and emotional gravity, offering a poignant portrayal of a family’s struggle during China’s turbulent years. Its compelling narrative, coupled with stellar performances, makes it an enduring cinematic testament to resilience.
Top10nerScore79.610 / 100
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DIRECTOR: John Singleton
WRITERS: John Singleton
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Charles Mills
STARRING: Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube, Morris Chestnut, Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett
GENRE: Drama, Hood Film, Coming-of-Age
Follows the lives of three young males living in the Crenshaw ghetto of Los Angeles, dissecting questions of race, relationships, violence, and future prospects.
Boyz n the Hood intricately weaves poignant storytelling with raw authenticity, capturing the essence of urban life. Its profound portrayal of friendship, family, and societal challenges resonates deeply, cementing its status as a timeless classic in cinematic history.
Top10nerScore79.618 / 100
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DIRECTORS: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise
WRITERS: Linda Woolverton
STARRING: Paige O’Hara, Robby Benson, Richard White, Jerry Orbach, Angela Lansbury
GENRE: Animation, Fairy Tale, Romance, Musical, Family
Follow the adventures of Belle, a bright young woman who finds herself in the castle of a prince who’s been turned into a mysterious beast. With the help of the castle’s enchanted staff, Belle soon learns the most important lesson of all – that true beauty comes from within.
Captivating and profoundly romantic, the 1991 rendition of Beauty and the Beast showcases a plethora of enchanting musical moments. It stands as a testament to Disney’s exquisite animated legacy, blending timeless charm with an unforgettable love story.
Top10nerScore79.654 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Theo Angelopoulos
WRITERS: Theo Angelopoulos, Tonino Guerra, Petros Markaris, Giorgio Silvagni
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Giorgos Arvanitis, Andreas Sinanos
STARRING: Bruno Ganz, Isabelle Renauld, Fabrizio Bentivoglio
GENRE: Drama, Slow Cinema
Alexander, a famous writer, is very ill and has only a few days to live. He meets a little boy on the street, who is an illegal immigrant from Albania. Alexander then takes the boy home.
Eternity and a Day shines through its profound exploration of mortality, encapsulating the human experience in a heartfelt manner. Its poetic storytelling and captivating performances evoke a deeply resonant contemplation of life’s fleeting moments.
Top10nerScore79.692 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jim Jarmusch
WRITERS: Jim Jarmusch
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robby Müller
STARRING: Johnny Depp, Gary Farmer, Crispin Glover, Lance Henriksen, Michael Wincott
GENRE: Acid Western
On the run after murdering a man, accountant William Blake encounters a strange North American man named Nobody who prepares him for his journey into the spiritual world.
Jarmusch’s Dead Man elegantly dances between genres, seamlessly blending surrealism with western tropes. Johnny Depp’s enigmatic performance and Neil Young’s haunting score craft an unforgettable cinematic journey, defying conventions with poetic grace.
Top10nerScore79.694 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jim Sheridan
WRITERS: Terry George, Jim Sheridan
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Peter Biziou
STARRING: Daniel Day-Lewis, Pete Postlethwaite, Emma Thompson, John Lynch
GENRE: Legal Drama, Biopic, Prison Film, Political Drama
A small time thief from Belfast, Gerry Conlon, is falsely implicated in the IRA bombing of a pub that kills several people while he is in London. He and his four friends are coerced by British police into confessing their guilt. Gerry’s father and other relatives in London are also implicated in the crime. He spends fifteen years in prison with his father trying to prove his innocence.
In the Name of the Father offers a gripping narrative fueled by powerful performances, meticulously recreating a real-life miscarriage of justice. Jim Sheridan’s keen eye for detail and a moving soundtrack contribute to its compelling portrayal of the human spirit’s triumph over adversity.
Top10nerScore79.739 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Jane Campion
WRITERS: Jane Campion
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Stuart Dryburgh
STARRING: Holly Hunter, Harvey Keitel, Sam Neill, Anna Paquin
GENRE: Romance, Drama
After a long voyage from Scotland, pianist Ada McGrath and her young daughter, Flora, are left with all their belongings, including a piano, on a New Zealand beach. Ada, who has been mute since childhood, has been sold into marriage to a local man named Alisdair Stewart. Making little attempt to warm up to Alisdair, Ada soon becomes intrigued by his Maori-friendly acquaintance, George Baines, leading to tense, life-altering conflicts.
The Piano is a mesmerizing work of cinematic artistry, celebrated for its rich character development, stunning New Zealand landscapes, and an unforgettable performance by Holly Hunter. Jane Campion’s directorial prowess shines, making it a landmark of 1990s cinema.
Top10nerScore79.928 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Abbas Kiarostami
WRITERS: Abbas Kiarostami
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Homayun Payvar
STARRING: Farhad Kheradmand, Buba Bayour
GENRE: Road Movie, Drama, New Iranian Cinema
After the earthquake of Guilan, the film director and his son, Puya, travel to the devastated area to search for the actors of the movie the director made there a few years ago, “Where Is My Friend’s House?” (1987). In their search, they found how people who had lost everything in the earthquake still have hope and try to live life to the fullest.
Life, and Nothing More… is a remarkable exploration of human resilience amidst a devastating earthquake. Abbas Kiarostami’s astute blending of documentary elements with fictional storytelling creates a moving and authentic portrayal of life’s enduring spirit.
Top10nerScore80.030 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Terry Gilliam
WRITERS: Janet Peoples, David Webb Peoples
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Roger Pratt
STARRING: Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, Brad Pitt, Christopher Plummer
GENRE: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Time Travel, Post-Apocalyptic, Epidemic, Psychological Thriller
In a future world devastated by disease, a convict is sent back in time to gather information about the man-made virus that wiped out most of the human population on the planet.
Twelve Monkeys stands as a compelling and intricate sci-fi thriller that skillfully weaves a complex narrative. Gilliam’s direction and standout performances by Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt are supported by a thought-provoking exploration of time travel and its consequences.
Top10nerScore80.170 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Richard Linklater
WRITERS: Richard Linklater
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Lee Daniel
STARRING: Jason London, Wiley Wiggins, Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck, Rory Cochrane
GENRE: Teen Movie, Coming-of-Age, Comedy, Slice of Life
The adventures of a group of Texas teens on their last day of school in 1976, centering on student Randall Floyd, who moves easily among stoners, jocks and geeks. Floyd is a star athlete, but he also likes smoking weed, which presents a conundrum when his football coach demands he sign a “no drugs” pledge.
Dazed and Confused is a cinematic time capsule that authentically captures the spirit of the ’70s. Its stellar ensemble cast, led by Matthew McConaughey, delivers an iconic portrayal of teenage rites of passage, accompanied by a killer rock soundtrack.
Top10nerScore80.279 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Brian De Palma
WRITERS: David Koepp
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Stephen H. Burum
STARRING: Al Pacino, Sean Penn, Penelope Ann Miller, Luis Guzmán
GENRE: Gangster Film, Drama
A Puerto-Rican ex-con, just released from prison, pledges to stay away from drugs and violence despite the pressure around him, and lead a better life outside NYC.
Carlito’s Way is a riveting crime drama that elegantly navigates the complexities of loyalty and redemption. With powerhouse performances and stylish direction, it’s a timeless tale that grips you from start to finish, showcasing Pacino at the height of his prowess.
Top10nerScore80.335 / 100
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DIRECTOR: Stanley Kubrick
WRITERS: Stanley Kubrick, Arthur Schnitzler, Frederic Raphael
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Larry Smith
STARRING: Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Sydney Pollack
GENRE: Psychological Drama, Mystery, Psychological Thriller
After Dr. Bill Harford’s wife, Alice, admits to having sexual fantasies about a man she met, Bill becomes obsessed with having a sexual encounter. He discovers an underground sexual group and attends one of their meetings – and quickly discovers that he is in over his head.
Eyes Wide Shut is a provocative exploration of desire and societal masks. Kubrick’s meticulousness and the magnetic performances of Cruise and Kidman make it a notable, enigmatic entry in his filmography, sparking discussions about the human psyche and sexual taboos.
Top10nerScore80.416 / 100
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DIRECTOR: M. Night Shyamalan
WRITERS: M. Night Shyamalan
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tak Fujimoto
STARRING: Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment, Toni Collette, Olivia Williams
GENRE: Mystery, Psychological Thriller, Drama
Following an unexpected tragedy, child psychologist Malcolm Crowe meets a nine year old boy named Cole Sear, who is hiding a dark secret.
In a haunting symphony of suspense, The Sixth Sense mesmerizes with its nuanced storytelling and spine-tingling twists. M. Night Shyamalan crafts a cinematic journey that lingers, anchored by Bruce Willis’ subdued yet powerful performance. Truly, a modern marvel.
Top10nerScore80.561 / 100
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DIRECTOR: John Woo
WRITERS: Barry Wong, Gordon Chan
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Horace Wong
STARRING: Chow Yun-fat, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Anthony Wong, Philip Chan
GENRE: Heroic Bloodshed, Buddy Cop
A cop who loses his partner in a shoot-out with gun smugglers goes on a mission to catch them. In order to get closer to the leaders of the ring he joins forces with an undercover cop who’s working as a gangster hitman. They use all means of excessive force to find them.
Hard Boiled stands as a pinnacle of Hong Kong action cinema, hailed for its breathtaking choreography, dynamic camerawork, and iconic performances by Yun-Fat and Chiu-wai. Woo’s direction redefined the genre, creating a benchmark for adrenaline-pumping, gun-fu sequences.
