Checklist of 90s Movies You Should Definitely Watch

by Henry Thompson

The 90s was definitely the decade of the film. I mean, what other era spawned hits across several genres? Who can ever forget classics like Titanic? Or powerful romance films like Pretty Women and Clueless, ideal for the idealists and romantic (at heart). Mystery, thrillers, and even Disney animations were also not left out. The 90s produced movies that catered to every taste, leaving a lasting impression even so many years after. 

As an avid movie fan, you may yearn to relive the moments in these movies. It might even be that you’ve not had the pleasure to watch them for the first time. We’ve got you covered. In this article, we bring to you some of the evergreen movies from the 90s. 

Titanic (1997)

Of course, there’s no better movie to set the ball rolling than Titanic. This movie was so epic that lines from it are referenced today. The story –  about two lovers stuck in the ill-fated Titanic – resonated with viewers because of how powerful the storytelling was. It gave faces to the victims of that shipwreck, humanizing them in a way prior movies and documentaries hadn’t. This movie is one for the ages. 

The Joy Luck Club (1993)

This flick was iconic in so many ways, chief amongst them being that it had an all-Asian cast. This was as far back in 1993. It would take almost 15 years later for the movie Crazy Rich Asians to replicate this feat. The story follows a group of Chinese-American women and their mothers. It is a powerful and emotionally moving tale. You may want to have your tissue handy.

Groundhog Day (1993)

What happens when a weatherman gets to repeat the same day several times in a loop? Find out in this fantastic movie. Bill Murray stars as a weatherman carrying out an assignment in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. He finds himself unable to break the loop and get out of that one day that never ends. 

The Bodyguard (1992)

This is one film that deceased singer, Whitney Houston, is most popular for. Starring opposite Kevin Costner, Houston’s character was a famous pop star who employs a former secret service agent (Costner) to be her bodyguard. Whitney Houston lent her magic touch to the movie, such that the movie’s soundtrack is still the best selling soundtrack album to date. 

The Parent Trap (1998)

This movie, perhaps, solidified Lindsay Lohan’s position as a formidable artist. Young as she was —11 years and a few months — she was able to interpret her roles perfectly. Roles, yes, because she played two identical twins separated by their parents. She had to switch between the British and American accents, spar with herself, all while being in character. These things may not seem like a big deal now with the many actors that have pulled it off, and the many tech advances that have made switching roles easy. However, when you consider that this movie was made in 1998, and also that Lohan was pretty young, you’d have nothing but respect for the actress’s talent. 

Clueless (1995)

If you watched this movie, you must have been struck by how gorgeous the characters looked. Clueless ushered in a high point in fashion unprecedented in that era. The outfits may not excite you now, overtaken as they are by newer trends; however, the story will definitely capture your interest. Clueless is the retelling of Jane Austen’s classic novel, Emma. It features a charming protagonist who sweeps into a high school and automatically becomes the rave of the moment. 

Schinder’s List (1993)

You can easily tell the stuff a film is made of by how many Oscars it garners. Schindler’s List won 7 in one night, earning legendary director Stephen Spielberg his first Oscar. This movie is based on the true story of hero Oskar Schindler, who saved thousands of Jews during World War 2. He employed them in his factory, shielding them from the rampaging German soldiers. This is a decent depiction of a hero without capes. 

Home Alone (1990)

If you haven’t watched this movie, shame on you. Home Alone showed us that a child left alone to his devices could come up with so many ways to get into trouble, outmaneuver crafty burglars while being entertaining at the same time. Another thing, it is a Christmas movie. Tell me, why again haven’t you watched Home Alone?

Boyz N the Hood (1991)

If you want a realistic portrayal of life in black-populated ghettos, this is the movie for you. This John Singleton-directed movie depicts urban ghetto life in all its realness. It follows the daily struggle for survival, drug abuse, gang wars, and the limited opportunities available to the average black person in such a community. In the shadow of all that the Black Lives Matter movement represents, this movie may well remind you of what the struggle is about. 

The Lion King (1994)

There has indeed been a live remake starring Beyonce; however, the opinion in some quarters is that this remake pales compared to the original. The Lion King was the king (pun intended) of animated films upon its release. The story of Simba, a young cub on a search for vengeance, looking to reclaim his father’s kingdom, is one that remains ageless. Throw in the lovely soundtrack, especially Elton John’s rendition of, Can You Feel the Love Tonight? and you have yourself the perfect date movie. 

Thelma and Louise (1991)

This movie introduces us to two badass women. Best friends, Thelma (played by Geena Davis) and Louise (played by Susan Sarandon) escape from their terrible jobs, and terrible husbands in search of adventure Things get ugly on the road, with twists and turns they hardly expected. This was one of Brad Pitt’s earliest roles. You’ll love it. 

There you have it, our checklist of 90s movies you have to watch. It certainly doesn’t hurt that you can find most of them on Netflix and other streaming platforms. You can even watch them in HD! We are certain you will have nothing but a lovely experience.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Henry Thompson is a journalist who enjoys covering topics of home security and home renovation. Over the course of his career, he has been contributing to various media publications, and now he is running the blog homenetrouter.com where he writes about healthy living, DIY, and home security.