The best movies of the 1990s are a varied bunch. You’ve got your action movies, your comedies, your dramas, and your thrillers.
But what are the must-see films of the decade? The ones that you simply can’t miss?
We’ve compiled a list of the 90s movies that you need to watch before you die.
From classics like The Shawshank Redemption to cult favorites like Pulp Fiction, these are the films that defined a generation.
The best 90s movies bucket list is the ultimate guide to the greatest films of the decade.
From comedies to dramas, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re a fan of action movies or romance films, there’s a 90s movie for you.
So dust off your VHS player and get ready to relive the best decade in film
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The Ultimate 90s Movie Bucket List
Ghost (1990)
No matter what your age is, “Ghost” is a timeless love story that will make you believe in the power of love.
This classic 1990 film tells the story of Sam Wheat (Patrick Swayze), a successful banker who is killed during a robbery, and his girlfriend Molly Jensen (Demi Moore).
Though Sam is dead, he refuses to leave Molly and uses a medium named Oda Mae Brown (Whoopi Goldberg) to communicate with her.
Empire Records (1995)
Empire Records is an iconic 90s movie that every teenager can relate to. The movie is set in an independent record store called Empire Records, which is struggling to stay afloat.
Jurassic Park (1993)
Jurassic Park is a classic 90s movie that needs to be on your bucket list.
The movie tells the story of a group of scientists who are invited to visit an island where dinosaurs have been brought back to life. The scientists are then stranded on the island with the dinosaurs and must find a way to escape.
The movie is full of suspense and excitement, and will keep you on the edge of your seat the whole time.
It also has some great special effects that hold up even today. If you’re a fan of science fiction or action movies, then Jurassic Park is a must-see.
The Parent Trap (1998)
The Parent Trap is a 1998 American romantic comedy film directed by Nancy Meyers, and produced and written by Charlie Peters.
The film stars Lindsay Lohan as Hallie Parker and Annie James, who are identical twins separated at birth who switch places in order to reunite their divorced parents, played by Dennis Quaid and Natasha Richardson.
Romeo and Juliet (1996)
This is an adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, specifically the 1996 film adaptation. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes in the title roles of Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet respectively.
Never Been Kissed (1999)
If you’re looking for a heartwarming coming-of-age story, look no further than Never Been Kissed.
Drew Barrymore stars as Josie Geller, a journalist who goes undercover at her old high school to write an exposé.
This is a charming film that perfectly captures the trials and tribulations of high school. Even if you didn’t have the best experience in your own teenage years, watching Josie navigate her way through will leave you feeling nostalgic for those carefree days.
Forrest Gump (1995)
If you want to take a trip down memory lane, or if you’re simply looking for a good movie to watch, Forrest Gump is the perfect choice. This classic film was released in 1995 and tells the story of a man with a low IQ who goes on to have an eventful life.
Despite his challenges, Forrest never gives up and this is ultimately what makes him so successful. Throughout the film, he meets many iconic figures such as JFK and Elvis Presley, and even has a hand in shaping history.
Forrest Gump is a heartwarming tale that will leave you feeling inspired, and it’s definitely worth adding to your bucket list of 90s movies to watch.
Matilda (1996)
The 1996 film Matilda is based on the Roald Dahl book of the same name. The story follows Matilda, a precocious young girl with telekinetic powers, as she navigates life with her neglectful parents and tyrannical school principal.
Men In Black (1997)
One of the essential films of the 1990s is Men in Black.
The film perfectly blends science fiction and comedy, with a healthy dose of action thrown in.
Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones star as two agents who work for a secret government organization that deals with extraterrestrial life on Earth. The two men are complete opposites, but they make an unstoppable team.
Home Alone (1990)
Home Alone has become a holiday classic and is regularly aired on television during the Christmas season.
The film stars Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, an eight-year-old boy who is mistakenly left behind when his family flies to Paris for their Christmas vacation.
Kevin initially relishes being home alone, but soon has to contend with two burglars.
Sister Act (1992)
Sister Act is a hilarious movie about a lounge singer who witnesses a murder and is put into protective custody in a convent. The movie stars Whoopi Goldberg as the singer, Deloris Van Cartier, and Maggie Smith as Mother Superior.
This is one of those movies that’s just so much fun to watch – it’s funny, heartwarming, and has some great dance numbers. If you’re looking for a feel-good movie to add to your 90s movie bucket list, Sister Act is definitely it!
The Bodyguard (1992)
In this amazing movie, Kevin Costner stars as a former Secret Service agent-turned-bodyguard who is hired to protect Whitney Houston’s character, a music star, from an unknown stalker.
The bodyguard falls in love with his client while trying to keep her safe from harm.
Mrs Doubtfire (1993)
Mrs. Doubtfire is a 1993 American comedy-drama that follows Daniel Hillard (Robin Williams), a man who dresses up as a female housekeeper to be able to interact with his children after his divorce.
You’ve Got Mail (1998)
You’ve Got Mail is one of the most iconic romantic comedies of the 1990s.
Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks star as two rival bookstore owners who fall in love with each other anonymously online.
The film is a charming and heartwarming look at love in the digital age, and it’s a must-watch for any romantic comedy fan.
Groundhog Day (1993)
No movie better captures the ennui of the American everyman quite like Groundhog Day. Released in 1993, the film follows Phil Connors (Bill Murray), a cynical TV weatherman who finds himself caught in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again.
What starts as a funny high-concept premise quickly becomes a moving exploration of human nature, as Phil slowly realizes that he’s been given a second chance to make something of his life.
Shawshank Redemption (1994)
The Shawshank Redemption is one of the best movies of the 1990s. The story follows Andy Dufresne, who is wrongfully convicted of murder and sent to Shawshank State Prison.
While in prison, he befriends Red, and the two help each other survive the harsh conditions.
The movie is an inspiring story of hope and friendship, and it is a must-see for any fan of 90s movies.
Four Weddings And a Funeral (1994)
Four Weddings And a Funeral is one of the most iconic rom-coms of the 90s. The film follows the story of Charles (played by Hugh Grant) and his group of friends as they navigate love and loss.
The film is filled with humor and heart, making it a must-watch for any romantic comedy fan. In addition to being a classic rom-com, Four Weddings And a Funeral is also a great snapshot of life in London in the 1990s.
Romy And Michele’s High School Reunion (1997)
In 1997, Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion hit theaters and quickly became a cult classic.
The movie follows best friends Romy (Lisa Kudrow) and Michele (Mira Sorvino) as they reunite for their ten-year high school reunion.
The film is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming, with the two lead actresses perfectly embodying the characters of Romy and Michele.
If you’re looking for a feel-good movie to add to your 90s movie bucket list, look no further than Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion.
Clueless (1995)
Clueless is a 1995 American teen comedy film. The screenplay is based on Jane Austen’s 1815 novel Emma, with contemporary Los Angeles teenage culture and slang.
The film stars Alicia Silverstone as Cher Horowitz, a wealthy high school student who befriends a new girl at school (played by Brittany Murphy) and tries to set her up with the right boy.
The Truman Show (1998)
The Truman Show is one of the most beloved films of the 1990s. The film tells the story of Truman Burbank, a man who is unaware that his entire life is a reality TV show. The film explores themes of celebrity, privacy, and the construction of reality.
The Truman Show is a must-see for any fan of the 1990s. The film’s clever writing and pitch-perfect performances make it a timeless classic. The film is also an important commentary on our celebrity-obsessed culture and the construction of reality.
Hook (1991)
Hook is a 1991 American live-action/animated fantasy adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg.
The film acts as a sequel to J.M. Barrie’s 1911 novel Peter and Wendy, focusing on an adult Peter Pan (Williams) who has forgotten his childhood.
In his new life, he is known as “Peter Banning”, a successful but unimaginative lawyer with a wife (Roberts) and two children.
However, when Captain Hook (Hoffman), the enemy of his past, kidnaps his children and Peter’s memories return just in time to save them.
Pulp Fiction (1994)
Pulp Fiction is one of the most iconic films of the 1990s. The Quentin Tarantino-directed masterpiece follows the intertwining stories of several criminals in Los Angeles.
The film features some of the most unforgettable characters and scenes in movie history, including John Travolta as hitman Vincent Vega and Samuel L. Jackson as his partner Jules Winnfield. Pulp Fiction is a must-see for any movie fan, and it’s definitely one of the best films of the 1990s.
Before Sunrise (1995)
Before Sunrise is one of the best films of the 1990s. The movie follows two young strangers who meet on a train and spend the night talking in Vienna. They discuss their hopes, dreams, and fears while walking around the city.
This 90s movie is a must-watch for any fan of independent cinema. It’s a beautiful, heartwarming film that will stay with you long after it’s over.
Thelma and Louise (1991)
Thelma and Louise is a 1991 classic starring Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon.
The movie follows two friends who embark on a road trip that quickly turns into a crime spree.
If you’re looking for a 90s movie to add to your bucket list, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Babe (1995)
Babe is a classic 1995 film about a pig who wants to be a sheepdog.
The film follows Babe as he learns how to herd sheep and becomes friends with the other animals on the farm.
The film is heartwarming and humorous, and it’s perfect for a family movie night.
Jerry Maguire (1996)
Jerry Maguire is one of the best 90s movies and definitely worth watching.
The movie follows Jerry, a sports agent, who has an epiphany that leads him to reevaluate his life and career.
He then tries to make things right for himself and his clients. The movie is heartwarming, funny, and inspiring.
Boogie Nights (1997)
Set in Los Angeles’s San Fernando Valley in 1977, Boogie Nights tells the story of Eddie Adams (Wahlberg), a young nightclub dishwasher who becomes a popular pornography star under the stage name Dirk Diggler.
It chronicles his rise to fame and fall from grace against the backdrop of the porn industry’s Golden Age.
Fargo (1996)
Fargo is a 1996 neo-noir crime thriller written, produced, and directed by the Coen brothers.
The film stars Frances McDormand as a pregnant police chief investigating a kidnapping case with the help of William H. Macy’s character.
Tommy Boy (1995)
Tommy Boy is one of the most popular comedies of the 1990s.
The movie stars Chris Farley as Tommy Callahan III, a clumsy and dim-witted heir to an auto parts factory who must save the business from bankruptcy after his father dies.
Along the way, Tommy learns some valuable life lessons and makes some unlikely friends, including Richard (David Spade), a smart-alecky sales rep.
If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud comedy to add to your 90s movie bucket list, Tommy Boy is a must-see.
Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
If you’re looking for a romantic comedy to watch, look no further than Sleepless in Seattle.
Starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, the film follows two young lovers who meet on a radio show and fall in love.
Though they’ve never met in person, they begin a long-distance relationship that leads to marriage.
If you’re a fan of the classic rom-com, then this is one movie to check out.
The Big Lebowski (1998)
The Big Lebowski is one of the most beloved films of the 90s. The Coen Brothers created a hilarious and quotable movie that has stood the test of time.
The story follows Jeff “The Dude” Leboswki, a slacker who becomes embroiled in a kidnapping plot after he is mistaken for another man with the same name.
Along the way, The Dude is aided by his bowling buddies Walter Sobchak and Donny Kerabatsos.
Pretty Woman (1990)
Pretty Woman is a classic 90s movie that tells the story of a prostitute who falls in love with a wealthy man.
The movie was a huge box office success and made Julia Roberts a household name. If you’re looking for a feel-good romantic comedy, Pretty Woman is the perfect movie for you.
The Fifth Element (1997)
The Fifth Element is a 1997 sci-fi action movie starring Bruce Willis and Milla Jovovich.
The movie takes place in the 23rd century and follows the story of taxi driver Korben Dallas (Willis) as he tries to save the world from a evil alien race.
The Fifth Element is definitely a must-watch for any fan of sci-fi.
Muriel’s Wedding (1994)
Muriel’s Wedding is a 1994 Australian comedy-drama film directed by P. J. Hogan. The film stars Toni Collette as Muriel, a 23-year-old working-class woman who dreams of getting married and having a better life.
The film follows Muriel as she tries to escape her small hometown and dysfunctional family by moving to Sydney. There, she meets new friends and starts a new life. However, things don’t always go according to plan and Muriel soon realizes that her dream of getting married may not be as easy as she thought.
Despite its comedic moments, Muriel’s Wedding is a touching film that deals with important issues such as family, friendship, and self-discovery. It’s a must-watch for any fan of 90s movies.
Selena (1997)
No matter what your age is, Selena is a movie that you need to watch. It came out in 1997 and it is based on a true story. Selena was a Mexican-American singer who was murdered at the age of 23. The movie tells her story and how she rose to fame.
You will be able to relate to Selena’s story, no matter what your background is.
Her story is one of determination and following your dreams. You will also be inspired by her music. Even if you don’t understand Spanish, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of her voice and the passion that she sings with.
This is a must-watch movie for anyone who loves good music and an inspiring story.
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