The 10 Best Movies of the 1990s You Should Watch

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - The 1990s was a decade that produced many classic and timeless films. From touching dramas to thrilling action movies, this era made a significant contribution to the world of cinema. And many of the best movies of the 1990s are still discussed and enjoyed today, a testament to their quality and enduring appeal.

Films from the 90s were not only entertaining but also often addressed relevant social and cultural issues. Many of these films had high artistic value, with stunning cinematography and superb acting. It's no wonder these films continue to be remembered and appreciated by film lovers worldwide.

Here is a list of 10 of the best 90s films you should watch; a diverse selection to suit your taste. From heartwarming dramas to edge-of-your-seat action, this list will take you on a nostalgic trip back to the golden age of cinema.

Watch on: YouTube TV, AMC, Philo, Plex, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store

Directed by Frank Darabont and based on Stephen King’s novella, this film stars Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne, a banker sentenced to life in Shawshank Prison for crimes he didn’t commit. Over two decades, he befriends Red (Morgan Freeman), a contraband smuggler. Andy uses his banking skills to assist corrupt prison officials while secretly planning his escape. Its gripping plot and outstanding performances make it a cinematic masterpiece.

Watch on: Netflix, Paramount+, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, Plex

Quentin Tarantino’s groundbreaking crime film features John Travolta, Uma Thurman, and Samuel L. Jackson in unforgettable roles. Multiple interconnected tales about hitmen, a boxer, and a gangster’s wife unfold in a bold narrative style. With sharp dialogue, dark humor, and iconic scenes, this movie redefined modern cinema. Its originality and cultural impact continue to make it a favorite among film enthusiasts.

Watch on: YouTube TV, AMC, MGM Plus, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home

Steven Spielberg’s thrilling adventure brings dinosaurs back to life using revolutionary special effects. A group of scientists and visitors face danger when cloned dinosaurs escape their enclosures at a theme park. Starring Sam Neill and Laura Dern, this movie combines suspenseful action with awe-inspiring visuals. It became a global phenomenon and remains one of the most influential blockbuster films of all time.

Watch on: Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, FlixFling

Steven Spielberg’s historical drama stars Liam Neeson as Oskar Schindler, a businessman who risks everything to save Jewish lives during the Holocaust. With haunting black-and-white cinematography and deeply emotional storytelling, the film portrays both the horrors of war and acts of humanity. Winner of multiple Academy Awards, it is widely praised for its powerful depiction of one of history’s darkest periods.

Watch on: Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, JustWatch TV, Spectrum On Demand

Matt Damon shines as Will Hunting, a janitor at MIT with extraordinary intelligence but a troubled past. Robin Williams delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Sean Maguire, a therapist who helps Will confront his fears and embrace his potential. Directed by Gus Van Sant, this inspiring drama explores themes of friendship and self-discovery while showcasing heartfelt performances that resonate with audiences.

Watch on: fuboTV, YouTube TV, Paramount Plus, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand, Plex

Wes Craven’s Scream revolutionized horror with its clever mix of suspense and humor. Neve Campbell stars as Sidney Prescott, a teenager targeted by the masked killer Ghostface. Filled with self-aware dialogue and unexpected twists, this movie reinvents classic horror tropes while delivering plenty of scares. Its massive success led to sequels and cemented its status as one of the most iconic horror films of the 1990s.

Watch on: Netflix, fuboTV, MGM+, Philo, Paramount Plus, The Roku Channel, YouTube Free, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, FlixFling, Spectrum On Demand, Plex 

James Cameron’s epic romance stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Jack Dawson and Kate Winslet as Rose DeWitt Bukater aboard the doomed Titanic ship. Their love blossoms despite their different social classes before tragedy strikes during the ship’s sinking in 1912. With breathtaking visuals and an emotional score featuring “My Heart Will Go On,” Titanic became one of the highest-grossing films ever made and remains a cinematic masterpiece.

Watch on: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, Paramount+,  Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home

Tom Hanks delivers an iconic performance as Forrest Gump in this heartwarming drama directed by Robert Zemeckis. Forrest navigates life with kindness and innocence while unknowingly influencing major events in American history. His unwavering love for Jenny (Robin Wright) drives much of his journey. Mixing humor with touching moments, this film won six Academy Awards and continues to be cherished by audiences worldwide.

Watch on: Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, JustWatch TV, FlixFling, Plex, Kanopy, Hoopla

Steven Spielberg’s gripping war drama stars Tom Hanks as Captain Miller leading a team to find Private Ryan after his brothers are killed in World War II combat. The intense opening D-Day sequence is praised for its realism and emotional impact. Highlighting themes of sacrifice and bravery, this critically acclaimed film set a new standard for war movies with its raw storytelling and powerful performances.

Watch on: YouTube TV, Philo, Plex, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand

Keanu Reeves stars as Neo in this sci-fi masterpiece directed by the Wachowskis. Neo learns that reality is an illusion created by machines enslaving humanity, leading him to fight against them alongside Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) and Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss). Groundbreaking visual effects like bullet-dodging scenes revolutionized action filmmaking. With philosophical themes about freedom and reality, The Matrix became one of the most influential films of its era.