The Best Historical Movies from the '90s

Ranker Film
Updated April 23, 2024 22.1K views 47 items
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6.0K votes
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Vote on your favorite historical films from the 1990s.

What are the best historical movies from the 1990s? This list includes great period pieces such as Schindler's List, The Shawshank Redemption, and Titanic. Historical movies allow audiences to relive a piece of a history that they may never know about otherwise. They become sources of both entertainment and education. 

The movies on this list are the best of the best when it comes to historical films. Which one is the best? Well, that's up to the voters to decide. Vote up your favorite historical movie, and if there isn't one on here that you think deserves a spot, be sure to add it. 

Most divisive: Pocahontas
Over 800 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Historical Movies from the '90s
  • The Shawshank Redemption
    1

    The Shawshank Redemption

    Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton
    292 votes

    The Shawshank Redemption is a masterful cinematic experience that tells the tale of Andy Dufresne, a banker falsely accused of murder and sentenced to life in prison. This 90s historical movie showcases the resilience of the human spirit as audiences witness Andy's friendship with fellow inmate "Red" and his eventual escape from Shawshank State Penitentiary. Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman deliver powerful performances, while Frank Darabont's direction adapts Stephen King's novella with utmost precision. The film's plot unfolds meticulously, never losing sight of its emotional core or attention to detail; ultimately, it serves as a compelling depiction of hope amidst adversity.

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  • Saving Private Ryan
    2

    Saving Private Ryan

    Tom Hanks, Edward Burns, Tom Sizemore
    271 votes

    Directed by Steven Spielberg, Saving Private Ryan is an epic war film featuring an ensemble cast led by Tom Hanks. Set during World War II, this historical movie delves into the harrowing experiences faced by soldiers on the front lines through its brutally realistic portrayal of combat. The opening sequence - depicting the Normandy landings - remains unparalleled in its intensity and visceral impact. As Captain John Miller and his platoon embark on their mission to save Private James Ryan (played by Matt Damon), viewers are exposed to varied perspectives on warfare, camaraderie, and sacrifice.

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  • Forrest Gump
    3

    Forrest Gump

    Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise
    333 votes

    Forrest Gump is undeniably one of the greatest films released in the 1990s—a touching journey through American history as experienced by Tom Hanks' character Forrest. With its unique blend of humor, nostalgia, drama, and romance, this historical movie has struck a chord with audiences worldwide since its release in 1994. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, this Oscar-winning film seamlessly integrates real-life events with Forrest Gump's fictional story—creating an immersive viewing experience that resonates long after its conclusion.

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  • Titanic
    4

    Titanic

    Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane
    320 votes

    James Cameron's record-breaking Titanic chronicles the tragic love story of Jack and Rose aboard the ill-fated luxury liner in 1912. Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet deliver unforgettable performances as they navigate class divides, family expectations, and ultimately, disaster. Cameron's meticulously researched film is both a love letter to the grandeur of Titanic and a haunting reminder of its devastating fate. With breathtaking special effects and passionate storytelling, this historical movie has etched itself into cinema history.

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  • Schindler's List
    5

    Schindler's List

    Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes
    287 votes

    Steven Spielberg's groundbreaking Schindler's List is an unflinching portrayal of the Holocaust during World War II. It tells the true story of Oskar Schindler (played by Liam Neeson), a German businessman who saved over a thousand Jewish lives by employing them in his factories. This powerful black-and-white film brings attention to the horrors faced by Jews at the hands of Nazis while also highlighting acts of human kindness amidst such darkness. The heart-wrenching narrative ensures that this historical masterpiece remains an essential viewing experience for generations to come.

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  • Braveheart
    6

    Braveheart

    Mel Gibson, Sophie Marceau, Patrick McGoohan
    249 votes

    Braveheart is a stirring depiction of Scottish warrior William Wallace's fight for independence against King Edward I of England during the late 13th century. Directed by Mel Gibson—who also stars as Wallace—this historical epic showcases brutal battle scenes, breathtaking landscapes, and inspiring moments that have made it beloved among audiences since its release in 1995. Supported by an exceptional cast featuring Patrick McGoohan as King Edward I, Sophie Marceau as Princess Isabelle, and Brendan Gleeson as Hamish Campbell, Braveheart evokes strong emotions through its poignant storytelling.

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  • The Last of the Mohicans
    7

    The Last of the Mohicans

    Daniel Day-Lewis, Madeleine Stowe, Russell Means
    200 votes

    Set during the French and Indian War in 1757, The Last of the Mohicans tells the tale of Hawkeye (Daniel Day-Lewis), adopted son of Mohican scout Chingachgook—the last living member of his tribe. Directed by Michael Mann, the film explores themes of love, loyalty, and the struggles faced by Native Americans during this tumultuous period in history. With its striking cinematography, rousing musical score, and Day-Lewis's captivating performance, The Last of the Mohicans is a definitive historical movie from the 90s.

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  • Apollo 13
    8

    Apollo 13

    Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon
    225 votes

    Apollo 13 offers an exciting glimpse into one of NASA's most extraordinary missions—the ill-fated lunar landing attempt in April 1970. Directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks as astronaut Jim Lovell, this historical drama recounts the crew's harrowing struggle to return safely to Earth after an explosion cripples their spacecraft. Aided by Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton, Ed Harris, and Gary Sinise in key roles, Apollo 13 showcases the unwavering commitment of both astronauts and ground control personnel as they grapple with life-and-death decisions.

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  • Dances with Wolves
    9

    Dances with Wolves

    Kevin Costner, Mary McDonnell, Graham Greene
    211 votes

    Dances with Wolves transports viewers to the American frontier during the Civil War era through its breathtaking depiction of Lieutenant John J. Dunbar's (Kevin Costner) interaction with a Lakota Sioux tribe. As Dunbar develops a deep bond with his newfound friends—particularly love interest Stands With A Fist (Mary McDonnell)—the film portrays themes of understanding and respect for different cultures against a backdrop of conflict between Native Americans and white settlers. Director Kevin Costner skillfully balances action-packed sequences with evocative moments that provide insight into Sioux customs and way of life.

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  • Tombstone
    10

    Tombstone

    Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Michael Biehn
    173 votes

    Tombstone follows legendary lawman Wyatt Earp (Kurt Russell) and his brothers Virgil (Sam Elliott) and Morgan (Bill Paxton) as they attempt to bring order to the lawless town of Tombstone in late-19th-century Arizona Territory. Joined by gunslinger Doc Holliday (Val Kilmer), Earp faces off against a gang of outlaws known as the Cowboys in a gripping tale of vengeance and justice. This classic 90s western, directed by George P. Cosmatos, features an exceptional ensemble cast, memorable lines, and thrilling shootouts that have won the hearts of fans for nearly three decades.

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  • Legends of the Fall
    11

    Legends of the Fall

    Brad Pitt, Anthony Hopkins, Aidan Quinn
    92 votes

    Ed Zwick's sweeping period drama Legends of the Fall chronicles the life of a Montana family during World War I and Prohibition Era America. At its core, it is a tale of love, betrayal, and undying loyalty between three brothers—played by Brad Pitt, Aidan Quinn, and Henry Thomas—and their father (Anthony Hopkins). As they navigate turbulent romances, fierce rivalries, and personal tragedy amidst a rapidly changing world, this historical movie captivates with its emotive storytelling and lush cinematography.

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  • Elizabeth
    12

    Elizabeth

    Cate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush, Christopher Eccleston
    116 votes

    Elizabeth offers a visually stunning depiction of Queen Elizabeth I's dramatic rise to power during the tumultuous years following her father King Henry VIII's death. Cate Blanchett delivers an electrifying performance in the titular role as she transforms from naive princess to formidable ruler amidst political intrigue and religious strife in 16th-century England. The film showcases the complex relationships between key figures like Sir Francis Walsingham (Geoffrey Rush), Robert Dudley (Joseph Fiennes), Mary Stuart (Kathy Burke), among others—adding depth to this compelling portrait of one of history's most intriguing monarchs.

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  • The Mask of Zorro
    13

    The Mask of Zorro

    Antonio Banderas, Anthony Hopkins, Catherine Zeta-Jones
    77 votes

    The Mask of Zorro is an action-packed swashbuckler set in early 19th-century Spanish California, where exiled hero Don Diego de la Vega (Anthony Hopkins) trains a skilled bandit named Alejandro Murrieta (Antonio Banderas) to become the legendary masked vigilante known as Zorro. As they take on the corrupt tyranny of Governor Rafael Montero (Stuart Wilson), they must also protect the beautiful Elena (Catherine Zeta-Jones)—whose life becomes entwined with their quest for justice. Directed by Martin Campbell, this thrilling historical movie breathes new life into the iconic character while delivering sizzling swordplay and daring stunts that keep viewers enthralled from start to finish.

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  • JFK
    14

    JFK

    Kevin Costner, Sissy Spacek, Joe Pesci
    138 votes

    Oliver Stone's engrossing drama JFK delves deep into conspiracy theories surrounding President John F. Kennedy's assassination on November 22, 1963. Kevin Costner stars as New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison, who launches his own investigation into the tragic event amidst growing public skepticism about official accounts provided by government agencies like the FBI and CIA. With a stellar supporting cast featuring Tommy Lee Jones, Gary Oldman, Kevin Bacon, Joe Pesci, among others—JFK compels audiences to question long-held beliefs regarding one of America's most enduring mysteries through its riveting storytelling and meticulous attention to detail.

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  • Sleepy Hollow
    15

    Sleepy Hollow

    Johnny Depp, Christina Ricci, Miranda Richardson
    144 votes

    Enveloped in an eerie atmosphere reminiscent of classic gothic literature, Tim Burton's Sleepy Hollow transports viewers to late-18th-century New York State through its chilling adaptation of Washington Irving's short story The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow. With Johnny Depp starring as eccentric police inspector Ichabod Crane sent to investigate gruesome beheadings attributed to the fabled Headless Horseman, this historical horror film masterfully combines spine-tingling scares with rich period detail. The macabre mystery unfolds amidst a backdrop of fog-laden landscapes, creepy supernatural elements, and an ensemble cast that heightens the intrigue surrounding this dark tale.

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  • Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
    16

    Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

    Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
    11 votes

    Kevin Costner stars as the titular hero in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves—a swashbuckling adventure set in late 12th-century England amidst political unrest following King Richard's capture during the Crusades. As nobleman-turned-outlaw Robin Hood leads his band of Merry Men—including Morgan Freeman's wise Moorish warrior Azeem—in a daring quest to rescue Maid Marian (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio) from the clutches of villainous Sheriff George Nottingham (Alan Rickman), this thrilling historical movie delivers action, romance, and unforgettable one-liners at every turn. With its stellar ensemble cast and rousing score by composer Michael Kamen—featuring Bryan Adams' hit single "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You"—Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves remains an enduring favorite among fans worldwide.

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  • Casino
    17

    Casino

    Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, Joe Pesci
    137 votes

    Martin Scorsese's Casino delves into the seedy underworld of Las Vegas during its mob-dominated era in the 1970s and 1980s. With Robert De Niro starring as skilled gambling handicapper Sam "Ace" Rothstein and Joe Pesci as ruthless Mafia enforcer Nicky Santoro, this historical movie paints a vivid picture of greed, violence, betrayal, and corruption that permeates every level of Sin City's glittering façade. Sharon Stone delivers a memorable performance as Ace's opportunistic wife Ginger McKenna—an embodiment of the excesses that ultimately bring about their downfall. Beneath its gritty surface lies an incisive exploration of human frailty amidst unrelenting ambition.

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  • The Crucible
    18

    The Crucible

    Daniel Day-Lewis, Winona Ryder, Paul Scofield
    94 votes

    Set in 17th-century Salem during the infamous witch trials, The Crucible is an intense drama based on Arthur Miller's classic play of the same name which explores mass hysteria and human cruelty amidst religious puritanism. Starring Daniel Day-Lewis as farmer John Proctor and Winona Ryder as the manipulative Abigail Williams, this historical movie brilliantly illustrates the destructive power of lies and deceit as innocent lives are ruined due to unfounded accusations. Directed by Nicholas Hytner, The Crucible offers a haunting reminder of the perils of unchecked fear and blind adherence to dogma.

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  • Mississippi Burning
    19

    Mississippi Burning

    Gene Hackman, Willem Dafoe, Frances McDormand
    135 votes

    Mississippi Burning is a gripping crime drama inspired by real events surrounding the murder investigation of three civil rights workers in rural Mississippi in 1964. Starring Gene Hackman and Willem Dafoe as two FBI agents with conflicting methods for solving cases, this historical movie sheds light on America's deeply ingrained racial tensions during the Civil Rights Movement while providing an engrossing mystery at its core. Directed by Alan Parker, Mississippi Burning does not shy away from depicting brutal confrontations between local law enforcement officers, Ku Klux Klan members, African-American communities—and even its protagonists—thus showcasing complex moral dilemmas that persist today.

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  • In the Name of the Father
    20

    In the Name of the Father

    Daniel Day-Lewis, Pete Postlethwaite, Emma Thompson
    63 votes

    Based on actual events during one of Britain's most controversial legal cases—the wrongful conviction and imprisonment of four people known as the Guildford Four—In the Name of the Father tells the harrowing story of Gerry Conlon (played by Daniel Day-Lewis) and his father Giuseppe (Pete Postlethwaite), both falsely accused of a fatal IRA bombing in 1974. Directed by Jim Sheridan, this historical movie offers a scathing indictment of corruption within law enforcement and courts while highlighting the resilience of those who refuse to yield under extreme adversity. Emma Thompson shines as lawyer Gareth Peirce, whose relentless pursuit for justice ultimately propels the narrative to its emotionally charged conclusion.

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  • A River Runs Through It
    21

    A River Runs Through It

    Craig Sheffer, Brad Pitt, Tom Skerritt
    115 votes

    Directed by Robert Redford, A River Runs Through It follows two brothers—Norman (Craig Sheffer) and Paul Maclean (Brad Pitt)—as they come of age in rural Montana during the early 20th century. Rooted in their strong bond despite divergent life paths—a theme underscored by their shared passion for fly-fishing—the film poignantly explores themes such as family dynamics, spirituality, and connection with nature against a stunning backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. With its lyrical storytelling style and evocative cinematography, A River Runs Through It is a moving tribute to the beauty of life's simplest moments.

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  • Amistad
    22

    Amistad

    Morgan Freeman, Anthony Hopkins, Matthew McConaughey
    124 votes

    Steven Spielberg's historical drama Amistad centers around the legal battle over the fate of 53 African captives aboard La Amistad—a Spanish slave ship seized off the coast of Long Island in 1839 after its prisoners revolted against their captors. With an ensemble cast featuring Djimon Hounsou as charismatic leader Cinque, Morgan Freeman as abolitionist Theodore Joadson, Anthony Hopkins as former President John Quincy Adams—allied with Matthew McConaughey's idealistic young lawyer Roger Baldwin—the film skillfully navigates a complex web of political, legal, and moral issues that force viewers to confront the ugly legacy of slavery in America.

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  • October Sky
    23

    October Sky

    Jake Gyllenhaal, Chris Cooper, Laura Dern
    95 votes

    October Sky is an inspiring true story of determination and ingenuity, following young Homer Hickam (Jake Gyllenhaal) as he defies the expectations of his coal-mining community in rural West Virginia during the late 1950s. Inspired by Sputnik's launch and determined to escape a life in the mines, Homer recruits a group of friends to help him build rockets—an endeavor that tests their perseverance against numerous obstacles and naysayers. Featuring standout performances from Gyllenhaal, Chris Cooper as Homer's father, and Laura Dern as his supportive teacher, October Sky is an uplifting tale of overcoming adversity through sheer grit and unwavering faith in one's dreams.

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  • Pocahontas
    24

    Pocahontas

    Irene Bedard, Judy Kuhn, Mel Gibson
    129 votes

    Disney's animated musical Pocahontas offers a colorful, family-friendly interpretation of the legendary Native American woman's encounter with English settlers led by Captain John Smith (voiced by Mel Gibson) during the early 17th century. While taking considerable liberties with historical accuracy, this enchanting film nonetheless enchants viewers through its vivid animation, memorable songs composed by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz—including the Oscar-winning "Colors of the Wind"—and powerful themes about finding common ground amidst cultural differences. With its lush visuals and heartfelt storytelling, Pocahontas remains a beloved entry in Disney's celebrated lineup of animated classics.

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  • The Man in the Iron Mask
    25

    The Man in the Iron Mask

    Leonardo DiCaprio, Jeremy Irons, John Malkovich
    17 votes

    This star-studded historical adventure film, based on Alexandre Dumas' classic novel, weaves an intriguing tale of political intrigue and betrayal set against the opulent backdrop of 17th-century France. Leonardo DiCaprio takes on dual roles as the cruel King Louis XIV and his long-lost twin brother Philippe—who is forced to wear an iron mask for reasons unknown. As aging Musketeers Athos (John Malkovich), Porthos (Gérard Depardieu), and Aramis (Jeremy Irons) plot to replace Louis with Philippe—and restore peace to their troubled nation—this swashbuckling epic delivers intrigue, romance, and thrilling action sequences that captivate audiences from start to finish.

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  • The Thin Red Line
    26

    The Thin Red Line

    Sean Penn, Adrien Brody, Jim Caviezel
    128 votes

    Terrence Malick's philosophical war epic The Thin Red Line provides an introspective look into the lives of soldiers fighting on both sides of the Battle of Guadalcanal during World War II. Featuring a star-studded ensemble cast including Sean Penn, Adrien Brody, Jim Caviezel, and many more—this historical movie delves into themes such as bravery, fear, and sacrifice against the brutal backdrop of combat. As the film unfolds in an almost dreamlike manner through stunning cinematography and poetic narration, viewers are immersed in a thought-provoking meditation on the human condition amidst war's senseless carnage.

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  • Thelma & Louise
    27

    Thelma & Louise

    Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis, Harvey Keitel
    122 votes

    This groundbreaking 1991 film from director Ridley Scott tells the story of Thelma (Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon)—two friends who embark on a road trip that takes an unexpected turn into crime following a harrowing incident at a roadside bar. As they flee across America pursued by police led by Detective Hal Slocumb (Harvey Keitel), Thelma and Louise form unbreakable bonds amidst exhilarating adventures that ultimately transform them both in profound ways. This female-driven buddy film offers viewers a fresh perspective on themes such as friendship, empowerment, and liberation while staying grounded in its emotionally charged narrative.

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  • Wyatt Earp
    28

    Wyatt Earp

    Kevin Costner, Dennis Quaid, Gene Hackman
    116 votes

    Released during the height of 90s Western revival, Wyatt Earp chronicles the life and exploits of its titular character—a legendary lawman whose name became synonymous with the Wild West. With Kevin Costner portraying Earp alongside an impressive ensemble cast featuring Dennis Quaid as his friend Doc Holliday and Gene Hackman as his father Nicholas—this historical movie offers a sprawling biographical account that spans several decades marked by violent confrontations like the infamous Gunfight at O.K. Corral. Directed by Lawrence Kasdan, Wyatt Earp is an ambitious exploration of myth versus reality in America's frontier days.

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  • Rob Roy
    29

    Rob Roy

    Liam Neeson, Jessica Lange, John Hurt
    67 votes

    Set in 18th-century Scotland amid political turmoil following a failed Jacobite uprising, Rob Roy tells the story of Scottish clan leader Robert Roy MacGregor (played by Liam Neeson) who becomes embroiled in a bitter feud against treacherous rival Marquis Montrose (John Hurt). Directed by Michael Caton-Jones, this historical movie captures sweeping landscapes and fierce battles while exploring themes such as loyalty, personal honor, and resistance against oppression—all anchored by Neeson's compelling performance as the larger-than-life folk hero.

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  • Young Guns II
    30

    Young Guns II

    Emilio Estevez, Kiefer Sutherland, Lou Diamond Phillips
    8 votes

    Amidst a resurgence of Western-themed films in the early 1990s, Young Guns II stands out with its youthful twist on the classic genre—featuring an ensemble cast led by Emilio Estevez reprising his role as infamous outlaw Billy "The Kid" Bonney. Joined by Kiefer Sutherland, Lou Diamond Phillips, and Christian Slater among others, these "brat-pack" cowboys embark on thrilling adventures and daring heists that culminate in their fateful confrontation at Stinking Springs. Directed by Geoff Murphy, Young Guns II breathes new life into familiar tales from American frontier history while offering exciting action sequences set against stunning New Mexico landscapes.

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