The Best Oscar-Nominated Movies of the '90s
- 1Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci
A cinematic tour de force, Goodfellas presents the gritty and enthralling tale of organized crime in 1960s New York City. Directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, this acclaimed masterpiece follows the rise and fall of mobster Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), whose life spirals out of control amid ambition, betrayal, and violence. With standout performances from Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, who won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, Goodfellas remains an essential watch for fans of classic cinema.
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- 2Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise
Chronicling a lifetime of events through the eyes of a kindhearted man with a low IQ named Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks), this captivating drama is as uplifting as it is enchanting. Sweeping six Oscars in 1994 including Best Picture, Director (Robert Zemeckis), and Actor (Hanks), Forrest Gump is a captivating exploration into American history that tugs at heartstrings while inspiring hope through its protagonist's perseverance in overcoming adversity.
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- 3Mel Gibson, Sophie Marceau, Patrick McGoohan
Mel Gibson’s epic historical drama Braveheart transports viewers to medieval Scotland during its tumultuous struggle for independence from England. Starring Gibson himself as national hero William Wallace, the film garnered significant awards buzz with ten Academy Award nominations and ultimately walked away with five wins, including Best Picture and Director honors for Gibson. This sweeping tale of rebellion fueled by love and vengeance is elevated by moving performances and breathtaking battle sequences.
- 4Kevin Costner, Mary McDonnell, Graham Greene
Taking home seven Oscars in 1990, Dances with Wolves stands tall as an inspiring story about friendship between a Civil War soldier (Kevin Costner) and Native Americans during western expansionism. The film masterfully captures both stunning vistas and intimate human connections while tackling themes such as cultural assimilation. Its significance lies not only in its award-winning cinematography but also in its ability to spark meaningful conversations about America's past.
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- 5Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton
Based on Stephen King’s novella, The Shawshank Redemption is a timeless tale of hope and resilience as it follows the unjustly imprisoned Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) while he forges an unbreakable bond with fellow inmate Red (Morgan Freeman). Directed by Frank Darabont, this poignant drama unfolds effortlessly within the confines of a brutal prison, showcasing powerful themes of friendship, redemption, and freedom. Although it didn't win any Oscars at the 1995 ceremony, The Shawshank Redemption remains a beloved classic in the hearts of many film enthusiasts.
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- #12 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
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- 6Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane
James Cameron’s epic tale of love and tragedy aboard the doomed maiden voyage of RMS Titanic captured imaginations worldwide and swept the 1998 Academy Awards with eleven wins including Best Picture and Director. Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet's performances as star-crossed lovers Jack and Rose remain iconic to this day, while Celine Dion’s chart-topping song “My Heart Will Go On” adds another layer to the film’s enduring emotional impact. Titanic continues to be celebrated as both a technical marvel and romantic masterpiece.
More Titanic - 7Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes
Steven Spielberg's harrowing yet inspiring account of German industrialist Oskar Schindler's efforts to save over a thousand Jews during World War II stands as an unparalleled achievement in filmmaking. Featuring stellar performances from Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, and Ben Kingsley, Schindler's List is a deeply moving cinematic experience that delves into both the depths of human cruelty and its potential for redemption. With seven Academy Awards including Best Picture and Director honors for Spielberg, this film has left an indelible mark on cinema history.
More Schindler's List - 8Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment, Toni Collette
M. Night Shyamalan’s supernatural thriller The Sixth Sense took audiences by storm with its clever twist ending and powerful performances from Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment, who earned a Best Supporting Actor nomination at age 11. This riveting narrative centers on a child psychologist attempting to help a young boy who claims to see dead people. With six Oscar nominations including Best Picture, Director, and Original Screenplay for Shyamalan, this film set a high bar for suspenseful storytelling that still resonates today.
More The Sixth Sense - 9Matt Damon, Robin Williams, Ben Affleck
Boasting dynamic performances from Matt Damon as mathematical prodigy Will Hunting and Robin Williams as his compassionate therapist, Good Will Hunting is an emotionally charged drama that tugs at the heartstrings. Directed by Gus Van Sant and featuring a memorable screenplay penned by Damon and co-star Ben Affleck – which earned them both a Best Original Screenplay Oscar – this film explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and forgiveness with depth and poignancy.
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- 10Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn
The chilling psychological thriller The Silence of the Lambs holds the distinction of being one of only three films to claim all five major Academy Awards in a single year – Best Picture, Director (Jonathan Demme), Actor (Anthony Hopkins), Actress (Jodie Foster), and Adapted Screenplay (Ted Tally). Featuring iconic performances from Foster as FBI trainee Clarice Starling and Hopkins as her twisted adversary Hannibal Lecter, this gripping cat-and-mouse tale dives into the depths of human depravity. It remains a beloved classic that continues to send shivers down spines across generations.
- 11Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon
Tom Hanks adds another layer to his impressive filmography in Ron Howard’s thrilling dramatization of NASA's ill-fated lunar mission. Featuring an all-star cast including Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton, Gary Sinise, and Ed Harris in an Oscar-nominated turn as Mission Control Director Gene Kranz, Apollo 13 is a suspenseful yet inspiring tribute to the achievements of American space exploration. With nine Academy Award nominations and two wins for Sound and Film Editing, it remains a must-watch for fans of historically based cinema.
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- #19 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
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- 12John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman
Quentin Tarantino's seminal sophomore feature Pulp Fiction weaves together multiple storylines with razor-sharp dialogue, creating an innovative narrative structure that leaves a lasting impact on viewers. Boasting standout performances from John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, Bruce Willis, Ving Rhames among others - this gritty dark comedy showcases various aspects of Los Angeles’ criminal underworld while cementing Tarantino's status as one of the boldest filmmakers working today. The film garnered seven Oscar nominations, ultimately winning Best Original Screenplay for Tarantino and Roger Avary.
More Pulp Fiction - 13Frances McDormand, Steve Buscemi, William H. Macy
A darkly humorous crime thriller set in the icy landscapes of Minnesota, Fargo solidified Joel and Ethan Coen as masterful storytellers with their unique blend of violence and quirky characters. Frances McDormand’s captivating portrayal of pregnant police chief Marge Gunderson earned her the Best Actress Oscar while the Coen brothers took home honors for Best Original Screenplay. This offbeat yet enthralling tale continues to resonate with audiences due to its distinct visual style and unforgettable performances.
- 14Paige O'Hara, Robby Benson, Richard White
Walt Disney's enchanting adaptation of the classic French fairy tale became an instant animated classic when it was released in 1991. Featuring beautiful animation and memorable songs by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman - including the titular ballad performed by Angela Lansbury - Beauty and the Beast was not only hailed as an artistic triumph but also made history as the first animated feature film nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.
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- 15Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, Demi Moore
Rob Reiner’s riveting courtroom drama A Few Good Men boasts a star-studded ensemble featuring Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, Demi Moore, Kevin Bacon, and Kiefer Sutherland. Based on Aaron Sorkin's play of the same name, this powerful film delves into themes of honor, duty, and morality within the US military as military lawyer Lt. Daniel Kaffee (Cruise) defends two Marines accused of murder. Nicholson's unforgettable performance and climactic exchange with Cruise remain highlights in cinematic history.
More A Few Good Men- #26 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
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- 16Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, Sela Ward
Harrison Ford delivers an adrenaline-pumping performance as Dr. Richard Kimble, a man wrongfully convicted of his wife's murder who must prove his innocence while evading capture in this thrilling action-packed drama. Directed by Andrew Davis and supported by a strong cast including Tommy Lee Jones in his Oscar-winning role as U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard, The Fugitive keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its relentless pacing and engrossing plot twist.
- 17Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman, Morgan Freeman
Clint Eastwood’s Academy Award-winning revisionist western Unforgiven sees him both directing and playing an aging gunslinger named William Munny who embarks on one last job for a shot at redemption. Supported by an impressive cast including Morgan Freeman, Gene Hackman (who won Best Supporting Actor), and Richard Harris – this gritty tale explores themes such as violence, regret, and change against the backdrop of America's fading frontier era.
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- 18Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, Greg Kinnear
Helmed by director James L. Brooks, As Good as It Gets is a quirky romantic comedy that touches on themes of love, mental health, and personal growth while showcasing incredible performances from Jack Nicholson (who earned his third Best Actor Oscar) and Helen Hunt (winner of Best Actress). With a stellar supporting cast including Greg Kinnear and Cuba Gooding Jr., this unforgettable film offers both laughter and heartfelt emotion to anyone who watches.
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- 19Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce
A stylish neo-noir crime thriller set in 1950s Los Angeles, L.A. Confidential follows three LAPD detectives (played by Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, and Guy Pearce) as they uncover a web of corruption within their department. Expertly directed by Curtis Hanson and featuring Kim Basinger in her Oscar-winning role as femme fatale Lynn Bracken, this intricate whodunit exposes the dark underbelly of Hollywood glamour and intrigue.
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- 20Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding, Renée Zellweger
This iconic romantic sports dramedy follows Tom Cruise as he plays the titular character - a struggling sports agent attempting to rebuild his career with just one loyal client (Cuba Gooding Jr., who won Best Supporting Actor) by his side. Directed by Cameron Crowe and featuring memorable performances from Renée Zellweger and Regina King, Jerry Maguire skillfully mixes romance, humor, and drama into a compelling narrative about personal growth and redemption that resonates with viewers of all ages.
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- 21Roberto Benigni, Nicoletta Braschi, Giorgio Cantarini
Emotionally charged and inspirational - Life Is Beautiful is a powerful Italian film that expertly balances comedy and tragedy. Roberto Benigni’s touching portrayal of a father who uses humor to shield his son from the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp earned him the Best Actor Oscar, making him the first non-English speaking actor to win in that category since 1964. With an additional win for Best Foreign Language Film, this timeless tale delivers laughter, tears, and hope in equal measure.
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- 22Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Kate Winslet
Emma Thompson's Oscar-winning screenplay adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel is brought to life with exquisite period detail by director Ang Lee in this delightful romantic drama. Starring Thompson alongside Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant, and Alan Rickman - Sense and Sensibility is a charming exploration of love, family, and societal expectations that have endured throughout the ages. This literary adaptation remains a beloved favorite among fans of Austen's work as well as cinema enthusiasts.
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- 23Daniel Day-Lewis, Pete Postlethwaite, Emma Thompson
Based on a true story, this gripping legal drama chronicles the wrongful imprisonment of Irishman Gerry Conlon (Daniel Day-Lewis) for an IRA bombing during The Troubles in England. Emma Thompson's powerful performance as determined lawyer Gareth Peirce earned her an Academy Award nomination while Jim Sheridan's masterful direction brings this harrowing tale to life with haunting authenticity. In the Name of the Father showcases both suspenseful storytelling and profound human emotion in its exploration of justice denied.
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- 24James Cromwell, Magda Szubanski, Hugo Weaving
The heartwarming story of a young pig named Babe who dreams of becoming a sheepdog captured hearts worldwide when it was released in 1995. With stunning visual effects seamlessly blending live-action animals with puppetry from Jim Henson's Creature Shop - and a charming screenplay that earned writer George Miller an Oscar nomination - Babe is an uplifting family film that delights audiences with its humor and warmth.
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- 25Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Whoopi Goldberg
Ghost mixes romance, fantasy, and mystery in this gripping tale about the power of love transcending death. Starring Patrick Swayze as a murdered man who returns as a ghost to protect his grieving lover (Demi Moore) from danger - this emotional journey features iconic scenes such as the pottery wheel sequence set to The Righteous Brothers' "Unchained Melody." Whoopi Goldberg's Academy Award-winning performance adds levity to this heartrending tale that continues to captivate viewers with its blend of light-hearted humor and poignancy.
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- 26Al Pacino, Chris O'Donnell, James Rebhorn
Starring Al Pacino in his long-awaited first Oscar win for his portrayal of blind Lt. Colonel Frank Slade - Scent of a Woman is an enthralling character study examining themes such as friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery through the eyes of young prep school student Charlie Simms (Chris O'Donnell). Directed by Martin Brest with masterful precision, this captivating film showcases Pacino's undeniable charisma while offering valuable life lessons along the way.
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- 27Robert De Niro, Robin Williams, Julie Kavner
Based on the true story of neurologist Oliver Sacks' groundbreaking work with catatonic patients - Awakenings features powerful performances from Robert De Niro as a patient who awakens after decades of unresponsiveness and Robin Williams as the compassionate doctor determined to reach him. Directed by Penny Marshall, this emotionally stirring film moves hearts while highlighting the delicate balance between medical advancements and the human spirit.
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- 28Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, Thora Birch
Sam Mendes' directorial debut American Beauty is a darkly comedic examination of suburban dissatisfaction featuring standout performances from Kevin Spacey (Best Actor winner), Annette Bening and Chris Cooper among others. With five Oscars including Best Picture under its belt, this biting satire examines themes such as self-discovery, beauty standards, materialism and loneliness while inviting viewers to question their own happiness and purpose in life.
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- 29Kevin Costner, Sissy Spacek, Joe Pesci
Oliver Stone’s controversial political thriller JFK revisits the assassination of President John F. Kennedy through the eyes of New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison (Kevin Costner) as he uncovers an alleged conspiracy behind the event. With an impressive ensemble cast featuring Tommy Lee Jones, Kevin Bacon, Gary Oldman, Joe Pesci, and more - JFK delves into alternate theories surrounding one of America’s most historic moments while raising questions about truth-seeking in an era fraught with secrecy.
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- 30Cate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush, Christopher Eccleston
Cate Blanchett shines as a young Queen Elizabeth I in Shekhar Kapur's sumptuous historical drama that takes viewers on a journey through the early years of her reign amidst religious turmoil and political intrigue. With stunning costumes, lavish sets, and a powerful supporting cast including Geoffrey Rush and Joseph Fiennes – Elizabeth offers not only an engrossing history lesson but also an intimate portrait of a formidable monarch finding her footing in turbulent times.
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