The Best '90s Hip Hop Movies
Which of these '90s hip hop movies is the best of the decade? This list of hip hop films from the 1990s wouldn't be complete without House Party or the two sequels.  CB4, a comedy about a fictional rap group CB4 is another great hip hop movie from the '90s. But are these the greatest hip hop or rap films released during the '90s?
Other good hip hop films from the nineteen-nineties include Class Act and Slam.
While most '90s hip hop movies tend to be dramas there are a few comedies in there such as Phat Beach with Coolio and Who's The Man. Vote up your favorite '90s hip hop movies and vote down the rap movies that you didn't like to make sure the right film makes it to the top.
- 1Laurence Fishburne, Ice Cube, Cuba Gooding
Boyz n the Hood, directed by John Singleton, is an exemplary 90s hip-hop film that delves into the harsh realities of life in South Central Los Angeles. The story focuses on three friends – Tre (Cuba Gooding Jr.), Doughboy (Ice Cube), and Ricky (Morris Chestnut) – as they navigate their way through the challenges of living in a crime-ridden neighborhood. With its powerful performances and authentic portrayal of the African-American experience during this time period, Boyz n the Hood has become a cultural touchstone for its unflinching look at systemic racism, gang violence, and diminished opportunities for young black men.
More Boyz n the Hood
- #1 of 9 onJohn Singleton: Movies Directed By John Singleton
- #159 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #91 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- 2Wesley Snipes, Ice-T, Judd Nelson
New Jack City, directed by Mario Van Peebles, stands as one of the most influential hip-hop films of the 90s. This gritty crime drama chronicles the rise and fall of drug lord Nino Brown (Wesley Snipes) and his notorious Cash Money Brothers crew. Co-starring Ice-T and Chris Rock, New Jack City offers viewers a riveting glimpse into Harlem's crack epidemic era while showcasing a memorable soundtrack featuring contemporary rap artists such as Ice-T himself. With its captivating visuals and intense storyline, New Jack City encapsulates urban street life with hard-hitting authenticity.
More New Jack City- #305 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #35 of 86 onThe Best Movies Of 1991, Ranked
- #17 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- 3Omar Epps, Tupac Shakur, Jermaine "Huggy" Hopkins
Juice stars Omar Epps and Tupac Shakur in a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of Harlem's rapidly growing hip-hop scene. Directed by Ernest R. Dickerson, this riveting drama follows four friends as they grapple with violence, crime, and their own personal demons. The film is notable for its memorable performances, particularly Shakur's standout portrayal of the troubled Bishop, and its vivid depiction of youth living on the edge during a tumultuous time in New York City.
More Juice- #6 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #5 of 81 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- #49 of 98 onThe Best Movies of 1992
- 4Ice Cube, Chris Tucker, Nia Long
Friday is an unapologetically hilarious comedy directed by F. Gary Gray that shines a light on African-American culture during the 90s hip-hop era. Starring Ice Cube and Chris Tucker as two friends trying to survive a hectic day in their South Los Angeles neighborhood, this cult classic captures both humor and heart amid everyday struggles in urban America. Its unforgettable one-liners ("Bye Felicia!") are still quoted today, proving that Friday's charm endures even decades after its release.
More Friday- #525 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #155 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #150 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- 5Tyrin Turner, Jada Pinkett Smith, Vonte Sweet
Menace II Society, directed by Albert and Allen Hughes, tells the harrowing story of young Caine (Tyrin Turner) as he navigates life in South Central Los Angeles amidst gang violence and drug addiction. Co-starring Larenz Tate and Jada Pinkett Smith, this critically acclaimed film serves as a resounding commentary on urban decay and the cyclical nature of poverty in marginalized communities. Featuring an outstanding hip-hop soundtrack with tracks from Spice 1, MC Eiht, and Brand Nubian, Menace II Society remains an essential watch for fans of 90s cinema.
More Menace II Society- #427 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #251 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #12 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- 6Duane Martin, Leon, Tupac Shakur
Above the Rim is an engaging sports drama directed by Jeff Pollack that combines basketball action with gritty street life. The film revolves around aspiring high school athlete Kyle Watson (Duane Martin) as he navigates both on-court challenges and off-court temptations while pursuing his dreams of playing college ball. Co-starring Tupac Shakur as a charismatic drug dealer, Above the Rim features unforgettable performances set against an exhilarating soundtrack featuring noteworthy collaborations between artists like Warren G, Nate Dogg, Snoop Dogg, and The Lady of Rage.
More Above the Rim- #48 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #26 of 69 onThe Best High School Sports Movies
- #17 of 81 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- 7Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Tracey Cherelle Jones
As one of the most recognizable parody films in the hip-hop genre, Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood offers comedic relief amidst a decade of hard-hitting urban dramas. Directed by Paris Barclay, this laugh-out-loud spoof stars Shawn Wayans and Marlon Wayans as they satirize classic films like Boyz n the Hood and Menace II Society. With its mix of slapstick humor and sharp social commentary, Don't Be a Menace remains an entertaining watch for fans of 90s hip-hop cinema.
- #172 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #63 of 117 onThe Best Movies Of 1996
- #114 of 168 onThe Best '90s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 8Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah, Vivica A. Fox
Set It Off is an action-packed heist film directed by F. Gary Gray that showcases a powerful ensemble cast including Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, Vivica A. Fox, and Kimberly Elise. As four friends plan to execute a daring bank robbery to improve their lives in inner-city Los Angeles, audiences are treated to thrilling action sequences coupled with compelling character arcs rooted in themes of sisterhood and loyalty. With its groundbreaking representation of strong female leads within the hip-hop genre – supported by an electrifying soundtrack featuring En Vogue and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony – Set It Off has earned its place among the best films of the 90s.
More Set It Off- #69 of 117 onThe Best Movies Of 1996
- #20 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #119 of 185 onMovies With The Best Soundtracks
- 9Nas, DMX, Taral Hicks
Belly is a visually arresting crime drama directed by Hype Williams that showcases standout performances from DMX as Tommy 'Buns' Bundy and Nas as Sincere – two friends caught up in the dangerous world of drug trafficking. This stylish and gritty film offers viewers a mesmerizing journey into the dark underbelly of urban street life, with a memorable soundtrack featuring tracks from hip-hop legends like Wu-Tang Clan, DMX, and D'Angelo. Despite mixed reviews upon its release, Belly has since garnered a cult following for its striking visuals and evocative portrayal of 90s hip-hop culture.
More Belly - 10Chris Rock, Allen Payne, Deezer D
CB4 is a satirical comedy directed by Tamra Davis that parodies gangsta rap culture during its 90s heyday. Starring Chris Rock as MC Gusto – leader of rap group CB4 – this hilarious film follows their rise to fame after adopting personas inspired by hardened criminals from their neighborhood. As they navigate newfound success built on deception and lies, CB4 offers biting social commentary on cultural appropriation within the music industry. With cameos from notable hip-hop figures like Ice-T and Flavor Flav, CB4 stands as an enduring comedic gem from the 90s.
More CB4- #38 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
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- 11Janet Jackson, Tupac Shakur, Regina King
Poetic Justice is a thoughtfully crafted romance directed by John Singleton that explores themes of love, loss, and healing set against the backdrop of South Central Los Angeles. Starring Janet Jackson as Justice – a grieving hairdresser who finds solace in her poetry – this heartfelt film follows her blossoming relationship with Lucky (Tupac Shakur), a postal worker harboring dreams of becoming a music producer. With its engaging storyline and compelling performances, Poetic Justice remains a revered entry in 90s hip-hop cinema.
More Poetic Justice- #3 of 9 onJohn Singleton: Movies Directed By John Singleton
- #13 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
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- 12Robin Harris, Christopher Reid, Christopher Martin
House Party is an energetic comedy directed by Reginald Hudlin that captures the spirit of 90s hip-hop culture through the escapades of two high school friends – Kid (Christopher Reid) and Play (Christopher Martin) – as they attempt to throw the ultimate house party. Featuring lively dance sequences and iconic fashion choices, House Party remains an entertaining time capsule that perfectly encapsulates youth culture during this unforgettable era.
More House Party- #154 of 168 onThe Best '90s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- #63 of 90 onThe Best Movies of 1990
- #11 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
- 13Sean Nelson, Giancarlo Esposito, Samuel L. Jackson
Fresh is an enthralling coming-of-age drama directed by Boaz Yakin that tells the story of Michael (Sean Nelson), a young boy who uses his intelligence and resourcefulness to survive life in Brooklyn's projects while working as a drug courier. As he masterminds a plan to rise above his circumstances, Fresh delivers powerful performances from not only Nelson but also co-stars Samuel L. Jackson and Giancarlo Esposito. Lauded for its honest depiction of inner-city life coupled with an unforgettable score by Stewart Copeland, Fresh remains a poignant testament to triumph over adversity.
More Fresh- #484 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #122 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #32 of 81 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- 14Larenz Tate, Keith David, Chris Tucker
Dead Presidents is an intense crime drama directed by Albert and Allen Hughes that examines the dire consequences of desperation when faced with limited opportunities for success. The film follows Vietnam War veteran Anthony Curtis (Larenz Tate) as he returns home to the Bronx and struggles to adjust to post-war life, eventually becoming entangled in a high-stakes heist with devastating results. Bolstered by exceptional performances from a talented ensemble cast – including Keith David, Chris Tucker, and N'Bushe Wright – Dead Presidents delivers a gripping story underscored by themes of survival, brotherhood, and redemption.
More Dead Presidents- #54 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
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- 15Harvey Keitel, John Turturro, Delroy Lindo
Clockers is a gritty crime thriller directed by Spike Lee that delves into the complexities of drug culture within Brooklyn's housing projects. Based on Richard Price's novel of the same name, this powerful film follows Strike (Mekhi Phifer), a street-level drug dealer whose life becomes intertwined with homicide detective Rocco Klein (Harvey Keitel) following the murder of another dealer. Featuring standout performances from Delroy Lindo and John Turturro alongside a pulsating soundtrack featuring tracks from artists like Seal and Chaka Khan, Clockers serves as an engrossing exploration of ambition, loyalty, and moral dilemmas within urban America.
More Clockers- #82 of 90 onThe Best Movies Of 1995
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- 16Omar Epps, Kristy Swanson, Michael Rapaport
Higher Learning, directed by John Singleton, explores the challenges and complexities of race, gender, and identity at a multicultural college campus. An ensemble cast including Omar Epps, Kristy Swanson, Michael Rapaport, and Ice Cube delivers powerful performances in this thought-provoking drama that tackles critical social issues during a pivotal time in American history. With an evocative soundtrack featuring artists like Rage Against the Machine and Tori Amos, Higher Learning remains an essential watch for fans of 90s cinema.
More Higher Learning- #2 of 9 onJohn Singleton: Movies Directed By John Singleton
- #41 of 90 onThe Best Movies Of 1995
- #39 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- 17Christopher Reid, Christopher Martin, Karyn Parsons
Class Act is an entertaining comedy starring hip-hop duo Kid 'n Play – Christopher Reid as "Kid" Stewart and Christopher Martin as "Play" Potter – who find themselves caught up in a case of mistaken identity when their school records are accidentally switched. Directed by Randall Miller, this lighthearted romp offers plenty of laughs along with memorable dance sequences set to catchy tunes from popular 90s rap artists like Salt-N-Pepa and Monie Love.
More Class Act- #198 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #157 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #58 of 81 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- 18Ed Lover, Dr. Dre, Badja Djola
Who's the Man? is a humorous crime caper directed by Ted Demme that stars hip-hop radio personalities Ed Lover and Doctor Dré as bumbling barbers turned amateur detectives when they inadvertently stumble upon a murder case. Featuring star-studded cameos from notable musicians like Ice-T, Queen Latifah, and Salt-N-Pepa – along with a lively soundtrack filled with 90s hip-hop hits – Who's the Man? offers lighthearted entertainment anchored by its charismatic leads.
More Who's the Man?- #85 of 111 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
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- #45 of 65 onThe Best Black Comedy Movies Of The '90s
- 19LisaRaye McCoy, Bernie Mac, Monica Calhoun
The Players Club is an engaging dramedy written and directed by Ice Cube that centers around Diana Armstrong (LisaRaye McCoy), a young woman working her way through college as an exotic dancer at an upscale nightclub called The Players Club. As she navigates friendships, rivalries, and exploitation within the world of adult entertainment, this compelling film offers a candid look at the struggles women face when working in this often-misunderstood industry. With a catchy soundtrack featuring tracks from Ice Cube, Master P, and Foxy Brown, The Players Club remains an enduring entry in 90s hip-hop cinema.
More The Players Club- #53 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
- #59 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #55 of 86 onThe Best Juneteenth Movies
- 20Master P, Anthony Johnson, Gretchen Palmer
I Got the Hook Up is a comedic crime caper directed by Michael Martin starring Master P as Black – a street-savvy hustler who inadvertently acquires a shipment of stolen cell phones with his friend Blue (A.J. Johnson). As they devise a plan to sell off their lucrative cache while evading both law enforcement and rival criminals, I Got the Hook Up delivers laugh-out-loud moments set against a lively soundtrack featuring tracks from notable artists like Mystikal and Silkk the Shocker.
More I Got the Hook Up- #78 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
- #272 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #16 of 16 onTerrible Movies With Amazing Soundtracks
- 21Whoopi Goldberg, Kathy Najimy, Barnard Hughes
Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit is an uplifting musical comedy directed by Bill Duke that sees Whoopi Goldberg reprising her role as Deloris Van Cartier – also known as Sister Mary Clarence – when she returns undercover to help revitalize a struggling inner-city school's music program. Alongside talented young stars including Lauryn Hill and Ryan Toby, this feel-good sequel offers irresistible musical performances combining gospel and hip-hop elements that are sure to bring joy to audiences of all ages.
- #423 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #59 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #94 of 168 onThe Best '90s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 22Christopher Reid, Christopher Martin, Tisha Campbell-Martin
House Party 2 is an entertaining follow-up to its predecessor directed by George Jackson and Doug McHenry that sees Kid 'n Play return as college students attempting to throw another unforgettable house party fundraiser for their cash-strapped university. With more infectious dance sequences, humorous antics, and an energetic soundtrack featuring popular 90s rap artists like Tony! Toni! Toné!, House Party 2 promises non-stop fun for fans of hip-hop cinema.
More House Party 2- #73 of 86 onThe Best Movies Of 1991, Ranked
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- 23Damon Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Stacey Dash
Mo' Money is an action-packed comedy directed by Peter MacDonald starring Damon Wayans as Johnny Stewart – a small-time con artist who unwittingly becomes entangled in corporate fraud when he pursues a job to impress his love interest Amber (Stacey Dash). With memorable comedic moments courtesy of Marlon Wayans as Johnny's brother Seymour and supporting roles from Joe Santos and Bernie Mac, Mo' Money serves up laughter alongside thrilling chase sequences set to a catchy soundtrack featuring tracks from Color Me Badd and M.C. Lyte.
More Mo' Money- #205 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #31 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
- #156 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- 24Jon Lovitz, Tia Carrere, Louise Fletcher
High School High is a lighthearted comedy directed by Hart Bochner that parodies the popular "inner-city teacher" film trope. Starring Jon Lovitz as an idealistic educator who takes on a tough urban school filled with eccentric students, this amusing spoof offers laughs and catchy musical interludes rooted in 90s hip-hop culture.
- 25
Thicker than Water
Ice Cube, Big Pun, Fat JoeThicker than Water is a compelling crime drama directed by Richard Cummings Jr. that delves into themes of loyalty and betrayal within the world of drug trafficking in South Central Los Angeles. Featuring performances from rappers Mack 10, Fat Joe, and Ice Cube alongside a pulsating soundtrack of 90s hip-hop hits, Thicker than Water provides an engrossing look at the consequences faced when navigating life on the wrong side of the law.
- 26Sharron Corley, Gabriel Casseus, Saul Stein
New Jersey Drive is an intense crime drama directed by Nick Gomez that explores car theft culture among disillusioned youth in Newark, New Jersey – once labeled America's car theft capital. With standout performances from Sharron Corley and Gabriel Casseus as two friends drawn into increasingly dangerous criminal activities, this gritty film offers an authentic examination of urban life during the 90s.
More New Jersey Drive- #44 of 75 onThe Best '90s Black Movies, Ranked
- #40 of 147 onThe Best Hood Movies Of All Time
- #21 of 60 onThe Best '90s Hood Movies
- 27Keenen Ivory Wayans, Charles S. Dutton, Jada Pinkett Smith
A Low Down Dirty Shame is an action-packed comedy directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans that stars Wayans himself as Andre Shame, a private investigator tasked with taking down a powerful drug lord. Filled with thrilling action sequences and laugh-out-loud moments, this entertaining film also boasts a lively soundtrack featuring tracks from R&B and hip-hop artists like Zhane, Silk, and Nuttin' Nyce.
More A Low Down Dirty Shame- #54 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
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- 28Sean Combs, E-40, MC Eiht
Rhyme & Reason is an insightful documentary directed by Peter Spirer that examines the cultural impact and historical significance of hip-hop music during its rise to prominence in the 1990s. Featuring interviews with influential artists like Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., Wu-Tang Clan, and Dr. Dre – along with live performance footage – this captivating film offers viewers a unique glimpse into the creative process and motivations behind some of hip-hop's most celebrated talents.
- 29Christopher Reid, Christopher Martin, David Edwards
House Party 3 is the third installment in the popular comedy series directed by Eric Meza that once again follows Kid 'n Play as they prepare for Kid's upcoming wedding while planning one final blowout party. With its energetic dance scenes, humorous antics, and upbeat soundtrack featuring artists like Immature and TLC, House Party 3 delivers non-stop fun for fans of these iconic hip-hop characters.
More House Party 3- #249 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #97 of 147 onThe Best Hood Movies Of All Time
- #31 of 65 onThe Best Black Comedy Movies Of The '90s
- 30Larry B. Scott, Mark Christopher Lawrence, Rusty Cundieff
Fear of a Black Hat is a satirical mockumentary directed by Rusty Cundieff that parodies rap culture through the fictional exploits of N.W.H. – "N***as With Hats" – as they strive to find success within the music industry amidst shifting trends and public scrutiny. With its humorous take on various elements of rap during its peak in mainstream popularity, Fear of a Black Hat offers an entertaining and astute commentary on the genre's evolution throughout the 90s.
More Fear of a Black Hat- #57 of 75 onThe Best '90s Black Movies, Ranked
- #133 of 147 onThe Best Hood Movies Of All Time
- #49 of 65 onThe Best Black Comedy Movies Of The '90s
