The Best Movies Of 1991, Ranked
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Only movies released in theaters in 1991.
- 1Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward FurlongIn this sequel set eleven years after "The Terminator," young John Connor (Edward Furlong), the key to civilization's victory over a future robot uprising, is the target of the shape-shifting T-1000 (Robert Patrick), a Terminator sent from the future to kill him. Another Terminator, the revamped T-800 (Arnold Schwarzenegger), has been sent back to protect the boy. As John and his mother (Linda Hamilton) go on the run with the T-800, the boy forms an unexpected bond with the robot.
- 2Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott GlennThe Silence of the Lambs, a gripping thriller, introduces audiences to FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster). She's assigned an unnerving task: to extract information from the infamous and incarcerated cannibalistic serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins). The objective? To help apprehend another active serial killer, Buffalo Bill (Ted Levine), before he strikes again. This chilling narrative, directed by Jonathan Demme, won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It interweaves suspense, crime solving and psychological manipulation, creating a film that is as thought-provoking as it is horrifying.
- 3Paige O'Hara, Robby Benson, Richard WhiteBelle (Paige O'Hara) is a bright young woman held captive in an enchanted castle by a prince transformed into a monstrous Beast (Robby Benson). With the help of the castle's magical staff, she begins to see the kind heart within the Beast. To break the curse and turn him back into a man, the Beast must learn to love and be loved before a magical rose's last petal falls.More Beauty and the Beast
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- 4Patrick Swayze, Keanu Reeves, Gary BuseyIn Point Break, adrenaline-charged action meets the thrilling world of crime. Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves), a young FBI agent, infiltrates a cunning team of thrill-seeking elite athletes led by the charismatic Bodhi (Patrick Swayze). The athletes are suspected of carrying out unprecedented corporate heists under the veil of extreme sports. As Utah ventures deeper into Bodhi's lifestyle, his own loyalties are tested. This electrifying blend of action and crime, directed by Kathryn Bigelow, keeps viewers on the edge with its stunning stunts and high-stakes drama.More Point Break
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- 5Robert De Niro, Kurt Russell, Jennifer Jason LeighIn the scorching heat of Backdraft, two brothers, Stephen (Kurt Russell) and Brian McCaffrey (William Baldwin), navigate the high-stakes world of Chicago firefighting. Raised in the firehouse shadows of their late father, a heroic firefighter who died in action, they now serve in the same department. Stephen is a seasoned veteran while Brian is a rookie with something to prove. When a series of lethal fires hint at arson, shadowy investigator Donald Rimgale (Robert De Niro) steps in. The line between loyalty and truth blurs as they grapple with dangerous flames and unravel the mystery. The film won an Academy Award for Best Sound Editing, underscoring its compelling narrative with powerful audio-visual mastery.More Backdraft
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- 6Robert De Niro, Nick Nolte, Jessica LangeIn the gripping tale of Cape Fear, ex-convict Max Cady (Robert De Niro) emerges from the shadows to torment the Bowden family. Sam Bowden (Nick Nolte), a lawyer, once ensured that Cady went behind bars for a heinous crime. Now, Cady seeks revenge in this relentless pursuit of terror. Juliette Lewis stars as Danielle Bowden, Sam's teenage daughter, who becomes an unwitting pawn in Cady's game. This psychological thriller, directed by Martin Scorsese, won Robert De Niro an Academy Award nomination for his chilling performance. Unforgiving and relentless, Cape Fear is a masterclass in suspense and fear.More Cape Fear
- 7Anna Chlumsky, Macaulay Culkin, Dan AykroydIn the heartwarming drama My Girl, precocious 11-year-old Vada Sultenfuss (Anna Chlumsky) navigates the trials of adolescence in 1972 Pennsylvania. Living with her widowed mortician father, Harry (Dan Aykroyd), Vada's world is colored by death and grief. Her best friend, the sweetly allergic Thomas J. Sennett (Macaulay Culkin), offers a ray of joy in her life. As Vada grapples with first love, loss, and growing up, she learns valuable lessons about life. The film beautifully captures the innocence and confusion of childhood amidst profound themes of mortality and transformation.More My Girl
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- 8Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman, Mary Elizabeth MastrantonioRobin Hood: Prince of Thieves, a classic action-adventure film, brings to life the tale of the legendary archer. Robin of Locksley (Kevin Costner) returns from the Crusades to find his home ravaged by the cruel Sheriff of Nottingham (Alan Rickman). Joined by a band of outlaws, including Azeem (Morgan Freeman), a wise Moor he met during his battles abroad, Robin embarks on a mission to restore justice. As they wage a guerilla war against tyranny, an unexpected romance blossoms between Robin and the spirited Lady Marian (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio). The film is known for its engaging plot and strong performances, particularly Rickman's portrayal of the villainous sheriff. It won an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
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- 9Anjelica Huston, Raul Julia, Christopher LloydThe Addams Family, a dark comedy film directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, introduces us to the peculiar and macabre world of Gomez (Raul Julia) and Morticia Addams (Anjelica Huston). They live in a gloomy mansion with their children Wednesday (Christina Ricci) and Pugsley (Jimmy Workman), along with eccentric relatives Uncle Fester (Christopher Lloyd) and Grandmama (Judith Malina). When a con artist targets their family fortune, the Addams must outsmart him while maintaining their unique lifestyle. The film cleverly intertwines humor and horror, providing an unconventional yet entertaining cinematic experience.More The Addams Family
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- 10Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis, Harvey KeitelIn the engaging road film Thelma & Louise, friends Thelma (Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon) embark on an impromptu road trip. Their journey spirals into a chaotic flight from law after an unexpected incident, evolving from a simple getaway to a symbol of rebellion against societal norms. Directed by Ridley Scott, this movie is lauded for its strong female leads and won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1992. As the plot unveils, viewers witness the transformation of Thelma and Louise as they navigate through their unforeseen predicament.More Thelma & Louise
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- 11Bruce Willis, Damon Wayans, Chelsea FieldIn the action-packed thriller The Last Boy Scout, private detective Joe Hallenbeck (Bruce Willis) teams up with disgraced ex-football player Jimmy Dix (Damon Wayans). Their mission? To solve the murder of Cory (Halle Berry), a stripper with ties to the professional football world. Amidst an explosive mix of corruption, drugs, and politics, they navigate a dangerous landscape that takes them from seedy underbellies to high-profile arenas. Directed by Tony Scott, this film weaves together elements of suspense, camaraderie, and unexpected humor. Despite its gritty exterior, it offers a compelling narrative about redemption and unlikely alliances.More The Last Boy Scout
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- 12Charlie Sheen, Cary Elwes, Valeria GolinoIn this spoof of "Top Gun," former U.S. Navy pilot Topper Harley (Charlie Sheen) is haunted by an accident in which his father lost control of a fighter jet. When Lt. Cmdr. James Block (Kevin Dunn) asks Topper to come out of retirement and help him complete a classified mission, Topper returns to active duty against the advice of his psychiatrist (Valeria Golino) and soon discovers that he may be a pawn in a devious arms manufacturing conspiracy.More Hot Shots!
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- 13Bill Murray, Richard Dreyfuss, Julie HagertyIn the comedic roller-coaster What About Bob?, Bob Wiley (Bill Murray), an endearingly neurotic patient, desperately seeks help from renowned psychiatrist Dr. Leo Marvin (Richard Dreyfuss). Their relationship spirals into chaos when Bob, unable to detach himself from his new doctor, follows him on a family vacation. Set against the serene backdrop of Lake Winnipesaukee, this film blends comedy and drama in equal measure. As Dr. Marvin's professional composure crumbles under Bob's relentless intrusions, the movie serves up laughs and surprises at every corner, painting an entertaining portrait of two men locked in a hilarious battle of wills.More What About Bob?
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- 14Leslie Nielsen, Priscilla Presley, George KennedyLt. Frank Drebin (Leslie Nielsen) returns for more madcap high jinks in this police-procedural spoof. Powerful energy corporations are intent on putting a halt to the eco-friendly plans of Dr. Albert S. Meinheimer (Richard Griffiths), the new U.S. energy czar. They scheme to replace Meinheimer with an imposter who will do their bidding. Unfortunately for them, Drebin gets tangled up with their plans while trying to steal back his ex (Priscilla Presley) from her slimy new beau (Robert Goulet).
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- 15Laurence Fishburne, Ice Cube, Cuba GoodingIn the heart of South Central Los Angeles, Boyz n the Hood unravels a gripping tale of urban life. Tre Styles (Cuba Gooding Jr.), under the stern guidance of his father Furious (Laurence Fishburne), navigates through the challenges of violence and poverty. His friends Doughboy (Ice Cube) and Ricky Baker (Morris Chestnut) tread contrasting paths, offering a stark portrayal of realities in this crime-ridden neighborhood. Directed by John Singleton, this 1991 drama is lauded for its authentic depiction of race relations and social issues. Garnering two Academy Award nominations, it's a pivotal piece in cinema history.More Boyz n the Hood
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- 16Kevin Costner, Sissy Spacek, Joe PesciIn Oliver Stone's political thriller, JFK, the spotlight shines on New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison (Kevin Costner). He is drawn into a complex web of conspiracy theories surrounding the 1963 assassination of U.S. President John F. Kennedy. The film, a fascinating blend of fact and speculation, features a star-studded cast including names like Tommy Lee Jones as Clay Shaw and Gary Oldman in the role of Lee Harvey Oswald. Snagging eight Academy Award nominations, it stands as an intriguing exploration of this notorious historical event.More JFK
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- 17Billy Crystal, Daniel Stern, Bruno KirbyCity Slickers, a comedy-western film, follows the life of Mitch Robbins (Billy Crystal), a radio ad salesman. On his 39th birthday, he and his two friends, Phil Berquist (Daniel Stern) and Ed Furillo (Bruno Kirby), embark on a two-week cattle drive from New Mexico to Colorado. This adventure is designed to help them escape their city lives. Along the way, they encounter Curly Washburn (Jack Palance), an intimidating cowboy who won an Academy Award for this role. The combination of humor, friendship, and self-discovery makes this movie a must-watch.More City Slickers
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- 18Christina Applegate, Joanna Cassidy, John GetzIn the comedy film Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead, Sue Ellen Crandell (Christina Applegate) is an adolescent left in charge after her elderly babysitter bites the dust. With her mother off on vacation, Sue Ellen must juggle keeping her siblings in check and holding a fashion job to keep them afloat financially. In this chaotic journey, she learns valuable life lessons while trying to maintain the illusion that everything is under control. Despite its comedic premise, the movie subtly explores themes of responsibility and maturity.
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- 19Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Kimberly Williams-PaisleyIn the heartwarming comedy Father of the Bride, George Banks (Steve Martin) is a loving father thrown into the whirlwind of wedding planning when his daughter Annie (Kimberly Williams-Paisley) announces her engagement. Amidst escalating costs, eccentric wedding planners, and an impending empty nest, George navigates this comedic chaos with help from his patient wife Nina (Diane Keaton). A light-hearted take on familial bonds and changing times, this movie was a box office hit in 1991, earning Martin a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor.More Father of the Bride
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- 20Dustin Hoffman, Robin Williams, Julia RobertsIn the fantastical adventure film Hook, Peter Banning (Robin Williams), a high-powered corporate lawyer, grapples with a world beyond his comprehension. Unbeknownst to him, he is actually the grown-up Peter Pan, a fact revealed by the eccentric Tinkerbell (Julia Roberts). When his children are kidnapped by the nefarious Captain Hook (Dustin Hoffman), Banning must rediscover his playful and courageous past life in Neverland to save them. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this whimsical twist on J.M. Barrie's classic tale won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects, showcasing magical landscapes and swashbuckling pirate battles.More Hook
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- 21Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, William SadlerIn the spirited sequel Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey, our beloved time-traveling duo, Bill (Alex Winter) and Ted (Keanu Reeves), find themselves embroiled in an otherworldly adventure. Devious doppelgangers, sent from the future by the villainous De Nomolos (Joss Ackland), aim to alter history's course by eliminating our heroes. The pair navigate a surreal underworld, engage in cosmic games and even encounter Death himself (William Sadler). This comedy-fantasy flick, directed by Peter Hewitt, is a wild ride through space and time, filled with unique characters and unforgettable scenes. It showcases an inventive blend of humor, science fiction elements, and rock 'n' roll spirit.
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- 22
Doc Hollywood
Michael J. Fox, Julie Warner, Barnard HughesCocky young doctor Ben Stone (Michael J. Fox) is off on a road trip to California in pursuit of a relaxed and high-paying career as a plastic surgeon to the rich and famous. But before he can pass the Mississippi River, he crashes his car on a small-town judge's property in South Carolina and incurs a community service fine, to be served out at the local hospital assisting the aged town doctor, Dr. Hogue (Barnard Hughes). Ben is soon tempted to stay by a pretty ambulance driver (Julie Warner). - 23Val Kilmer, Meg Ryan, Kevin DillonThe Doors, a biographical drama, chronicles the life of Jim Morrison (Val Kilmer), lead singer of the influential 60s rock band, The Doors. Directed by Oliver Stone, the film explores Morrison's rise to fame, his tumultuous relationships, including one with Pamela Courson (Meg Ryan), and his struggle with substance abuse. Set against the backdrop of an era marked by social unrest and countercultural movements, the movie provides a compelling glimpse into the life of an enigmatic rock icon. Despite its controversial depiction of Morrison's life, it won critical acclaim for Kilmer's electric performance.
- 24Kathy Bates, Jessica Tandy, Mary Stuart MastersonIn the heart-warming drama Fried Green Tomatoes, Evelyn Couch (Kathy Bates), a discontented housewife, befriends Ninny Threadgoode (Jessica Tandy) in a nursing home. Through Ninny's tales, we traverse back to 1920s Alabama and meet the spirited Idgie Threadgoode (Mary Stuart Masterson) and her close friend Ruth Jamison (Mary-Louise Parker). Their bond, their business of the Whistle Stop Cafe, and a mysterious murder form the crux of this compelling narrative. Directed by Jon Avnet and based on Fannie Flagg's novel, this movie bagged nominations for two Academy Awards.More Fried Green Tomatoes
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- 25Julia Roberts, Patrick Bergin, Kevin AndersonAfter faking her death in order to flee from her violent husband, Martin (Patrick Bergin), Laura Burney (Julia Roberts) leaves Cape Cod and moves to Iowa, where she adopts a new identity and starts dating a local teacher, Ben Woodward (Kevin Anderson). Martin, meanwhile, unearths evidence suggesting that she isn't dead, and when her mother confirms this, he tracks her to Iowa. He finds Laura and Ben and confronts them, forcing her to fight for her life once again.
- 26Klaus Maria Brandauer, Ethan Hawke, Seymour CasselThis adaptation of Jack London's wilderness tale focuses on young Jack Conroy (Ethan Hawke), who has arrived in Alaska to search for a gold mine. When Jack encounters White Fang, a dog/wolf hybrid who has been cruelly treated by his owner, Beauty Smith (James Remar), he rescues the canine from the jaws of death during a fight with a fierce bulldog. Aided by his friend Alex Larson (Klaus Maria Brandauer), Jack nurses White Fang back to health, and the animal becomes a close companion to the men.More White Fang
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- 27Bill Campbell, Jennifer Connelly, Timothy DaltonThe Rocketeer, a 1991 American period superhero film, introduces us to Cliff Secord (Billy Campbell), an audacious stunt pilot who stumbles upon a jetpack that grants him the ability to soar through the skies. Jennifer Connelly plays his love interest, Jenny Blake, while Timothy Dalton embodies Neville Sinclair, a sinister actor with Nazi connections. The film is a thrilling blend of adventure and romance, set against the nostalgic backdrop of pre-World War II Los Angeles. As Cliff dons the mantle of 'The Rocketeer', he must thwart Sinclair's plans and protect those he holds dear, all while navigating the challenges of newfound flight.More The Rocketeer
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- 28Paige Turco, David Warner, Michelan SistiThe Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Mark Caso, Michelan Sisti, Leif Tilden, Kenn Troum) again battle their archenemy, the rogue ninja Shredder (Francois Chau). Shredder attempts revenge by obtaining the same radioactive ooze that created the Turtles and unleashing two new monstrous mutants: Tokka, an oversized snapping turtle, and Rahzar, a fearsome wolf-like creature. When Shredder plans to use the remaining ooze on himself, the Turtles must harness their ninja fighting skills to stop him.
- 29Phillip Glasser, James Stewart, Erica YohnFievel and family continue their pursuit of the American dream by heading West. Fievel wants to be a lawman and his sister wants to make it as a dance hall singer. They are trying to get away from cats, but they find their move doesn't work out as easy as they would like.
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- 30Sean Astin, Wil Wheaton, Keith CooganColombian terrorist Luis Cali (Andrew Divoff) takes an American prep school hostage as a means of gaining his drug lord father's freedom. Privileged yet rebellious students Joey (Wil Wheaton), Billy (Sean Astin), Snuffy (Keith Coogan) and Hank (T.E. Russell) find that they are better equipped to deal with the threat than the mostly ineffectual government agencies sent to rescue them. With resourceful Billy as their leader, the students struggle to defeat the terrorists and save the school.More Toy Soldiers
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