Hallmark Hall Of Fame Movies From The 1990s

Ranker TV
Updated April 1, 2024 33 items
Ranked By
1.1K votes
231 voters
Voting Rules
Vote up the best Hallmark Hall of Fame movies that aired from 1990 to 1999

This is a list of the Hallmark Hall of Fame movies from 1990 to 1999. The Hallmark Hall of Fame series is a film anthology program that began in 1951 and bounced between different channels until the Hallmark Channel was created and it settled there. Hallmark Hall of Fame movies are some of the best TV movies out there, with production values that rival that of feature films and casts full of big-name stars.

The Hallmark Hall of Fame movies from the '90s includes film adaptations of books such as Decoration Day, Saint Maybe, and The Echo of Thunder. Many Hallmark Hall of Fame films from the 1990s and their casts won and were nominated for awards. The Piano Lesson earned several Emmy Award nominations and Joanne Woodward won a Golden Globe Award for her performance in Breathing Lessons. The '90s also brought three different Hallmark Hall of Fame adaptations of the Sarah, Plain and Tall book trilogy. Glenn Close plays the titular Sarah in all three films and Christopher Walken portrays Sarah's husband. The first film of the series was nominated for nine Emmys, and Glenn Close was nominated for her portrayal of Sarah in the second film.

Check out what other HHoF movies came out between 1990 and 1999 and vote up the best Hallmark Hall of Fame films from the '90s.

Most divisive: The Echo of Thunder
Over 200 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Hallmark Hall Of Fame Movies From The 1990s
  • Sarah, Plain and Tall
    1
    Glenn Close, Christopher Walken, Margaret Sophie Stein
    91 votes

    Sarah, Plain and Tall remains an endearing Hallmark Hall of Fame classic from the '90s, replete with strong performances from the likes of Glenn Close and Christopher Walken. This tender tale explores themes of love, trust, and resiliency as two young children and their father learn to navigate life with their new stepmother, Sarah Wheaton.

  • A Season for Miracles
    2

    A Season for Miracles

    Carla Gugino, Kathy Baker, David Conrad
    59 votes

    A captivating holiday offering from Hallmark, A Season for Miracles stars acclaimed actress Patty Duke and Laura Dern. Heartrending in its portrayal of an aunt's quest to find a suitable home for her niece and nephew during the Christmas season, this movie strikes deep chords of compassion and selflessness.

  • The Love Letter
    3

    The Love Letter

    Jennifer Jason Leigh, Estelle Parsons, Campbell Scott
    51 votes

    The Love Letter, with inputs from skilled actors Campbell Scott and Jennifer Jason Leigh, tells the story of a mysterious, centuries-old love letter that connects two strangers across time. This enchanting and emotive film tugs upon the heartstrings, effortlessly weaving themes of fate, destiny, and the enduring power of love.

  • Skylark
    4
    Glenn Close, Christopher Walken, Margaret Sophie Stein
    49 votes

    Skylark, a sequel to Sarah, Plain and Tall, welcomes the return of Glenn Close and Christopher Walken to their endearing roles that first captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. As the Witting family battles adversity and the uncertainty of nature, viewers are graced with an authentic portrayal of love, faith, and perseverance.

  • Sarah, Plain and Tall: Winter's End
    5
    Glenn Close, Christopher Walken, Jack Palance
    55 votes

    Sarah, Plain and Tall: Winter's End, the brilliant conclusion to the trilogy, sees the iconic duo of Christopher Walken and Glenn Close back once more. Amidst the harshness of winter, they touch the hearts of viewers, displaying the resilience and strength of the human spirit when graced with hope and the power love.

  • Ellen Foster
    6

    Ellen Foster

    Julie Harris, Jena Malone, Ted Levine
    31 votes

    Ellen Foster spins a tale of resilience and strength, as the young titular character, played by Jena Malone, strays from the clutches of an abusive household. Gritty and powerful, this adaptation showcases the unbreakable bonds formed under the direst of circumstances and the triumph of love over adversity.

  • Decoration Day
    7
    James Garner, Bill Cobbs, Judith Ivey
    24 votes

    Decoration Day arouses emotions with its enthralling performances by the late James Garner and Ruby Dee. A riveting tale showcasing the enthralling story of friendship and compassion, it revolves around the life of a lonely elderly man with a past who questions his belief in racial prejudice.

  • What the Deaf Man Heard
    8
    Matthew Modine, Claire Bloom, Judith Ivey
    40 votes

    What the Deaf Man Heard boasts standout performances from Matthew Modine and James Earl Jones, as they transport viewers to a small Southern town brimming with gossip and secrets. A testament to the age-old adage that actions speak louder than words, this film effortlessly interlaces themes of family, friendship, and the power of perseverance.

  • Saint Maybe
    9

    Saint Maybe

    Blythe Danner, Edward Herrmann, Melina Kanakaredes
    32 votes

    Danny Glover and Mary-Louise Parker shine in Saint Maybe, a heartfelt saga that follows Ian Bedloe's journey of healing and self-discovery after tragedy befalls his family. Poignant and emotionally rich, this movie's depiction of love, loss, and the power of forgiveness is certain to stay etched in the audience's hearts.

  • Journey
    10
    Eliza Dushku, Frances Conroy, Jason Robards Jr.
    19 votes

    Featuring a dynamic pairing of Meg Tilly and Christine Lahti, Journey delivers a riveting narrative of a dying mother's last wishes for her son to find his way back to his estranged father. A tender exploration of parenthood and sacrifice, this film resounds with the audience and encourages introspection.

  • Caroline?
    11
    Stephanie Zimbalist, Patricia Neal, Dorothy McGuire
    23 votes

    Caroline? presents another impressive Hallmark classic, casting Stephanie Zimbalist and George Grizzard as protagonists under a canopy of mystery and intrigue. An enigmatic nanny and a father's undying curiosity come together in this emotional saga, as they untangle threads of love, loss, and identity.

  • Grace & Glorie
    12
    Emmy Rossum, Diane Lane, Michael Emerson
    20 votes

    Grace & Glorie, a masterfully crafted tearjerker, pairs the remarkable Gena Rowlands with the endearing Diane Lane. These two talented actresses convey the bittersweet narrative of an unlikely friendship and an impending journey's end, while delving into themes of forgiveness, self-discovery, and the beauty of compassion.

  • Rose Hill
    13
    Jennifer Garner, Jeffrey D. Sams, Zak Orth
    26 votes

    Rose Hill takes audience members on a journey of self-discovery and adventure with a sterling ensemble of Mary Stuart Masterson, Bonnie Bedelia, and Jennifer Garner. This spirited and gripping film follows a group of orphans as they encounter various tussles and challenges throughout their lives, championing the unwavering spirit of family and camaraderie along the way.

  • A Place for Annie
    14
    Sissy Spacek, Mary-Louise Parker, S. Epatha Merkerson
    34 votes

    Sissy Spacek and Mary-Louise Parker grace the screen in the heart-wrenching A Place for Annie. This movie poignantly captures the power of maternal love, as a seasoned nurse fights for the custody of an HIV-positive infant. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are left to meditate upon love's all-encompassing nature, transcending boundaries and reaching for a love unknowable.

  • To Dance with the White Dog
    15
    Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy, Christine Baranski
    25 votes

    To Dance with the White Dog tugs on the heartstrings, thanks to riveting performances by legendary actors Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy. As a widower tries to cope with his loneliness, a mysterious white dog comes to his aid, exploring themes of love, loss, and the pressing need for companionship.

  • The Piano Lesson
    16
    Charles S. Dutton, Alfre Woodard, Carl Gordon
    25 votes

    The Piano Lesson, based on August Wilson's award-winning play, boasts outstanding performances from stars such as Alfre Woodard and Charles Dutton. This captivating adaptation grapples with racial identity, family dynamics, and cultural heritage as descendants of a Southern family clash over a cherished antique piano.

  • Harvest of Fire
    17
    Jennifer Garner, Justin Chambers, Sam Trammell
    27 votes

    Harvest of Fire showcases the acting prowess of Patty Duke and Lolita Davidovich, who embark on a daring collaboration to uncover the truth behind a mysterious arson attack in an Amish community. This spellbinding whodunit interrogates themes of suspicion, trust, and the clash of cultures while unraveling the mysteries entangled within the serene Amish way of life.

  • Miss Rose White
    18
    Kyra Sedgwick, Maximilian Schell, Amanda Plummer
    20 votes

    Miss Rose White delves into the depths of family secrets as Kyra Sedgwick and Amanda Plummer take center stage to showcase the journey of two sisters reuniting after years of estrangement. A heartfelt exploration of resilience, redemption, and the complexities of familial relationships, this movie unfurls a poignant story that is bound to resonate with viewers.

  • An American Story
    19

    An American Story

    Brad Johnson, Kathleen Quinlan, Tom Sizemore
    23 votes

    An American Story showcases a heartrending post-World War II narrative that traces the lives of five ex-GIs who form a pact to fight racial injustice. This thought-provoking tale, featuring Brad Johnson and Tom Sizemore, poignantly engages with themes of patriotism, heroism, and the pursuit of a more equitable society.

  • The Return of the Native
    20
    Catherine Zeta-Jones, Clive Owen, Ray Stevenson
    23 votes

    The Return of the Native, showcasing the talent of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Clive Owen, offers a sumptuous retelling of Thomas Hardy's classic novel. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the English countryside, this period drama delves into themes of love, betrayal, and the tussle between desire and social expectations.

  • The Echo of Thunder
    21
    Judy Davis, Jamey Sheridan, Lauren Hewett
    28 votes

    The Echo of Thunder explores the emotional intricacies of a family strained by the return of an estranged sibling. Featuring the likes of Jamey Sheridan and Judy Davis, this compelling narrative highlights the resilience and complexities of family bonds amid adversity.

  • One Against the Wind
    22
    Judy Davis, Sam Neill, Denholm Elliott
    20 votes

    One Against the Wind dazzles with poignant performances from Judy Davis and Sam Neill in a heroic World War II tale. Unwavering perseverance and indomitable courage take center stage in this stirring film celebrating the true spirit of liberation and the belief in a worthy cause.

  • Breathing Lessons
    23

    Breathing Lessons

    James Garner, Joanne Woodward, Kathryn Erbe
    20 votes

    Breathing Lessons, based on Anne Tyler's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, features a sterling cast led by Joanne Woodward and James Garner. This enchanting movie spotlights an ordinary middle-aged couple grappling with life's challenges, illuminating the power of love and perseverance.

  • Durango
    24
    Patrick Bergin, Matt Keeslar, George Hearn
    21 votes

    Durango masterfully transports audiences to 1930s Ireland as Matt Keeslar and Nancy St. Alban embark on a daring cross-country journey during a time of economic distress. This period drama dazzles viewers with heartfelt performances, noble aspirations, and the unfaltering spirit of adventure.

  • The Boys Next Door
    25
    Nathan Lane, Richard Jenkins, Tony Goldwyn
    21 votes

    The Boys Next Door, starring Tony Goldwyn and Nathan Lane, gives a lens into the lives of four mentally disabled adults embarking on a sentimental journey to fulfill their dreams. Embodying themes of friendship, the sanctity of human connection, and the thin line between delusion and reality, this film tugs at the heartstrings while reaffirming faith in the power of shared experiences.

  • Shadow of a Doubt
    26

    Shadow of a Doubt

    Tippi Hedren, Mark Harmon, Margaret Welsh
    17 votes

    Shadow of a Doubt stars William R. Moses and Melanie Lynskey in a spellbinding adaptation of the acclaimed Charlotte Armstrong novel. Suspenseful and intriguing, this whodunit narrative explores the thin line between guilt and innocence, leaving audiences questioning where the truth lies.

  • Blind Spot
    27
    Joanne Woodward, Fritz Weaver, Laura Linney
    20 votes

    Blind Spot, starring Joanne Woodward and Laura Linney, puts forth a gripping tale of a mother who realizes that her daughter is battling a drug addiction. Delving deep into the tribulations of addiction, family bonds, and unconditional love, this film leaves an indelible mark on viewers' hearts.

  • Face to Face
    28
    James Mason, Robert Preston, Marjorie Steele
    20 votes

    Face to Face introduces viewers to an emotionally charged adaptation of renowned author Robert R. Boardman's piece, starring Elizabeth Montgomery and Robert Foxworth. The narrative explores the complex relationship dynamics between a mother and daughter who are forced to confront their shared past.

  • The Summer of Ben Tyler
    29

    The Summer of Ben Tyler

    James Woods, Elizabeth McGovern, Len Cariou
    17 votes

    The Summer of Ben Tyler, with iconic actors James Woods and Elizabeth McGovern, delves into the complexities of racial tensions and love in a 1960s Southern town. Themes of social justice, acceptance, and the power of kindness form the crux of this inspiring narrative.

  • Calm at Sunset
    30

    Calm at Sunset

    Michael Moriarty, Peter Facinelli, Kevin Conway
    19 votes

    Calm at Sunset sees a heartwarming story unfold as a family fishing business and a conflicted son, played by Peter Facinelli, grapple with themes of generational expectations and self-discovery. Honest and sincere, this film holds resonance with audiences as they contemplate the decisions that shape our lives.