Amazing 90s Movies Lost To Time

Awakenings is a poignant drama directed by Penny Marshall, based on the true story of Dr. Oliver Sacks' work with encephalitis patients in the 1960s. The film centres on Dr. Malcolm Sayer, portrayed by Robin Williams, who discovers a groundbreaking treatment that awakens catatonic patients, including Leonard Lowe, played by Robert De Niro. As Leonard and the other patients regain consciousness and interact with the world after decades of isolation, Dr. Sayer forms a deep bond with Leonard, leading to profound discoveries about life, resilience, and the human spirit.

Awakenings showcases the remarkable chemistry between Robin Williams and Robert De Niro, whose performances elevate the emotional depth and authenticity of the film. Their nuanced portrayals capture the complexities of hope, despair, and the triumph of the human connection in the face of adversity.

• Genre: Drama, Biography
• Director: Penny Marshall
• Writer: Steven Zaillian
• Release Date: December 22, 1990
• Rating: 7.8/10
• Cast: Robin Williams, Robert De Niro, Julie Kavner, Ruth Nelson

Corrina, Corrina is a heartfelt drama directed by Jessie Nelson that explores themes of family, love, and healing during a challenging period in American history. The film follows Manny Singer, played by Ray Liotta, a widower struggling to raise his young daughter, Molly, portrayed by Tina Majorino, following the death of his wife. To help care for Molly, Manny hires Corrina Washington, played by Whoopi Goldberg, a warm-hearted housekeeper who forms a special bond with Molly and helps bring joy back into their lives. As Manny and Corrina navigate their own personal challenges, their friendship blossoms into something deeper, offering healing and hope for their future.

Corrina, Corrina showcases the talents of Whoopi Goldberg in a role that highlights her warmth and comedic prowess, providing both humour and heart to the narrative. The film delicately addresses themes of grief, racial prejudice, and the power of empathy, making it a poignant and memorable exploration of human connections.

• Genre: Drama, Comedy
• Director: Jessie Nelson
• Writer: Jessie Nelson
• Release Date: August 12, 1994
• Rating: 6.6/10
• Cast: Whoopi Goldberg, Ray Liotta, Tina Majorino, Wendy Crewson

eXistenZ, directed by David Cronenberg, is a mind-bending science fiction thriller set in a near-future world where virtual reality gaming has reached unprecedented levels of immersion. The story follows game designer Allegra Geller, portrayed by Jennifer Jason Leigh, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy when an assassination attempt leaves her and her security guard, Ted Pikul (Jude Law), thrust into the virtual reality universe of her creation, eXistenZ. As they navigate through layers of reality and deception, they must uncover the truth while evading those who seek to destroy them.

eXistenZ challenges perceptions of reality and identity, typical of David Cronenberg's exploration of body horror and psychological themes. The film's surreal atmosphere and thought-provoking narrative underscore its status as a cult classic, offering a unique and unsettling journey into the possibilities and dangers of virtual reality.

• Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller
• Director: David Cronenberg
• Writer: David Cronenberg
• Release Date: April 23, 1999
• Rating: 6.8/10
• Cast: Jennifer Jason Leigh, Jude Law, Ian Holm, Willem Dafoe

Mimic, directed by Guillermo del Toro, is a horror film that explores the consequences of genetic engineering gone wrong in New York City. When a deadly disease threatens to wipe out an entire generation of children, Dr. Susan Tyler, portrayed by Mira Sorvino, creates a new species of insect to eliminate the disease-carrying cockroaches. However, three years later, it becomes apparent that the insects have evolved into human-sized creatures mimicking their prey, posing a new and deadly threat to humanity.

Mimic marks an early chapter in Guillermo del Toro's directorial career, showcasing his distinctive blend of horror, fantasy, and dark fairy tale elements. Through this film, one can observe the emergence of del Toro's signature visual style and thematic depth, hinting at the visionary director he would later become known for.

• Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi
• Director: Guillermo del Toro
• Writers: Matthew Robbins (screenplay), Guillermo del Toro (screenplay)
• Release Date: August 22, 1997
• Rating: 5.9/10
• Cast: Mira Sorvino, Jeremy Northam, Josh Brolin

Mystery Men is a comedic superhero film directed by Kinka Usher, set in a city plagued by crime and corruption where ordinary citizens with unconventional abilities aspire to be superheroes. Led by Ben Stiller as Mr. Furious, William H. Macy as The Shoveler, and Hank Azaria as The Blue Raja, the eccentric team of "Mystery Men" must rise to the occasion when the city's real superhero, Captain Amazing (Greg Kinnear), is captured by the villainous Casanova Frankenstein (Geoffrey Rush).

Mystery Men is often seen as ahead of its time, blending satire with superhero tropes in a way that might have resonated more strongly with audiences post-2000s superhero boom. The film's quirky humour and unconventional approach to heroism offer a refreshing take on the genre, suggesting that its release in 1999 may have been a few years premature.

• Genre: Comedy, Action, Fantasy
• Director: Kinka Usher
• Writers: Neil Cuthbert (screenplay), Bob Burden (comic book series)
• Release Date: August 6, 1999
• Rating: 6.1/10
• Cast: Ben Stiller, William H. Macy, Hank Azaria, Greg Kinnear, Geoffrey Rush

The Quick and the Dead is a Western film directed by Sam Raimi, known for its stylized approach to the genre. The story follows Ellen, portrayed by Sharon Stone, a mysterious gunslinger who arrives in the town of Redemption to seek revenge in a deadly duelling competition hosted by the ruthless John Herod, played by Gene Hackman. As Ellen navigates the dangers of the tournament, she confronts her past and challenges the male-dominated world of gunslinging.

Sharon Stone delivers a powerful performance as Ellen, holding her own in a genre traditionally dominated by male protagonists. Her portrayal adds depth and complexity to the character, portraying Ellen as a strong and determined woman seeking justice in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

• Genre: Western, Action
• Director: Sam Raimi
• Writer: Simon Moore
• Release Date: February 10, 1995
• Rating: 6.4/10
• Cast: Sharon Stone, Gene Hackman, Russell Crowe

In Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead, a group of ex-cons led by Andy Garcia's character, Jimmy The Saint Tosnia, find themselves drawn back into the criminal underworld for one last job. The film unfolds as they navigate loyalty, betrayal, and redemption in a noir-inspired tale of crime and consequence.

Andy Garcia brings a blend of charm and intensity to Jimmy The Saint Tosnia, portraying a man grappling with his past while navigating the dangerous world he thought he left behind. Christopher Walken adds a memorable touch as The Man with the Plan, exuding both charm and menace. Gabrielle Anwar provides depth to the narrative as Dagney, offering a poignant portrayal of a woman caught in the crossfire of underworld machinations.

• Genre: Crime, Drama
• Director: Gary Fleder
• Writer: Scott Rosenberg
• Release Date: May 12, 1995
• Rating: 6.8/10
• Cast: Andy Garcia, Christopher Walken, Gabrielle Anwar

In Robin Hood: Men in Tights, a comedic twist on the classic tale of Robin Hood, Cary Elwes stars as the titular character who leads a band of merry men to challenge the tyrannical rule of Prince John, played by Richard Lewis. The film humorously parodies traditional Robin Hood stories, blending slapstick comedy with witty satire.

Cary Elwes brings his signature charm and comedic timing to the role of Robin Hood, delivering a performance that pays homage to the legendary outlaw while injecting modern humour into the narrative. Richard Lewis portrays Prince John with exaggerated pomp and insecurity, providing a comedic foil to Robin Hood's antics. Megan Cavanagh as Maid Marian adds a refreshing and humorous take on the classic love interest, contributing to the film's light-hearted atmosphere.

• Genre: Comedy, Adventure
• Director: Mel Brooks
• Writers: Mel Brooks, Evan Chandler, J. David Shapiro
• Release Date: July 28, 1993
• Rating: 6.7/10
• Cast: Cary Elwes, Richard Lewis, Megan Cavanagh

In Small Soldiers, directed by Joe Dante, a toy company develops action figures equipped with advanced military technology, but when the toys are accidentally programmed with real combat capabilities, chaos ensues in a suburban neighbourhood. The film blends comedy, action, and science fiction as a group of teenagers must outsmart the sentient toys to prevent disaster.

Kirsten Dunst leads the cast as Christy Fimple, a resourceful teenager caught in the middle of the toy war. Gregory Smith portrays Alan Abernathy, who inadvertently triggers the conflict by acquiring the misprogrammed toys. Phil Hartman, in his final role, delivers a memorable performance as Phil Fimple, Christy's father, who unwittingly becomes involved in the mayhem.

• Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy
• Director: Joe Dante
• Writers: Gavin Scott, Adam Rifkin, Ted Elliott, Terry Rossio
• Release Date: July 10, 1998
• Rating: 6.1/10
• Cast: Kirsten Dunst, Gregory Smith, Phil Hartman

In Three Kings, directed by David O. Russell, the Gulf War provides the backdrop for a heist adventure involving a group of American soldiers who discover a hidden cache of gold bullion stolen by Saddam Hussein's forces. As they navigate the moral complexities of war-torn Iraq, the soldiers must decide between personal gain and humanitarian duty.

George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, and Ice Cube headline the ensemble cast, portraying soldiers each grappling with their own motivations and ethical dilemmas amidst the chaos of post-war Iraq. Spike Jonze adds a quirky yet poignant touch as Conrad Vig, a soldier whose idealism clashes with the harsh realities of the conflict.

• Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy
• Director: David O. Russell
• Writer: David O. Russell
• Release Date: October 1, 1999
• Rating: 7.1/10
• Cast: George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, Ice Cube, Spike Jonze

Excess Baggage unfolds as a wealthy but neglected heiress, portrayed by Alicia Silverstone as Emily Hope, decides to stage her own kidnapping to gain attention from her indifferent father. However, her plan takes an unexpected turn when a car thief, Benicio del Toro as Vincent Roche, unwittingly becomes entangled in her scheme. As circumstances spiral out of control, Emily and Vincent embark on a journey of self-discovery and find themselves navigating the complexities of trust, deception, and unexpected romance.

Alicia Silverstone portrays Emily Hope with a blend of vulnerability and determination, portraying a character who yearns for connection and recognition amidst her privileged but isolated life. Benicio del Toro brings depth to Vincent Roche, portraying a character who initially appears hardened but gradually reveals his softer side as he becomes involved in Emily's unconventional plan.

• Genre: Comedy, Crime, Romance
• Director: Marco Brambilla
• Writer: Max D. Adams, Dick Clement, Ian La Frenais
• Release Date: August 29, 1997
• Rating: 5.4/10
• Cast: Alicia Silverstone, Benicio del Toro

Curly Sue tells the heartwarming tale of a charismatic young girl named Curly Sue, played by Alisan Porter, who, alongside her guardian and con artist partner, Bill Dancer portrayed by James Belushi, navigates life's ups and downs with resilience and humour. Directed by John Hughes, the film blends comedy and drama as Curly Sue and Bill encounter a wealthy lawyer, Gray Ellison portrayed by Kelly Lynch, whose life is forever changed by their unexpected presence.

Alisan Porter shines as Curly Sue, capturing the innocence and spirited nature of a child navigating a challenging world. James Belushi brings depth to Bill Dancer, portraying a character whose love for Curly Sue drives him to reconsider his unconventional lifestyle. Kelly Lynch adds a compassionate touch as Gray Ellison, portraying a woman whose encounter with Curly Sue and Bill brings newfound perspective and warmth into her life.

• Genre: Comedy, Drama
• Director: John Hughes
• Writer: John Hughes
• Release Date: October 25, 1991
• Rating: 5.9/10
• Cast: Alisan Porter, James Belushi, Kelly Lynch

Bio-Dome embraces its cheesy humour as it follows two clueless slackers, Pauly Shore as Bud and Stephen Baldwin as Doyle, who mistakenly get trapped inside a high-tech environmental experiment called Bio-Dome for a year. Directed by Jason Bloom, the film humorously explores their antics and the clash between their carefree lifestyle and the strict rules of the experiment, highlighting themes of environmentalism and personal growth.

While the film's humour may not appeal to everyone, its concept of living sustainably inside a controlled environment has become increasingly relevant today. Pauly Shore and Stephen Baldwin deliver performances that epitomize their comedic styles, making the best of their characters' absurd situation within the Bio-Dome.

• Genre: Comedy
• Director: Jason Bloom
• Writers: Adam Leff, Mitchell Peck
• Release Date: January 12, 1996
• Rating: 4.5/10
• Cast: Pauly Shore, Stephen Baldwin

Coneheads is a comedic exploration of an alien family, the Coneheads, who find themselves stranded on Earth and try to assimilate into human society while evading detection by government agents. Directed by Steve Barron, the film embraces absurdity and satire, showcasing the Coneheads' peculiarities and their attempts to blend in with hilarious consequences.

Dan Aykroyd shines in his role as the patriarch of the Conehead family, Beldar Conehead, bringing his trademark wit and comedic timing to the character. His portrayal adds a layer of charm and authenticity to the film's offbeat humour, making Beldar Conehead a memorable and endearing alien patriarch. The late Chris Farley injects physical comedy into the film with his energetic performance, adding a dynamic and humorous element to the ensemble cast.

• Genre: Comedy, Science Fiction
• Director: Steve Barron
• Writers: Tom Davis, Dan Aykroyd, Bonnie Turner, Terry Turner
• Release Date: July 23, 1993
• Rating: 5.3/10
• Cast: Dan Aykroyd, Jane Curtin, Michelle Burke, Chris Farley

Disturbing Behavior, directed by David Nutter, delves into the unsettling world of Cradle Bay, a seemingly perfect town hiding a dark secret. When newcomer Steve Clark (James Marsden) moves to town, he discovers that local teenagers are being transformed into model students through a mysterious programme. Amidst the idyllic facade, Steve teams up with Rachel Wagner (Katie Holmes) to uncover the chilling truth behind the town's unsettling transformation agenda.

The film captures the essence of 90s teenage angst and paranoia, blending themes of rebellion and conformity with a suspenseful narrative. James Marsden portrays Steve with a mix of scepticism and determination, while Katie Holmes brings depth to her role as Rachel, a fellow outsider who becomes Steve's ally in unravelling Cradle Bay's secrets.

• Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
• Director: David Nutter
• Writer: Scott Rosenberg
• Release Date: July 24, 1998
• Rating: 5.5/10
• Cast: James Marsden, Katie Holmes, Nick Stahl

Fear, directed by James Foley, delves into the dark and intense world of teenage obsession and violence. The film follows Nicole Walker, played by Reese Witherspoon, as she falls for David McCall, portrayed by Mark Wahlberg in a chillingly charismatic performance. What begins as a passionate romance quickly spirals into a nightmare of possessiveness and manipulation as David's true, violent nature is revealed.

Mark Wahlberg delivers a chilling portrayal of David McCall, capturing his character's unpredictable and dangerous persona with a coldness that sends shivers down the spine. Reese Witherspoon brings depth to her role as Nicole, portraying a young woman caught in a terrifying web of love and fear.

• Genre: Thriller, Drama
• Director: James Foley
• Writer: Christopher Crowe
• Release Date: April 12, 1996
• Rating: 6.2/10
• Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Reese Witherspoon, William Petersen

The Fan, directed by Tony Scott, delves into the dark obsession of Gil Renard, played by Robert De Niro, a troubled man fixated on baseball star Bobby Rayburn, portrayed by Wesley Snipes. As Gil's admiration escalates into a dangerous obsession, he begins to blur the line between fan and fanatic, with chilling consequences for Bobby and those around him.

Robert De Niro brings a compelling intensity to Gil Renard, drawing on themes of obsession reminiscent of his earlier roles. While not a sequel to Cape Fear, De Niro's performance in The Fan echoes elements of his previous characters, adding depth and a sense of unease to the film's psychological thriller atmosphere.

• Genre: Thriller, Drama
• Director: Tony Scott
• Writer: Phoef Sutton
• Release Date: August 16, 1996
• Rating: 5.8/10
• Cast: Robert De Niro, Wesley Snipes, Benicio del Toro