From epic blockbusters to thrilling dramas, there's no denying that the '90s were an incredible decade for film. There's a brilliance to this particular decade that is unmatched - the indies reached both commercial and critical acclaim, comedies were funnier than ever and cinema in general was reaching a wider audience than ever before. It truly was an exciting time to be going to the movies. 1994 was no exception - Forrest Gump won big at the Oscars, The Lion King broke box office records and Cameron Diaz was introduced to the world in that iconic red dress. With all of that in mind, here's a list of some of the best films that were released during one of the most groundbreaking years in film history.
The Shawshank Redemption
Based on a short novella by Stephen King, Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins star as two convicts who strike up a lifelong friendship while spending two decades locked up in the gloomy confines of Shawshank prison. Often hailed as the best film of the '90s, the friendship between these two characters is at the heart of this moving prison drama in what becomes an enduring tale of hope, justice, freedom and as the title suggests, redemption.
Pulp Fiction
Probably the most '90s movie of all '90s movies. Tarantino's fast paced world of crime and violence has an ensemble of unforgettable characters intercepting each other's lives with dramatic and often chaotic results. The film was a spectacular turning point for cinema with its unpredictable non-linear narrative and humorous pop culture references. There's nothing else like it.
Muriel's Wedding
This beloved Australian cult classic stars Toni Collette as Muriel Heslop, a young social outcast who steals her father's money and runs away to Sydney to fulfil her dream of becoming a bride. The film is a wonderful mix of heart and comedy as our flawed but lovable heroine learns the true value of friendship, love and self-worth.
The Crow
Based on the supernatural comic book series by James O'Barr, The Crow tells the story of rock musician Eric Draven and his fiancé Shelly who are brutally murdered the night before their wedding. A year later, Eric is brought back from the grave to avenge their deaths and to restore balance to a dangerous and lawless city. A cult classic in its own right, The Crow is a moving story of love and grief combined with gothic visuals and spectacular action sequences that set it apart from other action films of the decade.
The Mask
In this wacky comedy, Jim Carrey stars as hapless bank clerk Stanley Ipkiss who comes across a mysterious wooden mask that turns him into a manic, green-faced superhero and soon finds that he has to protect the city from ruthless mobster Dorian Tyrell. Carrey excels in the role and gives what is without a doubt the comedic performance of the decade.
The Lion King
Beautiful artwork, epic story and a wonderful score. Disney animation at its very best.
Honorable Mentions:
Forrest Gump - Speed - Heavenly Creatures - Four Weddings and a Funeral - Crooklyn - Dumb and Dumber - Ace Ventura: Pet Detective - Interview with the Vampire - True Lies.
