Revisit the cinematic gems of 1990, a year that delivered timeless classics like ‘Goodfellas,’ ‘Pretty Woman,’ and ‘Home Alone.’
Dive into our top 10 picks that defined the dawn of the ’90s
Goodfellas
The ultimate ‘wiseguy’ movie of all time, Goodfellas remains Martin Scorsese’s most known and influential film.
De Niro, Liotta and Pesci, star in this epic crime drama centred around Henry Hill as he rises through the ranks of a notorious American-Italian crime gang. But more than just another mob movie, it touches on themes of loyalty, friendship, drugs and violence, with the occasional wiseguy crack thrown in. In short – it’s a masterpiece.
- IMDb: 8.7/10
- Classification: R18+
- Genre: Crime/Drama
- Cast: Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci and more
Stream now on Amazon Prime
Dances with Wolves
In a deviation from many of the other 1990 movies Hollywood spawned, Dances with Wolves goes back to the time of the civil war.
Directed by and starring Kevin Costner in the lead role, we witness an unlikely friendship develop between soldier Lieutenant Dunbar (Costner) and a tribe of Lakota Indians, especially when love blossoms between him and one of the women in the group.
- IMDb: 8/10
- Classification: M
- Genre: War
- Cast: Kevin Costner, Mary McDonnell, Graham Greene and more
Stream now on Amazon Prime
Misery
Once you see the ‘hobbling scene’ you can’t unsee it. Such is the impact of this Stephen King thriller. Long story short, a famous novelist is rescued from a car crash by a die-hard fan.
All hail Kathy Bates as the irrepressible and terrifying Annie Wilkes. Nursing the author back to health while keeping him captive, Kathy’s performance is brilliantly unsettling throughout, making this Oscar-winning film an instant classic.
- IMDb: 7.8/10
- Classification: M
- Genre: Horror/Thriller
- Cast: Kathy Bates, James Caan, Lauren Bacall and more
Stream now on Stan
Home Alone
It was the highest-grossing movie of 1990, hauling an impressive $285.76 million in theatres and also takes out the win for the best comedy movie or 1990. Today, it remains one of the best movies of the 90s and a classic Christmas flick, as well as the movie that defined Macaulay Culkin’s career.
Despite the elaborate and somewhat unbelievable storyline of a family leaving their eight-year-old son at home while they vacation, it’s highly watchable! Kevin (Culkin) fends for himself against preying burglars, in this laugh-out-loud pandemonium family classic.
- IMDb: 7.6/10
- Classification: PG
- Genre: Comedy
- Cast: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern and more
Stream now on Disney+
Total Recall
Before he became Governor of California, but way after winning Mr Olympia, Arnold Schwarzenegger was a mega-star featuring in numerous 1990 movies Hollywood produced.
One of the most famous is Total Recall. This fast-paced, futuristic sci-fi transports us to 2048, when virtual travel is all the rage, thanks to chip implants. That is, until one goes disastrously wrong, and turns into a manhunt. This gripping film will have you jumping out of your seat, as well as laughing along in places.
- IMDb: 7.5/10
- Classification: R18+
- Genre: Sci-Fi
- Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sharon Stone, Rachel Ticotin and more
Stream now on Apple TV
Die Hard II
Bruce Willis reprises his role as John McClane, a double-hard detective saving the world from terrorists, one more time.
Biceps, blasts and bad guys – expect them all in epic proportions as McClane single-handedly swoops in and foils a plot at Dulles International Airport in Washington D.C.
- IMDb: 7.1/10
- Classification: M
- Genre: Action/Thriller
- Cast: Bruce Willis, Bonnie Bedelia, William Sadler and more
Stream now on Disney+
Ghost
The cast and their chemistry make Ghost the beautiful, watchable film that still holds three decades later. Sam (Patrick Swayze) and Molly (Demi Moore) are deeply in love, when Sam’s life is cut all-too-short.
With Whoopi Goldberg stepping in as a reluctant psychic, they uncover the truth about his death, whilst protecting Molly from imminent danger. If you’re not crying by the end of it, send help.
- IMDb: 7.1/10
- Classification: M
- Genre: Romance
- Cast: Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Whoopi Goldberg and more
Stream now on Stan
Pretty Woman
Undeniably one of the best movies of the ’90s, who would have thought you could make a tender romantic movie about a prostitute falling in love with her client?
Starring Richard Gere as the dashing Edward, and Julia Roberts as hooker Vivian, this rags-to-riches tale is a Hollywood love story, of two very different worlds coming together.
- IMDb: 7/10
- Classification: M
- Genre: Romance
- Cast: Julia Roberts, Richard Gere, Laura San Giacomo and more
Stream now on Disney+
Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles
As far as 1990 movies that kids love go, TMNT (as all the cool kids know it), is up there. The movie version of the much-loved cartoon brings your four favourite street-fighter turtles to the sewers of New York City, as they protect it from a criminal gang. Kowabunga to that!
- IMDb: 6.8/10
- Classification: PG
- Genre: Action
- Cast: Judith Hoag, Elias Koteas, Josh Pais and more
Stream now on Amazon Prime
Kindergarten Cop
We said he’ll be back! Every generation has an Arnold Schwarzenegger film they remember, for children of the 80s, it’s Kindergarten Cop.
In one of the top box office 1990 movies, Arnie is fooling no one as a steely cop, going undercover to sniff out the bad guys. The kids will love it, as for the grown-ups… they’ll just be grateful that the kids are quiet!
- IMDb: 6.2/10
- Classification: M
- Genre: Comedy
- Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Penelope Ann Miller, Richard Tyson and more
Stream now on Apple TV
1990 Movies FAQ
What are the must-watch movies from 1990?
When thinking of must-watch movies from 1990, “Dances with Wolves,” directed by and starring Kevin Costner, takes you on an epic journey through the American frontier, a masterpiece that’s both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Martin Scorsese’s “Goodfellas” immerses you in the gritty and thrilling world of the mob, setting the bar for crime dramas. “Pretty Woman” charms with its modern-day fairy tale romance, while “Ghost” weaves a captivating tale of love and the supernatural. And let’s not forget the holiday classic “Home Alone,” a hilarious and heartwarming adventure that’s perfect for the whole family.
Who were the notable actors and directors in 1990’s cinema?
1990 was a year of notable talent both in front of and behind the camera. Renowned director Martin Scorsese made a mark with “Goodfellas,” showcasing his masterful storytelling. Kevin Costner emerged as a leading man and director with “Dances with Wolves,” while Giuseppe Tornatore displayed his directorial prowess with “Cinema Paradiso.” In the world of acting, stars like Robert De Niro, Kevin Costner, and Julia Roberts captivated audiences with their exceptional performances.
What was the highest-grossing film of 1990?
The highest-grossing film of 1990 was “Ghost,” starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore. This romantic fantasy thriller generated over $500 million at the global box office. With its unforgettable pottery scene and iconic “Unchained Melody” soundtrack, “Ghost” remains a beloved classic to this day.
Which 1990 films received critical acclaim?
Some of the standout titles that received critical acclaim in 1990 include Martin Scorsese’s gritty and iconic “Goodfellas,” the heartwarming and powerful “Dances with Wolves” directed by and starring Kevin Costner, and the hauntingly beautiful “Cinema Paradiso” by Giuseppe Tornatore. These films not only garnered praise from critics but also found their way into the hearts of audiences, solidifying their status as cinematic gems.
