The 1990s were a glorious time for action Movies! There were lots of movies that continue to get those high rankings from fans around the globe. What makes this time period so great is the range of projects they delivered. However, it is always interesting to revisit the works that got overlooked during this fantastic time for action films!
Action Movies That Might Be Forgotten:
A time with super-classic movies that have taken over the conversation. It makes sense, as these iconic films really are staples for all ages. You have movies like Total Recall, Heat and The Matrix!
It makes some films slide down a little but that doesn't mean those that are still being talked about now aren't fantastic films. They often were a big hit! But there are films from this decade that don't get the spotlight they deserve, so this might be your moment to catch the amazing action of some Movies that got less hype.
For anyone that is thinking, what exactly are gritty movies, think of Crimson Tide, New Jack City! That's what these gritty, action packed movies bring!
They have a much darker side and show a brutal representation of what happens behind the scenes for illegal activities, giving a more intense feel that makes the movies incredibly unique. The most remarkable aspect? It looks like these movies all went into production. Even though they don't have an overwhelming fan base like others. They had a huge impact at the time, but in a couple of decades, they really got buried by more high-energy films, meaning this may be a good time to give some of the lesser-known ones a shot.
Ten Amazing Movies
It is pretty hard not to pick out the most iconic titles when you're dealing with the '90s and action films! There were some truly great action-packed films.
Executive Decision (1996):
When we talk about action heroes you can't go wrong with Kurt Russel! The star is iconic and appeared in some awesome films including Tombstone and Escape From New York.
If you like to really dive into the suspense! Make sure to see "Executive Decision!" This film was an unexpected surprise. This might not be as much of a mind-blowing story but Russell made a great contribution and showed a great display of the kind of intensity that makes it truly amazing, as does "Executive Decision." You've also got actors like Steven Seagal, Halle Berry and John Leguizamo! But here is an awesome part! The story gives a shocking twist at the beginning of the film. It’s also a thriller because, you're left wondering if they can save everyone as Seagal's character has some serious struggles!
Backdraft (1991):
Backdraft really has an impressive amount of talent on its cast list that really shows how important this series is.
If you have not seen it. Make sure you get a chance to check this one out as there's no reason to pass up these incredible stars.
- Kurt Russel
- William Baldwin
- Donald Sutherland
- Robert De Niro
For anyone who has seen a bunch of disaster movies! It looks like this one just might make it onto your watchlist. What’s so unique about this story is that there's this crew of brave firemen in Chicago! You've got an intense story that focuses on a real challenge and the firemen looking to find someone who set off major, life-altering fires and try to figure out how to catch the bad guy. It came out to fantastic reviews when it was first made, it definitely stood the test of time for many fans! Although, this one just may have fallen a bit off of the radar for fans of disaster movies, though its impact, particularly with some incredible special effects got its fair share of attention!
The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996):
Fans of action films are probably all-too familiar with the great Geena Davis! In fact, she has appeared in quite a few action flicks but one that should be revisited, is The Long Kiss Goodnight.
"The Long Kiss Goodnight" stars some awesome talent! You've got two great stars that have become the stars of a couple of great action films that you have probably already seen! The combination really is powerful, and they helped to shape the way many movies were filmed in the late '90s.
- Geena Davis
- Samuel L. Jackson
You might not see Davis as this cool assassin who starts a life anew after she finds out who she really was and then, all of the sudden, she starts taking a big turn! Fans may love how this woman goes from having absolutely no idea what's going on to having a thrilling, unexpected adventure that leads to a wild ride of action. If "The Long Kiss Goodnight", wasn't on your radar. You have got to give this one another try as it might be just the movie for a big-time adrenaline rush. While it may have struggled, it also brought a unique energy to audiences. Now there's a cult-classic status, and for all the reasons why you're going to need to revisit it! The performance of the cast really gives audiences an intense story.
The Negotiator (1998):
This action-packed series is one of those films where Samuel L. Jackson was one of the best actors during the 1990s, this super underrated, incredible story that will have you at the edge of your seat. There's a big-time crime! In this film Jackson plays this talented, experienced negotiator. You won't be surprised to see him in the center of the action but there's a shocking turn, it looks like there is some set up against this very good guy!
If you've got two hours free! Be sure to watch it. The great story has you wondering who really is the bad guy, since the whole crime was one giant misunderstanding.
Blue Steel (1990):
You are sure to see plenty of those horror greats and even though there is a lot of genre, it's interesting to take a look at some of those that have changed over time.
One that really changed the game, was Jamie Lee Curtis who played in the original Halloween. In "Blue Steel," the police officer gets put through the ringer as she tries to fight against her past as well as take on the main villain of the film! If you know Jamie Lee Curtis, she always brings her a-game! Fans of horror are super familiar with her career!
One thing to know is that she really made this a role where she had to work at being really brave! But not only that, it made her incredibly formidable. "Blue Steel" was super successful as it really put a spotlight on how powerful she was. You will also get to see some of the talents of "Ron Silver". In a chilling performance that had people talking about his work.
Ronin (1998):
A well known action movie was "Ronin" which didn't have a big hit during the '90s. Fans might recognize "Ronin." However, if they haven't had a chance to give this one a try, you may just see a unique style! Robert De Niro gives a fantastic, strong, memorable performance that makes the show worthwhile.
This action movie will keep audiences hooked from start to finish! There's an incredible group of former military members! A team made for the best results that's going to do some hard work as the story starts to get exciting with all sorts of twists and turns!
For those of you that haven't given "Ronin" a try and are really fans of big action! Be sure to catch this one! This movie was an influential release in its time, especially given the impact of action scenes that gave the show a cult-classic feel, you'll be looking at this film, for sure. What makes this an instant addition to your movie list? The car chases were one of the best parts in these epic action-packed films, which really became an iconic scene!
Desperado (1995):
If you have a love for everything that comes with Westerns, then "Desperado" will bring out those nostalgic vibes in 1995. You've got a compelling performance that may not be an all-time classic! What was interesting though, is the fact that the movie "Desperado" really took some special cues! Fans were already excited when Antonio Banderas made a super memorable performance and brought back the energy that the "El Mariachi series was all about.
If you think that this film wasn't a big success! That just may be true. But those who remember seeing this movie may just find it as the gem of this great decade, filled with intense scenes!
Crimson Tide (1995):
A truly iconic action packed series from 1995. A must see, not only for its performance but for its story as well! It stars two actors who had an interesting, captivating clash that only makes the movie better! These are some of the talents you can expect to see on-screen.
- Denzel Washington
- Gene Hackman
You're not going to just see two people! The pair has to make the impossible happen. With tensions, a real risk for global destruction is there. In an event that puts those characters on a "go!" at a moment when a threat hangs over the entire world! With some of the inspiration being taken from real world events! This series takes a much more detailed look at what might have occurred during "the Cuban Missile Crisis." The incredible plot lines create a whole level of intrigue for movie watchers as you wonder if they will be able to save everyone! Fans will love this show if they haven't seen it yet!
This film takes you through a historical twist that has some similarities to real events and it gives audiences a chance to explore just how impactful the 1990s were with some very high stakes. For those of you who haven't gotten a chance to see "Crimson Tide" be sure to see how powerful it is!
New Jack City (1991):
There's no way not to make sure that a list of movies about criminal behavior, from the 1990s, didn't give "New Jack City." the credit! In a story of this sort it really brings you through the world that was part of New York during that era. This series is a must-see!
This story follows the journey of a powerful drug dealer.
- Wesley Snipes
It also features Ice-T, a well-loved and superstar actor that has had a prolific career and is one of those stars who gives you this gritty charm! It might seem like the movies try to portray criminals but that's not the goal! This was the way to give viewers an even better understanding of these serious themes, making this a classic, that will always be appreciated, a must-watch to experience these hard-hitting topics.
Hard Boiled (1992):
To really get to the end of our journey in action movies of the '90s! This movie, an instant classic had those great performances that brought out so much in terms of its cinematic talent.
This film may not be as high ranking for some fans but the work by a renowned "John Woo." will be remembered for all the right reasons.
If you think there is a scene in a hospital with a great shootout, this movie is one to check out! In fact, John Woo had his hand in making a series that was incredible and used practical effects to make it stand out even more.
The great Hong Kong action films gave a different feel to this film with an awesome combination of big stars like Chow Yun-fat, Tony Leung Chiu-wai and Anthony Wong.
You won't want to miss this as this movie looks to be one that deserves an additional watch! It helped to inspire all kinds of movies that we know today, especially as the 90s saw the evolution of a ton of iconic film adaptations! Fans are likely to agree with this ranking and what the action-packed decade was really all about. From action films that got everyone talking to some that flew under the radar, it's clear that the 90s were an era where filmmakers were ready to create something unique, inspiring, and new, showing how many creative visionaries we have!
