Arguably the most influential decade for film as a whole, movies from the 1990’s have had a long lasting impact on the cinematic landscape of today. The question of which film from the decade is the “best” is a hotly debated topic that we may never know the answer to, so here are a few of my personal favorites. 

1. (tie) Bottle Rocket (1996) & Rushmore (1998)

After spending many hours contemplating which one of these films to put on top, I decided it would be best if they shared the spot. Wes Anderson’s first film Bottle Rocket remains a staple of Texas cinema to this day, and influenced numerous independent films upon its release. Simple story, excellent acting, and a gorgeous color scheme make Bottle Rocket an incredible debut feature. Coincidentally, Wes Anderson’s second film Rushmore shares the same heart and tone as his first, while also delivering an equally interesting story. Despite the fact that it was Jason Schwartzman’s first film, he knocks it out of the park with his performance as high schooler Max Fisher. 

2. Pulp Fiction (1994) (Crime/Drama)

Arguably one of the most iconic films of all time, Quentin Tarantino’s second feature film Pulp Fiction remains an inspiration to audiences, critics, and film students across the world. With its instantly recognizable imagery, wide cast of characters, and overall originality, Pulp Fiction is a must-see for anyone and everyone who enjoys watching movies.

3. Fight Club (1999) (Drama/Thriller)

Alfred Hitchcock may have popularized the idea of a “twist ending” in his 1960 film Psycho, but David Fincher revolutionized it in Fight Club. Stellar performances from Brad Pitt and Edward Norton mixed with an original and brilliantly clever script make Fight Club a classic.

4. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) (Comedy/Cult film)

Terry Gilliam’s stand-alone directorial career is known mostly for films like Brazil and 12 Monkeys. However, despite it’s critical reception, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas is hands-down one of his best. The bizarre visuals and fast pacing mixed with career best performances from Johnny Depp and Benecio del Toro make Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas seem like a party to watch, and it’s always a joy to return to.

5. My Own Private Idaho (1991) (Drama/Romance)

Gus Van Sant’s loose adaptation of William Shakespeare’s Henry V is honestly one of the most beautiful films of all time. Its fascinating story and incredibly heartfelt acting make My Own Private Idaho an emotional rollercoaster of a film. Rather than read a brief summary of the film, I highly recommend that everyone goes and watches it for themselves. 

Of course there were many films I wanted to include but couldn’t. Here are a few honorable mentions of great films that didn’t quite make the list. 

• Cape Fear (1991)
• Clerks (1994)
• The Crow (1994)
• Dazed and Confused (1993)
• Falling Down (1993)
• Forrest Gump (1994)
• Goodfellas (1990)
• Good Will Hunting (1997)
• Lost Highway (1997)
• Menace II Society (1993)
• Misery (1990)
• Primal Fear (1996)
• Reservoir Dogs (1992)
• Se7en (1995)
• The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
• The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
• Slacker (1990)
• Trainspotting (1996)
• The Usual Suspects (1995)