10 ’90s Action Movies That Still Rock (And Where to Watch Them)

Speaking of action movies, the 1990s stands out as a particularly spectacular decade for this genre. While the 1980s gave us iconic films like Commando, Predator, and The Terminator, the 1990s arguably surpassed that with an abundance of successful action flicks. This was the era that saw Michael Bay rise to prominence with Bad Boys, as well as the collaboration of Don Simpson, Jerry Bruckheimer, and Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. Additionally, it was the decade where Steven Seagal found his stride, starring in hits like Under Siege. Granted, these names might come with some controversy, but they certainly left their mark on action cinema during this time. Notably, even Michael Bay had more than one critically and financially successful movie in the 1990s.

To be featured on this list, a movie must possess several qualities. Firstly, it should continue to provide enjoyment for viewers, regardless of how many times they’ve watched it. Secondly, it needs to have endured the test of time so that even the more conservative members of today’s society can appreciate it without discomfort. Therefore, movies like “True Lies” and those in the genres of sci-fi actioners or superhero films, such as “The Matrix” and “Batman Returns,” are not included here. Instead, we’re focusing on straightforward action movies from the ’90s that remain relevant in the 2020s.

Point Break

Following her success with the outlaw biker drama “The Loveless” and the acclaimed vampire movie “Near Dark” in the ’80s, Kathryn Bigelow decided to explore action movies during the ’90s. Interestingly, all three of her films from this decade are worth a watch. The gritty cop actioner “Blue Steel“, starring Jamie Lee Curtis, might be too intense for some viewers, but it showcases one of her finest performances. “Strange Days” features Ralph Fiennes and is a captivating mix of genres. Sandwiched between these two films was arguably her best work to date: “Point Break“.

Four years before solidifying his status as a true action icon with “Speed”, Keanu Reeves demonstrated his aptitude for the genre by playing the charismatic Johnny Utah. However, it’s worth noting that Patrick Swayze also shines in this film. His character, Bodhi, who heads a gang of bank robbers that only operates where they can surf, is both intriguing and likable. This lends an engaging twist to the central cat-and-mouse chase.

Stream Point Break on Peacock and Prime Video.

El Mariachi

Robert Rodriguez, similar to his frequent partner Quentin Tarantino, made a significant impact in the ’90s with a tiny production – a mere $7,200 funded El Mariachi. This film, a perfect example of a micro-budgeted project, was so well-crafted that it’s hard to believe its cost was so minimal.

The story unfolds around a wandering musician who unintentionally gets labeled as an assassin upon arriving in a hostile town. Survival becomes a desperate struggle in this unwelcoming place. Rodriguez’s subsequent film, Desperado, shares a similar plot but with a larger budget, and while it’s entertaining, it doesn’t quite match up to the original, El Mariachi.

Rent El Mariachi on Amazon Video.

Hard Boiled

Prior to making his mark in American cinema with “Hard Target”, John Woo had previously directed the acclaimed film “Hard Boiled”. Just like his earlier works, such as “The Killer” (the original version, not the 2024 remake starring Nathalie Emmanuel and Omar Sy) and “A Better Tomorrow”, it’s a timeless classic.

This movie, which was the final Hong Kong production by director Woo before venturing into Hollywood, focuses on Inspector “Tequila” Yuen Ho-yan, played by Chow Yun-fat. He partners with Tony Leung’s character, an undercover police officer named Alan, to bring down criminal mastermind Johnny Wong. The action is filled with people gliding down handrails amidst gun battles, and doves soaring through the chaos – truly embodying the essence of a Woo film at its best.

Speed

The idea of a villain setting a bomb on a bus that needs to maintain 50 miles per hour in busy L.A., makes for an outstanding concept for an action movie. While the impressive cinematography and tight script are crucial, it’s important to acknowledge that the casting department played a significant role in making Speed a classic. Keanu Reeves delivers one of his finest performances as Officer Jack Traven, and his on-screen chemistry with Sandra Bullock’s Annie Porter is captivating. Not to forget Dennis Hopper, who brings energy and intensity as the vengeful bomber Howard Payne.

It’s truly astounding to observe the significant difference in quality between the movies Speed and Speed 2: Cruise Control. In his first directorial attempt, cinematographer Jan de Bont, known for his work on films like Die Hard and Black Rain, demonstrated a strong command over not just pulse-pounding action scenes, but also intriguing character interactions. He showcased this expertise in the exciting action sequences of his subsequent film, Twister. Unfortunately, Speed 2, which was de Bont’s third film, is a disappointing disaster that only serves to underscore just how powerful the original movie remains. It’s hard to fathom how the same director could create a dull, lifeless sequel to such an engrossing film.

Stream Speed on Max.

Bad Boys

It’s important to note that while Michael Bay’s original film Bad Boys may not hold up perfectly in terms of political correctness today, it can be seen as a sort of seminar on respect for cultural diversity compared to the second installment. Furthermore, unlike the chaotic mess that was the first sequel, the original film is more coherent and well-organized.

In Bay’s first directorial venture, there’s an evident self-assurance in handling high-impact scenes, a trait that would become more apparent as his career unfolded. Moreover, the compelling dynamics between Will Smith and Martin Lawrence make this one of the rare instances in Bay’s films where viewers can genuinely invest emotions in the primary characters.

Stream Bad Boys on Max.

Die Hard with a Vengeance

While not quite matching up to the Christmas-themed action classic of an original movie, “Die Hard with a Vengeance” is still an exciting watch. The return of director John McTiernan adds significantly to its appeal, making it widely regarded as the most exceptional of the four sequels for valid reasons.

The strength of “Vengeance” lies in its ability to pair up the solitary figure John McClane with a partner, creating a dynamic that was effective. The original film’s one-against-12 scenario was a significant advantage, but by the third installment, it required a change, which was achieved masterfully by introducing Samuel L. Jackson as a character contrasting significantly from McClane.

Stream Die Hard with a Vengeance on Hulu.

GoldenEye

Without a doubt, Pierce Brosnan’s peak as James Bond is reached in the fast-paced action movie, GoldenEye. It boasts two outstanding villains, an excellent soundtrack, and tight direction from Martin Campbell. It’s no surprise that the same director was able to rejuvenate the franchise with Daniel Craig’s debut 007 mission, Casino Royale.

Following the Timothy Dalton Bond films not quite living up to expectations, there was a pressing need to reinvigorate the series. Remarkable action scenes such as those on an aircraft with an incoming missile and a high-speed train have helped to achieve this, making it one of the franchise’s most thrilling installments yet.

Rent GoldenEye on Amazon Video.

Mission: Impossible

Is it true that Brian De Palma’s “Mission: Impossible” is considered the best in the series? Actually, that’s not the case, but it remains an enjoyable watch, skillfully blending a love for the original television show with contemporary flair. It’s safe to say that “Mission: Impossible” sets the stage for the franchise’s ongoing improvement over time. Without this original film, we wouldn’t have the exceptional “Mission: Impossible – Fallout.

The movie’s main strength lies in its skillful creation of suspense. Though the villain’s identity may be clear early on, the journey to that revelation is still captivating. Moreover, the break-in sequence stands out as one of the most thrilling segments from the ’90s, regardless of genre.

Stream Mission: Impossible on Paramount+.

The Rock

From 1996 to 1997, Nicolas Cage starred in a total of three movies, all of which have since been recognized as action masterpieces. The initial one was “The Rock,” directed by Michael Bay, a film that is still considered his best work to date.

In this film, Michael Cage portrays Stanley Goodspeed, a chemical weapons expert typically confined to labs, yet he adds his charm without being a typical action star. The true action hero in this story is Sean Connery as John Patrick Mason, an ex-Captain from the SAS/MI6 who can navigate the title location blindfolded. Ed Harris completes the trio of spot-on casting as Brigadier General Francis X. Hummel, whose motivations and character evolution are among the film’s most intriguing aspects.

Stream The Rock on Hulu.

Con Air

Among the three Nicolas Cage action films produced between 1997 and 1997, “Con Air” stands out as the most absurdly funny one. Given that one of these movies featured a face-swap with John Travolta, this is quite an impressive level of silliness.

As a movie enthusiast, I must confess that the sheer absurdity is what makes “Con Air” an absolute delight to watch. Not only does Nicolas Cage deliver a charmingly rugged portrayal of Cameron Poe, but John Malkovich steals the show with his unconventional take on Cyrus “The Virus” Grissom. Add a spirited central storyline involving a rogue’s gallery of criminals hijacking a plane, and “Con Air” becomes nothing short of hilarious.

Stream Con Air on Hulu.

2025-03-20 21:18