Bad ’90s Movies That Got Great Reviews

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What does it mean for a movie to “age well”?

In my experience, some films such as Casablanca, The Godfather, or Psycho, instantly resonate with audiences and continue to captivate viewers for decades. On the other hand, there are movies like It’s a Wonderful Life or Blade Runner that may not initially receive widespread acclaim but eventually grow into timeless classics, earning a place in film history. In essence, these films have an ability to maintain their relevance and charm over time, which we can describe as them “aging gracefully.” (I must admit, they’ve certainly aged better than me; I find myself becoming more gray by the day, it’s quite a sight.)

Over time, some movies that were once highly acclaimed might not seem as impressive when revisited. Surprisingly, these films could have been both audience favorites and recipients of the prestigious Oscar for Best Picture.

Today’s list on ScreenCrush focuses on movies from the 1990s that, over time, may not have held up quite as well. These films are the ones that might leave you questioning, “Wow, this movie received positive reviews? Truly?

Besides providing details about and rating my 12 selections below, I’ve also included their Rotten Tomatoes scores, with only one exception that requires an explanation. If you continue to appreciate these popular ’90s films, that’s perfectly fine. Beauty, after all, is subjective – just ask my wife; she assures me that despite not aging gracefully, I still look good!

Bad ’90s Movies That Got Great Reviews

Dances With Wolves (1990)

In a now-legendary blunder at the 1990 Oscars, Martin Scorsese’s masterpiece “Goodfellas” was edged out by Kevin Costner’s Western film, “Dances with Wolves.” Set near an Army outpost, this movie follows a white Civil War soldier who forms a bond with the local natives. Although its narrative was already cliché in 1990, “Dances with Wolves” was a massive hit and appreciated by both audiences and critics. It boasted competent direction from Kevin Costner. However, I’d argue that its direction wasn’t necessarily superior to that of “Goodfellas.”

In one of the most notorious Oscar flubs in history, the 1990 Academy Awards saw “Goodfellas” being denied the top prize to Kevin Costner’s film, “Dances with Wolves,” a Western about a white soldier who develops an affinity for native tribes near his Army base. Although its story was already worn-out in 1990, “Dances with Wolves” was hugely popular and well-received by both viewers and critics. Costner’s solid direction was one of the film’s strengths. But I wonder if it outdid Martin Scorsese’s direction in “Goodfellas.

Patriot Games (1992)

The initial film featuring Harrison Ford as Tom Clancy’s spy character, Jack Ryan, garnered satisfactory reviews from both critics and audiences, leading promptly to a sequel titled “Clear and Present Danger“. What makes this Clancy adaptation intriguing is its audacity to revolve around a bookworm protagonist. In the movie, Ford’s Ryan refrains from using guns and clumsily navigates through action sequences. On the other hand, Harrison Ford brandishes a gun on the poster for “Patriot Games“. The film starts with Ford in top action form, saving a British royal from assassination by terrorists. The remainder of the plot is relatively predictable, involving surviving terrorists (who seem inept at their tasks) seeking revenge against Jack Ryan, and Ryan vowing revenge after they target his wife and daughter. A sense of normalcy prevails during the second act, but the climax features an unnecessary high-speed boat chase.

The sequel “Clear and Present Danger” capitalizes on Ryan’s struggle to keep up with the action, which is a shame because it lacks the quirky essence of the original film. It’s intriguing to ponder how this less engaging Ford production gave rise to a more unconventional sequel.

The Firm (1993)

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I found myself diving into John Grisham’s wave of popularity with high anticipation for this screen adaptation of his renowned novel. The beginning was promising, but it didn’t take long before the narrative took an unexpected turn towards the absurd. Let me paint you a picture: You’d think you’re watching a legal thriller, then suddenly, Tobin Bell, who would later be known as Jigsaw Killer, is involved in a foot chase that escalates into Tom Cruise performing unbelievable and inexplicable gymnastics – yes, gymkata! – to stay alive. And this isn’t just any movie; it’s a legal thriller! To top it off, The Firm gave us one of the most bizarre scenes in Cruise’s career.

The Crow (1994)

The Rotten Tomatoes Rating for This Movie: 87
I’ve always found it hard to appreciate this film. The over-the-top, Alex Proyas-created universe doesn’t resonate with me due to the villains who seem reminiscent of characters from a sequel of Death Wish. In truth, they share some similarities – this movie is essentially a Death Wish where the protagonist seeks vengeance not just for his wife’s death but his own. Brandon Lee delivers an impressive performance in his role, yet I find the Crow character less intriguing. His invulnerability to pain and lack of vulnerabilities until the final scene make it predictable that he will emerge victorious. It’s almost as if it were predestined. However, the remake of The Crow was arguably not significantly worse than the original, although I can’t help but wonder if the numerous shootings in this movie serve as a tragic reminder of the production tragedy.
Sometimes, the boundary between reality and fiction can be disconcerting, and quite melancholic.

The Mask (1994)

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 80

These days, it seems like every few months we’re hit with a major new superhero movie. Contrast that with the ’90s when superheroes were often relegated to B-movies and adaptations of obscure comics like The Mask, a Dark Horse comic about a magical mask that grants superpowers at the cost of one’s sanity. The film softened the comic’s darker aspects and emphasized its more cartoonish character, with Jim Carrey delivering a breakout performance as the protagonist. Carrey’s acting was so expressive that the green makeup and special effects of the mask were almost unnecessary. While Carrey’s antics are more impressive than they are funny, there are fewer laugh-out-loud moments in this film compared to what you may recall, and it has a much grittier tone.

Superhero movies today are common, but back in the ’90s, they were less popular and often adapted from lesser-known comics like The Mask. This movie was about a magical mask that gave superpowers but also made you crazy. Jim Carrey played the main character, and his facial expressions made the green makeup and special effects less necessary. While Carrey’s performance was more impressive than funny, there were fewer jokes to laugh at compared to what people might remember, and the overall tone was grittier.

Independence Day (1996)

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 68
The standout film of 1996 was this extravagant (and some might say, not very intelligent) action movie featuring an alien invasion. The awe-inspiring special effects, which included numerous building explosions, left audiences and many critics spellbound, causing them to often overlook the shallow character development and predictable plotlines.

But let’s be fair: Compared to Independence Day: Resurgence, it’s still a better choice.

Twister (1996)

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 67

The second-most successful film of 1996 was Twister, an extravaganza of special effects that offered little in terms of plot or character development. In retrospect, the visuals were undeniably impressive for their time. However, they now seem more like… special effects. To be honest, I wish I could appreciate Twister – or any movie – as much as the character played by Philip Seymour Hoffman seems to enjoy everything in this film. At least he appears to be enjoying himself.

In 1996, the second highest-grossing film was Twister, a movie that relied heavily on special effects but lacked depth in its story and characters. Although the visuals were stunning back then, they now appear more like ordinary special effects. Honestly, I wish I could enjoy Twister as much as the character portrayed by Philip Seymour Hoffman seems to enjoy every aspect of life within this movie. He seems to be genuinely having a good time at least.

Space Jam (1996)

As a film enthusiast, I’ve got to say that when Space Jam first hit the screens, it received mixed reviews, earning a “rotten” score on Rotten Tomatoes. However, as time has passed, it seems to have grown in popularity among younger critics who grew up watching it. On Letterboxd, it now boasts a 3.3 rating, which is quite impressive. Nowadays, people often refer to Space Jam as a cherished ’90s classic – I never thought I’d say that! It’s a decent Looney Tunes film with an average performance from Michael Jordan and a few cameos here and there.

The English Patient (1996)

In a surprising turn of events, the 1996 Academy Award for Best Picture was awarded to “The English Patient,” an epic historical drama that followed a wounded man narrating his life story. Despite being widely praised (although it moved at a snail’s pace), this film managed to outshine ’90s favorites like “Secrets & Lies,” “Fargo,” and “Jerry Maguire.” As for me, I find myself agreeing with Elaine Benes – “The English Patient” was overly lengthy! Enough with the tedious story about the dull desert!

The 1996 Academy Award winner for Best Picture was “The English Patient,” a critically acclaimed yet slow-paced historical film. It managed to beat other ’90s classics like “Secrets & Lies,” “Fargo,” and “Jerry Maguire.” Personally, I share Elaine Benes’ view that the movie was too long and its desert storyline was uninteresting.)

Bulworth (1998)

The film “Bulworth” (Rotten Tomatoes Score: 77) is a critique of disillusioned politicians who prioritize donors over constituents. It’s a modern-day equivalent of “Network,” focusing on Congress instead of the media. However, the manner in which it conveys this message – through a tired U.S. Senator (Warren Beatty, who also co-wrote and directed the film) using racial slurs and lengthy rap performances – might not receive the same positive reception today as it did in 1998. Interestingly, this movie, featuring Beatty rapping while dressed in such attire, was even nominated for an Academy Award.

Mystery Men (1999)

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 60
Mystery Men, inspired by a Dark Horse comic, embodies many characteristics of superhero movies from the ’90s: Sillier-than-usual humor, extravagant (and often too dark) set design, a limited number of characters with actual powers to keep costs down, lackluster action scenes, and talented actors who seem slightly uncomfortable appearing in such a trivial production.
Despite being categorized as a superhero satire, Mystery Men is less about lampooning comic book stereotypes than openly ridiculing the very idea, as well as those who take it seriously. (For instance, nobody would believe that the Superman equivalent could be the Clark Kent doppelganger wearing glasses – ha-ha.) The following summer saw Fox’s X-Men, which revolutionized on-screen superheroes. It’s amazing to think that Mystery Men is already 25 years old. However, its tone and visual aesthetic seem even older than that.

American Beauty (1999)

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 87
Disregard the fact that Kevin Spacey portrays the protagonist in this film. If any other reputable actor, such as the paragon of Hollywood, played Lester Burnham in American Beauty, it would still be a tale about a middle-aged man dealing with a crisis by being infatuated with one of his teenage daughter’s schoolmates, portrayed by Mena Suvari. He imagines her naked and visualizes himself satisfying her in a tub filled with roses. These actions are not depicted as sordid or seedy but rather, in line with the title’s suggestion, as a means of spiritual renewal for Lester, who rediscovers his youthful energy and outlook by discarding the shackles of middle-age. The film, however, presents Lester’s diligent wife, portrayed by Annette Bening, in an unflattering light as a soulless, materialistic harpy. (She ultimately cheats on Lester for good measure.) In today’s context, the film would likely stir up controversy. It is hard to imagine it winning the Academy Award for Best Picture as it did in 1999, given the strong competition from films like The Sixth Sense and The Insider.

The Best Action Movie Every Year of the 1990s

1990: Total Recall

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s finest film is a thrilling sci-fi tale that follows a construction worker who purchases a memory of a trip to Mars, only to stumble upon a past life as an unbeknownst secret agent. It could also be argued that the storyline results from a negative reaction to the memory implant and portrays the final moments of a deteriorating mind. Regardless, director Paul Verhoeven skillfully puzzles and intrigues the audience, showcasing Schwarzenegger as a man in flight, uncertain of his identity, suspicious about his domestic life, yearning for adventure, and prone to amusing absurdities (‘Consider that a divorce’). In essence, Total Recall encapsulates the best attributes of Arnold: crude, exhilarating, darkly funny, and strangely contemplative.

1991: Terminator 2: Judgment Day

In the realm of action movies during the ’90s, Arnold Schwarzenegger reigned supreme. For the much-anticipated sequel to “Terminator,” director James Cameron went all out in the action scenes, pioneered computer-generated imagery with the T-1000, a liquid metal Terminator, and introduced one of the greatest female action heroines in Linda Hamilton’s character, Sarah Connor. In this movie, Schwarzenegger’s reprogrammed robot displays both humor and melancholy, and if his final thumbs up doesn’t stir emotions within you, you might be a future robot yourself.

1992: Hard Boiled

John Woo’s film “Hard Boiled” initiates with the preparation of a cocktail. Initially, a shot of tequila is poured into a glass. Next, a shot of soda follows in the same container. The mixture takes place as someone lifts the glass and slams it back onto the bar. Despite Woo’s reputation for bird enthusiasts, this sequence of visuals hints at what’s to come: The film depicts the explosive outcome when two contrasting elements are brought very close together and then violently collide. Similar to the ingredients in a drink, Chow Yun-Fat and Tony Leung are captivating individually. Yet, when combined, they create an electrifying action movie experience.

1993: The Fugitive

A common mistake is undervaluing an entertaining movie that you could watch repeatedly for pure enjoyment, simply because it lacks complex themes or intellectual symbolism. However, The Fugitive elevates this kind of large-scale chase film to seem effortless. In truth, crafting a movie like this, with its intricate mystery, clear action sequences, and exceptional acting, particularly from Tommy Lee Jones as the relentless U.S. Marshal Sam Gerard, is no easy task. The reason this film remains enjoyable upon multiple viewings is due to the exceptional skill and mastery put into its creation, a level of craftsmanship that may be even more rare now than it was in 1993.

1994: Drunken Master II

In the 1980s and ’90s, Jackie Chan created an impressive collection of action movies, but if you had to save one for future generations as a representation of what a Jackie Chan film is all about, it would undoubtedly be “Drunken Master II.” This movie brilliantly demonstrates his exceptional agility, humor, and timing. In this film, Jackie Chan portrays the Chinese folk hero Wong Fei-hung, whose combat skills become even more formidable when he’s had a few drinks. The concept of “drunken boxing” in “Drunken Master II” makes it an ideal platform for showcasing everything Jackie Chan excels at, seamlessly blending his lightning-fast physicality with his unique brand of physical humor.

1995: GoldenEye (1995)

In my opinion, the first Bond movie that had a lasting impact on me was seen when I was 14 years old – it was “GoldenEye”. My father took me to watch it, and from that moment, I became an ardent Bond fan. A few weeks later, for my birthday, I received several Bond movies on VHS, which only strengthened my fandom. However, “GoldenEye” is not just a movie steeped in nostalgia; it’s a fantastic film from start to finish.

The opening sequence is thrilling, featuring two daring stunts – a bungee jump from a high bridge and a leap off a crane into a plummeting plane. The theme song by Tina Turner adds to the movie’s allure. Sean Bean portrays a formidable adversary for 007, while Famke Jannsen delivers an unforgettable performance as a ruthless henchwoman with indomitable strength. Pierce Brosnan may not have revolutionized the role of James Bond, but when he declared “No more foreplay” to Xena Onatopp at 14, I thought he was the epitome of coolness.

1996: Mission: Impossible

The first Mission: Impossible movie may not have had as much elaborate action as later ones, but it certainly didn’t disappoint. It featured a thrilling Pentagon break-in, Tom Cruise running from an exploding aquarium, and the iconic scene on top of a speeding train where Ethan Hunt defeated a helicopter with a stick of gum. There were many other great action movies in 1996, like The Rock by Michael Bay, but I find it hard to choose any over the first Mission: Impossible.

1997: Con Air

In the 1990s, the action film Con Air was met with skepticism from critics who found it hard to believe that Nicolas Cage, fresh off his Oscar win for Leaving Las Vegas, had chosen to star in over-the-top action movies. However, today, the movie is more appreciated as a self-aware and amusingly silly action comedy rather than a dumb thriller.

The action sequences are solidly executed, and the cast is outstanding: John Cusack, Steve Buscemi, Danny Trejo, Ving Rhames, John Malkovich, and Nicolas Cage as Cameron Poe, an honorable man amidst a plane full of dangerous criminals. Each actor appears to be fully aware of the film’s genre and seems genuinely excited to be part of it. They relish their roles, and the audience enjoys watching them have fun on screen.

1998: Ronin

In this late-career masterpiece directed by John Frankenheimer, there’s no room for sentimentality. A group of tough-as-nails mercenaries are brought together for a high-stakes heist, and the plot may be predictable, but the ensemble cast (Robert De Niro, Jean Reno, Natascha McElhone, Stellan Skarsgard, Sean Bean, Jonathan Pryce) and the gritty dialogue (penned anonymously by David Mamet) make it stand out. To top it off, it features one of the most iconic car chases ever filmed. 1998 was a year filled with impressive action films, including “The Mask of Zorro” and the original “Blade”, but “Ronin” surpasses them all.

1999: The Matrix

In various film categories, “The Matrix” stands out, encompassing elements of science fiction, superheroes, and romance. However, at its core, it is an exceptional action movie, boasting some of the most thrilling fight scenes ever produced by a major Hollywood studio. The directors, the Wachowskis, aimed to honor their beloved vintage martial arts films, and they achieved this by having their stars (Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving, and Laurence Fishburne) undergo rigorous training for months to execute the film’s intricate kung-fu sequences. This dedication resulted in some of the most exhilarating and understandable fight scenes during that time. Additionally, the movie features stunning shootouts and the groundbreaking introduction of “Bullet Time,” making it a contender for top action movies of the ’90s.

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2025-07-10 18:27