10 Forgotten Films of the 1990s

The 1990s gave us cinematic blockbusters like Titanic and The Matrix, but not every film from the era struck gold at the box office or lingered in the cultural zeitgeist. Some gems got buried like treasure at the bottom of the VHS bin, left to collect dust while others basked in the spotlight. Let’s dig up 10 forgotten films of the 1990s that deserve a second chance to shine. Spoiler alert: You’re going to want to pop some popcorn for this.

Dark City (1998)

Before The Matrix had us questioning our reality, Dark City was already shuffling memories and bending minds. This noir-tinged sci-fi thriller follows John Murdoch (Rufus Sewell), a man trying to uncover the secrets of a city controlled by shadowy figures known as The Strangers. With dazzling visuals and an unsettling atmosphere, Dark City pulls you into its nightmarish world and refuses to let go. If you’re a fan of cerebral sci-fi, this overlooked masterpiece is a must-watch.

The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)

Picture this: Geena Davis as a suburban mom turned amnesiac assassin. Yep, it’s as wild as it sounds. This film delivers non-stop action and razor-sharp dialogue, with Davis showcasing a ferocious side we don’t see nearly enough. Paired with Samuel L. Jackson’s comedic timing, it’s a high-octane thrill ride that deserves a rewatch.

Mystery Men (1999)

Not all heroes wear capes—sometimes, they wear bowling shirts and wield garden tools. This quirky comedy stars Ben Stiller, William H. Macy, and Janeane Garofalo as a ragtag group of wannabe superheroes trying to save the day. With its absurd humor and offbeat charm, the film revels in its own weirdness. If you’re looking for a lighthearted take on the superhero genre, this one punches above its weight.

The Shadow (1994)

“Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows!” Alec Baldwin dons a fedora and a dark cape in this pulp-inspired adventure that’s part crime thriller, part supernatural spectacle. The film blends moody visuals with campy fun, creating an experience that’s equal parts gothic and gleeful. If you’ve ever wanted to see Batman meet vintage radio drama, this is your chance.

A Simple Plan (1998)

Money might not grow on trees, but in A Simple Plan, it does fall from the sky in the form of a crashed plane filled with cash. Bill Paxton, Billy Bob Thornton, and Bridget Fonda lead this gripping tale of greed and paranoia. It’s a stark reminder that even the best intentions can spiral into disaster when greed takes over. With its slow-burn suspense and moral dilemmas, this film will keep you hooked until the bitter end.

Soapdish (1991)

What happens when the drama behind the scenes of a soap opera is even juicier than what’s on screen? You get Soapdish, a hilarious send-up of daytime television starring Sally Field, Kevin Kline, and Whoopi Goldberg. It’s packed with over-the-top twists and a cast clearly having a blast with the material. If you’ve ever binge-watched a guilty-pleasure soap, this movie will have you laughing all the way to primetime.

Ravenous (1999)

What do you get when you cross a cannibal thriller with pitch-black humor? Ravenous. This grimly funny tale is as much about survival as it is about succumbing to darker appetites—both literal and metaphorical. The chilling performances and eerie score make it a unique blend of horror and satire that deserves more attention.

Sneakers (1992)

No, it’s not about shoes—though this film is definitely a step in the right direction. Sneakers is a smart, tech-savvy heist film about a group of misfits led by Robert Redford trying to outwit shadowy forces. With its perfect mix of suspense and wit, this movie is as entertaining as it is clever. The ensemble cast delivers charm in spades, making it a fun and intelligent watch.

Grosse Pointe Blank (1997)

What do you do when your high school reunion falls on the same weekend as your latest assassination job? If you’re Martin Blank (John Cusack), you multitask. The film’s dark humor and sharp dialogue give it a refreshing edge, while the romance adds surprising depth. Plus, it’s a nostalgic throwback to the late ‘90s with an incredible soundtrack to match.

Strange Days (1995)

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow and co-written by James Cameron, Strange Days is a sci-fi thriller that feels eerily prescient. Set in a dystopian 1999, it explores themes of technology, memory, and corruption. Despite its heavy themes, the film delivers pulse-pounding tension and unforgettable imagery. It’s a visionary piece that showcases Bigelow’s knack for blending action with thought-provoking narratives.