Growing up in the 90’s, I may have a slight bias towards movies of that era. Some might argue modern movies are better because of new developments in technology. In my opinion, all the best technology in the modern world won’t make a movie great without great writing and acting. Without further ado, here are the best movies of the 90’s.

Lion King (1994)

Toy Story might have taken this spot, but I’ve seen Lion King many more times, so it takes the cake. The Lion King is one of Disney’s greatest triumphs, and that’s saying something. Everyone can take a lesson or two out of this movie (hakuna matata anyone?). Chances are it’s locked away in the vault for the next fifty years, so if you have it on DVD, consider yourself lucky.

Silence of the Lambs (1991)

The Silence of the Lambs is a classic horror film. From beginning to end the plot flows well and chills you to the bone. Although it is written masterfully, Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster make this movie as good as it is. The twist in this movie makes it unlike any other, and sets it apart from other films of its genre.

Pulp Fiction (1994)

At first, Pulp Fiction seems disorganized and confusing. However, Tarantino weaves everything together brilliantly, leaving a final product that’s widely considered one of the greatest movies of all time. Of course it seems as though rivers of blood are shed (it’s a Tarantino movie), but seeing Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta with those hairstyles makes it all worth it.

Forrest Gump (1994)

Poor Forrest. This film really makes you feel for the guy. The writing, combined with Tom Hanks’ incredible acting, gives us a fantastic experience. Forrest Gump may be slow-witted, but anyone who’s seen this movie knows we can all learn something from him.

Titanic (1997)

Titanic is a great film, but know this: it will take time to watch. You need to clear your schedule for the evening to get through this. You will find it’s worth it. Making an amazing $2.187 billion at the box office, Titanic makes you feel like you were on the ship that night. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Oscar-winning performance (just kidding) is something to savor.

Shawshank Redemption (1994)

Morgan Freeman’s voice alone makes this movie worth watching, but the story itself makes it legendary. You feel fully invested in what happens to the inmates at the prison and fully enveloped by the plotline. With just enough funny scenes mixed in with sad and emotional ones, Shawshank Redemption is an experience.

Goodfellas (1990)

Similar in narration styles to Shawshank Redemption, Goodfellas is a story. Despite playing the same role in every film he’s ever been in, Joe Pesci plays the role of the tough, Italian criminal very well in support of Ray Liotta and Robert De Niro. The fact that it’s a partially true story makes it even more fascinating.

Scream (1996)

A trailblazer in the horror film industry, Scream put a new twist on the slasher genre. Scream featured successful actors that worked well with director Wes Craven’s vision for the film. Although its believed to have inspired several real world crimes, it also inspired one of the laziest Halloween costumes of all time, the infamous howling, hooded ghost mask.

Braveheart (1995)

As a history major, this movie is one of my all-time favorites. Braveheart is saga, telling the story of William Wallace and his struggle against the British in Scotland. Although Mel Gibson may be a controversial figure now, this movie came out before he went crazy. I highly recommend it.

Space Jam (1996)

This combined two amazing things into one great motion picture: the Looney Tunes and the greatest basketball player of all-time. Space Jam is by far Michael Jordan’s greatest accomplishment; NBA Championships are a dime a dozen. I just really love this movie. Rotten Tomatoes has it listed with a 35% rating so maybe it’s just me.