15 ’90s Movies That Cashed In Big Time (And You’d Never Guess!)

1. Problem Child 1990，IMDB Rating: 5.5, IMDB Votes: 33309, ID: 0100419
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Problem Child (1990) is a dark comedy that surprised many with its box office success, grossing $53.4 million domestically. Despite its mixed reviews, the film’s outrageous humor and the mischievous antics of Junior, played by Michael Oliver, struck a chord with audiences. John Ritter’s performance as the well-meaning adoptive father added a layer of heart to the otherwise chaotic narrative. The film’s unexpected financial success highlights its appeal as a guilty pleasure for many viewers.
2. Ghost 1990，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 238583, ID: 0099653
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Ghost (1990) is a timeless romantic fantasy that captivated audiences with its unique blend of romance, suspense, and supernatural elements. Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore’s chemistry, combined with Whoopi Goldberg’s Oscar-winning performance, created a memorable cinematic experience. The film’s success at the box office, grossing $217.6 million domestically, is a testament to its widespread appeal and emotional resonance. Its ability to seamlessly blend genres and deliver a heartfelt story makes it a standout film of the 90s.
3. Misery 1990，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 238635, ID: 0100157
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Misery (1990) is a gripping psychological thriller that showcased the terrifying talent of Kathy Bates, who won an Oscar for her role as the obsessive fan, Annie Wilkes. Directed by Rob Reiner, the film grossed $61.2 million domestically, making it one of the most successful movies of the year. The intense performances and the claustrophobic setting created a sense of dread that resonated with audiences, solidifying its place as a standout Stephen King adaptation.
4. City Slickers 1991，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 63740, ID: 0101587
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City Slickers (1991) is a delightful comedy that blends humor with heartfelt moments, making it a box office hit with $124 million domestically. Billy Crystal’s portrayal of a man experiencing a midlife crisis, along with the rugged charm of Jack Palance, created a memorable and relatable story. The film’s success lies in its ability to balance comedy with genuine emotion, making it a beloved classic of the 90s.
5. Wayne’s World 1992，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 172662, ID: 0105793
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Wayne’s World (1992) is a cult classic that brought the beloved Saturday Night Live characters to the big screen. Mike Myers and Dana Carvey’s hilarious performances as Wayne and Garth, combined with the film’s clever humor and memorable catchphrases, made it a box office success, grossing $121.7 million domestically. The film’s playful spirit and cultural impact have cemented its status as a quintessential 90s comedy.
6. Unforgiven 1992，IMDB Rating: 8.2, IMDB Votes: 439878, ID: 0105695
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Clint Eastwood’s ‘Unforgiven’ is a masterful Western that transcends its genre, reflecting on the nature of violence and redemption. The film’s success at the box office, grossing over $159 million worldwide, is a testament to its powerful storytelling and stellar performances by Eastwood, Gene Hackman, and Morgan Freeman. The movie’s exploration of moral ambiguity and the consequences of a violent past resonated with audiences, making it a surprising box office hit. Its haunting visuals and poignant narrative make ‘Unforgiven’ a timeless classic.
7. The Fugitive 1993，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 322203, ID: 0106977
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Harrison Ford’s portrayal of Dr. Richard Kimble in ‘The Fugitive’ captivated audiences, leading to a box office gross of over $368 million. The film’s intense cat-and-mouse chase, combined with Tommy Lee Jones’ Oscar-winning performance as U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard, created a thrilling experience. The movie’s success can be attributed to its gripping plot, stellar cast, and the universal appeal of an innocent man on the run. ‘The Fugitive’ remains a standout 90s thriller that exceeded box office expectations.
8. Indecent Proposal 1993，IMDB Rating: 6.0, IMDB Votes: 78969, ID: 0107211
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Adrian Lyne’s ‘Indecent Proposal’ sparked debates and drew audiences with its provocative premise, grossing over $266 million worldwide. The film’s exploration of morality, love, and temptation, coupled with strong performances by Demi Moore, Woody Harrelson, and Robert Redford, made it a box office sensation. Despite mixed reviews, its intriguing storyline and the ethical dilemmas it presented resonated with viewers, making it a surprising financial success.
9. The Pelican Brief 1993，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 97018, ID: 0107798
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Based on John Grisham’s novel, ‘The Pelican Brief’ features Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington in a gripping legal thriller that grossed over $195 million worldwide. The film’s intricate plot, combined with the star power of its leads, captivated audiences. Its success at the box office can be attributed to the compelling narrative and the chemistry between Roberts and Washington. ‘The Pelican Brief’ remains a notable 90s film that exceeded financial expectations.
10. Clear and Present Danger 1994，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 109074, ID: 0109444
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Harrison Ford’s return as Jack Ryan in ‘Clear and Present Danger’ was met with critical acclaim and box office success, grossing over $215 million worldwide. The film’s intricate political plot, combined with Ford’s compelling performance, made it a standout in the 90s. Its exploration of government corruption and international intrigue resonated with audiences, making it a surprising box office hit. ‘Clear and Present Danger’ remains a thrilling and thought-provoking film.
11. Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls 1995，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 235519, ID: 0112281
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Jim Carrey’s comedic genius shines in ‘Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls,’ a film that grossed an impressive $212.39 million worldwide. The sequel to ‘Ace Ventura: Pet Detective’ takes the eccentric pet detective to Africa, where he embarks on a hilarious quest to find a sacred white bat. Despite its over-the-top humor and absurd plot, the film’s box office success was a testament to Carrey’s star power and the audience’s appetite for slapstick comedy. The movie’s strength lies in its relentless energy and Carrey’s physical comedy, making it a fun, albeit ridiculous, watch.
12. Se7en 1995，IMDB Rating: 8.6, IMDB Votes: 1820778, ID: 0114369
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David Fincher’s ‘Se7en’ is a dark, gripping thriller that grossed a staggering $327.33 million worldwide. The film follows two detectives, played by Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, as they hunt a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi. The movie’s success can be attributed to its intense atmosphere, brilliant performances, and shocking ending. ‘Se7en’ is a masterclass in suspense and storytelling, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
13. The Birdcage 1996，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 102324, ID: 0115685
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Mike Nichols’ ‘The Birdcage’ is a delightful comedy that grossed $185.26 million worldwide. Starring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane, the film tells the story of a gay couple who must pretend to be straight for their son’s conservative future in-laws. The movie’s success lies in its heartwarming humor, stellar performances, and its groundbreaking portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters. ‘The Birdcage’ is a charming and hilarious film that remains relevant and entertaining.
14. Ransom 1996，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 136363, ID: 0117438
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Ron Howard’s ‘Ransom’ is a gripping thriller that grossed $309.49 million worldwide. Starring Mel Gibson as a wealthy businessman whose son is kidnapped, the film takes a unique twist when he decides to use the ransom money as a bounty on the kidnappers. The movie’s success can be attributed to its intense plot, strong performances, and Howard’s direction. ‘Ransom’ is a tense and engaging film that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
15. Phenomenon 1996，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 84431, ID: 0117333
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Jon Turteltaub’s ‘Phenomenon’ is a heartwarming drama that grossed $152.04 million worldwide. Starring John Travolta as a man who gains super-intelligence and telekinesis after seeing a bright light, the film explores themes of love, acceptance, and the human spirit. The movie’s success lies in its emotional depth, Travolta’s compelling performance, and its uplifting message. ‘Phenomenon’ is a touching and inspiring film that resonates with audiences.