1990s Best Movies

Speed (1994)

We all remember the big explosions and daring stunts in “Speed,” but some of the biggest risks had nothing to do with the on-screen mayhem. Hiring Ted “Theodore” Logan as an action star? Casting Jeff Daniels as a grizzled police vet? Letting Dennis Hopper anywhere near explosives? Mega-commissioner Jackson M....

Beowulf (1999)

When warrior Beowulf (Christopher Lambert) learns that the inhabitants of the Outpost are being killed by a monstrous creature named Grendel, he offers to help the king, Hrothgar (Oliver Cotton), fight off the beast. The beleaguered fighters are grateful for his help, but a warrior named Roland (Gotz Otto) grows jealous of Beowulf when he sees him with the king’s daughter (Rhona Mitra). As Beowulf learns more about Grendel, he realizes how much danger they all are in.

Deep Rising (1998)

A newly unveiled ocean liner, the Argonautica sets out on its first cruise, only to encounter dangers both on board and in the ocean depths. While the beautiful thief Trillian (Famke Janssen) attempts to steal riches from the boat’s wealthy passengers, the ship encounters major problems, most notably a giant murderous sea creature with tentacles. Eventually, a boat captained by John Finnegan (Treat Williams) comes across the Argonautica, and everyone struggles to survive the monster.

Dances With Wolves (1990)

A Civil War soldier develops a relationship with a band of Lakota Indians. Attracted by the simplicity of their lifestyle, he chooses to leave his former life behind to be with them. Having observed him, they give the name Dances With Wolves. Soon he is a welcomed member of the tribe and falls in love with a white woman who has been raised in the tribe. Tragedy results when Union soldiers arrive with designs on the land.

Ninja Scroll (1993)

In this anime film, Jubei, a highly skilled ninja, is coerced into slaying his own clan of warriors. After begrudgingly killing his fellow swordsmen, he becomes a roving hired assassin. During his travels, he must face off against an organization of demonic ninjas known as the Devils of Kimon, who are plotting to take power of Japan’s government. The Devils will stop at nothing, and have the power to annihilate entire villages. Now, only Jubei and a shogun spy named Dakuan can stop them.

That Thing You Do! (1996)

What do Spin Doctors, Dave Matthews Band, Billy Corgan and Styx have in common? They all get trashed in this episode of Shat The Movies (Cock Sparrer was spared.) It’s the 1996 comedy “That Thing You Do!” Tom Hanks wrote, directed and starred in this squeaky-clean look at the 1960s,...

The Craft (1996)

“My problem isn’t with this movie: It’s with you two.” – Dick Ebert Everyone’s favorite everyman was flummoxed this week as his co-hosts drooled over “The Craft,” a movie hand-picked for them by legendary Shat The Movies listener Jen D. When Big D complained that the coven’s four witches were...

Muriel’s Wedding (1994)

Ahead of Gene Lyons’ big day, Dick and Ash share their married-life wisdom as Shat The Movies travels once again to Australia for the 1994 comedy “Muriel’s Wedding.” As expected, this movie led to some fierce debate between Big D, who detests Muriel’s selfishness, and Ash, who simply adores pre-glow-up...