Must Watch Fantasy Movies Released in the 90s: A Decade of Magic and Wonder

The 1990s was a golden era for fantasy movies, with a plethora of unforgettable films that transported audiences to magical worlds filled with wonder and adventure. From timeless classics to ground-breaking masterpieces, the decade saw an array of fantasy movies that left an indelible mark on cinema history. In this article, we’ll take a nostalgic journey through the must-watch fantasy movies released in the 90s, exploring their enchanting stories, memorable characters, and the enduring impact they’ve had on the genre.

1. The Green Mile (1999)

“The Green Mile” is a powerful and emotionally gripping fantasy drama that showcases the incredible talents of Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan. Directed by Frank Darabont and based on Stephen King’s novel of the same name, the film tells a story of compassion, redemption, and the power of miracles in the face of injustice.

Plot

Set in a Death Row prison during the Great Depression, “The Green Mile” follows Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks), a prison guard who encounters John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan), a gentle giant with mysterious healing powers who has been convicted of murder. As Paul begins to question John’s guilt, he faces a moral dilemma that will change his life forever.

Characters

• Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks): The compassionate prison guard who becomes deeply affected by John Coffey’s presence.
• John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan): A gentle, mysterious inmate with supernatural healing abilities.
• Percy Wetmore (Doug Hutchison): A sadistic and cruel prison guard who delights in tormenting the inmates.

Awards and Recognition

• Academy Award Nominations: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Michael Clarke Duncan), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Sound
• Screen Actors Guild Awards: Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role (Michael Clarke Duncan)

Popular Quote

“I’m tired, boss. Tired of bein’ on the road, lonely as a sparrow in the rain. I’m tired of never having me a buddy to be with, to tell me where we’s going to, coming from, or why. Mostly, I’m tired of people being ugly to each other. I’m tired of all the pain I feel and hear in the world every day. There’s too much of it. It’s like pieces of glass in my head, all the time.” – John Coffey

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
The Green Mile	1999	8.6/10	$286.8 million

2. The Matrix (1999)

“The Matrix” is a ground-breaking science fiction film with strong fantasy elements that redefined the genre upon its release. Directed by the Wachowski siblings, the film combines mind-bending concepts, stunning visual effects, and thrilling action sequences to create a unique cinematic experience that has become a cultural phenomenon.

Plot

“The Matrix” follows Thomas Anderson, aka Neo (Keanu Reeves), a computer programmer who discovers that his reality is actually a simulated world created by machines to control humanity. Guided by the mysterious Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) and the skilled fighter Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss), Neo embarks on a journey to uncover the truth and fight against the machines in a desperate battle for the future of humanity.

Characters

• Neo (Keanu Reeves): The chosen one who discovers his role in the fight against the machines.
• Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne): The leader of the human resistance who believes in Neo’s destiny.
• Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss): A skilled fighter and hacker who becomes Neo’s ally and love interest.
• Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving): A powerful AI program determined to stop Neo and the human resistance.

Awards and Recognition

• Academy Award Winners: Best Visual Effects, Best Film Editing, Best Sound, Best Sound Effects Editing
• Academy Award Nominations: Best Cinematography, Best Sound Mixing

Popular Quote

“I know you’re out there. I can feel you now. I know that you’re afraid. You’re afraid of us. You’re afraid of change. I don’t know the future. I didn’t come here to tell you how this is going to end. I came here to tell you how it’s going to begin.” – Neo

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
The Matrix	1999	8.7/10	$465.3 million

3. Princess Mononoke (1997)

“Princess Mononoke” is a breathtaking anime fantasy film from the renowned Studio Ghibli and director Hayao Miyazaki. The movie is a testament to Miyazaki’s storytelling prowess and his ability to create visually stunning, thought-provoking, and emotionally resonant tales. With its complex characters, environmental themes, and epic scale, “Princess Mononoke” is a must-watch for any fantasy enthusiast.

Plot

Set in ancient Japan, “Princess Mononoke” follows the young warrior Ashitaka as he becomes entangled in a conflict between the forest gods and the humans who consume its resources. After being cursed by a demon, Ashitaka seeks a cure and finds himself in the midst of a war between the humans of Iron Town, led by Lady Eboshi, and the forest spirits, championed by the fierce Princess Mononoke. As Ashitaka navigates this conflict, he must find a way to bring balance and understanding between the two sides.

Characters

• Ashitaka: A young warrior who is cursed by a demon and seeks to find a cure while bringing peace to the warring factions.
• Princess Mononoke/San: A human girl raised by wolf gods who fiercely defends the forest and its inhabitants.
• Lady Eboshi: The strong-willed leader of Iron Town who seeks to expand her influence and protect her people.
• Forest Spirit: A powerful and ancient deity who maintains the balance of life and death in the forest.

Awards and Recognition

• Japan Academy Prize: Picture of the Year, Outstanding Achievement in Music
• Mainichi Film Awards: Best Japanese Movie
• Berlin International Film Festival: Prize of the Guild of German Art House Cinemas

Popular Quote

“You cannot alter your fate. However, you can rise to meet it, if you so choose.” – Oracle

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
Princess Mononoke	1997	8.4/10	$159.4 million

4. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a stop-motion animated fantasy musical that has become a beloved cult classic. Produced and conceived by Tim Burton, the film showcases his signature gothic style and unique vision. With its memorable characters, catchy musical numbers, and innovative animation, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a timeless masterpiece that appeals to audiences of all ages.

Plot

The story follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who has grown tired of the same annual Halloween celebrations. When he stumbles upon Christmas Town, Jack becomes fascinated with the holiday and decides to take over Christmas by kidnapping Santa Claus. As Jack’s well-intentioned but misguided plans unfold, he must confront the consequences of his actions and learn the true meaning of both holidays.

Characters

• Jack Skellington: The charismatic and restless Pumpkin King of Halloween Town who longs for something new.
• Sally: A kind-hearted rag doll who has feelings for Jack and tries to prevent his Christmas takeover.
• Oogie Boogie: The villainous bogeyman who seeks to overthrow Jack and rule Halloween Town.
• Santa Claus: The jolly ruler of Christmas Town who becomes a target of Jack’s misguided plan.

Awards and Recognition

• Academy Award Nomination: Best Visual Effects
• Saturn Awards: Best Fantasy Film, Best Music
• Annie Awards: Best Individual Achievement for Creative Supervision in the Field of Animation

Popular Quote

“Just because I cannot see it, doesn’t mean I can’t believe it!” – Jack Skellington

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
The Nightmare Before Christmas	1993	8.0/10	$91.5 million

5. Edward Scissorhands (1990)

Directed by Tim Burton, “Edward Scissorhands” is a whimsical and poignant fantasy romance that showcases Burton’s distinctive visual style and storytelling. The film is a modern fairy tale that explores themes of love, acceptance, and the consequences of being different in a conformist society. With Johnny Depp’s endearing performance and the film’s stunning production design, “Edward Scissorhands” is a must-watch fantasy classic.

Plot

The story follows Edward, an artificial man created by an eccentric inventor who dies before completing him, leaving Edward with scissors for hands. When a kind Avon lady named Peg discovers Edward living alone in his creator’s mansion, she brings him home to live with her family in a pastel-colored suburban neighborhood. As Edward falls in love with Peg’s teenage daughter, Kim, and showcases his unique talents, he struggles to find acceptance in a community that initially welcomes him but ultimately fears his differences.

Characters

• Edward Scissorhands (Johnny Depp): A gentle, naive, and artistic creation with scissors for hands who yearns for love and acceptance.
• Kim Boggs (Winona Ryder): Peg’s teenage daughter who initially fears Edward but eventually falls in love with him.
• Peg Boggs (Dianne Wiest): A kind-hearted Avon representative who takes Edward into her home and treats him like family.
• Jim (Anthony Michael Hall): Kim’s boyfriend, who becomes jealous of her growing affection for Edward.

Awards and Recognition

• Academy Award Nomination: Best Makeup
• BAFTA Award Nomination: Best Production Design
• Saturn Awards: Best Fantasy Film, Best Actor (Johnny Depp), Best Music

Popular Quote

“I am not complete.” – Edward Scissorhands

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
Edward Scissorhands	1990	7.9/10	$86 million

6. Jurassic Park (1993)

Directed by Steven Spielberg, “Jurassic Park” is a ground breaking science fiction adventure film with strong fantasy elements. Based on Michael Crichton’s novel of the same name, the movie revolutionized the use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) and animatronics, setting a new standard for visual effects in cinema. “Jurassic Park” is a thrilling and thought-provoking film that explores the consequences of playing God and the power of nature.

Plot

“Jurassic Park” follows palaeontologist Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill), palaeobotanist Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern), and chaos theorist Dr. Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) as they are invited by eccentric billionaire John Hammond (Richard Attenborough) to tour his secluded island theme park featuring genetically engineered dinosaurs. When a disgruntled employee sabotages the park’s security systems, the dinosaurs escape, forcing the visitors to fight for survival and ultimately question the ethics of bringing extinct creatures back to life.

Characters

• Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill): A paleontologist who is skeptical about the park’s concept but becomes a reluctant hero when the dinosaurs escape.
• Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern): A paleobotanist and Grant’s partner, who plays a crucial role in restoring power to the park and protecting the group.
• Dr. Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum): A charismatic chaos theorist who warns about the unpredictable nature of the park and the dangers of genetic engineering.
• John Hammond (Richard Attenborough): The visionary billionaire behind Jurassic Park, whose dream turns into a nightmare when the park spirals out of control.

Awards and Recognition

• Academy Award Winners: Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Mixing, Best Sound Editing
• Academy Award Nominations: Best Original Score
• Saturn Awards: Best Science Fiction Film, Best Director, Best Writing, Best Special Effects

Popular Quote

“Life finds a way.” – Dr. Ian Malcolm

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
Jurassic Park	1993	8.2/10	$1.034 billion

7. The Lion King (1994)

“The Lion King” is a classic Disney animated musical that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff, the film features a talented voice cast, memorable characters, and an iconic soundtrack by Elton John and Tim Rice. “The Lion King” is a timeless tale of love, loss, and redemption that explores themes of family, responsibility, and the circle of life.

Plot

Set in the African savannah, “The Lion King” follows the journey of Simba, a young lion cub who is heir to the throne of Pride Rock. When Simba’s father, Mufasa, is tragically killed by his jealous brother Scar, Simba is forced to flee his home, believing he is responsible for his father’s death. In exile, Simba meets the carefree duo Timon and Pumbaa, who teach him their “Hakuna Matata” philosophy. As Simba grows into adulthood, he must confront his past, return to Pride Rock, and claim his rightful place as king.

Characters

• Simba (voiced by Jonathan Taylor Thomas as a cub, Matthew Broderick as an adult): The protagonist, a young lion cub who must overcome tragedy and learn to accept his destiny as king.
• Mufasa (voiced by James Earl Jones): Simba’s wise and loving father, who teaches him about the responsibilities of being a leader.
• Scar (voiced by Jeremy Irons): Mufasa’s villainous brother, who plots to take over the throne by any means necessary.
• Timon (voiced by Nathan Lane) and Pumbaa (voiced by Ernie Sabella): A meerkat and warthog duo who become Simba’s best friends and teach him to live a carefree life.

Awards and Recognition

• Academy Award Winners: Best Original Score, Best Original Song (“Can You Feel the Love Tonight”)
• Golden Globe Awards: Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, Best Original Score, Best Original Song (“Can You Feel the Love Tonight”)
• Grammy Awards: Best Musical Album for Children, Best Instrumental Arrangement with Accompanying Vocals, Best Song Written Specifically for a Motion Picture or for Television

Popular Quote

“Oh yes, the past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it.” – Rafiki

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
The Lion King	1994	8.5/10	$968.5 million

8. Groundhog Day (1993)

Directed by Harold Ramis and starring Bill Murray, “Groundhog Day” is a fantasy comedy that has become a cultural touchstone and a classic of the genre. The film’s unique premise, combined with Murray’s iconic performance and the story’s exploration of self-improvement and redemption, has made it a beloved and enduring favourite among audiences.

Plot

Phil Connors (Bill Murray), a cynical and egotistical TV weatherman, finds himself stuck in a time loop while covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Forced to relive the same day over and over again, Phil initially indulges in hedonistic pursuits but eventually begins to re-examine his life and priorities. As he learns to appreciate the small things and the people around him, Phil undergoes a profound transformation, ultimately finding love and a new lease on life.

Characters

• Phil Connors (Bill Murray): A sarcastic and self-centred weatherman who finds himself trapped in a time loop and must learn to become a better person.
• Rita Hanson (Andie MacDowell): Phil’s kind-hearted producer and love interest, who helps him see the value in being a good person.
• Ned Ryerson (Stephen Tobolowsky): An old high school classmate of Phil’s who becomes a recurring annoyance throughout the time loop.

Awards and Recognition

• BAFTA Award Nominations: Best Original Screenplay, Best Actor (Bill Murray)
• Saturn Award: Best Fantasy Film
• British Comedy Awards: Best Comedy Film

Popular Quote

“Well, what if there is no tomorrow? There wasn’t one today.” – Phil Connors

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
Groundhog Day	1993	8.1/10	$70.9 million

9. Being John Malkovich (1999)

Introduction

Directed by Spike Jonze and written by Charlie Kaufman, “Being John Malkovich” is a surreal and inventive fantasy comedy that explores themes of identity, celebrity, and the human condition. The film’s original concept, combined with its stellar cast and thought-provoking storytelling, has made it a cult classic and a must-watch for fans of unconventional cinema.

Plot

Craig Schwartz (John Cusack), a struggling puppeteer, discovers a hidden portal that allows him to enter the mind of actor John Malkovich for 15 minutes at a time. As Craig, his co-worker Maxine (Catherine Keener), and his wife Lotte (Cameron Diaz) become entangled in the bizarre world of Malkovich’s psyche, they begin to explore their own desires, identities, and the nature of consciousness itself.

Characters

• Craig Schwartz (John Cusack): A frustrated puppeteer who discovers the portal into John Malkovich’s mind and sees it as an opportunity to change his life.
• Maxine Lund (Catherine Keener): Craig’s manipulative co-worker who becomes obsessed with the portal and its potential for personal gain.
• Lotte Schwartz (Cameron Diaz): Craig’s neglected wife who finds a new sense of self when she enters Malkovich’s mind.
• John Malkovich (as himself): The celebrated actor whose mind becomes a vessel for others to inhabit and explore.

Awards and Recognition

• Academy Award Nominations: Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Supporting Actress (Catherine Keener)
• BAFTA Award Nominations: Best Original Screenplay, Best Supporting Actress (Cameron Diaz)
• Independent Spirit Awards: Best First Feature, Best Screenplay

Popular Quote

“Malkovich, Malkovich, Malkovich.” – Various characters

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
Being John Malkovich	1999	7.8/10	$22.9 million

10. Toy Story 2 (1999)

Directed by John Lasseter, “Toy Story 2” is a computer-animated fantasy comedy and the sequel to the highly acclaimed “Toy Story” (1995). The film further explores the world of sentient toys and their relationships with each other and their owner, Andy. With its exceptional animation, heartfelt storytelling, and talented voice cast, “Toy Story 2” is a rare sequel that equals, if not surpasses, its predecessor.

Plot

When Woody (Tom Hanks) is stolen by a toy collector named Al McWhiggin, Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and the other toys embark on a daring rescue mission to save their friend. Along the way, Woody discovers his origins as a valuable collectible from a 1950s TV show and is tempted by the idea of immortality in a museum. However, he ultimately realizes that his true worth lies in the love and companionship of his fellow toys and his owner, Andy.

Characters

• Woody (voiced by Tom Hanks): A vintage cowboy doll and Andy’s favourite toy, who faces a crisis of identity when he learns about his past.
• Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Tim Allen): A space ranger action figure and Woody’s best friend, who leads the mission to rescue Woody.
• Jessie (voiced by Joan Cusack): A cowgirl doll from Woody’s TV show who helps him understand the importance of being loved by a child.
• Stinky Pete (voiced by Kelsey Grammar): A prospector doll from Woody’s TV show who has never been owned by a child and resents Woody for wanting to return to Andy.

Awards and Recognition

• Academy Award Nomination: Best Original Song (“When She Loved Me”)
• Golden Globe Award: Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy
• Grammy Award: Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media (“When She Loved Me”)

Popular Quote

“You’ve got a friend in me.” – Woody

Movie Title	Release Year	IMDb Rating	Box Office (USD)
Toy Story 2	1999	7.9/10	$497.4 million

Conclusion

The 1990s was a remarkable decade for fantasy movies, offering a diverse range of films that pushed the boundaries of the genre and captivated audiences with their unique storytelling, memorable characters, and visual effects. From the mind-bending realities of “Groundhog Day” and “Being John Malkovich” to the heart warming adventures of “Toy Story 2,” these must-watch fantasy movies of the 90s showcase the incredible creativity and innovation that defined the decade.

Together with other classic films like “The Green Mile,” “The Matrix,” “Princess Mononoke,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Edward Scissorhands,” “Jurassic Park,” and “The Lion King,” these movies have left an enduring legacy in the world of fantasy cinema. They continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and entertain audiences with their timeless themes, unforgettable moments, and sheer cinematic magic. As we look back on the fantasy movies of the 90s, it’s clear that this decade was a true golden age for the genre, setting a high bar for the films that would follow and cementing its place in movie history.