1. Good Will Hunting 1997，IMDB Rating: 8.3, IMDB Votes: 1084563, ID: 0119217 Photo by mojnews.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 A heartfelt drama, ‘Good Will Hunting’ features Matt Damon as a janitor at MIT who uncovers his genius by solving complex math problems. With its emotional depth and outstanding performances from Damon, Robin Williams, and Ben Affleck, the film explores themes of personal growth and relationships, resonating deeply with audiences and leading to over $225 million in worldwide earnings along with two Academy Awards.
2. My Best Friend’s Wedding 1997，IMDB Rating: 6.3, IMDB Votes: 156959, ID: 0119738 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 A delightful romantic comedy that subverts the genre’s usual formulas, ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’ stars Julia Roberts as Julianne, who tries to sabotage her best friend’s wedding. The film’s charm lies in its witty screenplay and the performances of Roberts, Cameron Diaz, and Rupert Everett. Despite its predictable plot, the movie’s humor and heart made it a box office hit, grossing over $299 million worldwide.
3. Con Air 1997，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 321853, ID: 0118880 Photo by cine-asie.fr, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 An action-packed thriller, ‘Con Air’ showcases Nicolas Cage as a parolee aboard a hijacked prison transport plane. The film’s absurdity and high-energy action sequences, paired with a star-studded ensemble including John Malkovich and John Cusack, contributed to its unexpected box office triumph, grossing over $224 million worldwide while providing a perfect mix of humor and action that keeps audiences entertained throughout.
4. There’s Something About Mary 1998，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 331411, ID: 0129387 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In the wildly funny romantic comedy ‘There’s Something About Mary,’ Ted (Ben Stiller) hilariously attempts to reconnect with his high school crush, Mary (Cameron Diaz). The film’s outrageous humor and unforgettable moments, including the infamous zipper scene, turned it into a box office hit, grossing over $369 million worldwide and ensuring that its mix of crude comedy and genuine emotion continues to amuse viewers.
5. The Waterboy 1998，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 180314, ID: 0120484 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In a feel-good comedy, ‘The Waterboy’ sees Adam Sandler portray Bobby Boucher, an awkward waterboy who surprises everyone by becoming a football star. Even though the film leans into lowbrow humor and a predictable storyline, Sandler’s charm and performance turned it into a box office success, earning over $185 million worldwide and solidifying its status as a beloved classic filled with iconic quotes.
6. Doctor Dolittle 1998，IMDB Rating: 5.4, IMDB Votes: 102809, ID: 0118998 Photo by wikifur.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Eddie Murphy shines in ‘Doctor Dolittle,’ a delightful comedy that exceeded expectations at the box office. Despite having mixed reviews and a fair share of crude humor, the film’s charm stems from Murphy’s engaging performance and the hilarious antics of talking animals, making it a memorable late ’90s hit thanks to its family-friendly appeal and Murphy’s undeniable star power.
7. Rush Hour 1998，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 298727, ID: 0120812 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘Rush Hour’ is a classic buddy cop film that exceeded box office expectations with its perfect blend of action and comedy. Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker’s chemistry is electric, delivering non-stop laughs and thrilling stunts. The film’s unexpected financial success is a testament to its entertaining plot and the dynamic duo’s star appeal.
8. Patch Adams 1998，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 123255, ID: 0129290 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 In ‘Patch Adams,’ Robin Williams delivers a charismatic performance in this heartwarming yet divisive film that surprised many with its box office success. Although it faced mixed critical reviews, the film’s emotional depth and Williams’ engaging presence struck a chord with audiences, achieving financial success by blending humor and drama in a way that resonated with many viewers.
9. Stepmom 1998，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 75096, ID: 0120686 Photo by Dnevnik, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The emotional drama ‘Stepmom’ unexpectedly thrived at the box office, primarily due to the powerful performances of Susan Sarandon and Julia Roberts. The film’s touching storyline and impressive cast attracted audiences and turned it into a sleeper hit, exploring complex family dynamics and terminal illness that resonated deeply despite the predictability of its plot.
10. Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me 1999，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 250829, ID: 0145660 Photo by bfoliver.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Mike Myers’ ‘Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me’ emerged as a comedic gem, grossing far beyond expectations. The film’s outrageous humor, memorable characters, and clever satire on the spy genre captivated audiences, and its success showcases the unique blend of comedy and nostalgia that made it a standout sequel in the series.
11. Big Daddy 1999，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 236700, ID: 0142342 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Big Daddy, featuring Adam Sandler, is a comedy-drama that grossed an impressive $234.8 million worldwide. The film’s blend of crude humor and heartfelt moments resonated with audiences, despite mixed reviews from critics. Sandler’s performance as a slacker who adopts a child to impress his girlfriend is both endearing and entertaining, making it a box office hit in the late 90s.
12. Se7en 1995，IMDB Rating: 8.6, IMDB Votes: 1820778, ID: 0114369 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 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 Photo by oldaintdead.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Mike Nichols’ ‘The Birdcage’ is a delightful comedy that achieved an impressive gross of $185.26 million worldwide. Starring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane, it tells the story of a gay couple who must pretend to be straight for their son’s conservative in-laws, delivering heartwarming humor and stellar performances while significantly contributing to its groundbreaking portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, ensuring its relevance and entertainment value remains strong.
14. Ransom 1996，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 136363, ID: 0117438 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 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 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Jon Turteltaub’s ‘Phenomenon’ tells a heartwarming tale that grossed $152.04 million worldwide. Starring John Travolta as a man who gains super-intelligence and telekinesis after witnessing a bright light, this film explores themes of love, acceptance, and the resilience of the human spirit, with its emotional depth and Travolta’s compelling performance resonating profoundly with audiences, making ‘Phenomenon’ a touching and inspiring cinematic experience.
15 Iconic 1990s Movies That Raked in Cash – How Many Do You Remember?
