The Best-Rated Movies from 1994

The year 1994 stands out as a truly remarkable period in the history of cinema. It was a time when innovative storytelling and unforgettable characters graced the big screen, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. This was a year that saw independent filmmakers rise to prominence alongside established Hollywood directors, creating a diverse and exciting landscape of films. From gritty crime thrillers to heartwarming dramas and iconic animated features, the movies of this year captured the imagination of millions and continue to be celebrated decades later.

What made 1994 so special was its sheer variety and quality. It delivered films that would not only dominate the box office but also achieve timeless status, beloved by generations of movie fans. The year produced multiple films that are now considered classics, with compelling narratives, groundbreaking techniques, and powerful performances that have stood the test of time. Whether you were looking for action, comedy, or thought-provoking drama, 1994 had something incredible to offer, making it a year that truly shaped the future of filmmaking.

‘Shallow Grave’ (1994)

‘Shallow Grave’ is a dark comedy thriller directed by Danny Boyle and written by John Hodge. The story revolves around three friends, Juliet, David, and Alex, played by Kerry Fox, Christopher Eccleston, and Ewan McGregor in his debut film role. They share a flat in Edinburgh and are searching for a new flatmate. After interviewing several unsuitable candidates, they offer the room to a mysterious man named Hugo.

Their new arrangement takes a dark turn when they find Hugo dead in his room from an overdose, with a large suitcase full of cash hidden under his bed. The three friends make the fateful decision to keep the money and dispose of the body. This choice sets off a chain of events that tests their friendship and leads them down a path of paranoia, betrayal, and violence, as they find themselves in over their heads.

‘The Hudsucker Proxy’ (1994)

‘The Hudsucker Proxy’ is a screwball comedy film directed by Joel Coen and written by the Coen brothers along with Sam Raimi. The movie stars Tim Robbins as Norville Barnes, a naive business school graduate who lands a job in the mailroom of the massive Hudsucker Industries. The film also features Jennifer Jason Leigh as investigative reporter Amy Archer and Paul Newman as the scheming board member Sidney J. Mussburger.

Following the sudden death of the company’s founder, the board, led by Mussburger, concocts a plan to temporarily devalue the company’s stock so they can buy it up cheaply. They decide to appoint a complete fool to run the company, and they choose Norville for the job. However, their plan goes awry when Norville’s simple invention, a circle of plastic for some reason, becomes a massive success, sending the company’s value soaring and complicating everything for Mussburger and the board.

‘Natural Born Killers’ (1994)

‘Natural Born Killers’ is a satirical crime film directed by Oliver Stone. The story, originally conceived by Quentin Tarantino, was heavily rewritten by Stone, Richard Rutowski, and David Veloz. The movie stars Woody Harrelson and Juliette Lewis as Mickey and Mallory Knox, a pair of lovers from traumatic backgrounds who become mass murderers.

Their violent crime spree is sensationalized by the media, turning them into controversial folk heroes. Robert Downey Jr. plays Wayne Gale, a tabloid journalist who exploits their story for ratings. The film uses a variety of unconventional and experimental filmmaking techniques to critique the way mass media can glorify violence and create a culture of celebrity around criminals, exploring the couple’s brutal journey and its societal impact.

‘True Lies’ (1994)

‘True Lies’ is an action-comedy film directed by James Cameron and written by Cameron based on the French comedy ‘La Totale!’. The film stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as Harry Tasker, a man who leads a double life. To his wife Helen, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, and his daughter, he is a boring computer salesman, but in reality, he is a top-secret government agent.

Harry’s two worlds collide when he suspects Helen is having an affair. His investigation leads him to use his agency’s resources to spy on her, which inadvertently gets her involved in his latest mission. Helen discovers her husband’s true profession when they are both kidnapped by a terrorist group. Together, they must find a way to save the day while also navigating the hilarious and action-packed complexities of their suddenly revealed secret lives.

‘The Madness of King George’ (1994)

‘The Madness of King George’ is a biographical historical film directed by Nicholas Hytner and adapted by Alan Bennett from his own play. The film stars Nigel Hawthorne in the title role of King George III of the United Kingdom. The cast also includes Helen Mirren as his devoted wife Queen Charlotte, and Ian Holm as the progressive doctor who treats him.

The story is set in the late 18th century and depicts the King’s deteriorating mental and physical health, and the political turmoil it causes. As the King’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, his ambitious son, the Prince of Wales, and opposing politicians attempt to seize power. The film explores the desperate efforts to cure the King and the power struggles within the royal court and Parliament during a period of national crisis.

‘Muriel’s Wedding’ (1994)

‘Muriel’s Wedding’ is a comedy-drama written and directed by P.J. Hogan. The film stars Toni Collette in her breakout role as Muriel Heslop, a socially awkward young woman from a small town who is obsessed with the music of ABBA and dreams of having a glamorous wedding to escape her mundane life and overbearing father.

Feeling like an outcast, Muriel impulsively decides to take control of her life. After stealing money from her family, she moves to Sydney with her free-spirited friend Rhonda, played by Rachel Griffiths. There, she changes her name and attempts to reinvent herself, all while continuing her desperate search for a husband. The film follows her funny and often touching journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

‘Little Women’ (1994)

‘Little Women’ is a historical drama film directed by Gillian Armstrong and based on the classic novel by Louisa May Alcott. The screenplay was written by Robin Swicord. The film features an ensemble cast including Winona Ryder as the spirited Jo March, alongside Susan Sarandon as Marmee March, Trini Alvarado as Meg, Kirsten Dunst as young Amy, and Claire Danes as Beth.

Set during and after the American Civil War, the story follows the lives of the four March sisters as they grow from childhood to womanhood. Guided by their strong-willed mother, they navigate challenges, pursue their individual dreams, and experience love and loss. The narrative primarily focuses on Jo, an aspiring writer who defies societal expectations for women of her time, as she and her sisters forge their own paths.

‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’ (1994)

‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’ is a romantic comedy directed by Mike Newell and written by Richard Curtis. The film stars Hugh Grant as Charles, a charming but commitment-phobic Englishman, and Andie MacDowell as Carrie, the American woman he repeatedly encounters at various social events. The story follows Charles and his circle of friends as they navigate love, friendship, and life.

The plot is structured around the five events mentioned in the title. Charles and Carrie’s paths cross at the first wedding, sparking an instant connection, but circumstances keep them apart. Over the course of the other weddings and a funeral, their relationship deepens through a series of missed opportunities and heartfelt moments. The film is known for its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and its blend of humor and genuine emotion.

‘Speed’ (1994)

‘Speed’ is an action thriller directed by Jan de Bont in his feature film directorial debut, with a screenplay by Graham Yost. The movie stars Keanu Reeves as Jack Traven, a Los Angeles Police Department SWAT officer. Sandra Bullock plays Annie Porter, a passenger who finds herself in a terrifying situation, and Dennis Hopper portrays the film’s villain, a disgruntled former bomb squad officer.

The high-stakes plot begins when Jack foils a bomber’s attempt to hold an elevator full of people for ransom. The vengeful bomber then rigs a city bus with a bomb that will arm itself once the bus reaches 50 miles per hour and detonate if it drops below that speed. Jack must get aboard the moving bus and, with the help of Annie who takes the wheel, keep all the passengers safe while racing through the city and trying to find a way to disarm the device.

‘Dumb and Dumber’ (1994)

‘Dumb and Dumber’ is a buddy comedy film directed by Peter Farrelly and co-written with his brother Bobby Farrelly and Bennett Yellin. The film stars Jim Carrey as Lloyd Christmas and Jeff Daniels as Harry Dunne, two kind-hearted but incredibly dim-witted best friends. Lauren Holly also stars as Mary Swanson, the object of Lloyd’s affection.

The story kicks off when Lloyd, a limousine driver, falls for a woman he is driving to the airport. After she leaves a briefcase behind, Lloyd, unaware it contains ransom money, convinces Harry to embark on a cross-country road trip to Aspen, Colorado, to return it to her. Their journey is filled with a series of bizarre and hilarious misadventures as they are pursued by criminals who are after the money.

‘Bullets Over Broadway’ (1994)

‘Bullets Over Broadway’ is a black comedy film directed by Woody Allen and co-written with Douglas McGrath. The film is set in the 1920s New York theater world and features an ensemble cast, including John Cusack as a struggling playwright, Dianne Wiest in an award-winning role as a theatrical diva, and Chazz Palminteri as a mobster with a surprising talent.

The plot centers on David Shayne, a young, idealistic playwright who makes a deal with a mob boss to get his play produced on Broadway. The catch is that he must cast the mobster’s talentless girlfriend, Olive Neal, played by Jennifer Tilly, in a key role. To make matters worse, her bodyguard, the thuggish Cheech, begins to offer surprisingly brilliant suggestions to improve the script, leading to a complicated and humorous clash between art and crime.

‘Clerks’ (1994)

‘Clerks’ is an independent black-and-white comedy film written, directed, and co-produced by Kevin Smith in his debut. The film stars Brian O’Halloran as Dante Hicks and Jeff Anderson as Randal Graves, two friends working dead-end jobs at a convenience store and a neighboring video rental store in New Jersey. The movie was filmed on a very low budget at the actual stores where Smith worked.

The story follows a single day in the lives of Dante and Randal. Dante is reluctantly called into work on his day off, where he deals with a series of eccentric customers, his complicated love life, and his existential angst about his directionless life. Meanwhile, his cynical best friend Randal spends his day annoying customers and engaging in lengthy, humorous debates about pop culture, particularly ‘Star Wars’, offering a slice-of-life look at disillusioned youth.

‘The Crow’ (1994)

‘The Crow’ is a dark fantasy action film directed by Alex Proyas and written by David J. Schow and John Shirley, based on the comic book series of the same name. The film stars Brandon Lee in his final film role as Eric Draven, a rock musician who is brought back from the dead. The film also features Ernie Hudson as a sympathetic police officer.

The story begins on the night before their wedding when Eric Draven and his fiancée, Shelly Webster, are brutally murdered by a gang of criminals. One year later, a mystical crow resurrects Eric, granting him supernatural abilities. Guided by the crow, Eric seeks vengeance on the gang members who took his life and the life of the woman he loved, methodically hunting them down through a rain-soaked, gothic city.

‘Interview with the Vampire’ (1994)

‘Interview with the Vampire’ is a gothic horror film directed by Neil Jordan, based on the novel of the same name by Anne Rice, who also wrote the screenplay. The film stars Tom Cruise as the charismatic and ancient vampire Lestat de Lioncourt and Brad Pitt as Louis de Pointe du Lac, a man Lestat turns into a vampire in the late 18th century.

The story is framed as a modern-day interview, where Louis recounts his immortal life story to a journalist played by Christian Slater. He details his transformation, his complex and often tumultuous relationship with his maker Lestat, and his experiences over two centuries. The narrative also introduces other key characters, including a young girl named Claudia, played by Kirsten Dunst, whom they turn into a vampire, creating a troubled, immortal family.

‘Heavenly Creatures’ (1994)

‘Heavenly Creatures’ is a biographical drama directed by Peter Jackson, who co-wrote the screenplay with Fran Walsh. The film is based on a real-life murder case from 1950s New Zealand and stars Melanie Lynskey and Kate Winslet in their feature film debuts. They play Pauline Parker and Juliet Hulme, two teenage girls who develop an intensely imaginative and obsessive friendship.

As their bond deepens, they create a rich fantasy world called Borovnia, which serves as an escape from their mundane lives and strained family relationships. Fearing that their parents will force them apart, the girls’ fantasy world and their real-world actions begin to blur. Their inseparable bond leads them to concoct a dark plan to remove the one person they see as the main obstacle to their staying together, Pauline’s mother.

‘Chungking Express’ (1994)

‘Chungking Express’ is a Hong Kong romantic comedy-drama film written and directed by Wong Kar-wai. The film consists of two distinct stories, told in sequence, about two lovesick Hong Kong policemen and their relationships with two different women. The first story stars Takeshi Kaneshiro as a policeman coping with a recent breakup who encounters a mysterious drug smuggler played by Brigitte Lin.

The second, more prominent story features Tony Leung as another police officer who has been left by his girlfriend. He catches the eye of Faye, a quirky snack bar worker played by Faye Wong, who secretly begins to tidy up his apartment to bring joy into his life. The film is known for its vibrant, kinetic visual style and its poignant, meditative exploration of love, loneliness, and connection in the bustling, modern city of Hong Kong.

‘Eat Drink Man Woman’ (1994)

‘Eat Drink Man Woman’ is a Taiwanese comedy-drama film directed by Ang Lee, who co-wrote the screenplay with James Schamus and Wang Hui-ling. The film centers on the lives of a semi-retired and widowed master chef, Mr. Chu, and his three unmarried daughters, Jia-Jen, Jia-Chien, and Jia-Ning, who live with him in Taipei.

Every Sunday, Mr. Chu painstakingly prepares an elaborate traditional dinner for his daughters, but the family communicates less with words and more through the food. The film explores the tensions and transitions within the family as each daughter navigates her own path in love and life, challenging traditional values. The story beautifully intertwines the culinary arts with themes of family, tradition, and the search for personal fulfillment.

‘Three Colors: White’ (1994)

‘Three Colors: White’ is the second film in the ‘Three Colors’ trilogy directed by Krzysztof Kieślowski and co-written by Kieślowski and Krzysztof Piesiewicz. The film stars Zbigniew Zamachowski as Karol Karol, a Polish hairdresser, and Julie Delpy as his French wife, Dominique. The film is a tragicomedy that explores the theme of equality, as represented by the color white in the French flag.

The story begins in Paris, where Karol’s wife divorces him, leaving him humiliated, penniless, and stripped of his dignity. He manages to smuggle himself back to his native Poland in a suitcase, where he sets out to rebuild his life. Karol embarks on a series of schemes to achieve financial success and ultimately plans an elaborate and surprising act of revenge to prove himself equal to the woman who wronged him.

‘Ed Wood’ (1994)

‘Ed Wood’ is a biographical comedy-drama directed and produced by Tim Burton, with a screenplay by Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski. The film stars Johnny Depp as the titular character, an infamous and relentlessly optimistic filmmaker known for making low-budget science fiction and horror films in the 1950s that were often criticized for their technical errors and campy style.

The film, shot in black and white, chronicles Wood’s creative period and his relationships with a quirky group of collaborators, including the aging and down-on-his-luck horror icon Bela Lugosi, played by Martin Landau in an Oscar-winning performance. It’s a heartfelt tribute to a passionate, if not particularly talented, director, celebrating his unwavering dedication to his craft and his unique vision despite constant setbacks and a lack of critical acclaim.

‘The Legend of Drunken Master’ (1994)

‘The Legend of Drunken Master’, also known as ‘Drunken Master II’, is a Hong Kong action-comedy film directed by Lau Kar-leung and starring Jackie Chan. Chan plays the role of Wong Fei-hung, a real-life Chinese folk hero. The film is a reboot of the original ‘Drunken Master’ and is widely praised for its incredibly complex and well-choreographed martial arts sequences.

The plot follows Wong Fei-hung as he accidentally gets caught up in a conflict with foreign smugglers who are exporting ancient Chinese artifacts. He must use his unique style of “drunken boxing,” a martial art that becomes more potent the more alcohol he consumes, to fight against the powerful syndicate. The film combines thrilling action with physical comedy, showcasing Chan’s signature blend of acrobatic fighting and humor.

‘Hoop Dreams’ (1994)

‘Hoop Dreams’ is a documentary film directed by Steve James, and produced by James, Frederick Marx, and Peter Gilbert, with Kartemquin Films. It follows the story of two African-American high school students in Chicago, William Gates and Arthur Agee, who dream of becoming professional basketball players.

The filmmakers spent five years filming the lives of William and Arthur, documenting their journey from the age of 14 to 18. The documentary explores their recruitment by a predominantly white suburban high school known for its basketball program, and the subsequent challenges they and their families face. It’s a powerful and intimate look at issues of race, class, and the pressures of pursuing the American dream through sports.

‘Three Colors: Red’ (1994)

‘Three Colors: Red’ is the final film in the ‘Three Colors’ trilogy, directed by the Polish filmmaker Krzysztof Kieślowski and co-written by Kieślowski and Krzysztof Piesiewicz. The film stars Irène Jacob as Valentine, a young model living in Geneva, and Jean-Louis Trintignant as a retired judge. The story explores the theme of fraternity, symbolized by the color red from the French flag.

Valentine’s life intersects with the reclusive judge’s after she accidentally hits his dog with her car. She discovers that he spends his time eavesdropping on his neighbors’ phone conversations. As their unlikely friendship develops, the film delves into their pasts and presents, exploring themes of chance, connection, and destiny. The narrative subtly weaves together the lives of its characters, creating a profound and interconnected story.

‘The Lion King’ (1994)

‘The Lion King’ is an animated musical drama film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation and directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff. The story takes place in a kingdom of lions in Africa and features a large ensemble voice cast, including Matthew Broderick as Simba, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, and Jeremy Irons as the villainous Scar.

The film tells the story of Simba, a young lion cub who is destined to rule the Pride Lands. However, his wicked uncle Scar murders Simba’s father, Mufasa, and tricks Simba into believing it was his fault, causing him to flee into exile. After years of living a carefree life with his new friends Timon and Pumbaa, Simba is called upon to reclaim his place in the Circle of Life and restore balance to the kingdom.

‘Léon: The Professional’ (1994)

‘Léon: The Professional’ is a French thriller written and directed by Luc Besson. It stars Jean Reno as the titular character, a quiet and efficient hitman living a solitary life in New York City. The film also features the debut of a young Natalie Portman as Mathilda, a 12-year-old girl, and Gary Oldman as a corrupt and unhinged DEA agent.

Mathilda’s family is murdered by the corrupt agent, and she seeks refuge with her neighbor, Léon. After discovering his profession, she asks him to teach her his skills so she can avenge the death of her younger brother. An unlikely and complex bond forms between the two as Léon reluctantly takes her under his wing, leading to a dramatic and action-packed confrontation with the dangerous forces that shattered her world.

‘Forrest Gump’ (1994)

‘Forrest Gump’ is a comedy-drama film directed by Robert Zemeckis and written by Eric Roth, based on the novel of the same name. The film stars Tom Hanks in the title role of Forrest Gump, a kind-hearted man with a low IQ from Alabama. The cast also includes Robin Wright as his lifelong love Jenny, Gary Sinise as his commanding officer Lieutenant Dan, and Sally Field as his devoted mother.

The story follows several decades in the life of Forrest as he witnesses and, in some cases, unwittingly influences some of the most significant historical events of the 20th century. From becoming a college football star and a war hero to a shrimp boat captain and a cross-country runner, Forrest’s simple optimism and unwavering decency touch the lives of everyone he meets. His journey is a poignant and often humorous look at life, love, and destiny.

‘Pulp Fiction’ (1994)

‘Pulp Fiction’ is a crime film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, from a story he conceived with Roger Avary. The film is known for its non-linear narrative, eclectic dialogue, and pop culture references. It features an ensemble cast including John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, and Bruce Willis.

The movie tells several interconnected stories of crime and redemption in Los Angeles. The plotlines involve two hitmen on a mission, their boss’s wife, a prizefighter who defies a powerful mobster, and a pair of robbers holding up a diner. The film weaves these different tales together in a unique and stylish way, creating a fresh and influential piece of modern cinema that redefined independent filmmaking in the 1990s.

‘The Shawshank Redemption’ (1994)

‘The Shawshank Redemption’ is a drama film written and directed by Frank Darabont, based on a novella by Stephen King. The movie stars Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne, a successful banker who is wrongly convicted of murdering his wife and her lover. Morgan Freeman plays Ellis ‘Red’ Redding, a fellow inmate who becomes Andy’s closest friend in prison.

Set over several decades, the film chronicles Andy’s life inside the brutal Shawshank State Penitentiary. Despite the harsh realities and corruption he faces, Andy maintains hope and a sense of self-worth. Through his quiet resilience and acts of decency, he earns the respect of his fellow prisoners and finds a way to survive his unjust sentence, all while holding on to a dream of freedom.

Feel free to share your favorite movies from 1994 in the comments below.