The final year of the 90s was less of a transitional period, and more a culmination of everything the preceding decade had to offer in cinema. This includes the genuine worry about Y2K, the remarkable leap in CGI’s abilities, and a through-line of independent films’ sensibilities.
1999 was a phenomenal year in film, with multiple blockbusters that transcended the expectations of typical Hollywood hits. And they did so within a wide range of genres, each attempting something noticeably bold. So, although it isn’t traditionally insightful to highlight films by their box office numbers, these selections still reflect the overall attitude that defined a generation.
The Blair Witch Project - $140,539,099
Still a powerful influence on the best found footage films today, The Blair Witch Project also remains a very divisive movie. The marketing magic was nothing less than brilliant, generating enormous suspense by convincing audiences the footage was real. In fact, a great deal of its success was hinged on that tactic.
Fellow experimental indie films boast a similar approach, but the film wields a slick formula that is still used today. It capitalizes on a naturally imposing environment, a tiny budget, and truly clever advertising strategies. It also played on timely fears of urban legends.
Runaway Bride - $152,257,509
While this film does have its champions, it’s clear that many audiences simply wanted to end their decade the way they started it. Pretty Woman was a massive hit in 1990, and an instant classic for the genre. So, reuniting the same director with Richard Gere and Julia Roberts all over again was sure to earn mass appeal.
While this is essentially a typical 90's rom-com, it only really suffers from following in the footsteps of Pretty Woman. Setting that aside, the story is sweet, and the cast is still charismatic. The chemistry between Gere and Roberts is as palpable as ever.
The Mummy - $155,385,488
The original Universal monster hit was quite unique from its peers at the time. It was much slower, and the titular monster looks totally human for most of the film. So, it was a welcome surprise that this remake went in the opposite direction, altogether.
It transformed the moody, creepy vibes of its predecessor into a tremendously fun adventure with groundbreaking CGI. Emphasizing humor, romance and action, it’s a delightful throwback to the greatest adventurer, Indiana Jones. However, it also smartly retains the mythology and mystery of the original villain.
Big Daddy - $163,479,795
Although Adam Sandler has offered many dramatic exceptions, he remains famous for his signature comedies. They are usually a strange combination of endearing characters and juvenile humor, though his romances can play differently. This movie is a blend of everything.
Sandler’s films usually cater to his known audience, rather than newcomers. But his parental role in Big Daddy is far more approachable, making him feel friendly and sympathetic. Child characters will always accentuate emotional content, in any context, and it makes this film more endearing and accessible, pardoning the sense of humor and sweetening the romantic plot.
Tarzan - $171,091,819
Surprisingly dark at times, and unfortunately criticized for it, today’s generation would scoff at Tarzan, but this was a bold movie for the time. With blood, guns and broken necks, one might think it was unsuitable for a young audience. However, in context, Disney’s execution is pitch-perfect.
Its thematic material is sophisticated, but there is a consistent sense of joy and fun. The characters are lovable, the music is catchy, and the animation is filled with glorious, sweeping nature sequences. It’s truly an incredible tightrope act.
The Matrix - $171,479,930
There’s little praise left to give this classic, which was equally thoughtful and exciting. The technical aspects alone were genuinely mind-blowing, using inventive techniques and CGI that still holds up today. The film discusses a parade of profound ideas without meandering or feeling pretentious.
Instead, brisk and brilliant action scenes propel the story forward, as mystery and futurism and imagination accelerate. It compiled so many incredible sci-fi influences, even from meaningful sci-fi anime, and built on them with its own extraordinary mythology.
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me - $206,040,086
While millennials will probably best recognize Mike Myers for voicing a lovable and hilarious green ogre, he also ruled the 90s by parodying James Bond. The never-ending spy franchise remains a genre unto itself, and was due for a good ribbing.
This sequel mostly suffers from losing the novelty of the original, but those who enjoyed the first should still be pleased. It’s just as unabashedly coarse and silly, and anything but subtle, but it does it very well. Besides, it spoofs Bond in a way that feels celebratory, and never mean-spirited.
Toy Story 2 - $245,852,179
A thoroughly heartwarming film with heartbreaking moments, Toy Story 2 was unafraid to tackle deeply poignant ideas in addition to non-stop entertainment. This sequel decides to double down on the nature of a toy’s purpose, individuality and personal wishes. The characterization is remarkably tangible, and there’s a natural progression for the established toys.
Woody’s emotional conflict and relationships are the core of the franchise, and strongly resonate, thanks to Tom Hanks' brilliant acting. However, Jessie and Bullseye are an extraordinary addition to the series, unique and potent on their own. Even Buzz’s relationship with Zurg, a distinct Star Wars parody, is resolved in a clever and satisfying way.
The Sixth Sense - $293,506,292
This film is often reduced to the magic of its twist, which is unfortunate because it is a sophisticated thriller with touching family drama. It approaches a supernatural phenomenon with unexpected seriousness and authenticity and the child protagonist only heightens the sympathy and impact of the film’s larger conversations.
It narrows complicated themes into understandable childhood experiences, like bullies and school. This unusually quiet, meticulously paced film also emphasizes suspense rather than shock value. Its sentimentality feels moving and convincing, rather than exploitative.
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace - $431,088,295
Alongside a shiny new look, brimming with CGI, George Lucas aimed for a new approach to Star Wars altogether. The fever pitch of expectations mostly rejected a story about politics, but Lucas’ vision has been increasingly favored over time. The nature of the Jedi, their cause and their methods are fascinating. And Emperor Palpatine’s plot to assume emergency powers is truly clever.
The sheer amount of lore and originality is enough to enjoy in hindsight, particularly after Disney’s run has been so dedicated to homage. John Williams’ prequel music was clearly inspired, ranking among his greatest movie themes and Darth Maul was instantly a classic villain, whose stunts alone transformed fencing duels into glorious acrobatics.