Perhaps it was the cynicism of the 90’s striking yet again, but the decade has a distinct fascination with crime thrillers. Indie filmmakers flooded the industry with innovation, and the genre is somewhat loosely defined, so there’s plenty to revisit. Certain films stood out in examining the filth with forthright attitudes and sharp, enduring screenplays. However, some stories move beyond even an analysis of crime or society.

Many of these films dare the audience to sympathize with the anti-heroes in their stark underworld. Likewise, there are also heroic cops, and it’s compelling to explore the psyche of lives so foreign to most. That endures, regardless of theatricality or verisimilitude. Here are 10 of the best crime thrillers of the '90s.

10. HARD BOILED (1992)



John Woo is something of an auteur, with a unique vision that’s influenced countless movies in his signature genre. Action can become redundant, but the manner with which Woo intertwines plotting and visuals is exemplary. It’s more akin to a ballet, wherein the dancing itself can utterly capture the story.

Woo traverses an expansive world of smugglers and undercover cops with stunning spectacle and gripping characters alike. Chow Yun-Fat, perhaps best known for martial arts masterpiece Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, is a captivating protagonist. He undeniably lifts the character above archetype and fuels the writing that transcends its genre.

9. FALLING DOWN (1993)



Michael Douglas delivers one of his all-time best performances, in a role whose mania could easily get out of hand. The story itself is remarkably straightforward, simply moving from one episode of cathartic frustration to the next. Meanwhile, we learn more about the protagonist’s history, which complicates our sympathies.

Of course, the many confrontations of the film involve exaggerated bouts of distinctly abhorrent people. Almost close to racial needling, interactions like the Neo-Nazi helps cement the film’s themes into a conversation about violence itself. It’s a brisk, slick showcase for Douglas with a story that escalates organically, and even offers sly dark comedy.

8. THE USUAL SUSPECTS (1995)



Christopher McQuarrie has become a household name since propelling the Mission: Impossible franchise to increasing popularity. But his first real hit was this clever mystery, which can stay ahead of you at every turn. It may be famous for the twist ending, but with an all-star cast, this crime classic is also unexpectedly funny. In fact, some characters are defined by their sense of humor, or lack thereof.

Yet the characters feel strangely tangible, likely due to the talent at hand. Although the plot’s influences are often felt, the execution is impeccable, moving briskly and intelligently.

7. THE FUGITIVE (1993)



This is essentially a chase film, and even manages to stand out amongst the filmography of Harrison Ford himself. Once again, he plays a fallible everyman that can still act heroically. His driving goal is sympathetic, given he was wrongfully accused of murdering someone he loves.

And ultimately, he must use his wits to overcome impossible odds. Given that Tommy Lee Jones’ pursuer is equally intelligent, the cat-and-mouse game is gripping from beginning to end. It isn’t hard for the audience to consider what they might do in the hero’s position. The mystery is captivating, the action well-staged, and the finale immensely satisfying.