The 100+ Best 1993 Movies, Ranked By Fans

Ranker Community
Updated March 1, 2024 41.0K views
Ranked By
22.0K votes
1.4K voters
40 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite movies that were released in 1993.

Here is a list of the best movies from 1993, from blockbusters like Jurassic Park to action movies like Demolition Man. Some the best movies of 1993 are some of the best teen, coming of age, adventure, comedies and dramas in history. The films on here are very memorable and had audiences on the edges of their seats, and still pack a punch so many years aft they were first released. You shouldn't be too surprised by the movies listed on here.

As stated before, some of the top dramas movies of the decade were released in 1993. Who could forget In The Line of Fire with Clint Eastwood, Indecent Proposal with Woody Harrelson, Robert Redford and Demi Moore, and of course, Philadelphia starring Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington. And let's not forget about A Bronx Tale with Chazz Palminteri and Robert De Niro.

The best movies of 1993 featured some of the biggest stars in the movie business. Whether it was the aforementioned stars continuing their success or the breakout performances featured in Dazed and Confused, or established stars like Al Pacino and Sean Penn in Carlito's Way and Michael Douglas in Falling Down.

Some of the best movies of all time were released in 1993. This is the ultimate list of the best movies of 1993, which shouldn't feature the best movies of 1992. Vote and re-rank this list according to how you think the best movies of that year should be reflected. If you notice that there's a movie from this year that should be on this list but is missing, feel free to add it.

Most divisive: Coneheads
Over 1.4K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 100+ Best 1993 Movies, Ranked By Fans
  • Jurassic Park
    1
    Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum
    1,014 votes
    In the thrilling film, Jurassic Park, eccentric billionaire John Hammond (Richard Attenborough) invites a team of experts to visit an island theme park populated by dinosaurs created from prehistoric DNA. The team comprises of paleontologist Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill), paleobotanist Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern), and mathematician Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum). When the park's security system fails, these prehistoric creatures start roaming free, causing chaos for the visitors. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this groundbreaking sci-fi adventure won three Academy Awards for its stunning visual effects and sound design.
  • Tombstone
    2
    Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Michael Biehn
    622 votes
    Tombstone, a captivating Western drama, unravels the story of an infamous lawman, Wyatt Earp (Kurt Russell), who retires to Tombstone, Arizona. He's accompanied by his brothers and Doc Holliday (Val Kilmer), a volatile gambler. As they strive for a peaceful life, their tranquility is shattered by the ruthless Cowboy gang. The ensuing conflict leads to the legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The movie brims with high-stakes confrontations and historic characters, offering an intense exploration of brotherhood and justice in the dangerous Wild West.
  • The Fugitive
    3
    Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, Sela Ward
    732 votes
    In the heart-pounding thriller, The Fugitive, Dr. Richard Kimble (Harrison Ford), unjustly accused of murdering his wife, must evade relentless U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard (Tommy Lee Jones) while he uncovers the truth behind his spouse's death. This 1993 film, directed by Andrew Davis, won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor (Jones). A maze of suspenseful twists and turns, it is a captivating journey through Chicago's underbelly as Kimble races against time to clear his name and bring the real killer to justice.
  • The Sandlot
    4
    Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, Patrick Renna
    600 votes
    In the heart of summer 1962, a group of boys gather at The Sandlot, a local baseball diamond. The movie follows Scotty Smalls (Tom Guiry), who recently moved to the neighborhood and struggles to fit in. Benny Rodriguez (Mike Vitar), the team's star player, takes him under his wing. Together they embark on a series of adventures involving a monstrous dog nicknamed The Beast, and a coveted Babe Ruth baseball. This coming-of-age film, directed by David Mickey Evans, blends comedy with drama as it explores friendship, courage, and the joyous days of youth.
  • Groundhog Day
    5
    Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, Chris Elliott
    827 votes
    In the iconic comedy Groundhog Day, Phil Connors (Bill Murray), a cynical weatherman, finds himself in a time loop, living the same day over and over. Trapped in Punxsutawney for Groundhog Day festivities, Phil's initial disdain turns to desperation as he tries to break free from this endless cycle. Directed by Harold Ramis, the film cleverly explores themes of self-improvement and redemption. Co-starring Andie MacDowell as Rita Hanson, Phil's producer and eventual love interest, Groundhog Day deftly blends humor with a thought-provoking narrative. This film is a staple of American cinema and a testament to Bill Murray's comedic prowess.
  • Schindler's List
    6
    Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes
    852 votes
    Schindler's List, a poignant war drama directed by Steven Spielberg, unfolds through the life of Oskar Schindler (Liam Neeson), an unlikely hero during the Holocaust. In Nazi-occupied Poland, businessman Schindler becomes an unexpected savior, employing Jews in his factories to spare them from concentration camps. Stern (Ben Kingsley), his accountant, and Goeth (Ralph Fiennes), a sadistic camp commandant, play significant roles in this stark narrative. The film won seven Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director. It's a gripping account of humanity's resilience amidst the darkest times.
  • The Nightmare Before Christmas
    7
    Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara
    650 votes
    In the hauntingly whimsical film, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Jack Skellington (voiced by Chris Sarandon), the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, stumbles upon Christmas Town. Enchanted by its stark contrast to his eerie homeland, Jack decides to replicate Christmas in Halloween Town. But he struggles to grasp the true spirit of this holiday. Directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton, this stop-motion animated musical has won numerous awards for its unique blend of horror and holiday cheer. Sally (voiced by Catherine O'Hara), a rag doll smitten with Jack, adds a tender element to this dark yet enchanting tale.
  • Mrs. Doubtfire
    8
    Robin Williams, Sally Field, Pierce Brosnan
    758 votes
    In the heartwarming comedy-drama Mrs. Doubtfire, Daniel Hillard (Robin Williams) is a fun-loving father who finds himself distanced from his children after a bitter divorce. Resorting to an unconventional solution, he transforms into the affable Scottish nanny, Mrs. Doubtfire, played with remarkable conviction by Williams. The film, directed by Chris Columbus, explores themes of family and identity in its engaging narrative. Sally Field co-stars as Miranda Hillard, Daniel's ex-wife, while Pierce Brosnan plays her suitor, Stu. This delightful film bagged an Academy Award for Best Makeup.
  • Robin Hood: Men in Tights
    9
    Cary Elwes, Richard Lewis, Roger Rees
    518 votes
    Unleashing a volley of humor in the classic vein of slapstick, Robin Hood: Men in Tights is a parody that reimagines the legendary tale of the bow-wielding hero. Robin of Loxley (Cary Elwes) returns to England after fighting in the Crusades, only to find his home ravaged by the dastardly Sheriff of Rottingham (Roger Rees). Aided by his band of merry men - including Blinkin (Mark Blankfield), Ahchoo (Dave Chappelle), and Little John (Eric Allan Kramer) - Robin sets out to reclaim his land and win the heart of Maid Marian (Amy Yasbeck). This comic romp, directed by Mel Brooks, skewers everything from the original folklore to modern pop culture, adding a unique layer to this timeless story.
  • Cool Runnings
    10
    Leon, Doug E. Doug, Malik Yoba
    554 votes
    Cool Runnings is a unique blend of sports and comedy, centered around the unlikely story of Jamaica's first bobsled team. Derice Bannock (Leon), a sprinter failed to qualify for the Olympics, forms an unusual alliance with three other athletes, Sanka Coffie (Doug E. Doug), Junior Bevil (Rawle D. Lewis), and Yul Brenner (Malik Yoba). This ragtag group enlists the help of disgraced former Olympian Irv Blitzer (John Candy) who reluctantly agrees to coach them. Despite their tropical roots and lack of experience on ice, they defy all odds and stereotypes in a quest for Olympic glory. The film, though comedic in nature, carries an underlying message about perseverance and challenging societal norms.
  • Dazed and Confused
    11
    Jason London, Wiley Wiggins, Sasha Jenson
    640 votes
    Dazed and Confused is a coming-of-age comedy film that paints an authentic picture of American teenage life in the 70s. Set in Austin, Texas, on the last day of high school in 1976, this Richard Linklater-directed film showcases a host of characters. Randall Pink Floyd (Jason London) is a star quarterback facing the dilemma of signing a no-drug pledge, while freshman Mitch Kramer (Wiley Wiggins) endures hazing rituals. The movie, punctuated by an iconic rock soundtrack, captures the carefree spirit and uncertainty that mark the threshold of adulthood. It's a nostalgic romp through teen angst, party culture, and youthful rebellion - all rolled into one unforgettable summer night.
  • Grumpy Old Men
    12
    Jack Lemmon, Walter Matthau, Ann-Margret
    437 votes
    John Gustafson (Jack Lemmon) and Max Goldman (Walter Matthau) are two curmudgeonly neighbors who have been at each other's throats for years. The rivalry of the former friends intensifies when Ariel (Ann-Margret) comes along and provides a love interest for both of them. When Max finds out that John is experiencing family troubles and financial ruin, however, he steps in to help. Their bond is further cemented when John has a health scare and Max makes the ultimate sacrifice for his friend.
  • Addams Family Values
    13
    Anjelica Huston, Raul Julia, Christopher Lloyd
    426 votes
    In the sequel, Addams Family Values, we return to the macabre world of Gomez (Raul Julia) and Morticia Addams (Anjelica Huston). A new baby boy, Pubert, joins the household, prompting parents to hire a nanny, Debbie Jellinsky (Joan Cusack). Unbeknownst to them, Debbie is a cunning black widow with her eyes on Uncle Fester's (Christopher Lloyd) fortune. Meanwhile, children Wednesday (Christina Ricci) and Pugsley (Jimmy Workman) are shipped off to a cheery summer camp. Amidst these chaotic events, the film skillfully intertwines dark humor with satire. This comedy was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Art Direction.
  • Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
    14
    Don Ameche, Michael J. Fox, Sally Field
    350 votes
    Embarking on a thrilling adventure in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey, three beloved pets take the lead. Shadow, a wise old golden retriever (voiced by Don Ameche), Sassy, a witty Himalayan cat (voiced by Sally Field), and Chance, a reckless American bulldog (voiced by Michael J. Fox), are left in the care of a family friend. When they mistakenly believe their owners have abandoned them, they set out across the rugged Sierra Nevada terrain to reunite with their family. Battling treacherous conditions and wild animals along the way, their determination is tested at every step. This heartwarming tale underscores the power of friendship and loyalty in this family-friendly adventure film.
  • Falling Down
    15
    Michael Douglas, Robert Duvall, Barbara Hershey
    468 votes
    In the gripping drama, Falling Down, we follow William Foster (Michael Douglas), a down-on-his-luck defense worker navigating the gritty streets of Los Angeles. Struggling with unemployment and divorce, Foster's pent-up frustration boils over into a reckless odyssey, confronting society's ills head-on. Robert Duvall plays Sergeant Prendergast, an about-to-retire police officer hot on Foster's trail. The film, directed by Joel Schumacher, offers a raw portrayal of urban decay and societal pressure. It was nominated for the coveted Palme d'Or at the 1993 Cannes Film Festival.
  • Demolition Man
    16
    Sylvester Stallone, Wesley Snipes, Sandra Bullock
    404 votes
    In the futuristic action flick Demolition Man, John Spartan (Sylvester Stallone), a tough-as-nails cop, is cryogenically frozen in 1996. Simultaneously, his nemesis, Simon Phoenix (Wesley Snipes), a notorious criminal, is also put on ice. Fast forward to 2032. Society has transformed into a utopian pacifist haven, and crime feels like a relic of the past. But when Phoenix escapes during a parole hearing, the authorities have no means to stop him. Their solution? Unfreeze Spartan, the only man capable of reining in Phoenix's reign of terror. As these two titans clash in this brave new world, sparks fly and buildings crumble in their wake.
  • A Bronx Tale
    17
    Robert De Niro, Chazz Palminteri, Lillo Brancato
    457 votes
    Set against the backdrop of a 1960s Bronx neighborhood, A Bronx Tale is a compelling coming-of-age drama. The narrative unfolds through Calogero (Lillo Brancato), a young Italian-American boy ensnared between two prevailing forces. His father, Lorenzo (Robert De Niro), is an honest bus driver who instills in him values of hard work and integrity. Conversely, the charismatic mob boss Sonny (Chazz Palminteri) represents a life of power and easy money. As Calogero navigates his adolescence under these contrasting influences, he grapples with moral dilemmas that test his loyalty and shape his future.
  • Hocus Pocus
    18
    Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy
    458 votes
    In the whimsical film Hocus Pocus, three witch sisters, Winifred (Bette Midler), Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker), and Mary Sanderson (Kathy Najimy), are accidently resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts on Halloween night. This resurrection is unwittingly caused by Max Dennison (Omri Katz), a teenager new in town. Alongside his younger sister Dani (Thora Birch) and his crush Allison (Vinessa Shaw), Max must outsmart the vengeful witches to save the town's children before sunrise. The movie, known for its comedic charm and fantasy elements, has become a beloved cult classic since its release in 1993.
  • In the Line of Fire
    19
    Clint Eastwood, John Malkovich, Rene Russo
    368 votes
    In the heart-pounding thriller In the Line of Fire, seasoned Secret Service agent Frank Horrigan (Clint Eastwood) is haunted by his failure to prevent JFK's assassination. When a cunning and chillingly efficient assassin, Mitch Leary (John Malkovich), threatens to kill the current president, Horrigan is thrust back into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. With Rene Russo as sharp-tongued fellow agent Lilly Raines, the trio traverses a tense landscape filled with political intrigue and imminent danger. This film is an engrossing blend of suspense, action and psychological drama.
  • True Romance
    20
    Christian Slater, Patricia Arquette, Dennis Hopper
    444 votes
    In the offbeat crime film True Romance, Clarence Worley (Christian Slater), a comic book store clerk, falls for a call girl named Alabama Whitman (Patricia Arquette). Their whirlwind romance takes a dangerous turn when Clarence confronts and murders Alabama's pimp. Suddenly, they find themselves on the run with a suitcase of cocaine that belongs to the Mob. The duo's desperate bid for freedom leads them from Detroit to Hollywood, pursued by ruthless gangsters and corrupt cops. Directed by Tony Scott and written by Quentin Tarantino, this 1993 movie weaves an unpredictable tale of love and violence against the backdrop of America's underbelly.
  • What's Eating Gilbert Grape
    21
    Johnny Depp, Juliette Lewis, Mary Steenburgen
    465 votes
    In What's Eating Gilbert Grape, Gilbert Grape (Johnny Depp), burdened with the responsibility of caring for his obese mother and mentally challenged brother Arnie (Leonardo DiCaprio), navigates the trials of small-town life. The drama unfolds in Endora, Iowa, where monotony reigns and change is a mere whisper on the horizon. Amidst this, a young woman named Becky (Juliette Lewis) arrives, stirring up Gilbert's world. This film, which earned DiCaprio an Academy Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actor, delicately explores themes of family duty, personal sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness amidst hardship.
  • Rudy
    22
    Sean Astin, Ned Beatty, Charles S. Dutton
    462 votes
    Rudy is an inspiring sports drama that centers around the life of Rudy Ruettiger (Sean Astin), a young man from a blue-collar family who dreams of playing football at the University of Notre Dame. Despite his small size and lack of athletic prowess, Rudy's relentless determination leads him to overcome numerous obstacles. Charles S. Dutton plays Fortune, a custodian at Notre Dame who becomes Rudy's mentor, while Jon Favreau stars as D-Bob, Rudy's humorous and supportive friend. The film, directed by David Anspaugh, was nominated for multiple awards and is recognized as one of the top football movies of all time.
  • Philadelphia
    23
    Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, Jason Robards
    507 votes
    In the groundbreaking film Philadelphia, Andrew Beckett (Tom Hanks), a talented lawyer, battles an unjust firing after his law firm discovers he's HIV-positive. Aiding him in this fierce legal fight is Joe Miller (Denzel Washington), a small-time attorney who initially harbors prejudice against those with AIDS. This drama, directed by Jonathan Demme, tackles societal discrimination head-on and scored Hanks an Oscar for Best Actor in 1994. As the narrative unfolds, it unflinchingly showcases the struggles of individuals living with AIDS during a less informed time.
  • The Firm
    24
    Tom Cruise, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Gene Hackman
    326 votes
    In The Firm, Mitch McDeere (Tom Cruise), a bright law graduate, is lured into the prosperous world of Bendini, Lambert, & Locke, a secretive Memphis law firm. As he ascends in his career, he learns that the firm's wealth is built upon dark secrets and illegal activities. His life takes a perilous turn when he gets entangled with the FBI. A suspenseful thriller based on John Grisham's novel, this film masterfully explores corporate corruption and moral dilemmas. The movie earned two Oscar nominations, underscoring its cinematic prowess.
  • Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story
    25
    Jason Scott Lee, Lauren Holly, Robert Wagner
    213 votes
    Bruce Lee's (Jason Scott Lee) rise begins in Hong Kong, as a young boy receiving traditional Chinese martial arts training. After an altercation compels young Bruce to leave the country, his father (Ric Young) sends him to the United States, imploring him to seek success that even Hong Kong will recognize. Bruce begins by teaching martial arts to American students, and eventually becomes a popular actor on the "Green Hornet" television series, known in Hong Kong as "The Kato Show."
  • Carlito's Way
    26
    Al Pacino, Sean Penn, Penelope Ann Miller
    362 votes
    A free man after years in prison, Carlito Brigante (Al Pacino) intends to give up his criminal ways, but it's not long before the ex-con is sucked back into the New York City underworld. Reconnecting with his dancer girlfriend, Gail (Penelope Ann Miller), Carlito gets entangled in the shady dealings of his friend Dave Kleinfeld (Sean Penn), who also serves as his lawyer. When Carlito and Kleinfeld run afoul of shifty gangster Benny Blanco (John Alberto Leguizamo), it sets them on a dangerous path.
  • Sleepless in Seattle
    27
    Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Bill Pullman
    405 votes
    In Sleepless in Seattle, Sam Baldwin (Tom Hanks), a widower, sparks nationwide interest when his son Jonah (Ross Malinger) calls into a radio talk show. Across the country, Annie Reed (Meg Ryan), a journalist, hears Sam's poignant story and becomes intrigued by him. As fate would have it, their paths cross in a climactic meeting atop the Empire State Building. This romantic drama, directed by Nora Ephron, garnered two Oscar nominations and is hailed for its charming blend of comedy and pathos. It's a testament to love transcending boundaries.
  • Cliffhanger
    28
    Sylvester Stallone, John Lithgow, Michael Rooker
    316 votes
    In the gripping action-adventure film Cliffhanger, Gabe Walker (Sylvester Stallone), a seasoned mountain climber and rescue ranger, is drawn into a perilous journey. After a tragic accident leaves him battling guilt, he's reluctantly pulled back to the Colorado Rockies where a group of stranded hikers need his expertise. Unbeknownst to him, these hikers are actually ruthless treasure thieves led by Eric Qualen (John Lithgow). As a deadly cat-and-mouse game ensues amidst the treacherous peaks, Walker must use his climbing skills and wilderness knowledge to outwit the criminals and ensure survival. With its high-stakes plot and intense performances, Cliffhanger was nominated for three Academy Awards.
  • Wayne's World 2
    29
    Mike Myers, Dana Carvey, Christopher Walken
    329 votes
    After Wayne Campbell (Mike Myers) has a dream in which Jim Morrison tells him to put on a rock concert, he and fellow late-night TV star Garth Algar (Dana Carvey) try their hand at promoting. Several musical acts show little interest, leaving the pair uncertain about their ability to put on a successful show. Meanwhile, Cassandra (Tia Carrere), Wayne's rockstar girlfriend, has a new manager (Christopher Walken) who is trying to steal her away, and Wayne's antics only make things worse.
  • Dave
    30
    Kevin Kline, Sigourney Weaver, Frank Langella
    264 votes
    Shifty White House chief of staff Bob Alexander (Frank Langella) hatches a scheme to use a double for the president (Kevin Kline) at a public photo opportunity. Small business owner Dave Kovic (Kline) fits the bill, but after the president suffers a debilitating stroke, opportunist Alexander arranges for Dave to step in full time without even informing the First Lady (Sigourney Weaver). It doesn't take long before the press, the nation and the president's wife realize something is different.