Almost 30 years after making the cult classic hit That Thing You Do, fans are still excited to see writer/director Tom Hanks’ pop music dramedy shine on. That fondness is not only held by the fans, but also by Hanks and his veteran cast from that 1996 picture. And while the 2025 movie schedule isn’t promising a Wonders reunion tour, a sweet meeting with actor Johnathon Schaech kind of reignites my hopes for a legacy-quel.

Sharing this beautiful event on social media, Schaech provided a snapshot of himself and the Toy Story legend in the wild together. Continuing to spread the gospel of this deserving classic, here’s what that post had to say:

If I didn’t know any better, I’d say that there was something cooking surrounding the legacy of The Wonders. Of course that’s not necessarily the truth, because as we saw with Johnathon Schaech’s 2023 reunion with Tom Hanks, sometimes the boys catching up is simply that. But considering how we got that sweet reissue of That Thing You Do’s soundtrack, it’s not like this singular film has left people’s minds.

Considered by some as one of the best ‘90s movies, it would be nice to see some sort of 30th anniversary re-release in 4K. I’m sure it’d please Harry Potter alum Tom Felton, who actually weighed in on this photo by saying, “You guys look great in gold have I told you that.” Even the once and future Draco Malfoy can’t resist the charms of That Thing You Do!

Mr. Felton isn’t the only young fan of this beloved movie, as even the Haim sisters recently paid tribute to Tom Hanks’ writing/directing debut. The most recent album and tour for rock group Haim actually takes its name from that infamous moment where Johnathon Schaech’s Jimmy tells Tom Hanks’ Mr. White, “I quit!” That feels like a good sign that this picture is not far from people’s minds, much like any other title that catches on years later, becoming a draw for Hulu subscription holders.

However, I may be biased, as I’m someone who is known for random thoughts while watching That Thing You Do on not-exactly-rare occasions. Outside of anything related to the film itself, it really is sweet to see two past collaborators catching up from time to time. Sometimes a brunch is just a brunch…at least, until that brunch leads to a hypothetical announcement that The Wonders will be joining the Criterion Collection. It hasn’t happened yet, but we can surely dream, can’t we?

If you want to see what these folks have been up to, it’s not hard. Tom Hanks can currently be seen in The Phonecian Scheme, as it should be showing at a theater near you. As for Johnathon Schaech, Season 2 of his current show Blue Ridge is still finishing up production, with Season 1 available for streaming on Peacock.

Some would say that glasses aren’t cool, and those people are in fact, liars. Throughout movie history, there have been iconic moments involving both eyeglasses and sunglasses that have made huge fashion statements. In some cases, they’re even seen as a signature to the characters they’re being worn by. So if you’re worried about rocking some facial furniture at one point or another, let these trendsetters ease those troubles in their own stylish way.

Christopher Reeve - Superman

Behold, the glasses so iconic they could conceal a Kryptonian. Christopher Reeve’s specs from his time as Superman were a bit oversized, but in a way that is actually endearing. So much so that eyeglass designer Tom Davies designed a replica that’s currently on sale on the market.

Audrey Hepburn - Breakfast At Tiffany’s

Everyone remembers Audrey Hepburn’s little black dress from the cinematic classic Breakfast at Tiffany’s, an image that became an eternal symbol of class and elegance. But let’s not overlook the powerful accessory that is her equally memorable pair of sunglasses. If you’re looking to add this to your own collection, Oliver Goldsmith’s “Manhattan” model will have you singing “Moon River” in no time.

Michael Caine - The Ipcress File

The legendary Michael Caine was a frequent wearer of Curry & Paxton branded eyewear, with his role in The Ipcress File being the most notable example. Rocking the Yvan model of glasses, they became a fashion statement for a very different cinematic Cold War spy. While you could debate whether it is either shown in a dark tortoise shell or black, the impact is still just as iconic.

Barbara Stanwyck - Double Indemnity

Sunglasses are as essential to film noir as mournful narrations, scheming, and murder. Double Indemnity has every one of those components, and in the case of this picture’s eyewear, Barbara Stanwyck’s shades helped cement her as a femme fatale for the ages. Not even poor Fred MacMurray knew what hit him.

Marcello Mastroianni - 8 ½

A classic example of the coolness of eyewear, Marcello Mastroianni’s thick black glasses in 8 1/2 showed the world that an everyday essential can also be a powerful accessory. Even in 2014, Mastroianni’s sunglassed look was still honored as a fashionable history lesson, when it was used as the official poster for the 67th Cannes Film Festival.

Gene Tierney - Leave Her To Heaven

Don’t let the technicolor fool you, Gene Tierney’s Ellen Berent Harland is an obsessively deadly figure. The protagonist of the 1945 film noir classic Leave Her To Heaven, Ellen is capable of scheming so devious that a fashionable pair of sunglasses can’t even hide it. Which is fine, considering the results are so compelling to watch as they unfold.

Cary Grant - North by Northwest

Even when wanted for murder, Cary Grant’s Roger Thornhill was dressed to the nines. His trip through hell in Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest included the gorgeous sunglasses you see pictured here, along with that iconic grey suit. A perfect combination for fleeing a criminal conspiracy, Oliver Peoples released a line of sunnies inspired by them in 2019, for those who want to truly invest in this look.

Madonna - Desperately Seeking Susan

Just as director Susan Seidelman’s Desperately Seeking Susan put Madonna on the map as an actor, the pop music legend helped land her character’s cat eye sunglasses in movie history. You can get replicas that vary in levels of brand recognition and cost, which is only even more of a signal that this look isn’t going out of style any time soon.

Sean Connery - Thunderball

Back when Thunderball was released in 1965, Sean Connery and James Bond were already seen as the epitome of men’s style. So when that picture showed 007 rocking what appeared to be, according to Bond Suits, Cool-Ray Polaroid N135 sunglasses, everyone was immediately going to want them. Thankfully, some boutique brands still sell them, helping fans live out their Bond fantasies in a very practical way.

Grace Kelly - To Catch A Thief

One has to wonder if director Alfred Hitchcock or costume designer Edith Head shared a mutual love of sunglasses. The two used them to great effect on Cary Grant in North by Northwest, and before that, they employed them to help Grace Kelly make an impression on audiences enjoying To Catch A Thief.

Henry Cavill - The Man From U.N.C.L.E.

As he’s introduced in Guy Ritchie’s The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Henry Cavill’s Napoleon Solo couldn’t have made a cooler entrance. Crossing the Berlin Wall checkpoint while wearing the “Bowery” model of Thierry Lasry sunglasses, this cavalier hellraiser certainly approached his wardrobe with more care than he did other aspects of his spying career.

Linda Cardellini - Scooby Doo

Velma Dinkley is always on the verge of losing her glasses, no matter what sort of media you follow her into. With the 2002 live-action Scooby Doo, the casting of Linda Cardellini as the bespectacled brainiac was only outdone in one area. And that’s the fact that somehow, someone actually made her signature eyewear from the Hanna-Barbara cartoon into a living, breathing reality.

Tom Everett Scott - That Thing You Do!

There are many thoughts while watching That Thing You Do! that can come off as inspiring. And thankfully, anyone who wants to know “What type of shades is Guy ‘Skitch’ Patterson wearing?” while watching Tom Everett Scott drum himself into stardom, already has the answer. All you have to do is listen, as the man himself marvels at his “Percussionist Foster Grants” when they’re handed to him for the first time.

Meryl Streep - The Devil Wears Prada

If any fictional character was a shoo-in for making eyeglasses work, it has to be Miranda Priestley from The Devil Wears Prada. Played ever so stylishly by Meryl Streep, Ms. Priestley’s arrival sees her showing off a Tom Ford model named “Collette.” So if you’re looking to force a room full of strangers to gird their loins, you’ve now got a secret weapon.

Kingsman’s Eyeglasses

Cutler & Gross really outdid themselves when they designed the standard issue eyeglasses for Matthew Vaughn’s Kingsman series. A perfect match, whether you wear oxfords or brogues, Colin Firth’s Harry Hart introduced us to this modern successor to Michael Caine’s eyewear of espionage from The Ipcress File. No matter who’s wearing them in the field, they’re a piece that is pretty instantly recognized.

Carrie-Anne Moss - The Matrix

You know your character is an eyewear legend when you get an entire model of sunglasses named after them. Walking away from seeing The Matrix for the first time, it’s the glasses and the phones that really stick with you. Well, after you put the philosophical and moral debates, and the blazing stunts aside, those two things tend to stick around. For Carrie-Anne Moss’ Trinity, her official frames came from the brand Blinde - and are apparently pretty rare to come by.

Tom Cruise’s Aviators - Top Gun

Whenever someone slips on a pair of aviator sunglasses, 9 times out of 10 it’s going to inspire someone to hum “Danger Zone” to themselves. By no means invented for Tony Scott’s Top Gun, the Ray-Ban RB3025s were certainly popularized by people who felt the need for speed in their daily lives. Though you don’t have to worry about inverting your wallet, as this is a common enough style that you can go easy on the throttle and spare your life savings.

Grace Jones - A View To A Kill

007 isn’t the only person allowed to be stylish in the world of cinema. Roger Moore’s James Bond movies ended on a very ‘80s note with A View to a Kill, and that’s part of what makes Grace Jones’ May Day a sparkling addition to this very film. Her fashion sense is as on point as her assassination skills, which is shown off in the scene where she escorts an unwilling conspirator into a free fall of death.

Morpheus’ Frame-less Sunglasses - The Matrix

What if we told you that Morpheus’ sunglasses from The Matrix are made by the same brand that gave Trinity her own signature lunettes? Lawrence Fishburne’s “Morpheus” brand shades came from Blinde, a vendor who handled the “official” sunglasses for The Wachowski’s entry into the canon of best ‘90s movies. More recently, eyewear wizard Tom Davies recreated this look for the modern incarnation of the character in 2021’s The Matrix Resurrections. And yes, they still looked just as cool.

Annie Potts - Ghostbusters II

The only thing sharper than the wit and attitude of Janine Melnitz (Annie Potts) is her choice of eyewear. It’s hard to narrow down the exact brand and model worn by her character in Ghostbusters II, which is a shame. Janine’s leap forward from a traditionally conservative “secretary” wardrobe to her hipper‘90s forward duds came with a pair of black circular glasses that must have been an inspiration for The Incredibles’ Edna Mode.

Christian Bale - American Psycho

Oliver Peoples “O’Malley,” in the color of “Raintree.” You’ve probably been wondering about how you could get the model of Christian Bale’s eyeglasses from American Psycho for decades at this point. So now that you’ve got that answer readily before your eyes, we can focus on the bigger questions, like what American Psycho’s ending is trying to say about Patrick Bateman.

Rachel Leigh Cook - She’s All That

In the mid-20th century, we were convinced a Kryptonian could hide their secret identity behind a pair of eyeglasses. Towards the end of that very century, teen rom-coms like She’s All That built a further case for such deceptions, courtesy of Rachel Leigh Cook’s Laney Boggs. Several other pictures would use this very same tactic as an easy makeover tip to land the prom date of your dreams.

Willem Dafoe’s Tom Davies Sunglasses - Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

Willem Dafoe had a really good year of eyewear in 2024. But in choosing between his Saturday Night shades, and the Tom Davies-designed piece he wore in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, the afterlife wins by a hair. Named “Wolf,” after his character in the long-awaited legacy-quel, these beauties helped Mr. Dafoe keep it real on screen - and in our dreams.

Linda Hamilton - Terminator 2: Judgment Day

While Linda Hamilton’s sunglasses from Terminator 2: Judgment Day weren’t going to block out the rays of an atomic attack on 1997 L.A., they sure were handy for normal, everyday sunlight. The exact model worn by Sarah Connor in one of the best sci-fi movies seems to be unknown, but there are plenty of quality imitators that’ll make your day.

Tom Cruise’s Mission: Impossible Glasses

If you were a kid about to wear their first pair of eyeglasses in 1996, Tom Cruise may have been an influence on the ones you eventually chose. While the Jean Paul Gaulthier branded frames from Mission: Impossible wouldn’t help you catch traitorous spies, they were still pretty awesome to look at.

Reese Witherspoon - Legally Blonde

Even after decades of Legally Blonde being a certified pop culture legend, fans are still in love with Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) and her sense of fashion. This makes not being able to find exact details on her appropriately pink sunglasses a bit of a pain, but worth it if you're trying to dress to impress.

The Blues Brothers’ Wayfarers

On a mission from God, you need to prepare for any sort of perils on the path laid out ahead. For Jake (John Belushi) and Elwood (Dan Aykroyd) Blues, that checklist includes a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, black suits and ties, and Ray Ban’s iconic Wayfarer sunglasses. It’s certainly not an obscure piece of The Blues Brothers trivia, but it’s definitely something you should keep in mind for next Halloween.

Gal Gadot - Wonder Woman

2017’s Wonder Woman adaptation called out the glasses worn by Gal Gadot’s titular DC hero with dialogue that reminded us of how comic books and teenage rom-coms alike have tried to pull the wool over our eyes. So while the princess of Themyscira doesn’t look too different behind that facial furniture, at least it fits her projected images perfectly.

Daniel Radcliffe’s Harry Potter Glasses

Many a Halloween has passed where people trying to look like Daniel Radcliffe’s heroic Harry Potter have gone hunting for his signature glasses. So it’s probably not that hard to find replicas for costuming purposes, or actual eyewear business, on the open market.

Ali Maki - Always Be My Maybe

One of comedian Ali Maki’s trademarks has to be her glasses. So it’s kind of hard to choose just one pair that really speaks to her personal style, even when limited only to the Netflix rom-com Always Be My Maybe. However, the gold pair shown above certainly do the job at hand.

Robert Downey Jr. - Avengers: Endgame

Throughout his Marvel Cinematic Universe run, Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark has had some pretty impressive eyewear. And while Mr. Stark’s glasses in Avengers: Infinity War would eventually be named “E.D.I.T.H.,” the actual model name you’re looking for is Dita’s Flight 006 glasses. A.I. enhancements are not included.

Margot Robbie - Barbie

The original Barbie doll had an iconic look that has lasted through the ages. So when Margot Robbie helped bring Greta Gerwig’s vision of this classic toy to life, you know they had to include that fashionable origin story—complete with the white cat-eye sunglasses that came with Mattel’s first doll in the line.

Tom Hanks has built a career as an amazing actor and performer, and that’s enough reason to celebrate the man. But if you’re like me, you also appreciate his writing and directing efforts as reasons why he’s one of our greatest talents. Which is yet another excuse for me to celebrate his writing/directing debut, That Thing You Do, as one of the best ‘90s movies - especially when it inspires random thoughts like the ones I’m about to share with you now.

That Thing You Do On VHS For $5 Was A Solid Teenage Investment

There was once a product line known as “20th Century Fox Selections,” which involved special titles being on sale “for under 10 dollars” on VHS. That Thing You Do was one of them, and seeing as I worked electronics at K-Mart in my teenage years, this tape and I were bound to meet. That’s right: before I was even a professional entertainment journalist, my work put me in line to discover movies.

The Extended Version Is The Better Version To Me

Most “Extended” or “Director’s Cuts” either add some scenes here or there, or totally overhaul the picture into a sprawling, Ridley Scott-style epic. That Thing You Do’s superior extended cut is somewhere in the middle, adding 39 minutes worth of moments that help the movie breathe. It also does a great justice to Tina and Guy's breakup plotline, and shows us that Mr. White had a special man in his life, played by NFL legend Howie Long.

My Mind Is Still Blown That This Soundtrack Is All Originals

Tom Hanks needs to write a musical, a jazz record, or something involving melody. His pen is one of the several, including late Fountains of Wayne member Adam Schlesinger, who gave this movie its totally original sonic landscape. That’s right, even “Lovin’ You Lots And Lots,” a song that sounds like it should have existed during the ‘50s, was created specifically for this film.

That Thing You Do Is Insanely Quotable

I have certain lines and moments of That Thing You Do that I’ll either quote with friends and loved ones, or even out in the wild. Steve Zahn’s spiel about the pigging contest at one of the several state fairs The Wonders play is one that definitely comes up quite often. Also, whenever it’s a bad retail day, I love to think to myself that those cats, much like Telemart, don’t know squat about service.

I Still Can’t Believe The Bass Player Never Technically Had A Name

In all fairness, Ethan Embry gave his character a full name in “Tobias Player,” while only being credited as T.B. Player. I like it, as it totally works, and I could buy that member of The Wonders as a Tobias. Sadly, that answer came to us in 2016, and I don’t think it’s been officially canonized by Tom Hanks.

What Would The Wonders Journey Be Like If Chad Was Still In The Group?

Everything in That Thing You Do happens because of the fact that The Wonders’ original drummer Chad (Giovanni Ribisi) broke his arm while vaulting over parking meters in Erie, PA. If that didn’t happen, “That Thing You Do” wouldn’t have seen its uptempo rebirth - which was the move that pushed it all into place. It’s practically a temporal hinge point, and like Doc Brown, I wonder what would have happened if it opened the other way.

That Thing You Do Should Have Never Been “A Ballad”

Oh, James Mattingley II (Johnathon Schaech) - author of the best-selling book “Alone In My Principles.” He co-wrote this would-be “ballad” with Lenny Haise (Steve Zahn), and you can practically tell that this tune was straining against its initial definition. Score another win for Guy “Skitch” Patterson.

This Film Is Where Liv Tyler Officially Stole My Heart

Everybody can pinpoint where they developed those watershed celebrity crushes. For me, I fell hard for Ms. Liv Tyler when watching That Thing You Do presented her as the kind-hearted Faye Dolan. Between snappy mid-century fashions and her sincerity, it was hard not to want only the best for Jimmy’s soon-to-be ex.

The ‘Oneders’ Was Never Going To Work As A Band Name

Commonly mispronounced as “The Oh-need-ers,” the clever approach was just never in the cards when naming those boys on stage. Everyone knows that if you can’t literally make a name for yourself at the Mercyhurst Talent Show, you should probably go back to the drawing board.

Sean Whalen Is A Professional “That Guy”

Regardless of pronouns, well-regarded character actors that seem to pop up everywhere are “That Guy!” Sean Whalen’s heckling skills in That Thing You Do were a huge sign that he’d made it, because by that point he’d already “that guy’d” his way into movies like Batman Returns, Twister, and The Cable Guy.

RIP Adam Schlesinger

During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, songwriter Adam Schlesinger passed away, due to “Coronavirus complications.” While hearing “That Thing You Do” always brings me joy, it’s a bittersweet moment when remembering that the man behind that song was taken before his time.

Growing Up Is Understanding Tina Wasn’t An Evil Girlfriend

Initially, Charlize Theron’s Tina came off to me as a cold and aloof girlfriend who just didn’t get Guy. However, with time, wisdom, and the Extended Cut’s added context of Tina genuinely falling in love with her dentist, I came to realize that she and Guy were not a good fit. Still, she should have dumped him much earlier, rather than waste both of their time.

The Evolution Of The Wonders Is Cool To Witness

You can literally feel the song at the heart of That Thing You Do, and the group that sings it, evolve into their final forms. Through clever breadcrumbs like T.B. Player enlisting in the U.S. Marines, and just how “That Thing You Do” is played in each venue, the path to the Hollywood Television Showcase is one that teaches us a lot about these young, good men.

Holmes Osborne Is A Professional ‘Movie Dad’

Between 1996 and 2000, Holmes Osborne was the on-screen dad in That Thing You Do, Election, Bring It On, and Donnie Darko. An ace at playing an authority figure, I think this run qualifies Mr. Osborne as a professional “Movie Dad,” especially with the final turn for his paternal figure in this film seeing the straight-laced electronics store manager loosening up and embracing his son Guy’s dream.

That Thing You Do Should Have Never Lost The Best Original Song Oscar

Anyone who knows me knows that I have strong opinions on the Academy Awards, and my list of Best Picture losers who should have won is just part of that equation. But one of my deeply held grudges in Oscar history is the fact that “You Must Love Me” from Evita somehow bested “That Thing You Do” as the Best Original Song of the 69th Academy Awards.

That Thing You Do’s Cameo Game Is So Wicked

There is a seriously strong bench of performers that make up the world of That Thing You Do’s supporting and cameo cast. Just to name a handful of folks that show up at one point or another, we get to see Chris Isaak, Paul Feig, Peter Scolari, Colin Hanks, and Bryan Cranston make appearances. And if you watch the Extended Cut, former football player Howie Long shows up as the implied boyfriend of Tom Hanks’ Mr. White.

The Wonders’ Song Never Gets Old

I’ve never counted how many times “That Thing You Do” is played, both partially and in full, in Tom Hanks’ cinematic tribute to ‘60s pop. What I do know is that no matter how many times this tune comes on through streaming music, or even in the local supermarket, I will always smile and sing along.

T.B. Player Could Have Been A Preacher

While we know that Tobias “T.B.” Player eventually served two tours in Vietnam, "receiving the Purple Heart for wounds sustained at The Siege of Khe Sanh," he seemed cut out to become a preacher. Though he would go on to become a building contractor, his ability to cite scripture with Guy’s Uncle Bob (Chris Isaak) proved he was a man of some level of faith, and he had the gentle demeanor to pull it off.

The Scene Where The Song First Plays On The Radio Is An All-Timer

One of the definitive best movie music moments has to be when Faye and The Wonders catch “That Thing You Do” on the radio for the first time. Capturing the moment when everything changes for this band of friends, it’s also a scene that pairs such a feeling with a very summery vibe to it. Also, Steve Zahn dancing with a cardboard cutout never gets old.

Tom Everett Scott Is Really Good At Channeling A Young Tom Hanks

There’s a scene where Tom Everett Scott’s Guy is talking on the phone with his girlfriend Tina, and the performance during that moment feels like watching young Tom Hanks during his early career. It was probably unintentional, but the resemblance made That Thing You Do’s Guy even more of a lead to root for.

‘Boss’ Vic Koss Is Even More Of A Jerk In The Extended Version

“Boss” Vic Koss (Kevin Pollak) always comes off as a jerk when The Wonders hit Pittsburgh. But if you watch That Thing You Do’s extended cut, you get quite a bit more of his nasty energy to behold. Sure, Lenny shouldn’t have been messing with his Cuban cigars, but that wasn’t a license to treat The Wonders like trash.

That Thing You Do Belongs In The Criterion Collection

Everybody has those favorites of theirs that they wish would be given the full Criterion Collection treatment, flush with special features and insightful essays. I think it’s time to give Tom Hanks’ writing/directing debut that treatment, or at the very least a premium 4K re-release of the generous Blu-ray package that ported the Extended Cut and its extras. And if anyone is listening, I’d be glad to contribute an essay upon request.

I Want To Write An Entire Series Of Mr. Downtown Mysteries That Live Up To That Theme

If I had to pick a favorite track of That Thing You Do’s soundtrack, besides the titular ditty, I’d have to go with the theme from “Mr. Downtown,” sung by the dulcet tones of Freddy Fredrickson (Robert Torti). It’s a loving riff on Henry Mancini’s theme for Peter Gunn, which only makes me want to create a mystery series that fully fleshes out that fictitious TV series. Clearly I’m not alone here, as YouTube channel Arcade Productions has already taken a spin on such a project.

Mr. White Must See Himself In Guy Patterson

Tom Everett Scott kind of resembles a young Tom Hanks in his performance, and while it seems unintentional, I think it may have also served a secondary purpose. Between Mr. White and Guy bonding over sunglasses at a State Fair, and the considerate speech that Playtone’s mover and shaker gives to the young squire after The Wonders implode, it feels like past life experience is a motivator between mentor and student.

I Would Watch Weekend At Party Pier

A short sequence meant to lampoon the teen beach movies of Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello, Weekend At Party Pier is where The Wonders become Cap’t Geech and the Shrimp Shack Shooters. Yes, it looks incredibly goofy, but I would be very happy to see this frothy lampoon, directed on screen by the late Silence of the Lambs helmer Jonathan Demme, become an actual movie.

Lamarr Is A Five-Star Human Being And Ace Concierge

If you’re a serious practitioner in the hospitality industry, you know how to make people happy before they even ask. The Ambassador Hotel’s concierge Lamarr (Obba Babatundé) is someone who definitely fits that bill, as he takes care of the sickly Faye, makes killer dessert suggestions, and makes sure that Guy Patterson gets to appreciate jazz, and the love of his life, in the appropriate fashion.

When Can We See That Thing You Do As A Broadway Musical?

We’ve seen plenty of Hollywood motion pictures become Broadway musicals, and there are even more waiting in the wings to have their shot. But when will the Great White Way get with the program and turn That Thing You Do into an expanded, full spectacle musical that feels like a Wonders concert?

Darlene And Chad Totally (Probably) Got Married

While Guy and Faye are That Thing You Do’s predictable love connection, I’m now inclined to think that Chad and Guy’s sister Darlene (Dawn Maxey) wound up together in life. After being rebuffed by Lenny Haise after a spark of interest, and Chad becoming close to the Patterson family in Guy’s absence, this is one leap involving Chad that could have worked.

There Is Not A Universe Where Jimmy Deserved Faye’s Love

Jimmy was cheating on Faye with Diane Dane (Chaille Percival), and I’m tired of pretending otherwise. She sits on the man’s lap during the rehearsal for “My World Is Over,” Jimmy talks about her constantly, and you can tell he is smitten with her. Faye Dolan deserved much, much better than that; and he should have dumped her in Pittsburgh.

I Wonder How Many People Actually Used Jimmy’s Quitting Schtick After Seeing This Movie?

Johnathon Schaech’s Jimmy was That Thing You Do’s heel, and that’s a credit to the Arrowverse vet’s skills. So is the fact that his catchy, passive-aggressive hit single “I Quit (Mr. White)” is something that I could see viewers being tempted to implement when leaving a job at one point or another.

Did Tom Hanks Write Mr. White’s Liner Notes For The Mondo Vinyl?

On the back of Mondo’s long-awaited That Thing You Do vinyl release is a section of liner notes that are credited to “Mr. A.M. White,” who is presumably Tom Hanks’ character in the film. Seeing as the man created this world, I really want to know if he wrote those liner notes - in between making hit movies and writing novels like “The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece,” did he add this expansion of lore to the Playtone Galaxy?

I Still Want A That Thing You Do Legacy-quel

We saw snapshots of where all of The Wonders wound up after their disbanding at the end of That Thing You Do, and fans still hold those clues as canon. With the 30th anniversary of the film approaching in 2026, I really think it’s time to reconsider putting together a legacy-quel that follows the band in the ‘90s, and how their past climb to stardom is seen in the march to Y2K.

The 1990s were a great time for film, no doubt — just look at the 100 best movies of the '90s for proof — but it was also an unforgettable decade for fashion. Iconic ‘90s movie characters from Cher Horowitz to Mia Wallace to The Dude strutted into cinema history with their enviable wardrobes packed with cropped plaid cords, chic button-downs, cozy knit sweaters, and more, changing not only how people looked onscreen but how we all dressed in real life. From great ‘90s sci-fi movies like The Matrix and The Fifth Element to hilarious '90s comedies like But I'm A Cheerleader and B.A.P.S., these 32 fashionable flicks served up the decade's most iconic movie outfits.

Cher's Plaid Set From Clueless

Alicia Silverstone's Cher has been sparking closet envy ever since we saw her computer whip up the perfect outfit combination in the first scenes of Clueless. And her sunshine-yellow plaid suit, paired with a Collie-esque faux-fur backpack and her best accessory of all — equally stylish BFF Dionne Davenport (Stacey Dash), of course — is as instantly iconic as her trademark rebuttal of "As if!"

Tyler Durden's Leather Jacket From Fight Club

We won't spoil that mind-blowing plot twist — though the film has been out for decades at this point — but we will say that Brad Pitt's Tyler Durden sure packs a punch in the style department. Throughout the 1999 David Fincher flick, the Fight Club character routinely sports a uniform comprised of a wide-lapeled red leather jacket, a patterned button-down and a pair of scarlet-lensed sunglasses. It's a fit so cool, it's almost too good to be true.

The Metallic Dresses From Romy and Michele's High School Reunion

If you're going to make an impression at your high school reunion, coordinating metallic mini-dresses is certainly the way to do it. After shedding their Post-it-inventing businesswomen blazers, besties Romy (Mira Sorvino) and Michele (Lisa Kudrow) make their grand reentrance in ensembles entirely their own: a set of super-shiny, dance-friendly frocks in bubblegum pink and baby blue. Just think of the style moments a Romy and Michele sequel could bring!

Vivian's Crimson Opera Dress From Pretty Woman

There are many memorable fashion moments in the Julia Roberts classic Pretty Woman, from the $20 white-and-blue call girl outfit we first meet Vivian Ward in, to the pretty, polka-dotted number she later wears to polo. (Heck, the movie pretty much perfected the shopping montage!) But no look was as significant as the stunning red carpet-worth gown the character wears to attend a performance of La Traviata at the San Francisco Opera alongside Richard Gere's Edward Lewis.

The Desert Denim From Thelma & Louise

If you're going to be on the run from the law — in self-defense or otherwise — you might as well look great doing it. And road-tripping pals Thelma Dickinson (Geena Davis) and Louise Sawyer (Susan Sarandon) certainly do in the boundary-breaking Ridley Scott drama Thelma & Louise, which sees the two Arkansas women dash and dart away from police in dusty dungarees, sleeveless tops, ripped neckerchiefs and cowgirl hats. If being stylish was a crime, consider these two guilty.

Neo’s Trench Coat From The Matrix

From Casablanca to Kill Bill, the trench coat is a cinematic fashion staple, but nowhere has it looked cooler than when worn by Keanu Reeves as computer hacker Neo in the sci-fi masterpiece The Matrix. Per Dazed, the iconic black trench the character sports throughout the futuristic franchise was crafted by costume designer Kym Barrett with traditional Chinese robes and clergy garb in mind. Whatever the sartorial inspiration, the outcome was truly otherworldly.

Mia's Bob and Button-Down From Pulp Fiction

Proof that simple doesn't mean snooze-worthy where style is concerned, mob wife Mia Wallace (Uma Thurman, in her breakthrough role) twisted her way into cultural iconography with her blunt brunette bob, crisp white button-down and perpetually lit cigarette in Quentin Tarantino's best movie, Pulp Fiction. Costume designer Betsy Heimann reportedly modeled Mia's signature look after silent film stars and French New Wave figures.

The Cheer Squad Uniforms From Bring It On

The Rancho Carne Toros in San Diego and the East Compton Clovers in Los Angeles may have been rivals on the cheer mat, but they were equals where fashion is concerned. In their peppy, contrasting red and green uniforms, the cheerleading squads led by captains Torrance (Kirsten Dunst) and Isis (Gabrielle Union) looked surprisingly sophisticated while performing their high-flying routines. And the looks are still relevant these decades later — Union even sweetly broke out her old Clovers uniform as a fun movie-themed Halloween costume alongside her daughter.

The Orange and Blue Tuxes From Dumb and Dumber

Talk about not adhering to a black-tie dress code! Lloyd Christmas (Jim Carrey) and Harry Dunne (Jeff Daniels) made quite a bold fashion statement when they showed up to a formal fundraising event in a bright-orange and powder-blue tuxedo, respectively, in the classic Farrelly Brothers comedy Dumb and Dumber. They're simultaneously some of the best (in terms of funniness) and worst (in terms of fashion) suits ever put to celluloid.

The Goth Schoolgirl Garb From The Craft

The Power of Four, indeed. Each of the witchy teens at the center of the '90s cult hit The Craft — played by Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Neve Campbell and Rachel True — was a style goddess in her own right. But together they made quite a mystical impression with their schoolgirl style edged up with a touch of the occult, from their gothic choker necklaces to their lace-up black boots. Our wardrobes invoke thee!

Catherine's White Turtleneck Dress From Basic Instinct

Funnily enough, Basic Instinct star Sharon Stone believed that nobody would care about what femme fatale Catherine Tramell was wearing during an otherwise straightforward interrogation scene. “The movie was a thriller and we were stopping the action to watch me sit still in a chair, so I thought the possibility of anybody giving two s—ts about it was zero," the actress revealed to InStyle. How wrong she was — that leggy white dress and cashmere Hermès throw helped create one of the most infamous and controversial scenes in movie history, thanks to yet another style choice: her lack of undergarments.

Janet Jackson's Hat and Hoops From Poetic Justice

On stage, on screen, on the street — Janet Jackson is a veritable style icon wherever she goes. And the music legend certainly lived up to that sartorial greatness in the 1993 romantic drama Poetic Justice as the Los Angeles-based poet-hairdresser Justice, memorably accessorized with hoop earrings and a pageboy cap to go with her still-en-vogue ensemble of baggy high-waisted jeans and a black crop top.

Leeloo's Orange Suspenders From The Fifth Element

As a famous model-turned-actress, Milla Jovovich could pull off any costume, even ridiculous outfits from movies set in the future. Her iconic role as Leeloo in the 1997 sci-fi favorite The Fifth Element is certainly proof: the character famously wears rubber neon-orange suspenders — as citrus-bright as her dyed hair — with a ribbed crop top and gold disco pants, all designed by the one and only Jean-Paul Gaultier.

The Dude’s Sweater From The Big Lebowski

The original Westerly men's cardigan by Pendleton Woolen Mills debuted all the way back in 1974, but it become immortalized when the lambswool sweater was worn by Jeff Lebowski. a.k.a. The Dude, in The Coen Brothers' classic The Big Lebowski. The garment became so popular thanks to the groovy Jeff Bridges character that the brand permanently brought the cardigan back in stock. Style abides!

Juliet’s Angel Wings From Romeo + Juliet

Baz Luhrmann's magnetic, modernized Romeo + Juliet adaptation was packed with flamboyant reimaginings of the Shakespearean classic, particularly in the costume department. The most famous example, no doubt, is the ballroom scene that brings together our titular star-crossed lovers (played by Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes), with Danes' Juliet looking positively ethereal in a chaste white dress and angel's wings. Nineties-era DiCaprio dressed as a literal knight in shining armor isn't too shabby, either.

Ellie Sattler's Safari Styles From Jurassic Park

Few people could make digging through dinosaur poop look fashionable, and Laura Dern is one of them. For much of the 1993 Steven Spielberg-helmed action flick, Dern's beloved Jurassic Park heroine Dr. Ellie Sattler is durably decked out in a salmon-colored shirt tied in a knot over a blue tank, a pair of khaki shorts and some jungle-ready work boots. Dern paid homage to that very outfit when she reprised the iconic character three decades later in Jurassic World Dominion.

Kathryn's Power Suit From Cruel Intentions

Any other high schooler parading around uptown Manhattan in a power suit would look foolish, but not Cruel Intentions' Kathryn Merteuil. Formidably played by Sarah Michelle Gellar, the merciless mean girl made being bad look good in a sleek Dolce & Gabbana suit, with a custom skintight corset hidden underneath and a rosary necklace filled with, well, not holy water. The only thing sharper than that tailoring? Kathryn's manipulative edge.

Josie's First Day-Of-School Feathers From Never Been Kissed

If you're a 20-something newspaper reporter trying to go undercover as a high school student to research for a story, maybe wearing a feather boa to homeroom isn't the best move. Sure, Josie Geller's all-white get-up — worn in one of the best Drew Barrymore romantic comedies, Never Been Kissed — was nonsensical, especially paired with a giant lemon-printed tot in place of a traditional backpack, but overall, it was definitely rufus!

Wooderson's White Tee and 'Stache From Dazed & Confused

Few film breakthroughs have been as indelible as Matthew McConaughey in the Richard Linklater-directed coming-of-age comedy Dazed and Confused. One of McConaughey's best roles, his Texan townie David Wooderson wasn't just iconic because of his one-liners (including that infamous "Alright, alright, alright" drawl) but also because of his authentic '70s digs: a tight Ted Nugent T-shirt tucked into salmon-pink pants, capped off with a groovy mustache and that easy McConaughey smile.

Nisi and Mickey's Super-Shiny Coats From B.A.P.S.

Nisi (Halle Berry) and Mickey (the late Natalie Desselle) — a.k.a. the "Black American Princesses" at the focus of the cultish 1997 buddy comedy B.A.P.S. —know that a good outfit means serving looks from head to toe. Put together by Oscar-winning costume director Ruth E. Carter, those incredible sky-high hairdos are matched with heavily lacquered outerwear in tropical tangerine and animal print, plus heaps of gold jewelry and a fresh set of acrylic nails.

Corey's Rex Manning Day Outfit From Empire Records

The '90s cult favorite Empire Records takes place over the course of one day in the lives of a plucky group of record store employees. But it's no ordinary day: it's Rex Manning Day when the childhood crush of staffer Corey Mason (played by Liv Tyler) — washed-up pop star Rex Manning (Maxwell Caulfield) — comes in for an album-signing event. Of course, that means Corey wants to look her best and she sure does, in a soft blue mohair sweater, plaid skirt and combat boots that, per Elle, were the actress's own.

The Pink Camp Uniforms From But I'm a Cheerleader

One of the best and most satirical teen rom-coms out there, But I'm a Cheerleader stars Natasha Lyonne as Megan Bloomfield, a high school cheerleader whose parents send her to a conversion therapy camp to "cure" her lesbianism. All attendees of True Directions are made to wear campy color-coded uniforms — pale pink for the girls, bright blue for the boys — a hilariously subversive sendup of absurd gender stereotypes. That candy-colored clothing is made sweeter when Megan falls for another queer girl (played by Clea DuVall) in the program.

Tupac's Layered Outerwear From Juice

The 1992 crime thriller Juice was the feature film debut of rap icon Tupac Shakur, and the rapper made a great big-screen first impression. As Roland Bishop, an aimless Harlem youth walking the chilly, dangerous streets of early-nineties New York City with his friends, Tupac wears a top-notch outerwear uniform — we're talking sporty crewnecks layered over hoodies and topped with an oversized jean jacket. It may be cold, but Pac always looks cool.

Michelle Pfeiffer's Catwoman Suit From Batman Returns

Superheroes usually have pretty cool costumes, tricked out with gadgets and gizmos, but for Michelle Pfeiffer, all her Catwoman needed was a skintight latex suit and a simple whip to create a seminal cinematic villain. Beyond being "black and sexy and tight and shiny," costume designer Mary Vogt revealed to AnOther, the infamous suit shrewdly incorporated silicon stitching to mimic a calico cat. "Since she was moving around at night, it looked really fluid. That costume is all about the light – and of course, all about Michelle.”

Selena's Purple Performing Jumpsuit From Selena

Jennifer Lopez is a fashion legend in her own right — her famous green Grammy dress literally inspired the invention of Google Images — but in 1997, she had her Golden Globe-nominated breakthrough for portraying another style icon, the late Tejano superstar Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, in the music biopic Selena. The titular star had many notable performing outfits throughout her short-lived career, many of which were recreated for the film, but the glittering purple jumpsuit Selena wore while performing at the Houston Astrodome might just be her most unforgettable look.

The Spice Force Five Looks From Spice World

World-famous pop group, The Spice Girls are known for their individual personas and signature styles, from Victoria Beckham's "posh" little black dresses to Geri Halliwell's Union Jack frocks. But in their 1997 musical comedy film Spice World, the gals come together for a true joint slay as the "Spice Force Five," hamming it up as seriously stylish espionage agents in matching silver fits and, of course, massive platform shoes.

Laney's Little Red Dress From She's All That

Some outfits deserve their own slow-mo moment, and the post-makeover red dress that artsy nerd Laney Boggs (played by Rachael Leigh Cook) wears in the classic '90s teen flick She's All That is certainly one of them. "Up until that point her palette was very drab," costume designer Denise Wingate told Interview Magazine. "That’s why when she comes down the stairs to meet Zach that moment was more about the color than the dress itself." (Cue the "Kiss Me"!) Not that we don't love her paint-splattered overalls and bookish eyeglasses, too!

The Beach Hats From How Stella Got Her Groove Back

Angela Bassett always looks incredible, but especially while on vacation — the tropical costuming in one of the actress's best movies, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, certainly proves that point. The island-ready looks worn by Bassett's character Stella Payne and her best friend Delilah (Whoopi Goldberg), complete with fabulous, wide-brimmed beach hats, will make you want to book a trip ASAP.

Madeline's Silver Ensemble From Death Becomes Her

When Hollywood icons like Meryl Streep, Goldie Hawn and Isabella Rossellini come together, you know the fashion moments will be aplenty. The '90s dark comedy Death Becomes Her is packed with them, like the silky silver jacket that Meryl's Madeline Ashton character wears while she blasts a hole straight through the stomach of her former friend Helen Sharp (Hawn). The outfit was so iconic that Adele herself wore it while crooning to Streep at one of her Vegas shows.

Rose's Dinner Dress From Titanic

It's no surprise that, out of its whopping 11 wins, Titanic took home the Oscar for Best Costume Design at the 70th Academy Awards. The ornate lace gown that Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet) wears in that romantic scene as she glides down the grand staircase to meet Jack Dawson (Leonardo DiCaprio) alone was worth the award!

The Wonders' Matching Suits From That Thing You Do!

"You guys look great in red, have I told you that?" It's the go-to compliment from The Wonders' band manager Mr. White (played by Tom Hanks, who also wrote and directed the movie) in the 1996 musical comedy That Thing You Do! And honestly, he's right: the matching suits he makes bandmates Jimmy (Johnathon Schaech), Lenny (Steve Zahn), Guy (Tom Everett Scott) and the bass player (Ethan Embry) wear on tour do look great, especially when finished off with some cool sunnies for "Shades" to wear.

Dickie's Italian Wardrobe From The Talented Mr. Ripley

It would be near-impossible to make film heartthrob Jude Law ever look bad, but the classic Riviera-chic stylings that the actor wears as Dickie Greenleaf in The Talented Mr. Ripley —think striped polo, breezy white trousers, boat-ready loafers and stretches of tanned skin — arguably might be the best he's ever looked onscreen.

The words “period piece” can suggest boring, dry, and slow. But the movies we’re about to discuss on this list are anything but. So the next time you hear that title thrown around in conversation, remember these films that defy this trend of boredom.

The English Patient

Despite The English Patient having a reputation for being labeled as “boring,” the Seinfeld episode couldn’t be farther from the truth. Rather, if one approaches the supposed war story as the romantic drama it truly is, then Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche’s characters connecting over their own tragic pasts isn’t as time-wasting as what’s suggested by arguably one of the best Seinfeld episodes.

Master & Commander: The Far Side Of The World

If you didn’t want to sail the open seas with your friends after watching Master & Commander: The Far Side of the World, you’re not doing it right. Part bromance, part naval warfare, and all epic, Russell Crowe and Paul Bettany’s Aubrey and Maturin are a pair that have taught many fans about the values of honor, camaraderie, and scientific curiosity. That Master & Commander reboot still sounds like it should give way to a legacy-quel to this beauty.

Oppenheimer

For a three-hour long, R-rated historical drama about the creation of the atomic bomb Oppenheimer seemed to defy the odds stacked against it. A box office smash the 2024 Oscar-winning juggernaut saw Cillian Murphy’s sterling performance as the lead role anchor an all-star cast. Writer/Director Christopher Nolan’s compellingly tragic tale of creation and regret flies by, landing a solid punch of dread as it closes.

Tombstone

Westerns are a genre that seemed to fade away for a moment, which is unjust considering movies like Tombstone cashed in on the Oscar win of Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven in prime fashion. A pulpy delight that harkens back to old school Good vs. Evil stories of this genre, Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer are standouts in a movie that’s stacked to the top with A-game talents. Try telling anyone this movie is boring after watching Doc Holiday deliver his classic line, “I’m your huckleberry.”

Lawless

Based on author Matt Bondurant’s historical novel on his family’s dealings with bootlegging, Lawless is an electric crime drama that has Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, and Jason Clarke as its leads. In an ensemble that broadens out to include Jessica Chastain, Gary Oldman, and Guy Pearce, the outlaw spirit is alive and well in this energetic picture.

Hamlet (1996)

A four-hour full-text version of Hamlet would be daunting to many an actor and viewer. Writer/director Kenneth Branagh must have felt that at some point in making his version of Hamlet, which fulfills that tall order. Slightly updating the story’s time period, there are no sacrifices made in terms of the story or the majesty of William Shakespeare’s epic tragedy. It remains a staggering achievement.

Pride And Prejudice (2005)

Where does one begin when praising Joe Wright’s 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice? Is it the pitch-perfect casting of Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennett, along with Succession cast member Matthew MacFayden as a particularly dreamy Mr. Darcy? Or is it having the late Donald Sutherland knocking it out of the park as Elizabeth’s warm and gentle father? There’s a lot to love about this movie, and it’s an undeniable fact.

Goodfellas

The time period shown in Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas doesn’t feel like it would match the description of a “period piece,” especially in the eyes of those who lived through the eras depicted. But believe it or not, Ray Liotta’s tale of always wanting to be a gangster does qualify, which means this baby packs more violence, cursing, and quotable moments than you’d expect from such a project.

Emma (2020)

The best rom-coms know when to lean into the tropes, and when to innovate to invite a wider audience. Screenwriter Eleanor Catton and director Autumn de Wilde adeptly used that knowledge to deliver an offbeat adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma, starring Anya Taylor-Joy as the titular heroine. Meddlesome matchmaking results in both awkward and heartbreaking moments, which all tie together in a visually colorful feast for the eyes and the heart.

The Last Duel

Director Ridley Scott loves his historical dramas, and 2021’s The Last Duel is firmly in the man’s wheelhouse. Based on the true story of a knight (Matt Damon) fighting an old friend (Adam Driver) over allegations of misconduct, Scott’s eye for violent spectacle is used in a measured capacity to punctuate the proceedings. Jodie Comer’s performance as the victim/accuser at the heart of the duel only further enhances the impressive result.

A Bronx Tale

Not all mafia dramas are created equal, as we saw with Robert De Niro’s directorial effort A Bronx Tale looks at organized crime through the viewpoint of a working-class family. A semi-autobiographical picture written by actor/co-star Chazz Palminteri, we see a young man (Francis Capra / Lillo Brancato Jr) growing to idolize the local boss (Palminteri), while his father (De Niro) tries to keep him grounded in 1960’s-1970’s era New York.

That Thing You Do!

Tom Hanks, in his writing/directing debut, gave the world not only one of the best ‘90s movies, but also a perfect pop song. That Thing You Do! is a beautiful nostalgia piece that remembers the days of Beatle-mania, and all the acts that tried to grab their one hit of wonder. Whether you prefer the theatrical or the extended cut, and there is a difference, The Wonders will always shine as brightly each time you see them do that thing that they do.

A Haunting in Venice

The adventures of Hercule Poirot (Kenneth Branagh) took an unexpected turn into the supernatural with A Haunting in Venice, and the franchise was all the better for it. Playing like a horror film that just happens to be an Agatha Christie adaptation, this star-studded threequel could be the best of the bunch.

Steve Jobs

Aaron Sorkin’s best screenplays are like good musical albums: you fall into the rhythm every time you listen. Unjustly overlooked during its 2015 release, Steve Jobs showcased three different periods of transition in the life of Apple’s firebrand innovator (Michael Fassbender). Director Danny Boyle uses film stock changes to signify the period on display, and also proceeded to give us one of Seth Rogen’s most powerful performances.

Thirteen Days

The Cuban Missile Crisis was something you had to live through to truly understand the terror. That being said, director Roger Donaldson’s Thirteen Days comes pretty close to capturing the panic felt by the Kennedy Administration as they navigate through a potential nuclear war. Bruce Greenwood’s JFK is teamed up with Robert Culp’s RFK and Kevin Costner’s Kenneth O’Donnell as the trio that anchors the picture, with a superb bench of supporting actors tying it all together into a gripping historical thriller.

The Favourite

For years “period piece” was almost shorthand for projects that looked like The Favourite does on the outside. Frilly dresses, powdered wigs, and English disputes over minorly hurt feelings are probably what most conjured to mind with Yorgos Lanthimos’ acidicly funny comedy. But instead, it was Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz engaging in a war of wills to curry the favour of Queen Anne (Olivia Colman). Don’t be fooled, this dark comedy has teeth you wouldn’t expect.

Selma

Director Ava Duvernay’s work on Selma took an often cited moment in history, the Selma to Montgomery marches for equal rights, and turned it into a fresh and haunting look at not-too-distant American history. Digging into the human side of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (David Oyelowo) and his part in this epic struggle, the Civil Rights Movement becomes personal for all who watch it depicted in this movingly cinematic story.

Gladiator

While Ridley Scott’s attitude toward historical accuracy hasn’t changed, neither has his method of taking ancient history and turning it into a more modern thrill ride. In 2000’s Gladiator, Scott introduced the world to the vengeful Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe), a man who has as much strategic acumen as he does names. The Roman Empire certainly became an obsession for some after seeing this rousing tale of revenge and eternal glory.

The Godfather

It’s easy to look at The Godfather and merely see Francis Ford Coppola and Mario Puzo’s blockbuster epic that dramatizes the Corleone family’s power struggles. However, looking at the timeline of the entire trilogy and realizing that it spans almost the entire 20th century reframes one of the best movies of all time as one of three-period pieces viewers have not been able to refuse for over 50 years.

1917

1917 is, at its heart, a tribute to Sam Mendes’ grandfather, who served in World War I. Using technical knowhow to make the entire film look as if it’s filmed without cuts, the intensity of the story co-written between Mendes and Krysty Wilson-Cairns is heightened by the almost non-stop pacing of the story. You’ll be hooked throughout the entire picture, from opening to close, feeling as if you’d made the journey yourself.

Brooklyn

Not all period pieces are about social upheaval or warfare. Sometimes, like with director John Crowley’s Brooklyn, the focus is on the life of a young woman (Saoirse Ronan) who emigrates from Ireland to New York in 1951. At times uplifting, bittersweet, and just downright heartbreaking, the Nick Hornby-penned film from 2015 will have you preoccupied with crying and laughing that you won’t be bored at all.

Kingdom Of Heaven

Upon release, Ridley Scott’s Kingdom of Heaven was slaughtered at the box office. It wasn’t until the almost 3.5-hour extended home video cut arrived that the Orlando Bloom starring epic depicting the Third Crusade found its audience. You should probably watch that version first, and then head back to the theatrical cut, if you’re curious as to how big the differences are.

Dunkirk

Dunkirk’s historical inspiration is a moment that some creators may not find to be too cinematic. Writer/director Christopher Nolan’s clever depiction of a time-shifting narrative showcases three fronts of action in the crucial evacuation effort waged in the titular French location. Displaying the better and darker sides of wartime humanity, it makes for an effective inspiration to dig further into this chapter of World War II history.

The Patriot

Is Roland Emmerich’s The Patriot a bastion of historical accuracy? No. Does Mel Gibson’s problematic history cause people to approach this film with apprehension? Absolutely. For all you can say against this movie, there are almost as many reasons to watch this visually stunning and inspirational story of fighting for U.S. independence. Also, Jason Isaac’s villain and Heath Ledger’s scrappy portrayal of Gibson’s on-screen son kind of steal the show whenever composer John Williams isn’t.

Little Women

To take a time worn tale like Little Women and make it fresh again is something similar to magic. Greta Gerwig did just that with her 2019 adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s timeless classic, and in doing so the Barbie director found a way to break our hearts all over again with classic literature.

Amadeus

The rivalry between Mozart (Tom Hulce) and Salieri (F. Murray Abraham) is, admittedly, goosed up in director Milos Forman’s Amadeus. That doesn’t make the movie any less worthy of an audience, as it’s a fine example of turning actual history into engaging tragedy. If you weren’t a fan of classical music walking into this one, you might just change your tune coming out.

Gosford Park

Director Robert Altman’s Gosford Park is kind of like a prototype version of Downton Abbey. Only instead of the Julian Fellowes co-written drama revolving around inheritances and marrying for love, it’s a ‘30s murder mystery that weaves a wicked tale. And yes, the late Dame Maggie Smith does get some richly acidic barbs into this picture.

Braveheart

The surprising success of Braveheart is one that still rings throughout the history of movies. Director Mel Gibson and writer Randall Wallace drew inspiration from the exploits of William Wallace (Gibson) and his fight during the First War of Scottish Independence. Romance and comedy mix in with fact and legend to deliver an idealized picture of a time we still don’t know everything about.

The Sound of Music

At its heart, The Sound of Music is a romantic drama, as nun turned-nanny Maria (Julia Andrews) slowly falls for employer Captain Von Trapp (Christopher Plummer). Plummer's hatred for the movie aside, the cinematic version of Rogers & Hammerstein’s beloved World War II set musical shows the values of resilience and family, all backed by a stellar soundtrack.

The Personal History of David Copperfield

Charles Dickens’ works have always been ripe for reinterpretation, but Armando Iannucci’s The Personal History of David Copperfield is one of the most recent examples of why they should still be retold at the movies. Assembling an all-star troupe led by Dev Patel in the lead, the script co-written with Simon Blackwell brings an irreverent lens to this literary treasure but doesn’t skimp on the heart.

American Psycho

If you don’t feel like American Psycho is a period piece, you probably have to go return some video tapes. Skewering the yuppie excess of 1980’s New York, Patrick Bateman (Christian Bale) guides us through a satirical slasher that’s mainly based in murders and executions…or is it mergers and acquisitions?

Downton Abbey: A New Era

Downton Abbey has to be the premier example of a period piece defying conventions and attracting an audience so wide its films are successes. 2022’s sequel A New Era shines in particular, as it introduces the class drama of Julian Fellowes’ hit series to the madcap world of early film production. Just be ready to shed massive amounts of tears during the final moments of the picture.

The 1990s were a great decade for music and that is reflected in this list of some of the best music moments from films of the era. Not all the music is "'90s music" but all of the moments are unforgettable. Here is our list of some of those amazing moments from some of the best movies of the decade.

"Flower Duet" - True Romance

Composer Léo Delibes' "Flower Duet" sets the backdrop for the amazing, and intense, scene between Christopher Walken and Dennis Hopper in Tony Scott's True Romance. Not only is it a fantastic use of music in film, it's one of the best scenes of any movie from the '90s. Maybe one of the best of all time.

"O-o-h Child" - Boyz 'N The Hood

The melancholy music and lyrics of "O-o-h Child" by the Five Stairsteps set the perfect tone for the scene in Boyz In The Hood where we see a young Dough Boy getting arrested for the first time as Tre and his father Furious look on after a nice afternoon fishing. The scene says so much about how each kid would grow up stuck in an unsustainable system.

"Layla" - GoodFellas

Martin Scorcese has always been great with his use of music in movies. Goodfellas is filled with classic songs and the most dramatic of all of them has to be the coda of the Derek and the Dominos' song "Layla." The piano, along with Eric Clapton and Duane Allman's soaring, dueling guitar solo, sets the perfect tone as bodies from the crew turn up everywhere as Jimmy (Robert DeNiro) cleans up the heist.

"Bittersweet Symphony" - Cruel Intentions

One of the best songs of the '90s, and indeed of all time, is "Bittersweet Symphony" by the Verve. The use of it at the end of Cruel Intentions as Kathryn (Sarah Michelle Gellar) gets busted and embarrassed in front of the whole school is, in one word, epic.

"Sweet Emotion" - Dazed And Confused

The opening moments of Dazed and Confused, accompanied by Aerosmith's "Sweet Emotion" make it immediately clear just how cool the movie is going to be. When the beat kicks in and we see Pickford (Shawn Andrews) and Michelle (Milla Jovovich) cruising the parking lot in his car, it draws the audience in immediately.

"Son Of Preacher Man" - Pulp Fiction

There are a lot of songs you can choose from in Quentin Tarantino's masterpiece Pulp Fiction. The dancing scene with Chuck Berry certainly stands out, but we just have to go with "Son of a Preacher Man" by Dusty Springfield when Vincent (John Travolta) first arrives to pick up Mia (Uma Thurman). If nothing else, it's really cool, and the scene is now a legendary meme.

"Supermodel" - Clueless

"Cher's main thrill in life is a makeover," is one of the defining lines of Clueless, and the montage that follows accompanied by "Supermodel" by Jill Sobule, is one of the most iconic scenes from one of the most iconic movies of the '90s.

"Jungle Fever" - Jungle Fever

You can't have a list like this and not include the music from Spike Lee's Jungle Fever. The songs, all written and performed by the great Stevie Wonder, fit the movie perfectly. It would be a very different movie without them and while it's hard to pick just one, we went with the title track to the movie, played over the opening credits, to represent them all.

"Still" - Office Space

Sure, the most famous song featured in Office Space is "Feels Good To Be A Gangsta" but it's another song by The Geto Boys, "Still," that gets the nod here. There isn't a harder song director Mike Judge could have gone with to play along with the most famous scene in the movie when the office crew finally put their misery to an end and killed the janky printer.

"Hotel California" - The Big Lebowski

The Big Lebowski has some amazing quotes and is filled with unforgettable moments and lines. None more so than the moment cast member John Turturro's character, Jesus, is introduced while The Gypsy Kings' version of The Eagles' "Hotel California" plays.

"My Heart Will Go On" - Titanic

While Celine Dion's song "My Heart Will Go On" is not part of one particular scene in Titanic, the theme, written by James Horner (in the composer's most famous work), is played so much that it's as much a part of everyone's fond memories of the movie as the wonderful sets and incredible special effects arfe.

"Unchained Melody" - Ghost

"Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers may have been a quarter of a century old when it was used in Ghost but there are generations of movie fans that only associate with that famous scene of Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze throwing some pottery together.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” - Wayne’s World

It's incredible to think that Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" was almost cut from Wayne's World. Not only did end up being the most iconic scene in the movie, it introduced a whole new audience to Queen's music. The movie world would be very different with it.

"Bring The Pain" - The Great White Hype

1996's The Great White Hype is one of the great underrated movies of the decade. Not only does it have a stacked cast with Damon Wayons, Jeff Goldblum, Samuel L. Jackson, Peter Berg, Jamie Foxx, and others, but it also has one amazing moment when Wayons' character, heavyweight champion James "The Grim Reaper" Roper enters the ring with Method Man rapping "Bring The Pain."

"Goodbye Horses" - Silence Of The Lambs

There are very few songs in the history of film that can creep you out quite like "Goodbye Horses" by Q Lazzarus. The song, used in one of the most traumatic scenes in Silence Of The Lambs will immediately put you back in that moment whenever and wherever you hear it.

"Lust For Life" - Trainspotting

Director Danny Boyle is a master of using music in his movies and the best example of this is probably Trainspotting. From the opening moments of the movie with "Lust For Life" by Iggy Pop playing to the end of the movie with the epic "Born Slippy" by Underworld, the music is just amazing.

"The Stroke" - Billy Madison

Billy Madison launched Adam Sandler's movie career. The Sand Man plays a idiot 20-something who is forced to redo all 12 grades to earn his father's company. As a guy who clearly grew up in the 1980s, turning up to his first day of "high school" in a Trans Am while "The Stroke" by Billy Squire plays is, well, radical and perfect.

“I Will Always Love You” - The Bodyguard

We simply couldn't have put together this list without including one of the most popular songs of all time. Whitney Houston's version of the Dolly Parton-penned "I Will Always Love You" was a cultural atom bomb in the '90s. The song was everywhere and while the movie, which also stars Houston has mostly been forgotten, the song and the soundtrack live on forever.

"Everybody Knows" - Pump Up The Volume

Pump Up The Volume is an excellent example of a great movie from the 1990s that no one talks about anymore. The Christian Slater-led movie about a disaffected high school kid who broadcasts his own pirate radio station did, at the time, do as much to define Gen X culture as any movie from the era. The fact that it predates Grunge makes it all the more defining. All of the music is great, but his theme song, "Everybody Knows" by Leonard Cohen is just so... cool.

"My Sharona" - Reality Bites

No movie oozes "Gen X" quite like Reality Bites. Not only does it star actors like Ethan Hawke, Winona Ryder, Janeane Garofalo, and Steve Zahn, but the soundtrack is very '90s. With one exception - "My Sharona" by The Knack. The '80s song fits perfectly though, as the stars all take a moment to turn it up and dance in a convenience store.

“Sister Christian” - Boogie Nights

The scene with "Sister Christian" in Boogie Nights is INTENSE. It's a scene that is, honestly, hard to watch because it makes your skin crawl. That's also what makes the scene, and the movie, such a masterpiece.

"99 Luftballoons" - Grosse Pointe Blank

Grosse Pointe Blank has a truly great soundtrack made up of some of the coolest songs of the 1980s. This is unsurprising given the cast and crew of the movie, including star John Cusack. One of the more ridiculous scenes in this underrated dark romantic comedy is Cusack's character getting help from Jeremy Piven's character to haul a dead body out of a high school reunion with Nena's "99 Luftballoons" playing in the background.

"Stuck In The Middle With You" - Reservoir Dogs

Quentin Tarantino burst onto the scene with his first movie Reservoir Dogs and he immediately set the kind of tone he would carry into most of his movies with the ultra-violent scene of Mr. Blonde (Michael Madson) cutting the ear off a cop. The fact that the sweet love song "Stuck In The Middle With You" by Stealers Wheel plays over it makes it all the more jarring.

"Only You" - Can't Hardly Wait

Can't Hardly Wait is a very '90s with a very '80s aesthetic in a lot of ways, especially the music. The movie's title comes from an '80s song of the same name by The Replacements and the last song of the movie, "Only You" by Yazoo is an '80s New Wave classic. It all fits perfectly though.

"Something I Can Never Have" - Natural Born Killers

Nine Inch Nails have the well-earned reputation of being one of the darkest bands of the 1990s and so when their song "Something I Can Never Have" was included in one of the darkest movies of the decade, it was a marriage made in Heaven, or Hell, depending on how you look at it.

"Mary Jane" - Friday

We all know what Friday is about. The Ice Cube/Chris Tucker comedy classic is one of the funniest movies of the '90s and while "Mary Jane" by Rick James dates back to the '70s, there isn't a more perfect song for the movie.

"Fortunate Son" - Forrest Gump

It's become a comedic trope that Credence Clearwater Revival's "Fortunate Son" is in every Vietnam War movie, but the facts actually show it's not used all that much. One movie it is used perfectly in is Forrest Gump, as the first song we hear when Forrest (Tom Hanks) gets to Vietnam.

"I Got You Babe" - Groundhog Day

There is no more perfect song than "I Got You Babe" to be played over and over and over and over as it is in Groundhog's Day. It does an amazing job just sucking the audience into Bill Murray's character's frustration again and again...and again.

“That Thing You Do” - That Thing You Do!

That Thing You Do! is a really fun movie about a fictional band, so it just had to be included here. None of the songs are all that great, except the star of the show, the song with the same name as the movie, written by the late Adam Schlesinger. It's just so darn catchy!

"State of Love and Trust and Breathe" - Singles

In 1992 the music scene was completely overrun with Grunge. Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Alice In Chains, were just a few of the Seattle bands dominating the charts. Another one of those Seattle bands was, of course, Pearl Jam. Not only did Eddie Veddar and company write and perform the best song on the soundtrack, "State of Love and Trust" but Veddar even showed up in the movie.

"Secret Garden" - Jerry Maguire

Bruce Springsteen had some great contributions to '90s movies, like the theme to Philadelphia, called ""Streets of Philadelphia" for which he won an Oscar, and "Dead Man Walkin'" from Dead Man Walking. We went with another Springsteen choice, "Secret Garden" which is played over the scene in Jerry Maguire when Renee Zelleweger's character is forced to break up with Jerry (Tom Cruise).

"Love Stinks" - The Wedding Singer

Some could argue that The Wedding Singer was the last great movie from Adam Sandler's early career. It's a funny movie, with an even funnier premise and that premise, of Sandler as a washed up singer playing weddings is highlighted perfectly when a depressed singer chooses to sing "Love Stinks" by the J. Geils Band at a wedding. A very Sandler choice.

Julia, Sandra, Reese—the best romantic comedies are dominated by queens, but that doesn’t mean there’s no room for a king. Enter Tom Hanks, who has been making moviegoers chuckle and swoon for decades thanks to his classic romantic comedies, several of which partnered him up with another member of rom-com royalty, Meg Ryan. Sure, his dramatic turns in films like Forrest Gump, Philadelphia, The Green Mile and Castaway have garnered the actor deserved acclaim, but it’s charming titles like Sleepless in Seattle, You’ve Got Mail, and Joe Versus the Volcano that has solidified Hanks’ status as one of America’s Sweethearts. Those funny, dreamy flicks are full of memorable lines, and here are our 32 favorite quotes from Tom Hanks romcoms.

“It Was A Million Tiny Little Things That, When You Added Them All Up, They Meant We Were Supposed To Be Together, And I Knew It. I Knew It The First Time I Touched Her. It Was Like Coming Home, Only To No Home I’d Ever Known. I Was Just Taking Her Hand To Help Her Out Of A Car And I Knew It. It Was Like Magic.” - Sleepless In Seattle

In the 1993 Nora Ephron-directed Sleepless in Seattle, Hanks plays a recently widowed architect whose son takes to a talk radio program to source a new love for his grieving dad. One of the most moving moments of the flick is when Hanks's character recounts the moment he met his late wife Maggie.

"I Think You Have The Gift For It. That Was A Perfect Blend Of Poetry And Meanness." - You've Got Mail

One of the best tropes in the rom-com genre is the enemies-to-lovers dynamic, and the chemistry between Tom Hanks' Joe Fox and Meg Ryan's Kathleen Kelly in You've Got Mail is a textbook example. Well before they fall for each other, the banter between the rival bookstore owners is deliciously barbed, as in one scene where Kathleen manages to drop the perfect insult against Joe.

"I Saw The Moon When We Were Out There In The Ocean, Shining Down On Everything. I've Been Miserable For So Long, Years Of My Life Wasted, Afraid. Been a Long Time Coming Here To Meet You, A Long Time, On a Crooked Road. Did I Ever Tell You? The First Time I Saw You, I Felt Like I'd Seen You Before." - Joe Versus the Volcano

Directed by John Patrick Shanley, the 1990 fantasy-comedy Joe Versus the Volcano was the first big-screen collaboration between Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks and it's a cult-favorite one thanks to its screwball energy and sweetness. Proof: This declaration of love from Hanks's title character is uttered right before he flings himself into a tropical volcano.

"I Don't Understand. All My Life I've Been Waiting For Someone And When I Find Her, She's...She's A Fish!" - Splash

In this fittingly titled fantasy-romance from Ron Howard, Hanks plays Allen Bauer, a young man who falls in love with a mysterious woman (Daryl Hannah), not knowing that she's secretly a mermaid. Fun fact: though he ended up playing the lead, Tom actually auditioned for a different part entirely for the 1984 film.

"Don't You Love New York In The Fall? It Makes Me Wanna Buy School Supplies. I Would Send You A Bouquet Of Newly Sharpened Pencils If I Knew Your Name And Address." - You've Got Mail

With all of its lush, lovely autumnal shots of New York City — not to mention that dreamy Cranberries soundtrack — the Nora Ephron-directed fan favorite You've Got Mail is one of our favorite movies to watch in fall. Heck, we'd buy it a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils if we could.

"It's A Glow-In-The-Dark Compass Ring. So You Don't Get Lost." - Big

Sure, yes, on paper, there is something a bit icky about a grown woman dating — albeit unknowingly — a 12-year-old stuck inside of the body of a thirtysomething toy executive. But the "romance" between Josh Baskin (Hanks) and Susan Lawrence (Elizabeth Perkins) in the 1988 Penny Marshall comedy Big is dotted with enough innocently sweet quotes like this one that it feels cute and less creepy.

"Kevin, This Woman Is The Most Adorable Creature I've Ever Been In Contact With, And If She Turns Out Even To Be As Good-Looking As A Mailbox, I'd Be Crazy Not To Turn My Life Upside Down And Marry Her." - You've Got Mail

For some movie couples, it's love at first sight. But for Joe Fox and Kathleen Kelly in You've Got Mail, it's love at first click. Hanks's character doesn't even know that it's the one and only Meg Ryan on the receiving end of those digital correspondences and yet he's already positively smitten through the computer screen.

“I’m Not Looking For A Mail-Order Bride. I Just Want Somebody I Can Have A Decent Conversation With Over Dinner Without It Falling Down Into Weepy Tears Over Some Movie!” - Sleepless In Seattle

Ironic given the quote, Sleepless in Seattle is a movie that's been known to make us a little weepy, especially the scenes of Tom Hanks's character Sam Baldwin trying to move on from the death of his beloved wife. (And, if you remember, Sam's tearjerker of choice is The Dirty Dozen. Trini Lopez!)

"You Say You Are Waiting For Something. And I Say To You, 'Yes, Yes. We All Wait'...You. I Wait For You." - The Terminal

If you have to get stuck in John F. Kennedy Airport for months on end due to governmental restrictions, at least you can fall in love with Catherine Zeta-Jones while you wait — at least you can if you're Viktor Navorski in Steven Spielberg's 2004 dramedy The Terminal. CZJ plays Amelia, a United Airlines flight attendant that Hanks's Viktor sweetly woos during his long stay at JFK.

"Hey, You Want To Bump Into Me On, Say, Saturday Around Lunchtime? Over There?" - You've Got Mail

Sure, his big-box bookstore was going to sadly put her sweet little Shop Around the Corner out of business but You've Got Mail's Joe Fox still had enough charm and charisma — plus a smooth pick-up line or two — to ultimately win Kathleen Kelly over.

"What Is 'Tiramisu'?...Some Woman Is Gonna Want Me To Do It To Her And I'm Not Gonna Know What It Is!" - Sleepless In Seattle

Any script written by the late, great Nora Ephron — whom Hanks has praised for her strong, singular vision — is seasoned with delicious little nuggets of humor, and that's certainly the case with the entire "tiramisu" scene from Sleepless in Seattle. Having been out of the dating scene for a while, Tom Hanks's recently widowed character frets that "tiramisu" is some trendy intimate act he never learned about, rather than a creamy Italian dessert.

 "Oh, No, She's Beautiful, But She's A Pill." - You've Got Mail

Even though they spend much of You've Got Mail butting heads, Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) can still concede to his gym mate Kevin (Dave Chappelle) that his bookstore rival Kathleen Kelly has considerable charms. How could he not? She's played by Meg Ryan, for crying out loud!

"I Love You, Too! I've Never Been In Love With Anybody Before, Either! It's Great! I'm Glad! But The Timing Stinks. I've Gotta Go!" - Joe Versus the Volcano

A case of bad timing has been a roadblock for many a rom-com hero. but Joe Banks's was especially bad: after being diagnosed with an incurable disease called a "brain cloud," he let a wealthy industrialist named Samuel Graynamore (Lloyd Bridges) pay out the rest of his life, so long as Joe jumped into a volcano within 20 days. He agreed, but only because he hadn't fallen in love with Patricia (Meg Ryan) yet!

“I Never Did. I Mean, The Whole Idea Of An Afterlife…But Now, I Don’t Know. ‘Cause I Have These Dreams. About Your Mom. And We Have These Long Talks About You And How You’re Doing, Which She Sort Of Knows, But I Tell Her Anyway. So What Is That? That’s Sort Of An Afterlife, Isn’t It?” - Sleepless in Seattle

In one scene of Sleepless in Seattle, Sam's young son Jonah (Ross Malinger) asks his father if he believes in heaven and the afterlife, an especially poignant question since the boy recently lost his mother. Sam's response is a touching meditation on grief, a topic that isn't explored all that often in romantic comedies.

"Wouldn't It Be Wonderful If I Could Pass All My Zingers To You? And Then I Would Never Behave Badly And You Could Behave Badly All The Time, And We'd Both Be Happy." - You've Got Mail

Much of the connection between Joe Fox and Kathleen Kelly in You've Got Mail is actually between their e-mail alter egos "NY152" and "Shopgirl." And despite having never met in person (or so they think), their digital correspondences get deep, like this one when they delve into the "Pandora's box of all the secret, hateful parts" of themselves.

"Don't You Think I Know That, Frank? Don't You Think I Am Aware There Is A Woman Here? I Can Smell Her, Like, Like A Flower. I Can Taste Her, Like Sugar On My Tongue. When I'm 20 Feet Away I Can Hear The Fabric Of Her Dress When She Moves In Her Chair!" - Joe Versus the Volcano

Meg Ryan plays three different characters in Joe Versus the Volcano, one of whom is DeDe, the coworker of our titular Joe, who not only quits his job in dramatic fashion when told he only has a few months to live, but also finally reveals his true feelings about DeDe — and the terrible office coffee.

"I Don't Ask For Much. I Don't Ask To Be Rich, And I Don't Ask To Be Famous, And I Don't Ask To Play Center Field For The New York Yankees. I Just Want To Meet A Woman, And I Want To Fall In Love, And I Want To Get Married, And I Want To Have A Kid, And I Want To Go See Him Be A Tooth In The School Play!" - Splash

Allen's life goals are pretty simple in Splash but get significantly more complicated when the woman he meets and falls in love with isn't an ordinary woman at all, but a magical mermaid who looks like the extraordinarily beautiful Daryl Hannah and just happens to have saved his life from drowning as a boy.

 “I Am Not Going To New York To Meet Some Woman Who Could Be A Crazy, Sick Lunatic. Didn’t You See ‘Fatal Attraction?’” - Sleepless In Seattle

The rom-com genre is riddled with romantic grand gestures, the kind of thing that most ordinary people wouldn't even consider doing in real life — which is why it's doubly funny that Tom Hanks's character rants about that very trope in Sleepless in Seattle, a movie that features one of the best big gestures of the genre.

"I Came Home Tonight And Got Into The Elevator To Go To My Apartment. An Hour Later, I Got Out Of The Elevator, And Brinkley And I Moved Out. Suddenly, Everything Had Become Clear. It's A Long Story, Full Of The Personal Details We Avoid So Carefully. Let Me Just Say There Was A Man Sitting In The Elevator With Me Who Knew Exactly What He Wanted, And I Found Myself Wishing I Were As Lucky As He." - Youve Got Mail

Anyone watching You've Got Mail knows that Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) and Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) are ultimately meant for each other, but as is rom-com tradition, both characters are in other relationships before they realize who they're really meant to be with. For Hanks's Joe, that realization about his superficial and self-absorbed girlfriend Patricia Eden (Parker Posey) occurs after a chance elevator encounter.

"You, don't chit. She's a nice girl. She won't take your chitting." - The Terminal

The cute flirtation between Tom Hanks's wayward traveler Viktor Navorski and Catherine Zeta-Jones flight attendant Amelia Warren isn't the only romance to be found in The Terminal. Diego Luna stars as the airport's food service deliverer Enrique Cruz, who harbors feelings for immigration officer Dolores Torres (Zoe Saldana). In one funny scene, a heavily accented Viktor warns Enrique never to "chit," or cheat, on his crush.

“I’m Gonna Get Out Of Bed Every Morning…Breathe In And Out All Day Long. Then After A While, I Won’t Have To Remind Myself To Get Out Of Bed Every Morning And Breathe In And Out. And Then After A While, I Won’t Have To Think About How I Had It Great And Perfect For A While.” - Sleepless In Seattle

Throughout Sleepless in Seattle, Meg Ryan's Annie and her friends are all transfixed by the love story of Sam (Tom Hanks) and his late wife Maggie, which the widower has been recounting on a radio talk show. When asked by the host whether Sam could love again after losing his wife, he offers up this touching response about dealing with grief.

"Oh, Madison. All The Time We Were Together, You Always Knew How I Was Feeling. Can't You Tell Now?" - Splash

Some rom-coms jokingly touch on relationship dealbreakers, those things that automatically disqualify a potential dating partner. But sweetly, in the movie Splash, the reveal that Daryl Hannah's character Madison is actually a mermaid doesn't automatically disqualify Tom Hanks's Allen from loving her.

"How Can You Forgive This Guy For Standing You Up And Not Forgive Me For This Tiny Little Thing Of Putting You Out Of Business? Oh, How I Wish You Would." - You've Got Mail

In one memorable scene of You've Got Mail, Meg Ryan's "Shopgirl" and Tom Hanks's "NY152" finally plan to meet in real life but the latter stands her up — well, sort of. Joe Fox, the man behind the NY152 email address, does show up, but Kathleen doesn't know that the pen pal she's falling for is also her bookstore rival. Thankfully, when the realization hits in the third act, Kathleen forgives Joe for both of the above grievances.

"You Know, Horace Was Right About You, Guy; You Are The Smart One. Lenny Is The Fool, Jimmy Is The Talent, And Faye Is...Well, Now, Faye Is Special, Isn't She? And You Are The Smart One. That's What I Think, Anyway." - That Thing You Do!

Sure, the 1996 fan favorite That Thing You Do! is more of a musical comedy than a traditional rom-com, but there are definitely sweet romantic elements throughout, particularly the relationship between drummer Guy (Tom Everett Scott) and costume mistress Faye (Liv Tyler), a chemistry that The Wonders band manager Mr. White (Tom Hanks) shrewdly picks up on.

"I Could Never Be Sith someone Who Likes Joni Mitchell. 'It's Clouds Illusions I Recall, I Really Don't Know Clouds At All.' What Does That Mean? Is She A Pilot? Is She Taking Flying Lessons? It Must Be A Metaphor For Something, But I Don't Know What It Is." - You've Got Mail

Some of the most memorable scenes from You've Got Mail feature the e-mail musings between mystery pen pals Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) and Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan), and one of our favorites is this Joni Mitchell-related sequence. Of course, the folk legend has featured on many a movie soundtrack and has rom-com clout, thanks to that teary Emma Thompson breakdown in Love Actually.

"Amelia, Would You Like An Eat To Bite?" - The Terminal

A traveler from Krakozhia, Viktor Navorski isn't entirely fluent in English when he gets detained at JFK for months on end. This makes it all the more charming when he practices over and over again how he'll ask his crush, flight attendant Amelia (Catherine Zeta-Jones), out for dinner.

"I Would Have Asked For Your Number, And I Wouldn't Have Been Able To Wait 24 Hours Before Calling You Up And Saying, 'Hey, How About – Oh, How About Some Coffee Or, You Know, Drinks Or Dinner Or A Movie...For As Long As We Both Shall Live?'" - You've Got Mail

What would have happened, Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) wistfully wonders at the end of You've Got Mail, if he hadn't been Fox Books and Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) hadn't been The Shop Around the Corner, and they had just, well, met. The only thing they would fight about would be which video to rent on a Saturday night, he tells her.

"So How's My Butt?...Is It Cute, Though?" - Sleepless In Seattle

In Sleepless in Seattle, Jay (Rob Reiner) is the source of much dating advice to his friend Sam (Tom Hanks). When Jay tells Sam that "women are looking for: pecs and a cute butt," the latter gets hilariously self-conscious about the cuteness of his own derrière.

"Pride And Prejudice.  I Bet You Read That Book Every Year. I Bet You Just Love That... Mr. Darcy, And Your Sentimental Heart Beats Widely At The Thought That He And...Well, You Know, Whatever Her Name Is, Are Truly, Honestly Going To End Up Together." - You've Got Mail

You've Got Mail's Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) is correct in guessing that bookstore owner Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) — and every other woman, for that matter — loves the classic Jane Austen romance Pride and Prejudice. But it does seem like the Fox Books boss could have paid a bit more attention in those Lit 101 classes back at school, huh?

"Dear God, Whose Name I Do Not Know, Thank You For My Life. I Forgot How BIG...Thank You. Thank You For My Life." - Joe Versus the Volcano

If you need a welcome reminder about the beauty of life, encountering a stunningly massive moon while being stuck on a raft in the middle of the ocean and slowly growing delirious from thirst will surely do it. Luckily, Joe Versus the Volano's titular character eventually drifts to land, but never loses that sense of gratitude.

“Mommy Got Sick. And It Happened Just Like That. There Was Nothing Anybody Could Do. It Isn’t Fair. There’s No Reason. But If We Start Asking Why, We’ll Go Crazy.” - Sleepless In Seattle

The 1993 rom-com classic Sleepless in Seattle follows Sam Baldwin (Tom Hanks), who has recently lost his wife and is now a single father to eight-year-old Jonah (Ross Malinger). In navigating his own heartbreaking grief, Sam offers up some hard-earned wisdom to his young son, as well as the audience.

"Don't Cry, Shopgirl. Don't Cry." - You've Got Mail

The finale of You've Got Mail sees Joe Fox (Tom Hanks) and Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) finally discovering the identity of each other's e-mail soulmate. Thankfully, despite her tears, Kathleen is actually very happy at the reveal, telling Joe: "I wanted it to be you."

Surely, we all have all-time favorite bands and musicians we would give anything to share the same air with at a concert. But, what about our most beloved fake music acts from films over the years? Some of the best music movies of all time feature fictional bands and singers that we can only imagine standing in line for.  

So, let’s talk about the musicians we’ve seen play center stage in some incredible movies. We’ve seen everything from ‘70s era rockstars and catchy garage punk bands to a comical boy band. Here are the best movies on the subject and how to watch them at home: 

Almost Famous (2000)

Almost Famous’ storyline of a teenager getting to tour with a rock band may seem impossible, but the Cameron Crowe movie was actually inspired by the filmmaker’s own experiences as a journalist for Rolling Stone. The movie’s fictional band, Stillwater, is a ‘70s era music act inspired by Led Zeppelin, The Allman Brothers Band and The Eagles. Crowe actually toured with the Allman Brothers Band for ten days back in the day, per Yahoo! No wonder Crowe’s 2000 classic is one of the best! Plus, tons of great songs are featured throughout the movie. 

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The Blues Brothers (1980) 

In January 1976, original Saturday Night Live cast members Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi took to the TV show’s stage to debut the Blues Brothers. Four years later, the pair of comedians played their characters of "Joliet" Jake Blues and Elwood for a comedy action film that became a big hit commercially. While we’ve filed the band under “fake bands” because the actors are playing characters, the Blues Brothers actually made three live albums and toured in 1988 and 1998. 

Stream/Rent/Buy The Blues Brothers on Amazon. 

Sound Of Metal (2019)

Riz Ahmed gave an incredible performance in 2019’s Sound of Metal that earned him an Oscar nomination. The drama is about the drummer of a fictional metal duo called Blackgammon, Ruben, who learns he has lost most of his hearing. His doctor recommends he cease playing in his band, which he shares with his girlfriend, Lou. Despite his own protests, Ruben goes on a powerful journey where he wrestles with sobriety, learning sign language and living with silence. 

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School Of Rock (2003) 

Who can forget the lyrics “If you wanna be the teacher’s pet, well, baby you just better forget it”? Richard Linklater’s School Of Rock told a hilarious fictional story that remains very popular over two decades later. It's about guitarist Dewey Finn, who is down on his luck and without a band. In his desperation, he decides to impersonate his roommate and pretend to be a substitute teacher at a private school. There he creates his own rock band full of elementary students, who go on to compete at his local battle of the bands. 

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Whiplash (2014)

Being a musician takes hours upon hours of practice and discipline. In Damien Chazelle’s Best Picture-nominated film, Whiplash, the filmmaker discusses this through the intense relationship between a young jazz drummer (Miles Teller) and his ruthless instructor (J.K. Simmons) at a prestigious conservatory in New York City. The storyline was inspired by Chazelle’s own experience in a “very competitive” studio band in high school. Yes, Simmons' character is based on the director's band instructor, but the filmmaker “pushed” the character much further. 

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Velvet Goldmine (1998)

Ewan McGregor and Jonathan Rhys Meyers played two fictional ‘70s glam rock stars in Velvet Goldmine. Meyers played Brian Slade, an androgynous icon likened to David Bowie and McGregor is Curt Wild, who is based on Iggy Pop and Lou Reed. The story is influenced by Bowie’s relationship with Iggy Pop and Lou Reed in the 1970s and 1980s. The movie also stars Christian Bale as a British journalist writing about Slade’s life and delves into some conversations about sexuality and fame during this time in the rock scene. 

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Sing Street (2016) 

Writer/director John Carney has made a career out of music movies, all of which are excellent: from Once to Begin Again and last year’s Flora And Son. The best of the bunch is definitely Sing Street which is about a boy’s journey in creating a band to impress girls in 1980s Ireland. While Sing Street is a fictional band, the story is somewhat inspired by Carney’s upbringing in Ireland. 

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That Thing You Do! (1996) 

Tom Hanks had his directorial debut back in 1996 with That Thing You Do!, from a script he wrote as well. It talks about 1960s rock and roll culture through the lens of a fake one-hit wonder pop band called The Wonders. The cast was composed of Hanks, Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn and Ethan Embry. The movie became so popular that the movie’s soundtrack actually charted on the Billboard 200! 

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Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World (2010)

Oh, what we would give to see Sex Bomb Omb and The Clash at Demonhead play on the same evening… if they existed that is. Both rock bands are only figments of the imagination, and come from Bryan Lee O’Malley’s graphic novel series, but they certainly did come alive for Edgar Wright’s 2010 movie. Famed songwriter Beck was actually behind the tunes of the Scott Pilgrim soundtrack, particularly for Sex Bomb Omb, whereas Metric penned The Clash at Demonhead’s hit song “Black Sheep.” 

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Freaky Friday (2003)

Freaky Friday’s Pink Slip may have been just a garage band of high schoolers in the Disney comedy, but they made some certified bangers with “Ultimate” and “Take Me Away.” The movie itself is a ball to watch as Lindsay Lohan’s rebellious teen, Anna, swaps bodies with her mom, Jamie Lee Curtis’ widowed psychiatrist, Tess. While Anna is forced to go on a talk show and do a rehearsal dinner as Tess, Tess has to embrace her inner rock star, and it’s a blast to watch. What’s even more rad is the fact that we might see what became of Pink Slip, because a Freaky Friday sequel is on the way. 

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Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)

The Coen Brothers’ Inside Llewyn Davis has Oscar Isaac playing a fictional folk musician as he struggles to keep his life afloat. The story of Llewyn Davis was inspired by Dave Van Ronk, who was pivotal to the American folk music revival. 

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Green Room (2015) 

In the instance of Green Room, the fictional punk band the Ain't Rights are formed to headline a terrifying horror film. In Jeremy Saulnier’s movie, which is among A24's best movies ever, the band gets attacked by neo-Nazi skinheads after they witness a murder while playing a club. In Green Room, the Ain’t Rights consist of characters played by Anton Yelchin, Alia Shawhat, Joe Cole and Callum Turner. 

Rent/Buy Green Room on Amazon. 

Josie And The Pussycats (2001) 

2001’s Josie And The Pussycats is actually based on the Archie Comics and Hanna-Barbera cartoon TV show about a band of female singers. The fictional rock band has been around since the ‘60s, but the movie modernized the storyline about a girl group. Starring Rachael Leigh Cook, Tara Reid and Rosario Dawson as Josie and the Pussycats, the movie is a clever satire on the music industry. 

Rent/Buy Josie and the Pussycats on Amazon. 

Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping (2016)

After The Lonely Island went viral for tons of SNL shorts and great music videos, the trio jumped to the big screen to play The Style Boyz, a fictional pop rap group led by Andy Samberg’s Conner “Kid Conner” Friel. Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping is a hilarious parody full of cameos of real music acts throughout the movie.  

Stream Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping on Hulu.
Rent/Buy Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping on Amazon. 

A Star Is Born (2018) 

Bradley Cooper collaborated with one of the biggest pop stars of our time to remake A Star Is Born to heartbreakingly raw results. Cooper actually learned to change his voice an entire octave to play the fake musician Jackson “Jack” Maine alongside Lady Gaga’s Ally. The movie is about Jackson and Ally’s romance as he mentors her to stardom whilst he also struggles with alcoholism. Cooper and Gaga were such convincing lovers, many believed they were really together. 

Stream A Star Is Born on Max.
Rent/Buy A Star Is Born on Amazon.

If only these fabulous fictional bands could all be part of the same festival so that we could see them in concert! Enjoy streaming these music-filled movies! 

Music is an integral part of cinema – be it film scores, original songs and curated soundtracks – but there are some movies that take its importance to the next level. History is full of incredible features about the power of music, including stories about artists and fans alike, and we’ve put this list together to highlight the best of the best.

From biopics about both fake and real musicians to stories about teachers, record store owners and life after death, the field of movies about music is wide, but they provide us with amazing insight and powerful messages about one of the great artforms.

30. Hustle & Flow

Winning an Oscar for its song, “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp,” which was written by underground legends Three 6 Mafia, and starring Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard before Empire, Hustle & Flow, as its title implies, is all about the hustle. Howard plays a pimp-cum-rapper who wants to leave his life of crime behind and get on the mic, while Henson plays one of his prostitutes who just so happens to kill it on hooks. They make beautiful music together, and everything seems to be going their way until drama just stomps right over all of their plans. Come for the story, stay for the amazing soundtrack.

29. A Mighty Wind

Christopher Guest may be one of the best mockumentary filmmakers to ever do it, but he’s proven himself to be pretty good at music, too. A Mighty Wind tells the story of several folk musicians coming together to honor the memory of a famed music producer after his children organize a first-of-its-kind concert. This 2003 movie works even if you’ve never given folk music a second thought. In fact, it may be better that way, as it pairs Guest’s signature witty one-liners, a familiar cast of eccentric characters and a truly charming soundtrack of songs like “A Kiss at the End of the Rainbow” (which was Oscar-nominated) and “A Mighty Wind” (which won a Grammy).

28. I'm Not There

Bob Dylan’s story cannot be summed up into one traditional dramatization — something director Todd Haynes and co-writer Oren Moverman understood. Thus, they took inspiration from the many personas the folk singer adopted at various stages of his career and went in their own direction. The result is an anthology of bold, bizarre tales each led by a different member of the star-studded cast, including Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett, Marcus Carl Franklin, Richard Gere, Ben Whishaw, and Heath Ledger. Walking into I’m Not There with only a basic knowledge of Dylan’s legacy might leave one bewildered, but even in that regard, the film triumphs as a beautiful and audacious tribute to one of music’s most beautiful and audacious innovators.

27. Ray

Overcoming adversity for the color of his skin and his inability to see, Ray Charles became a pioneer of soul, inspiring millions of musicians and a feature film about his life that is, admittedly, not much different than most music biopics. However, director Taylor Hackford’s Ray is still a standout for the genre, in particular for the breathtaking, Academy Award-winning lead performance by Jamie Foxx, whose own real musical talents certainly came in handy when portraying the singer and pianist. Charles passed before he could see this dramatization of his life in its completion, but few doubt that it would have made him proud.

26. Sid And Nancy

Much like the doomed couple on which it is based, Alex Cox’s Sid and Nancy is an explosive, abrasive, drug-fueled exploration of one of punk rock’s earliest icons and the woman to which he will be forever tied. Starring Gary Oldman as Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious and Chloe Webb as his girlfriend, Nancy Spungen, this 1986 cult classic accomplishes a lot in a short amount of time. From diving into the unprecedented success of the Sex Pistols and the band’s disastrous and infamous American tour that was plagued by violence, to the tumultuous relationship that played out in the final year of Sid and Nancy’s lives, the movie does an excellent job of appealing for both fans of the legendary band and the uninitiated.

25. Inside Llewyn Davis

Oscar Isaac is an immensely talented performer, and Joel and Ethan Coen’s Inside Llewyn Davis is a movie that capitalizes on all of his gifts: his pain and grief is palpable, his comedic timing is impeccable, and it even turns out that he is a skilled singer and guitar player. The film is a wonderful and weird character study that has the 1960s New York folk music scene as its backdrop, and Llewyn is a fascinating protagonist – full of incredible passion for his art but forever struggling against the ever-crushing forces of the world. Thanks to the looping structure of its story, this is also a particularly fun feature to watch over and over again.

24. Baby Driver

In the very first sequence in Edgar Wright’s Baby Driver, everything, and I mean everything, is timed to the song “Bellbottoms” by The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, and the the audience is immediately swept into Baby’s world. It's a world that’s driven by music, and Wright’s ability to make us feel like we’re literally wearing the protagonist’s headphones through the bumping soundtrack and immaculately timed action is masterful. While this film is not technically a musical, music is its driving force speeding us through Baby’s journey that delivers heart-pounding car chases, lovely romantic moments and a stunning shootout timed to the song “Tequila.”

23. Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

Starring the incomparable Chadwick Boseman in his final role as well as the magnificent Viola Davis as the titular character, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a landmark film and another phenomenal entry in August Wilson’s famous Pittsburgh Cycle. The story concerns a powerful jazz singer (Davis) who is recording an album, only for members of her band to constantly get in the way of each other, mostly because of their egos. It also deals with how Black music was often reappropriated and fed into the mainstream. Besides the simmering tension, this movie also features some of the best jazz music of the roaring ‘20s. It's a must-see if you love period pieces, jazz music, and the wonderful Chadwick Boseman.

22. Rocketman

Rocketman is a gorgeous, fantastical musical all about the life of Sir Elton John, the man gorgeously portrayed by Taron Egerton. He not only belts his heart out with legendary songs like “I’m Still Standing” and “Crocodile Rock” as the life of the musical sensation is illustrated through song, but he also beautifully portrays the challenges John faced through his life and career.

One of the reasons why this movie is so magical is in how it applies John’s story. We learn all about his wonderful friendship with songwriter Bernie Taupin, his horrendous relationship with the toxic John Reid, and his turbulent childhood mixed in with heightened by fantastical musical numbers. The film is a marvel and it tells Elton John’s story in the most extra, fabulous, and lovely way.

21. Mr. Holland's Opus

In one of Richard Dreyfuss’ best movies, 1995’s Mr. Holland’s Opus takes moviegoers on a journey through the 30-year career of composer-turned-high school music teacher Glenn Holland. Right along with the characters, we experience the highs — like using rock ‘n’ roll to connect with his teenage students — and lows — Mr. Holland’s struggle to communicate with his deaf son — of the teacher’s life. That’s not to mention an issue every teacher can relate to: the fight for funding. We challenge you to get through that final scene, where he gets to conduct an orchestra of his former students in the premiere performance of his own symphony, without shedding a tear.

20. Frank

Many talented musicians happen to boast enigmatic personalities, and the ultimate cinematic reflection of this — in both hilarious and heartbreaking ways — is Michael Fassbender’s titular role from Frank. The character is actually inspired by real-life papier-mâché head-wearing artist Frank Sidebottom, whose former band member, Jon Ronson, co-wrote the film.

His experiences were funneled into the real protagonist, Jon (Domhnall Gleeson), whose ambition outweighs his actual talent but earns him a spot on Frank’s band. Unfortunately, his inclusion proves to be the beginning of the end for the experimental indie rock outfit in this thought-provoking story exploring the complexities of art and the consequences of chasing your dreams with a lead foot.

19. Once

More than a decade-and-a-half after its release, people are still finding out about Once and falling in love with its majestic and incredibly nuanced story filled with romance, music, and new beginnings. John Carney’s low-budget box office success follows two strangers (played by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova) who become quick friends and perhaps something more after deciding to write music together.

For 86 minutes, the pair learn a great deal about each other, redemption, love, and the power of music as they craft one of the best songs of the 21st century, “Falling Slowly.” The lo-fi look and stripped-down nature of the film adds a rawness and realness that creates a beautiful and enchanting experience that still resonates all these years later.

18. Coco

When ranking Pixar movies, Coco certainly lands somewhere near the top. For one thing, the story is amazing, as the twists and turns are some of the best that Pixar has to offer. It’s also a really beautiful movie, despite the subject matter essentially being all about death. What really makes Coco shine, however, is its reverence for Mexican culture – particularly its music. “Remember Me” is one of the best songs to ever come out of Hollywood, and pretty much every moment in this movie is another chance to fall in love with its melodies.

Coco is an amazing fukn since it seems like it’s all about a boy who loves music – and it is! – but it’s also about how nobody really dies as long as somebody remembers them. And, how could you not love a message like that?

17. The Music Man

One of the most essential movies about music follows a man whose expertise in the craft is all a fabrication. In reality, Professor Harold Hill (Robert Preston, reprising the Tony-winning role he originated in the original 1957 stage production of The Music Man) is an expert con artist looking to profit off a quaint community in 1910 Iowa by posing as a young boys’ band leader.

The titular Music Man may know nothing about music, but the music in the film is anything but a trick — featuring Broadway favorites by Meredith Wilson like “Ya Got Trouble,” “Shipoopi,” and the rousing centerpiece track, “Seventy-Six Trombones.” If you do not like musicals, this toe-tapping, romantic, and inspirational experience might be the one that makes you into a fan.

16. That Thing You Do!

In the wake of the British Invasion, every aspiring, American pop band wanted to be the country’s answer to The Beatles. That Thing You Do!, Tom Hanks’ feature-length debut as a writer and director, is a fictional tale about four musicians who nearly obtained that destiny with the pressures of fame and challenging constraints of the industry threatening to tear them apart.

Hanks also stars in the underrated ‘90s movie as the manager to The Wonders (formerly known as the more confusing “One-Ders” — played by Tom Everett Scott, Steve Zahn, Jonathan Schaech, and Ethan Embry), who cut a catchy hit tune that launches them into stardom beyond their wildest dreams. Also starring Liv Tyler and Charlize Theron, That Thing You Do! is a funny, infectious, and sometimes heartbreaking film set during pop music’s prime, anchored by the late Adam Schlesinger’s Oscar-nominated, titular banger.

15. Love & Mercy

We’ve all seen cookie cutter music biopics… but director Bill Pohlad’s Love & Mercy is a tremendous escape from the typical. The film is an examination of Beach Boys frontman Brian Wilson during two separate eras of his life, and both are tremendous in their own special ways. Played by Paul Dano in his younger years, Wilson is depicted as a wonderful and creative force (witnessing the in-studio orchestration of the album Pet Sounds is awe-inspiring), but things take a dark turn as he falls victim to a controlling negative influence of his therapist, and John Cusack delivers one of the best dramatic performance of his career as the older Wilson opposite terrific work from Paul Giamatti and Elizabeth Banks. While evoking a particular era, the music of the Beach Boys is timeless, and this film is a must-watch for any fan.

14. Purple Rain

For many, Purple Rain is the musical film. And, while we’re reluctant to call it the greatest rock movie of all time, we definitely understand the sentiment. The story of a young musician named The Kid (played by Prince himself), Purple Rain is part drama, part rock opera, and quite possibly the crowning achievement in Prince’s fantastic career.

What truly makes this movie is its titular soundtrack, which just may be the greatest album of the 1980s (And yes, we’re aware that Michael Jackson’s Thriller also came out in the ‘80s. We said what we said!). And look, the soundtrack must be phenomenal since the plot itself is a little uneven. Yes, the story of a troubled musician with a rocky home life is fertile ground for cinema, but the music (and Prince!) is the true star of Purple Rain.

13. Almost Famous

Cameron Crowe’s 2000 coming-of-age drama Almost Famous not only features one of the best movie soundtracks of all time, but it also introduces one of the greatest fictional bands in the history of cinema with Stillwater. Described as a “mid-level band struggling with their own limitations in the harsh face of stardom,” the group at the center of this Academy Award-winning film (Best Original Screenplay) serves as the perfect representation of a ‘70s rock band on the verge of true success.

At the same time, the story of William Miller (Patrick Fugit) going from a young and naive reporter lying his way into a Rolling Stone article is one of the best explorations of what happens when you meet and befriend your heroes. Basically, everything about this movie works and it works well, creating an unforgettable and unparalleled experience.

12. School Of Rock

If you want to watch movies that rock, Richard Linklater's School of Rock is a must. While Jack Black’s Dewey Finn is by no means a good substitute teacher in the conventional sense, his love for music is infectious, and he teaches his class of kids about its awesomeness. Featuring an absolutely incredible cast of young actors, its hilarious, heartfelt and packed with energy. Watching Dewey teach them how to play their instruments, adopt a rock persona and “stick it to the man” is a joyful experience, and it capitalizes on everything we love about Black as a star.

Ahen mix of Black’s musical talents and physical comedy skills, Mike White’s wicked smart script and Richard Linklater’s stellar direction delivers a banging musical movie.

11. Sound Of Metal

In 2020, The Place Beyond the Pines writer Darius Marder unleashed upon the world one of the best and most impactful directorial debuts with Sound of Metal. This loud, powerful, and raw drama film centers on Ruben Stone (Riz Ahmed), the drummer of the avant-garde metal band Blackgammon as he begins to lose his hearing, which has a detrimental effect not only his profession but also his life in general.

Winner of two Academy Awards – Best Film Editing and Best Sound – and nominated for several more including Best Picture and Best Actor, Sound of Metal does an incredible job capturing the heart and soul of underground music, as seen in the various performance sequences and collection of great band shirts. But more than that, it perfectly captures human resiliance, as seen in Ruben’s difficult journey upon going deaf and the father-son relationship he develops with Joe (Paul Raci), a recovering alcoholic who runs a deaf support group.

10. The Sound Of Music

It’s no secret why The Sound of Music won five Academy Awards and two Golden Globes following its 1965 release. One doesn’t even need to have seen the based-on-a-true-story musical to be familiar with the von Trapp family singers and their greatest hits, from “My Favorite Things” to “Do-Re-Mi” and “Edelweiss.” Julie Andrews, in one of her best roles, stars as Maria, the young nun in training who is assigned to serve as the governess of the seven children of Capt. Georg von Trapp (Christopher Plummer).

In the film, which was adapted from a stage production of the same name, Maria teaches the children to sing, which serves to warm the hard heart of the widowed captain not only to his children but to their governess as well. The Sound of Music is all at once a spirited sing-along, a romantic comedy (the lead actors’ chemistry is off the charts), a drama depicting Austria on the cusp of World War II, and a family favorite worthy of infinite rewatches.

9. The Blues Brothers

Several Saturday Night Live sketches have inspired movies, to varying degrees of success, and not only is 1980’s The Blues Brothers one of the best, but more than 40 years later, it stands as one of the Top 10 music movies of all time. John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd star as the sunglasses-wearing Jake and Elwood Blues, who are on a mission from God to save the orphanage where they were raised. To do so, they’ve got to get the band back together, literally, which proves to be pretty difficult as they try to outrun a vengeful country and Western band (yes, both kinds of music), the Illinois Nazis and Jake’s scorned lover.

The Blues Brothers boasts some truly epic cameos from the likes of Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles and Carrie Fisher; the best soundtrack that will have everybody wanting to sing the blues, plenty of hilarious quotes, and one of the highest numbers of crashed cars in movie history. Hit it!

8. Sing Street

Sing Street is a simple coming-of-age story about a boy who forms a band to impress a girl. However, don’t let that fool you, it’s actually a very nuanced, lovely love story about a boy and his love for his crush and rock ‘n roll. Seeing Conor (played by Ferdia Walsh-Peelo), discover his love for music is wonderful, and the love story between him and Raphina (played by the then-up-and-coming Lucy Boynton) is so sweet. It’s a classic and universal story that so many can relate to, and once you mix that with the stellar ‘80s nostalgia, you really have something special.

What really drives this movie though is the music. These kids turn out to be quite the band, and with each passing track, you realize that they really have something special. Sing Street oozes with ‘80s energy through its synth-y songs and over-the-top outfits, and it’s the major reason why it’s so great. Also, if “Drive It Like You Stole It” isn’t stuck in your head for weeks after watching this film, something might be wrong.

7. Tick, Tick... Boom!

Critics and fans alike love Tick, Tick…Boom! and specifically Andrew Garfield’s performance as the late great Jonathan Larson. The lead actor put his heart and soul into this adaptation of Larson’s autobiographical musical, and it is palpable. With Lin-Manuel Miranda’s caring direction, this love letter to musical theater and the writer of Rent bursts off the screen.

Songs like “30/90” and “Therapy” will get hearts pumping, and in the more vulnerable moments of the film, tracks including “Come To Your Senses” and “Louder Than Words” hammer home the emotional stakes that come with wholeheartedly pursuing your passion. This film is for artists, and it depicts the ever-relatable struggle of trying to make it. Simultaneously, it’s also a tribute to one of our greatest writers who we lost too soon whom Andrew Garfield embodies with great care.

6. High Fidelity

While the majority of the movies on this list are about the creation of music, Stephen Frears’ High Fidelity is essentially a music appreciation course unto itself, and it’s ivy-league level brilliant. Based on the novel of the same name by Nick Hornby, it presents fascinating insight about the medium from the very first line – “What came first: the music or the misery?” – and proceeds to ponder love through the protagonist’s deep love of rock, pop, techno, and soul.

John Cusack’s Rob Gordon is an asshole, as we learn over the course of the film, but he’s also an entirely relatable asshole who has a deep passion for what he loves and legitimately learns to put behind his selfishness through the introspective journey of his romantic past. It’s a wonderful movie for all those reasons (as well as an endless stream of terrific music-driven moments) … but also because it had a huge role in teaching the world about the brilliance of Jack Black and setting the stage for his amazing career.

5. O Brother, Where Art Thou?

If you’re looking for a movie inspired by Greek mythology that also pays homage to the early days of American folk, blues, and roots music, then Joel and Ethan Coen’s O Brother, Where Art Thou?... is really your only option. Loosely based on Homer’s The Oddysey, this Great Depression-era dramedy follows a trio of escaped convicts (played by George Clooney, John Turturro, and Tim Blake Nelson) as they set off to find a hidden treasure and live the rest of their lives as free, and very rich, men.

When an attempt to make some quick cash turns them into an overnight sensation known as the Soggy Bottom Boys, the three men find themselves responsible for the most popular song in the American South. What follows is a journey through the heart of the South and the heart of man as the three escaped prisoners encounter otherworldly situations and a collection of colorful characters ranging from a bluesman who made a deal with the devil, an over-the-top gubernatorial candidate, and a ruthless sheriff who wants nothing more than to bring them to justice.

4. Amadeus

Movie fans regularly reflect on the times that the Oscars “got it wrong,” but 1985 was definitely a year that they got it right. Miloš Forman’s Amadeus famous won a stunning eight Academy Awards, and it deserved every single one of them, as the movie is a phenomenal cinematic achievement about an unquestioned genius.

Amadeus is so gorgeous that it would be breathtaking to watch on mute – the period production design, costuming and theatrical staging is dazzling – but that’s obviously not something that you should do when watching a movie about one of the most gifted composers to ever walk this planet. Despite all of its fancy dressings, it’s a movie that is the opposite of stuffy (it’s regularly laugh-out-loud funny), and packs a powerful story of immense talent and poisonous professional jealousy. F. Murray Abraham won the Oscar for his performance as Antonio Salieri, but Tom Hulce in the eponymous role is unforgettable.

3. This is...Spinal Tap

Making a movie about music that stands the test of time is no small feat, and not only did legendary filmmaker Rob Reiner do that — on his first try, no less — he gave us possibly the funniest movie about music of all time in This Is... Spinal Tap. Alongside Reiner, Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Harry Shearer wrote and star in this 1984 rock mockumentary about the titular band trying to crank their fame back up to 11.

Its soundtrack holds up decades later, with tunes like “Gimme Some Money” that are guaranteed to get stuck in your head, and the whole ensemble masters the fine line between stupid and clever with dialogue that is witty and endlessly quotable. This Is... Spinal Tap also gets the credit for being the beginning of a beautifully hilarious relationship between Christopher Guest and several players who would go on to make more brilliant mockumentareies like Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show and — another entry on this list — A Mighty Wind.

2. Soul

Our pick for the best movie of 2020, Soul is also probably Pixar’s greatest movie ever And hey, it’s also a film about music. The story of a middle school music teacher who dies just before he gets his big break, Soul has more to say about mortality than a vast majority of films aimed at adults (which just may be why Soul is Pixar’s most mature movie to date).

At the same time, it’s also about living in the moment, since you never know when your run of moments will end. Unlike a lot of the movies on this list that use music as a centerpiece, Soul is that rare film that uses music to explore the entire meaning of life. And why not, as music is so rich and complex that it’s one of life’s few universal languages. We have a feeling that people will be singing this movie’s praises for years to come.

1. Whiplash

What would you sacrifice for true greatness? Your friends? Your family? Your health? Your sanity? It’s a big question that can yield some disturbing answers, and filmmaker Damien Chazelle makes you feel every ounce of its weight in his directorial debut. Inspired by the writer/director’s own experiences, the movie immerses you in the intense and competitive world that is being a part of an esteemed collegiate Studio Band, and when you walk away from it, there’s a part of you that is surprised that your hands don’t sport drumstick blisters.

As young and ambitious percussionist Andrew Neiman, Miles Teller's empathetic performance makes you feel every iota of his passion and pain – and it's still somehow only the second best turn in the movie. J.K. Simmons’ Terence Fletcher is an antagonist that will be remembered in cinematic history alongside Anthony Hopkins’ Hannibal Lecter and Kathy Bates’ Annie Wilkes, and it’s what ultimately cements Whiplash’s place at the top of this ranking.

Be on the lookout here on CinemaBlend for more of our ranked features, such as our ranking of the 30 Best TV Game Shows, the 35 Best Sci-Fi Movies, the 50 Best Horror Movies, and more.

When taking a look at all of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu, it is no wonder why it is one of the best streaming services to subscribe to today. It’s good to know that the next time you are in the mood to watch a good ‘90s movie — be it a fun comedy like Office Space or an intense thriller like True Lies — if you have a Hulu subscription, you will be in luck. A great deal of the best movies on Hulu, ranging from various genres and styles, come from that decade and we have compiled our absolute favorite picks of the best ’90s movies on Hulu for you below. Enjoy!

The Sixth Sense (1999)

Director: M. Night Shyamalan

Starring: Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment

What it’s about: A young boy with an astonishing but disturbing gift receives help from a disillusioned child psychologist.

Why it is one of the best movies on Hulu: Not only is The Sixth Sense one of best horror movies on Hulu, it is widely considered the best M. Night Shyamalan movie for its chilling ghost story and iconic twist ending.

• Stream The Sixth Sense on Hulu

Happy Gilmore (1996)

Director: Dennis Dugan

Starring: Adam Sandler, Christopher McDonald, Julie Bowen

What it’s about: An aspiring hockey player with anger issues discovers he has a unique golfing talent and enters a tournament hoping to use his earnings to buy back his grandmother’s house.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: In addition to being one of the best movies about golf (let alone one of the funniest), Happy Gilmore might be Adam Sandler’s best movie (in terms of pure comedy).

• Stream Happy Gilmore on Hulu

White Men Can’t Jump (1992)

Director: Ron Shelton

Starring: Wesley Snipes, Woody Harrelson

What it’s about: Two street hustlers – one white and one Black – team up to double their efforts on the basketball court.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: White Men Can’t Jump is a classic basketball movie so beloved for its clever comedy and impeccable chemistry of its stars that it eventually inspired a Hulu exclusive remake in 2023.

• Stream White Men Can’t Jump on Hulu

Jingle All The Way (1996)

Director: Brian Levant

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sinbad, Rita Wilson

What it’s about: A workaholic father desperately searches for a coveted toy that his son wants for Christmas.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: The family-friendly comedy Jingle All the Way is a top-tier Christmas movie for its commentary on holiday season commercialism and some genuinely entertaining, action-packed moments.

• Stream Jingle All the Way on Hulu

Dr. Dolittle (1998)

Director: Betty Thomas

Starring: Eddie Murphy, Peter Boyle

What it’s about: A physician’s life changes when his long-forgotten ability to communicate with animals suddenly resurfaces.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: Loosely based on the stories by Hugh Lofting, Dr. Dolittle is one of the most underrated Eddie Murphy movies.

• Stream Dr. Dolittle on Hulu

Edward Scissorhands (1990)

Director: Tim Burton

Starring: Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest

What it’s about: A door-to-door salesperson discovers a lonely young man with knives for fingers and takes him to live with her family in a quaint 1960s suburb.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: One of the definitive Tim Burton movies is Edward Scissorhands – a strange, darkly comedic, and also deeply moving portrait of the title character’s struggle to find acceptance.

• Stream Edward Scissorhands on Hulu

Die Hard With A Vengeance (1995)

Director: John McTiernan

Starring: Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson, Jeremy Irons

What it’s about: Suspended lieutenant John McClane and Harlem shopkeeper Zeus Carver are forced to participate in an elaborate series of games by a terrorist threatening New York City.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: The third installment of the Die Hard movie franchise, Die Hard with a Vengeance, is an exciting buddy action flick on fire with Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson’s chemistry.

• Stream Die Hard with a Vengeance on Hulu

Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

Director: Chris Columbus

Starring: Robin Williams, Sally Field

What it’s about: Recently divorced actor Daniel Hillard poses as an elderly woman so his unwitting ex-wife will hire him as a nanny for their three children.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: One of the best Robin Williams movies, Mrs. Doubtfire, sees the actor give one of his most uproarious and heartfelt performances.

• Stream Mrs. Doubtfire on Hulu

The Hot Shots! Movies (1991, 1993)

Director: Jim Abrahams

Starring: Charlie Sheen, Valeria Golino

What they’re about: The adventures of an unstable fighter pilot (played by Charlie Sheen) on missions to destroy nuclear weapons and rescue a team of Iraqi war prisoners.

Why they are some of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: From the creators of Airplane!, Hot Shots! and Hot Shots! Part Deux are some of the best parody movies for the way they poke fun at classic flicks like Top Gun and Rambo: First Blood Part II.

• Stream the Hot Shots! movies on Hulu

Waiting To Exhale (1995)

Director: Forest Whitaker

Starring: Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Loretta Divine, Lela Rochon

What it’s about: Four Black women bond over their respective struggles with the men in their lives and other pressing circumstances.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: Based on Terry McMillan’s novel, Waiting to Exhale is one of the best movies about female friendships, especially for the strong performances by its four leading ladies.

• Stream Waiting to Exhale on Hulu

Fight Club (1999)

Director: David Fincher

Starring: Brad Pitt, Edward Norton

What it’s about: A disillusioned corporate drone teams up with a charismatic, devil-may-care soap salesperson to create a group for men to let out their frustrations through hand-to-hand combat.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: Featuring Pitt as one of his most badass characters, Tyler Durden, Fight Club is a wonderfully twisted consumerist satire from director David Fincher and based on Chuck Palahniuk’s novel.

• Stream Fight Club on Hulu

That Thing You Do! (1996)

Director: Tom Hanks

Starring: Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler

What it’s about: An aspiring pop music group experiences fame beyond their wildest dreams after scoring a chart-topping hit in the 1960s.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: First-time director Tom Hanks crafts one of the funniest, most heartwarming, and simply best music movies with That Thing You Do! – the title of which refers to the Oscar-nominated title song that gets The Wonders’ foot in the door.

• Stream That Thing You Do! on Hulu

Independence Day (1996)

Director: Roland Emmerich

Starring: Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman

What it’s about: The human race bands together to defend itself against extraterrestrials coming to Earth in large flying saucers with malicious intent.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: Will Smith leads the Independence Day cast, becoming a key element of why the sci-fi blockbuster is one of the most entertaining and definitive alien invasion movies of all time.

• Stream Independence Day on Hulu

Office Space (1999)

Director: Mike Judge

Starring: Ron Livingston, David Herman, Ajay Naidu

What it’s about: Fed up with the monotony of office life, Peter and his equally miserable colleagues hatch a plan to rebel against their company.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: One of Mike Judge’s best movies is Office Space – a hilarious, pitch-perfect satire of corporate America’s mundane nature.

• Stream Office Space on Hulu

True Lies (1994)

Director: James Cameron

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Lee Curtis

What it’s about: The personal and professional lives of secret agent Harry Tasker suddenly begin to overlap after a disastrous misunderstanding regarding his wife, Helen.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: True Lies is part romantic comedy, part spy movie, and all epic action of the most explosive degree.

• Stream True Lies on Hulu

Tombstone (1993)

Director: George P. Cosmatos

Starring: Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer

What it’s about: Wyatt Earp wants to retire in a quaint Arizona village, but his plans are upended by a vicious gang, leading to a violent battle that becomes personal.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: In addition to being one of the best Westerns on Hulu, Tombstone – a dramatization of the events surrounding the famous shootout at the O.K. Corral – is considered one the best Western movies of all time.

• Stream Tombstone on Hulu

Father Of The Bride (1991)

Director: Charles Shyer

Starring: Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Kimberly Williams-Paisley

What it’s about: A successful athletic shoe company owner struggles to accept the news that his oldest daughter is engaged to be married.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: Co-written by Nancy Meyers, this remake of Father of the Bride is one of Steve Martin’s best movies, boasting one of the comedian’s most tender performances.

• Stream Father of the Bride on Hulu

My Cousin Vinny (1992)

Director: Jonathan Lynn

Starring: Joe Pesci, Marisa Tomei, Ralph Macchio, Mitchell Whitfield

What it’s about: New York attorney Vinny Gambini goes to the South to defend his college-age cousin and his friend, who have been wrongfully accused of murder.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: My Cousin Vinny might be the funniest courtroom movie of all time for its sharp culture clash satire.

• Stream My Cousin Vinny on Hulu

Robin Hood: Men In Tights (1993)

Director: Mel Brooks

Starring: Cary Elwes, Richard Lewis, Amy Yasbeck

What it’s about: Charming thief Robin puts together a team of archers to help him defeat the corrupt Prince John who has left England in ruins.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: Proof that Mel Brooks still hadn’t lost his touch in the ‘90s lies in Robin Hood: Men in Tights — a delightfully cartoonish take on the famous legend.

• Stream Robin Hood: Men in Tights on Hulu

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

Director: Gil Junger

Starring: Julia Stiles, Heath Ledger, Larisa Oleynik, Joseph Gordon-Levitt

What it’s about: In order to go out with Bianca under her strict father’s rule, Cameron convinces local “bad boy” Patrick to woo her fiercely independent older sister, Kat.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: A modern retelling of William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, 10 Things I Hate About You is remembered as one of the best teen rom-coms of its time, especially for the performances by its cast of up-and-comers.

• Stream 10 Things I Hate About You on Hulu

Romy And Michele's High School Reunion (1997)

Director: David Mirkin

Starring: Mira Sorvino, Lisa Kudrow

What it’s about: Best friends Romy and Michele stretch the truth about how their lives have turned out while attending their high school reunion.

Why it is one of the best ‘90s movies on Hulu: Sorvino and Friends cast member Kudrow make a hilarious comedic pair in Romy and Michele's High School Reunion.

• Stream Romy and Michele's High School Reunion on Hulu

Long live the ‘90s… on Hulu!

Before the best movies from the 2000s were allowed to run, the cinematic classics from the 1990s had to walk. (Well, except for Forrest Gump.) The 20th century closed out with a decade of cinematic spectacles as Hollywood embraced bigger budgets, the early days of CGI, and a new breed of superstars like Brad Pitt, Reese Witherspoon and Keanu Reeves.

From great ‘90s sci-fi movies like Jurassic Park to beloved ‘90s family films like Toy Story to chilling thrillers and hilarious comedies, just about any genre fan can feel represented by the era's best. Can the same be said for music, TV and literature? (I'll be too busy watching Speed again to research that.) So grab your long-dead Tamagotchis and scented markers and join us in celebrating the best of the best that the ‘90s had to offer.

• This list was compiled by the bulk of CinemaBlend's editors and writers, who gave 0-5 scores to an overall list of around 300 movies, with all of the final scores averaged out to determine the final ranking of 100.

How We Put This List Together

• Around 300 entries from a vast variety of 1990s films , which fit the bill of being culturally relevant and critically respected, were gathered using a combination of staff recommendations, movie guides and further research. The entries were tracked in a spreadsheet, where the majority of our staff then went through a multi-level voting process, with scores assigned based on personal opinions. A base number of viewers was also required for entries to make the cut, and lowest scores were then eliminated, in the style of scoring figure skating. The movies were then ordered from 1-100 based on the final average scores, with a variety of staff members writing the movie-celebrating entries. 

100. The Fifth Element (1997)

Luc Besson's The Fifth Element is a seriously wild movie. The sci-fi adventure has become a bona fide genre classic. Even though parts of the film were frustrating to make, those efforts clearly paid off, leaving us with one of the most fun space rides to date with an A-level cast including Milla Jovovich, Bruce Willis, Gary Oldman, and Chris Tucker in arguably his spaciest performance. Anyone who may have forgotten how fun and bonkers it is should grab a multi-pass and return immediately. 

99. Dumb and Dumber (1994)

Jim Carrey may have enjoyed the most successful year for any comedian in 1994, and Dumb and Dumber is a major part of that unprecedented run. After the wildly successful Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and The Mask, the Saturday Night Live reject gave an iconic performance as Lloyd Christmas in the Farrelly Brothers’ breakout comedy alongside Jeff Daniels’ Harry Dunne. Everything about the movie simply works in spite of itself. The chemistry between its stars, the balance of over-the-top humor and more subtle jokes, and the most annoying sound in the world work together to create an unparalleled and game-changing experience. 

98. The Blair Witch Project (1999)

The Blair Witch Project may not have been the first to bring a cinéma vérité approach to the horror genre, but through extremely savvy marketing and lore-building, the no-budget flick became one of the most profitable films of all time, spawning a franchise of film sequels, comics, a video game, and beyond. And all without an actual “witch” to tease in the trailers. One of the ‘90s most polarizing efforts, BWP’s “something from nothing” approach makes it as influential as anything else from the decade.

97. Mulan (1998)

What can be said about Mulan that has yet to be talked about? Released at the tail end of the famed Disney Renaissance through the ‘90s, Mulan was the animated film that defined a generation of young women, inspiring many to always fight for their honor and never back down, even when everyone in the world says otherwise. The music is excellent as the voice-acting takes you to another world, and the animation easily pulls viewers in, but it’s the themes that stay with audiences forever.

96. The Wedding Singer (1998)

More than just a wonderful romantic comedy, The Wedding Singer is a standout title in Adam Sandler’s early career. In the 1990s, Sandler was known for his goofy characters on Saturday Night Live and in goofy movies like Billy Madison, Happy Gilmore, and Airheads, but The Wedding Singer was an opportunity for him to show he could do work with a bit more gravity. There’s an argument to be made it paved the way for him excelling in films like Punch Drunk Love and Uncut Gems. And the power of Sandler + Drew Barrymore can never be denied.

95. Death Becomes Her (1992)

There’s a scene in Death Becomes Her that pretty much sums up the Robert Zemeckis film’s greatness – as Goldie Hawn’s Helen sits and leans back, the handle of a shovel slips perfectly through the hole in her torso. Meanwhile, Meryl Streep’s Madeline gracefully takes a seat while clutching her hair atop her head, in order to keep it from flopping forward against her broken neck. It’s dark, it’s twisted, it’s hilarious, and for 1992, the special effects are impressive. Bruce Willis’ Ernest being dragged along for the ride caps off the excellent trio of characters, in this eternally underrated comedy.

94. Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

Four years after already penning one of the all-time great romantic comedies (Rob Reiner’s When Harry Met Sally), the late Nora Ephron directed a landmark rom-com of her own with Sleepless in Seattle. The second of three movies co-starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, this genre staple features an incredible story about a woman who goes to great lengths to be with the man she loves, a man whom she’s never met and only knows from a call-in radio show. It’s charming, witty, earnest, and the best kind of enchanted realism. 

93. Jackie Brown (1997)

Quentin Tarantino’s third directorial effort, Jackie Brown kicks off with Pam Grier’s money-smuggling flight attendant trekking to work to the tune of Bobby Womack’s “Across 110th Street,” helping it stand apart from the testosterone-enhanced violence of his first two features. And while the star-studded flick does dip into the filmmaker’s favored crime genre tropes, Jackie Brown hinges more on character study than sheer plot machination, and provides career-high performances from Bridget Fonda, Robert Forster, and Grier herself. And in that way, it’s arguably the most empathy-worthy project from Tarantino’s career.

92. Happy Gilmore (1996)

Depending on who you talk to, Adam Sandler’s '90s comedies are either near the peak of the genre or near the pits of low-brow comedy. We know where Shooter McGavin's opinions would lie, but we lean toward raising our clubs and pucks to Sandler’s story about a failed hockey player taking the world of professional golf by storm, all for his grandma. I’ll always laugh at Happy Gilmore’s titular hero going toe-to-toe with the late game show host Bob Barker, and the wild story of how he got involved is as great as the on-screen fisticuffs.

91. Casino (1995)

It’s hard to pick a favorite when talking about the best mob characters that Robert De Niro has played, though I’d argue Sam "Ace" Rothstein is as good as it gets. Unlike many other gangster movies tethered to dark alleys, Casino zeroes in on the mafia’s stranglehold of the glitzy and glamorous Las Vegas in the 1970s. It’s further bolstered by excellent directing from master craftsman Martin Scorsese and a supporting cast with legends like Sharon Stone and Joe Pesci. A fantastic movie that doesn't shy away from deeply upsetting moments. 

90. Forrest Gump (1994)

Despite all the cringey and parody-fueling moments in Robert Zemeckis' Forrest Gump --- never forget the Weird Al classic "Gump" --- Tom Hanks' history-making and country-crossing simpleton remains one of the 1990s most enduring movie heroes. With a stacked cast of pros, from Sally Field to Gary Sinise, Forrest Gump's popularity was evident from both its boffo box office, its huge success at the Oscars and beyond, and just how many quotes from this movie have permanently nestled themselves into pop culture. 

89. A Few Good Men (1992)

Courtrooms are a natural fit for high drama, and A Few Good Men has some of the best courtroom scenes in cinema history. Aaron Sorkin’s first screenplay, based on his own stage play, is missing many of the elements that would later define his writing, but that’s not a bad thing here. The battle between Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson has become iconic, but even outside of that near-perfect scene, A Few Good Men is full of incredible characters, smart dialogue, and memorable moments. It’s perhaps one of Cruise’s most criminally overlooked performances.

88. Pretty Woman (1990)

Pretty Woman is definitely one of Julia Roberts's best movies in a wildly impressive career, but it's also one of the best ‘90s rom-coms. The film's sleazy-on-paper tale, which follows a rich businessman hiring a Hollywood escort to be his date to several social events, is a charmer thanks to its stellar leads. The film vaulted Roberts into an even bigger star, while making romantics everywhere swoon at the idea of a wealthy millionaire like Richard Gere coming out of nowhere to sweep them off their feet – if only, amirite?

87. As Good As It Gets (1997)

I miss Jack Nicholson. I miss James L. Brooks. I miss emotional, character-driven comedies that excelled thanks to outstanding performances from A-list talent. Nicholson, Helen Hunt, and Greg Kinnear weave magic in this sweet story about strangers forming friendships over low-stakes but relatable dramas. Studios craving IP don’t back movies like this anymore. But when they did, and when actors could sink their teeth into the material, this one was as good as they got. 

86. The Sandlot (1993)

There are ‘90s sports movies that are kid-pleasers, and then there is The Sandlot, the 1993 coming-of-age story about a ragtag group of kids living what could be the best summer of their lives. There's so much to love about this small-stakes baseball tale, from its timelessness to its life lessons to incredible characters like Scotty Smalls, Benny Rodriguez, Ham Porter, and so many others, there’s just so much to love about this classic sports film. To quote the Great Bambino, “Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.” In this case, we're calling our shot: The Sandlot is one of those legends. 

85. Can't Hardly Wait (1998)

Can’t Hardly Wait combines an "everybody's recognizable" ensemble cast with the classic house party setting and a killer soundtrack to give us one of the most epic teen movies of all time. The plot centers around Ethan Embry’s Preston, who needs to profess his love for Amanda (Jennifer Love Hewitt) at the graduation party, now that she is finally single after being dumped by Mike (Peter Facinelli). But plots are for dorks, and the 1998 comedy epitomizes the teen angst of the late 20th century in an honest and hilarious way.

84. You've Got Mail (1998)

You’ve Got Mail arrived in 1998 when just about everybody would have recognized the title as the AOL greeting message. This was the third movie to pair Tom Hanks with Meg Ryan, with writer/director Nora Ephron bringing her magic romantic comedy touch to the story of two business rivals who unwittingly fall in love via online chat. Hanks and Ryan channel the same chemistry that was a hit years earlier with Sleepless in Seattle, and it doesn't require having lived through the AOL era to appreciate the level of classic rom-com energy that makes this a winner. 

83. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

In a decade filled with all-time great Robin Williams movies, there’s something particularly tender and very much unforgettable about Chris Columbus’ Ms. Doubtfire. Underpinned by the heartbreak of having less time than ever with his three kids as his divorce looms, voiceover actor Daniel Hillard hatches a plan to form a new character in an elderly housekeeper named Mrs. Doubtfire to get more time with them. Not only does his new secret identity make for some hilarious moments that very much play to Williams’ strengths as a comedy actor, Mrs. Doubtfire is also a touching film that takes a grounded approach to parent separation. 

82. Edward Scissorhands (1990)

The most Tim Burton movie ever to Tim Burton, Edward Scissorhands is, on one bladed hand, a weirdly heartwarming horror movie, but on the other bladed hand, an endlessly frightening family film. The suburban Frankenstein homage is bolstered by stellar performances from Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder and Dianne Weist, with each bringing grounded authenticity to this wildly fantastical fable. (Yes, even the pity-provoking Depp.) The cherries on top of this macabre cake are Vincent Price, in his final major film role, and Burton-familiar composer Danny Elfman. And the eye-popping hedge art and ice sculptures don’t hurt.

81. American History X (1998)

Long before debates about The Snyder Cut, star Edward Norton, director Tony Kaye, and New Line Cinema engaged in a very loud and sometimes public squabble over American History X. The final cut we got, which Kaye publicly disavowed, is a brutal, almost two-hour look at modern white supremacy that’s shot partially in black and white. It netted Norton an Oscar nomination and has individual moments as strong as anything on this list, but it also occasionally loses pace and has always left fans wanting to see Kaye’s original 95-minute cut, which remains unreleased following the film’s disastrous production

80. Aladdin (1992)

It’s easy to look at Aladdin and celebrate the work of the great Robin Williams, and justifiably so. Only animation could truly uncork the man’s absolutely manic comedy style. But focusing only on Williams overlooks the work of amazing animators who created the Genie and everything else, since it's a testament to their skill that the animation is able to keep up with Williams and the high-flying scenes. Musical sequences like “A Friend Like Me” and “A Whole New World” show another form of animated beauty and have become just as iconic on their own as the Genie himself.

79. That Thing You Do! (1996)

By the time he wrote, directed, and co-starred in 1996’s That Thing You Do, Tom Hanks was already an acting powerhouse. So it was a bit of a surprise to see the Academy Award-winning actor delivering a tale about the wild ride that so many one-hit wonders of the ‘60s endured. Initially, the story of The Wonders (Johnathon Schaech, Ethan Embry, Steve Zahn, and Tom Everett Scott) and their roller-coaster journey wasn’t a smash success, but decades later, That Thing You Do is a well-regarded mini-cult classic that can still leave audiences with songs in their hearts.

78. Trainspotting (1996)

While it wasn’t his directorial debut, Danny Boyle’s adaptation of Irvine Welsh’s Trainspotting was the flick that put the man on the map. Following the lives of a group of Scottish drug addicts and friends, a cast including Ewan McGregor, Robert Carlyle, and Kelly MacDonald landed their start as the stars of tomorrow. Through a narrative that’s both darkly comic and frightfully serious, Trainspotting ushers its heroin addicts through life's struggles in grounded and trippy ways. Establishing Boyle’s skills in telling a conventional story through unconventional means, it’s a powerful statement for its director and the message he’s trying to convey.

77. Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995)

The Die Hard formula survived the transition to the “buddy cop” genre (at least initially) with Bruce Willis’ iconic John McClane being forced to team up with a good samaritan (Samuel L. Jackson) and solve a bunch of riddles around Manhattan to prevent bombs from going off. Many consider With a Vengeance to be the best in the Die Hard series, though it’s blasphemy to put ANY of them ahead of John McTiernan’s original. Still, this one moves like a freight train, Willis and Jackson have remarkable chemistry, and Jeremy Irons is a sinister villain with a satisfying twist of a motivation to take McClane down. 

76. Titanic (1997)

Titanic was an event in itself when it arrived in theaters, with James Cameron’s film ambitiously bringing to screen the story of the ill-fated ship, depicting the journey across the Atlantic with incredible visuals that give us a sense of what it might have been like aboard the ship during that terrible night. At the center of it all is the love story of Rose (Kate Winslet) and Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio), who manage to find each other, despite their differing social classes, and never let go. Considering how many millions of dollars it earned from repeat audience viewings, its "classic" status is unsinkable.

75. Men in Black (1997)

One of the biggest sci-fi hits of the decade, Men In Black holds a special place in the hearts and minds of both space and comedy nerds. Even though it initially took some convincing to land Will Smith for the role of Agent J., Steven Spielberg (as producer) managed to re-catch lightning in a bottle with the actor coming off of Independence Day. And as unpredictable as it seemed at the time Smith and Tommy Lee Jones made for an extremely fun and combative pairing in the rest of the Men in Black film franchise.

74. The Fugitive (1993)

When it comes to movies based on old TV shows, it doesn’t get much better than The Fugitive. There’s no way around it, this 1993-defining film straight-up rocks and is still just as great more than 30 years after its release. Watching one of Harrison Ford’s most iconic characters go to great lengths to clear his name after being wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife never gets hold, and the same can be said about Tommy Lee Jones’ Academy Award-winning performance as the U.S. Marshal tasked with capturing the elusive fugitive.

73. Run Lola Run (1998)

Outside of sci-fi adventures, time loops aren’t often used as storytelling devices, and 1998’s thriller Run Lola Run absolutely proves why this is a shame. While the story isn’t explicitly a looping band of time, we do get three different versions of writer/director Tom Twyver’s story. Centered around lovers Lola (Franke Potente) and Manni (Moritz Bleibtreu), each variation has one thing in common: they have 20 minutes to score 100,000 Deutschmarks, or Manni is dead. New twists and pitfalls arrive, keeping that premise fresh each time, right up until the end. 

72. Swingers (1996)

Long before he directed major projects like Iron Man and The Mandalorian, Jon Favreau wrote and starred in the Doug Liman-directed Swingers. This comedy follows Favreau’s Mike Peters, a comedian who’s getting over a bad breakup and moves to Hollywood to find success in the midst of the ‘90s swing revival. The witty back-and-forth dialogue between Favreau and his co-stars, including Vince Vaughn and Heather Graham, and the simple, yet effective story of moving on to better horizons make Swingers one of the most underrated comedies of this decade. It's just so money, baby. 

71. Malcolm X (1992)

For his 1992 “Spike Lee Joint,” the legendary Do The Right Thing filmmaker made his dream come true to make a biopic about one American Civil Rights Movement figure, Malcolm X. It not only remains among the best works of Lee’s incredible filmography, but it’s flat-out one of the best biography movies ever made. That’s all without mentioning a particularly powerful performance by Denzel Washington, who disappears into the figure and brings great intrigue and nuisance to Malcolm X across decades of his life. Spike Lee’s biopic stands tall as an enduring portrait of an important man in a pivotal moment in U.S. history.

70. Friday (1995)

Franchise lead and rap legend Ice Cube teamed up with Chris Tucker to create one of the best "sit back and kick it" movies in movie history. Spawning a line of sequels, the O.G. Friday boasts an awesome cast that also includes the late John Witherspoon, and understandably caught on with a certain kind of stoner comedy-loving crowd, but has become an all-encompassing cult classic. Even beyond its on-screen greatness, Friday also turned "Bye, Felicia" into everyday jargon. 

69. Miller's Crossing (1990)

Joel and Ethan Coen didn’t waste time demonstrating their eclecticism in their careers, breaking out with the phenomenal neo-noir Blood Simple in 1984 ahead of a 180-degree tonal pivot with 1987's gonzo comedy Raising Arizona. Then they kicked off the 1990s with one of the great modern gangster movies in Miller's Crossing. Gabriel Byrne’s Tom Reagan leading John Turturro’s Bernie Bernbaum into the woods to be murdered is the movie’s iconic moment, but it’s the brilliant chaos that spins out from Tom’s decision at the end of the sequence that cements this tense slice of art's place on this list.

68. Rushmore (1998)

Rushmore is often referenced for a lot of things. It was the first Wes Anderson movie to find more mainstream success. The critical acclaim Bill Murray received for his performance helped push him toward the more independent, critically acclaimed movies that defined his later career. It was the debut of Jason Schwartzman. All of those are reasons to celebrate the movie, but none are reasons why it’s on this list. It’s here because it’s an endlessly watchable slice of weirdness that holds up decades later. It’s some of the best career work of everyone referenced, and in its own offbeat way, it’s downright hysterical. 

67. South Park: Bigger, Longer, And Uncut (1999)

In 1999, with South Park at the height of its cultural powers, Matt Stone and Trey Parker took one of the biggest gambles anyone could have ever imagined. Producing the R-rated, animated musical that was South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut, the pair doubled down on their uniquely dirty humor. Everything from parenting culture to Les Miserables got sent up, thanks to songs that were catchy but also not safe for work. Not every TV show survives a feature-length expansion, but South Park thrived in theaters, especially when it called the very parental uproar its release would inspire to a tee.

66. Misery (1990)

What does a creative owe to their fans? It’s a complex question that author Stephen King horrifyingly examined with his remarkable 1987 novel Misery, and three years later, director Rob Reiner adapted the work into a remarkable and unsettling film. The Oscars don’t typically support the horror genre, but Kathy Bates’ turn as Annie Wilkes was unignorable – as she remains one of the meanest villains of the ‘90s.. Though in Bates’ shadow, James Caan delivers an equally excellent turn as captive author Paul Sheldon, and the weaving of tension as he keeps his mind on options for escape is perfection.

65. Clerks (1994)

Kevin Smith famously maxed out credit cards and stretched a production budget of just $27,000 to make his first movie, 1994’s Clerks. Sure, the acting is hit or miss, and the editing isn’t perfect, but that only adds to the charm of the movie. It’s also really, really funny. It’s got some of the most quotable lines of any movie from the era, and they all shine through, despite the limitations of the budget. Clerks has become the stuff of legend in Hollywood, sparking dreams of would-be filmmakers everywhere and with good reason. 

64. Galaxy Quest (1999)

What if you found out that the fantastic adventures in your favorite sci-fi TV weren't so fake after all, such as in Galaxy Quest? Tim Allen plays a washed-up actor who, along with his former co-stars (played by Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, and more), experience their cancelled, cult favorite series for real, thanks to an alien race that believes their televised adventures are "historical documents" and are desperate for their help. The concept makes for a clever, hilarious commentary on Trekkie culture, but also manages to be just as exciting as any Star Trek episode or movie spin-off could ever be.

63. Thelma and Louise (1991)

Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis have made dozens of memorable movies, but even if they had just made Ridley Scott’s Thelma & Louise, they’d have a space carved out for them in cinema history. It’s regarded as a keystone title in the history of feminism in film, and it makes you fall in love with the titular leads as they go on the run from the law. And it should go without saying that the final moments will forever be remembered as an indomitable moment of 1990s pop culture.

62. Primal Fear (1996)

Courtroom dramas were big in the ‘90s, and Primal Fear in 1996 is a prime example of why. Richard Gere plays the pompous attorney Martin Vail, who volunteers to represent a young Aaron Stampler (Edward Norton in his first screen role) after he is accused of brutally murdering a beloved archbishop. The movie takes an unexpected turn when Aaron is discovered to have a split personality named Roy, and the dark twist that comes to light after an explosive courtroom scene remains one of the wildest movie endings ever.

61. Home Alone (1990)

I'm pretty sure Home Alone has hit classic Christmas movie territory because you always know it's the holiday season when this movie is causing a clatter on your TV screen. Following a child accidentally left home alone during Christmas and who has to defend his home from burglars, Home Alone captures the happiness of the season while adding a bit of chaos – especially with all those serious injuries that probably would have killed Marv and Harry in the real world. It'd be a fun time even without Catherine O'Hara and John Candy's SCTV reunion, but is all the better for it.

60. Leon (The Professional) (1994)

Luc Besson seems to be motivated by big sci-fi ideas in films such as The Fifth Element, Lucy, and Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. On the flip side of Besson’s coin, though, are these stripped-down crime thrillers (Nikita, The Family), and none were more effective than Leon. The film heralded the arrival of young Natalie Portman, who proved she could appear convincingly as basically anything on screen. But also, Gary Oldman walks away with the picture, playing an unhinged and drug-addicted DEA agent looking to kill Portman’s character, much to the chagrin of professional hitman Jean Reno.  

59. Office Space (1999)

There’s a scene in Office Space where all the workers are assembled for an all-hands meeting. Above the boss’ head, there’s a banner printed that says Is This Good for the COMPANY? The question is underlined and COMPANY is in weird light blue font for unclear reasons. It’s somehow both utterly ridiculous and one of the most relatable things I’ve ever seen. In a way, it’s a perfect explanation for why some people, myself included, love Office Space so much. It’s one long series of hysterical if-you-know-you-know-moments, and watching other people live through and comment on that same misery feels so cathartic. 

58. Reservoir Dogs (1992)

There are few filmmakers in cinematic history who made as an audacious splash with their first feature as Quentin Tarantino, who was immediately recognized as a tremendous upstart talent following the premiere of Reservoir Dogs at the 1992 Sundance Film Festival. With its spellbinding non-linear storytelling, sharp-as-knives dialogue, and violent shocks, it is recognized as a perfect archetype of Tarantino’s strengths as a writer/director, and it is remembered for inspiring a whole generation of filmmakers and its lasting impact on genre cinema.

57. Apollo 13 (1995)

Apollo 13 may be best remembered in pop culture for the iconic line “Houston, we have a problem," but the 1995 film accumulated nine Academy Award nominations for a reason. Boasting a stacked cast that includes Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Gary Sinise, Ed Harris, and Kathleen Quinlan, the movie dramatizes the true story of the failed 1970 lunar mission, and the ending sequence is no less suspenseful nearly thirty years later than it was in the ‘90s. The effects mostly stand up to this day; but even where they don’t, the performances sell the story entirely.

56. The American President (1995) 

Before Aaron Sorkin created The West Wing, he wrote The American President, which saw one of the most respected movie presidents, Andrew Shepherd (Michael Douglas), fall for feisty environmental lobbyist Sydney Ellen Wade (Annette Bening). Could a widowed president ever court a girlfriend in an election year? Sorkin’s snappy dialogue shows why it wouldn’t be easy, as the two become tabloid fodder, and even bigger trouble awaits when their political agendas don’t align. Both lead actors give absolutely charming performances in this 1995 political rom-com directed by Rob Reiner.

55. True Romance (1993) 

The first screenplay Quentin Tarantino ever sold in Hollywood was 1993’s True Romance, and it became an offbeat cult classic when combined with Tony Scott’s slick direction. Christian Slater and Patricia Arquette are perfect as the flawed lovers and the rest of the cast, which includes Gary Oldman, Brad Pitt, Michael Rappaport, Val Kilmer, Samuel L. Jackson, Tom Sizemore, James Gandolfini, just to name a few, are all brilliant. It’s one scene, however, between Dennis Hopper and Christopher Walken, that steals the whole show and deserves its own placement in cinema history.

54. Unforgiven (1992)

This might be the quintessential Clint Eastwood Western – which says a lot when you realize that the man helped to define the genre, dating all the way back to his days on television (in Gunsmoke). With Unforgiven, an older Eastwood figured out how to comment on the evolution of the Western, and reflect on the moral quandaries several cowboys faced over the course of their lawless lives. This marked the beginning of a contemplative stage of Eastwood’s career, and redefined the boundaries of the Western for storytellers that followed. 

53. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Not only is The Nightmare Before Christmas one of the best stop-motion movies of all time, but it was also a game-changer within the animation industry. The movie -- following the story of Jack Skellington turning Halloween Town into Christmas Town and trying to take over the role of Santa Claus -- has become a cultural icon. Not only is the movie celebrated during the Halloween season, but it's also become one of the best animated Christmas movies and has a wildly popular fan base – go to Disney World during Halloween and Christmas and see how popular this movie is. 

52. Natural Born Killers (1994)

Few movies in the last decade of the 20th century caused a stir quite like the big screen adventure of Mickey and Mallory Knox in Oliver Stone’s demented crime saga Natural Born Killers. Fans of the TV show Cheers got to witness a whole new side to Woody Harrelson, and he makes for one-half of an absolutely ferocious on-screen pair partnered with Juliette Lewis. Though it was only released in 1994, it is a title to point to when aiming to epitomize a certain spirit in 1990s pop culture.

51. The Rock (1994)

It is still totally bonkers to think that the mid-’90s gave us a Michael Bay action movie in which Sean Connery and Nicolas Cage got to mesh their wildly different talents. A movie that helped pencil in the blueprint for what we know as modern Bayhem, The Rock is a solid cocktail of action, comedy, and drama tied together with a surprisingly poignant message. None of that gets lost in the shuffle, either, even as the shuffle keeps viewers glued to their seats until the very last scene. You can bet this quotable, adrenaline-charged classic is still friendly with the prom queen.

50. Boyz n the Hood (1991)

Relatively few directors made great movies on their first try, and the late John Singleton did just that with 1991’s Boyz n the Hood. Set in South Central Los Angeles, the film centers on three young men, whose paths begin to diverge as they steadily approach adulthood. Singleton, who also wrote the Oscar-nominated drama, provided a nuanced look at life in a low-income neighborhood. 

In doing so, he shed light on gang violence, systemic racism, and other elements that still negatively impact many communities today. For better or worse, this well-acted and directed film is as timeless and relevant as they come.

49. The Sixth Sense (1999)

While the ending twist may have helped put the film and its director, M. Night Shyamalan, on the map near the close of the decade, The Sixth Sense is so much more than those final, incredible moments where all of the pieces fall into place (in a scene that comes after we think the story has been mostly resolved). 

What elevates The Sixth Sense to ‘90s movie greatness is the combined efforts of the stellar performances of Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment, Toni Collette, and Olivia Williams; of the music combined with the fantastic shots; of the use of the Philadelphia backdrop. Every scene taps into something dark, scary, heartbreaking or humorous, and the best go for a little bit of all of those things at once. 

48. Get Shorty (1995)

What is the best Elmore Leonard adaptation? There are many candidates that qualify for consideration, including Quentin Tarantino’s Jackie Brown, Steven Soderbergh’s Out Of Sight and the TV series Justified, but Barry Sonnenfeld’s Get Shorty is my uncontested contender for the title. 

It’s a dark, cynical, and hilarious take on the film industry where a shylock finds himself right at home in Los Angeles, and it brims with exceptional characters – from John Travolta’s Chili Palmer to Gene Hackman's skeezy producer Harry Zimm, to James Gandolfini's stuntman-turned-heavy Bear. The sequel that came out a decade later, 2005’s Be Cool, is dreadful, but that has thankfully not tainted its predecessor’s stellar legacy as one of the great “Hollywood on Hollywood” movies. 

47. The Rocketeer (1991) 

Believe it or not, The Rocketeer is a comic book movie. In the wake of the blockbuster success that was Batman, studios scrambled to get their own piece of that four-paneled pie; leading a pre-Marvel Disney to adapt Dave Stevens’ pulpy ‘30s throwback. Hoping this movie would be the studio’s answer to Bat-mania, director Joe Johnston’s picture suffered in the obscenely crowded summer of 1991. 

Over time, fate has been kinder to the Billy Campbell and Jennifer Connolly adventure, as it developed into a cult classic much like the original Tron. Even if audiences didn’t flock to it at first, the message was never lost, because the quality was always there. Best experienced with a heart full of nostalgia and courage, The Rocketeer's mere existence is worth celebrating. 

46. Audition (1999)

Few movies start off as unassuming as the psycho-horror Audition, whose first half sits among the legendarily prolific Takashi Miike’s most restrained directorial efforts. The story begins with Ryo Ishibashi’s widower Shigeharu Aoyama re-entering the dating world in the least natural way possible: via auditions with women who believe they’re vying for an acting role. 

Things progress in an almost mundane manner as Shigeharu becomes more attracted to the quiet and seemingly reserved Asami (Eihi Shiina), but with enough peeks into her home life to send red flags waving. What makes Audition a unique ‘90s treasure is when the wheels fall off for its dread-flooded final act, in which Asami teaches Shigeharu a torturous lesson in stringing women along. Don't try this at home.

45. Point Break (1991)

Comically manly, but in the best ways possible, Point Break is the 1990s encapsulated. Clean-cut FBI agent Johnny Utah (tremendous character name) loses himself undercover when he tries to infiltrate a gang of surfers (tremendous plot twist) who may be posing as former presidents of the United States and robbing banks. What an awesome plot. And what an awesome movie. 

Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze are the Yin and the Yang of Southern California cool, tapping directly into the “Brah” of it all while also delivering unforgettable action set pieces – notably, a skydiving chase without parachutes. Credit most of this to director Kathyrn Bigelow, who eventually won her Best Director Oscar for 2010’s The Hurt Locker. 

44. Clueless (1995)

We’ve seen movies put a new spin on old classics before, but rarely has the result been as entertaining as Clueless, Amy Heckerling’s take on Jane Austen’s Emma. Alicia Silverstone stars as Cher, a beautiful and rich Beverly Hills high school fashionista who decides she wants to use her popularity for the betterment of humanity. 

The 1995 coming-of-age comedy — which also stars Stacey Dash, Brittany Murphy, Paul Rudd and more — still stands up today with its iconic looks and quotable dialogue (not to mention Cher’s inspiring speech comparing refugees to guests at her father’s garden party). And has there ever been a movie takedown more savage than Tai calling Cher “a virgin who can’t drive”? As if! 

43. L.A. Confidential (1997)

Once upon a time, the noir detective story was a staple of film, but fewer and fewer examples have emerged with each decade that passes. So when a movie like Curtis Hanson's L.A. Confidential comes around, you really begin to wonder why we don’t see more of these. 

It’s an absolutely incredible film that likely would probably be better remembered if it hadn’t come out the same year as Titanic. On top of everything else, the film introduced Russell Crowe and Guy Pierce to U.S. film audiences, and for that alone, it should be recognized, but it also won Kim Basinger an Oscar for a reason.

42. The Hunt for Red October (1990)

While The Hunt for Red October was a huge success when it hit theaters in 1990, it took years for people to see it as a classic. It’s not a flawless movie. Sean Connery, as amazing as he is, plays what appears to be a Scottish Russian, not changing his accent at all. The underwater scenes of the special effects submarines, while praised at the time, have not aged well, either. Accents aside, the actors are all superb here. 

Alec Baldwin as Jack Ryan, Tim Curry, Sam Neill, Scott Glenn, James Earl Jones, Stellan Skarsgård, Fred Thompson, Courtney B. Vance, and everyone else are all amazing, and John McTiernan’s direction is snappy and perfectly paced. This is THE submarine movie. 

41. The Green Mile (1999)

Considered one of the best Stephen King adaptations of all time, The Green Mile is a fantasy drama directed by Frank Darabont, telling the story of a wrongly convicted man and his time at a prison in the 1930s and the strange supernatural events that follow his arrival. 

I feel like The Green Mile is just one movie everyone should watch at least once. It's a classic for a reason, featuring all-time career performances from Tom Hanks, Sam Rockwell, and Michael Clarke Duncan. The Green Mile will capture your heart and crush it into a million pieces by the end – and might just make one admire the horror-driven Stephen King all the more for writing such an emotional story. If you're not ugly sobbing by the end of this, you may not be watching it right. 

40. The Truman Show (1998)

Easily considered one of Jim Carrey’s best movies, The Truman Show – which is about a man who realizes his reality isn’t real – uses its star’s signature over-the-top sense of humor and physicality to make you laugh. Then his dramatic skills come to the forefront as you take this journey with Truman, and you feel all the emotions as it becomes clear that this comedy is more of a searing satire.

Overall, this film is about Truman coming to terms with the fact that the world’s been watching him live in a simulated reality, and it gives us all an example of how exploitative social media can be. That’s why The Truman Show is not only one of the best movies of the ‘90s, but it’s also one of the more relevant films when it comes to the present. 

39. Waiting for Guffman (1996)

Waiting for Guffman is mockumentary gold. Christopher Guest and his group of comedic geniuses — Catherine O'Hara, Eugene Levy, Parker Posey, etc. — bring the sleepy berg of Blane, Missouri to life, with the audience watching as a motley crew of community theater actors put on a musical about their town. 

The stakes get higher when Guest's Corky St. Clair tells everyone a Broadway production house is coming, and "we may be going to Broadway." The songs are insane, the cast is unhinged, and this movie is heaven; even more so for those who are personally familiar with the madcap process of staging plays. 

38. Dazed and Confused (1993)

It’s really hard to make a comedy that stands the test of time, yet as we get older, Dazed and Confused stays the same age, er, quality. Director Richard Linklater’s love letter to his teen years in Texas transcends generations and keeps fans coming back again and again. Sure, it’s the 1970s, but teenagers (and adults) of any generation can relate. 

Of course, it also helps that so many huge stars got their first big break in the movie, including Matthew McConaughey in his first role. Ben Affleck, Parker Posey, Cole Hauser, Anthony Rapp, Rory Cochrane, Nicky Katt, and the rest of the cast are amazing. Everyone can point to one character and say “I knew someone just like that in high school!”

37. The Matrix (1999)

It’s hard to put into words just how mindblowing The Matrix was when it first came out. Of course, the successive sequels somewhat diminished the franchise’s legacy as a whole, though make no mistake, the first movie is just as much of a thrill in the modern era as it was back in 1999. 

Keanu Reeves is the ultimate leading entity in the Wachowskis' game-changing mega-blockbuster, making every move look as cool as can be. Because of the filmmakers' work on this neo-classic (no pun), people will forever be cursed with the idea that everything we’re doing in life is a simulation, and that we’re all slowly and secretly being harvested in pods for energy by robotic overlords. Great movie, though.

36. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Two years after Jim Henson’s death, son Brian Henson directed arguably the only truly great Muppets release of the entire 1990s: The Muppet Christmas Carol. (Excluding the final two years of Muppet Babies.) Based on the Charles Dickens novel that has spawned countless numbers of adaptations, the holiday film is anchored on the human side by Michael Caine’s Ebenezer Scrooge, and on the felt-covered side by Kermit and Miss Piggy’s Bob and Emily Cratchit, with Gonzo as Dickens himself. 

Though it doesn’t offer any huge adjustments to the source material, the Muppets make everything twenty-fold more charming, and Statler and Waldorf’s ghostly jam “Marley and Marley” is among the best of any original Muppet tunes. Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without this movie.

35. City Slickers (1991)

There are plenty of laughs to be had in Ron Underwood’s Western comedy City Slickers, and while that’s a safe bet for any of Billy Crystal’s best movies, what sets this one apart is its enormous heart. 

Crystal’s Mitch Robbins, along with pals Phil and Ed (Daniel Stern and Bruno Kirby, respectively) are all suffering midlife crises of sorts when they embark on a cattle drive across the Southwest. It was refreshing to see the men open up to each other about their childhoods, relationships, and what matters most in life. Jack Palance gives an Oscar-winning performance as Curly, and the $124 million it earned at the domestic box office made it one of the top 5 movies of 1991.

34. The Birdcage (1996)

Robin Williams was a brilliant comedian, a supernova of personality that could command our attention with his hysterical stream-of-conscious thoughts. But Williams, to me, truly shined bright when he downplayed his natural comedic energy to either try serious drama (Good Will Hunting, Dead Poets Society), or to support an equally brilliant comedic performance – as he did with Nathan Lane in The Birdcage.

While broad and flamboyant at times, The Birdcage captures the heart of a family rallying behind their beautiful son (Dan Futterman) who is getting engaged to a Conservative girl (Calista Flockhart). Williams and Lane, as an on-screen couple, are tender, touching, funny, sweet, and perfectly paired in this special gem of a film.

33. Princess Mononoke (1997)

As someone who has watched every single Hayao Miyazaki movie, there's something about Prince Mononoke that speaks deeply to my soul. While I possibly think Spirited Away is Miyazaki's best film, and I have a love for Howl's Moving Castle, this is a movie that has changed the way I view the world. 

Princess Mononoke follows the story of a young prince who discovers that the gods of the forest are upset at the humans for consuming their precious resources. While the anime film itself has breathtaking animation and a story that pulls you in; both are equally sating while leaving a desire for more. Truthfully, this is the one movie that speaks on human consumption in simple ways that everyone should be required to watch.  

32. Groundhog Day (1993)

By all accounts, the creative process behind Groundhog Day was not easy. The film was originally conceived as a darker, more philosophical movie with independent sensibilities. That’s what Bill Murray liked. Director Harold Ramis saw it as more of a good-natured and broad comedy. So they fought about it, plaguing the shoot with delays, rewrites and enough acrimony to sever their friendship for decades. 

Amidst that disharmony, or perhaps even because of that disharmony, the two comedy masters compromised and created a perfect blend of the two: a broad and funny romantic comedy that’s weird enough and dark enough to feel totally original. 

31. Scream (1996)

With A Nightmare on Elm Street and its two best sequels already under his belt (among many other frightfests), Wes Craven made horror franchise lightning strike twice with the post-modern whodunit slasher Scream, and it kept striking across two eras of sequels. Led by one of the ‘90s greatest scream queens in Neve Campbell, the 1996 classic became such a blueprint for Hollywood horror that the inciting film doesn’t feel anywhere near as novel as it did when audiences first sat down thinking they were about to watch “a Drew Barrymore movie.” 

But that opening remains chilling AF, David Arquette’s Deputy Dewey remains a loveable dork alongside Courteney Cox’s hardcore bitch Gail Weathers, and Ghostface’s pop culture-tinged massacre has only become more relevant in an ever-connected world.

30. Cape Fear (1991)

I was way too young when I watched Cape Fear for the first time. I was experienced with plenty of slasher or jump scare style horror movies and figured I’d be fine. Wrong. Cape Fear is an entirely different type of scary than what I was used to. 

With a prime Martin Scorsese at the helm and a fantastic all-in performance from Robert De Niro, it’s a relentlessly creepy and unnerving take on slow-burn vengeance. It haunted my sleep for weeks as a kid, and during an adult rewatch decades later, its themes of religion, underage sexuality, criminal justice and moral relativism were every bit as disturbing. 

29. Being John Malkovich (1999)

Being John Malkovich may not be the very best ‘90s movie, but it may very well be the strangest that still qualifies as a great time. The premise itself — that a door exists allowing others to enter the mind of another person — is odd enough, but for the person whose brain is invaded to be celebrated actor John Malkovich? 

That brilliant choice somehow gives the otherwise impossible story a slight jolt of realism, and it all comprises a cinematic experience that should not be missed. It’s also a movie full of incredible performances, as Malkovich plays a fantastic version of himself, while John Cusack and Cameron Diaz play against type about as much as possible.

28. Dave (1993)

Probably the funniest movie that uses the presidential line of succession as a plot device, Ivan Reitman’s Dave is a hilarious, charming, and oddly sentimental exploration of politics in the early 1990s. There’s just something about Kevin Kline’s portrayal of Dave Kovic that makes this movie about a presidential impersonator becoming the Commander-in-Chief so innocent and pure, especially when compared to the political climate we live in 30-plus years later. 

Whenever I revisit Dave every couple of years, it feels like opening a time capsule to the final decade of the 20th century with its optimism and promise of a better future. 

27. A League of Their Own (1992)

A League Of Their Own is too busy with meaningful character development and telling an awesome baseball story to go for jokes all the time, but on a per-attempt basis, I would put it up against almost any comedy ever made. Director Penny Marshall has a wonderful tonal sense of when her actors should play it straight, when they should add in a little humor, and when they should drunkenly pee for thirty seconds. 

The result is one of the best sports movies of all time, one that delivers all those laughs but also plays it straight enough to give viewers fantastic and relatable plots about friendship, sisterhood, and what it means to thrive and find your own space.

26. The Iron Giant (1999)

The Iron Giant is Brad Bird's heartstrings-pulling story about a young boy who befriends a massive alien robot in 1957, and it proves that a movie bombing at the box office doesn’t mean it can’t still become a cinematic classic. Though its theatrical run didn’t even make back the initial budget, thanks to its home video rollout and stellar word-of-mouth buzz, it’s now considered one of the best animated movies of all time. Rightly so, because this is one of those movies that remains timeless no matter when it’s being viewed. 

Watching Hogarth teach the Giant about life on Earth and urge him to overcome his original purpose of being a weapon never gets old. The Iron Giant remains arguably Vin Diesel’s best movie from before the Fast & Furious franchise's launch, and co-stars like Eli Marienthal, Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick Jr., and Christopher McDonald also shine.

25. Toy Story 2 (1999)

I remember that Toy Story 2 was the first film that made me uncontrollably sob – like fat tears rolling down my face and having a stuffy nose for hours afterward, and I'm sure I'm not alone there. A sequel to Toy Story, which took the world by anthropomorphic storm with its industry-revolutionizing animation, the follow-up adventure was released in 1999, and follows Woody after he is accidentally sold to a toy collector. There, he meets companions from a former TV show that he had no idea about – a show all about him. (And Joan Cusack's Jessie, of course.)

The Toy Story 2 voice cast is stellar, and the animation was a huge step forward in CGI films, but the heart-wrenching story of love, friendship, and so much more is what made Toy Story 2 one of the best Pixar films out there – and yes, I still cry during, "When Somebody Loved Me."

24. Election (1999)

How did Reese Witherspoon not win an Oscar for her performance as Type-A goodie two-shoes Tracy Flick, the textbook overachiever who bites off more than she can chew by running for student government president? It’s possible that we have come to realize that Witherspoon might just BE Tracy Flick in real life. 

But at the time, she was a tornado of talent matching Matthew Broderick beat for beat, bringing to life the sharp school-set satire in director Alexander Payne’s screenplay. Election has as much to say about the greed and immaturity powering politics many years after its release – at every level – as it did back in 1999, which is yet another reason why it remains special.

23. Magnolia (1999)

While not the highest-ranked Paul Thomas Anderson film on this list, Magnolia is a film to be marveled at for its phenomenal ambition. The Los Angeles-based epic juggles the stories of nearly a dozen protagonists who are not only dealing with a wide variety of personal conflicts and demons but are all linked to one another in the stunning cinematic tapestry. 

As the hyper-misogynist motivational speaker Frank T.J. Mackey, Tom Cruise delivers one of his most brilliant turns, and Julianne Moore’s pharmacy monologue is flooring, but the reality is that every member of the ensemble – including Philip Seymour Hoffman, William H. Macy, Philip Baker Hall, John C. Reilly, and many more – deliver some of the best work of their respective careers. Further considering the frogs and the stunning performance of Aimee Mann’s “Wise Up,” it’s indelible cinema.

22. Tombstone (1993)

I don’t think you could ask for a more star-studded cast for any genre of film, much less a Western. 1993’s Tombstone is blessed by a top-notch cast including Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Sam Elliott, the late Bill Paxton, Michael Biehn, Stephen Lang, the late Powers Boothe, Thomas Haden Church, Michael Rooker, Charlton Heston, and many more, making it an instant classic in the Western genre. 

The story behind how this film came to be, along with many behind-the-scenes facts, is bizarre enough, but the struggles resulted in one of the best cowboy films of all time. And one that has stood the test of time against a similar movie released around the same time, Kevin Costner's Wyatt Earp.  

21. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Beauty and the Beast was the first animated film to be nominated for the Best Picture Oscar, and decades later, it’s still clear that was the right call. The movie is beautiful, with early computer animation enhancing some of the most visually stunning hand-drawn shots in the medium’s history. It also has one of the best soundtracks of any Disney musical, if not any musical, full stop. This is Howard Ashman’s greatest achievement as a songwriter. 

But beyond even that, the two title characters are about as three-dimensional as any animated characters ever were. It may be a tale as old as time, but Beauty and the Beast is one the audience gets wrapped up in from the first notes to the last. It’s the definition of Disney magic.

20. The Usual Suspects (1995)

No one saw the twist ending coming. Trust me. No one. It caught audiences off guard completely, exactly the way it crashed down like a ton of bricks on Chazz Palminteri's cop. He finally understood who Keyser Soze was, and we all rushed right back into theaters to watch the puzzle snap into place all over again. 

But The Usual Suspects is more than just its “dropped shoe,” miraculous as that reveal is. The cast of colorful criminals assembled by director Bryan Singer played off of each other wonderfully, with many of them defaulting to the natural leader in Gabriel Byrne, but still finding ways to steal the spotlight every now and then. (Benicio Del Toro mumbling under his breath in the jail lineup belongs in the conversation of funniest five-minute performances, ever). As twisty crime thrillers go, few are tighter and more entertaining than this.

19. Boogie Nights (1997)

Introductions can make or break anything in this world. Careers, reputations, even the flow of a movie can be bungled if you don’t know how to open. Writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson must have known that when he made Boogie Nights, because when he introduced that picture to the world, he gave himself one hell of a calling card. 

Following young Dirk Diggler (Mark Wahlberg) in his journey through the underground of porn films, we see a man still growing up in an industry that feels as young as he is. An ensemble drama boasting the likes of Don Cheadle, Julianne Moore, Heather Graham, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Boogie Nights is a cautionary tale with style and tension to burn. Good luck ever listening to “Sister Christian” without having flashbacks to this big, bright, shining star that still manages to break hearts and crack jokes with everyone it meets.

18. Good Will Hunting (1997)

Good Will Hunting is one of those films that changes you forever once you watch it. Starring Matt Damon and Robin Williams, the drama follows a young janitor at MIT who's discovered to be a secret math genius. The premise itself isn't as catchy as some of the other big-time blockbusters of the 1990s, without aliens, robots or crazy action fights, but Good Will Hunting is a film that leaves its message imprinted on audiences long after the credits roll. 

A story of perseverance, hope, and so much more, this movie gave movie fans one of Robin Williams's best roles and catapulted the careers of Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. (You gotta like them apples.) This kind of film teaches you that sometimes, the people you meet turn you into your best self, so we just have to be fearless enough to go out there and find them. 

17. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Anthony Hopkins is fantastic in The Silence Of The Lambs, and every positive thing you’ve ever heard about his performance is deserved and probably an understatement. He’s that engrossing, but with all due respect, The Silence Of The Lambs isn’t his movie. It’s Jodie Foster’s movie, hingeing on her career-best performance here as Clarice Starling, which just gets better with every rewatch. 

Foster finds the perfect balance between uncertain and determined. She lets her FBI trainee lead character feel the weight of every obstacle, whether it be sexism, personal loss or physical danger, and then she pushes forward. With relentless determination, she just keeps going and that one step at a time, careful momentum gives the film its narrative structure and allows director Ted Demme to create one of the 90s best and most memorable movies.

16. Fargo (1996)

Joel and Ethan Coen have crafted films both stoically grounded and ludicrously fantastical in their long and storied careers, with Fargo possibly the one straddling both of those lines with the greatest of ease. The faux-kidnapping-gone-wrong and the ensuing investigation are smart story beats, and were enough to win the Coens the Best Original Screenplay Oscar, if fairly rote for the genre in general. But it’s the cast, the Minnesota location, and the singular nature of being a snow-white noir that make Fargo one of the greatest films of the decade. 

The always affable William H. Macy is aces as a man being eaten alive by guilt, opposite the gosh-darn excellent police skills of Frances McDormand’s Marge Gunderson, with Steve Buscemi and Peter Stormare as the pair of amoral criminals making everyone’s lives (and deaths) worse. Fargo is a chilling masterpiece, and it’s got nothing to do with the weather. 

15. My Cousin Vinny (1992)

Even though one of my colleagues claims her testimony was incorrect in the film, I will still stand before the court and argue that Marisa Tomei, Joe Pesci, and their cast of supporting characters make My Cousin Vinny guilty as hell of being one of the best comedies of all time.

The film is widely used in an educational capacity to showcase one of the few times that a court case is mostly portrayed accurately through a film, and to be honest, the wordplay coupled with the main character/judge dynamic is something to write home about.

14. Saving Private Ryan (1998)

For years, veterans would be the first to say that cinema's depiction of combat — especially that of World War II — is a cakewalk compared to the real thing. Because few films offered a truly accurate portrayal of the hellish, soul-crushing conditions soldiers faced, at least before the release of Saving Private Ryan.

This story of a U.S. military captain (played by Tom Hanks) tasked with leading his crew on a mission to bring a family's last living son home is easily one of Steven Spielberg’s best movies (the second to earn him a Best Director Oscar) and is widely considered to have been unjustly robbed of the Best Picture honor (which went to Shakespeare in Love that year). From the landmark D-Day sequence to the heartbreaking final act and every unforgettable moment in between, it is one of the harshest films you could ever experience, but the passion and craftsmanship put into makes for a grand reward. 

13. The Big Lebowski (1998)

I’m a Lebowski, you’re a Lebowski, we’re all Lebowskis who love the Coen brothers’ The Big Lebowski, even if its massive fandom wasn’t automatic. It was only a moderate success in the spring of 1998 when it sauntered into theaters on the heels of the Coen’s winning their first writing Oscar for Fargo a year earlier. Reviews at the time were middling, as was the audience reaction. 

Then, over the next couple of years, The Big Lebowski turned into a bonafide cult craze. Pages have been written about its status as such, but too often overlooked is what makes the movie so lovable. It’s quotable, it’s silly, and the plot is the ultimate shaggy dog story with a ridiculous McGuffin — the Dude’s rug — but as it goes for the Dude’s living room, the whole movie ties together just brilliantly. It’s world-class storytelling and the performances from Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, and the rest of the cast are perfect.  

12. Schindler's List (1993)

Sometimes what makes a movie from a particular era great is how it represents its time, but some movies would be considered an important work of art in any decade. Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List is one of those that transcends eras. The film is great in all the traditional ways: Liam Neeson gives a career-making performance as Oskar Schindler, an Industrialist who saved the lives of hundreds of Jews during World War II. The supporting performances are equally strong. It’s beautifully filmed. 

But beyond that, Schindler’s List is an important movie, offering audiences a sobering look at the tragic events of World War II through a character based on a real-life survivor that many were not even aware of before the movie's release. Schindler’s List is one of those movies that you don’t forget after having seen it, and it may be Steven Spielberg’s greatest achievement.

11. Toy Story (1995)

More than 25 years after moviegoers were first introduced to Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Bo Peep, and the rest of Andy’s collection, it can be easy to forget just how big the impact John Lasseter’s Toy Story had when it hit theaters in 1995. It’s the film that put Pixar on the map, and while it sadly helped kickstart the downfall of hand-drawn animation in lieu of CGI, it also paved the way for three of the greatest Hollywood sequels to ever be produced. Tom Hanks’ Woody and Tim Allen’s Buzz are an all-time great animated duo, sharing hallowed space with Bugs & Daffy and Tom & Jerry, though obviously with a lot more heart than what short-form characters are allowed.

The Toy Story franchise hinges a lot on childhood memories, nostalgia, and maintaining a sense of fun in life as one gets older, and this first film delivers the most distilled take on that idea, with Andy still attached in some way to his inner child. Life, as it were, gets way more depressing for the toys as he gets older, which perhaps is why Toy Story rewatches are all the more enjoyable in comparison.

10. Philadelphia (1993)

 Philadelphia is not only a well-made movie, but is first and foremost an important movie. LQBTQ+ rights were non-existent at the time, as the movie highlights and one cannot discount the role this movie, directed by Jonathan Demme, had in awakening the general public not only to the plight gay people faced at the time but the discrimination people with HIV/AIDS faced as well when it was released in 1993. Tom Hanks’ portrayal of a gay man with AIDS who is fired from his job won the actor his first Oscar and for good reason, he’s amazing. Equally amazing is Denzel Washington, who plays Hanks’ character’s (Andrew Beckett) lawyer, Joe Miller. 

Miller, like most people in 1993 when Philadelphia was released, is scared of Beckett and AIDS, because he, like many, didn’t understand it. It’s Miller’s reaction that resonates with audiences. After watching Beckett get asked to move to a “private room” at a library, Miller realizes the discrimination is similar to that faced by African-Americans in the United States, and by the end of the film, he touches Beckett’s lesion-covered face, after learning the truth about AIDS. It’s a powerful moment that still reverberates today. 

9. Fight Club (1999)

So many “futuristic” sci-fi movies from years past have failed to successfully depict modern society and behavior, but David Fincher’s Fight Club now feels it was adapted from some of Nostradamus’ naughtier quatrains, instead of Chuck Palahniuk’s 1996 novel. Seemingly both a love letter to, and a cautionary tale about, nihilistic anti-consumerism and anarchy, Fight Club features one of cinema’s most convoluted love triangles in Edward Norton’s spine-lacking unnamed narrator, Brad Pitt’s ultra-male Tyler Durden, and Helena Bonham Carter’s impulsively erratic Marla Singer. A demented character study in part, the movie oozes testosterone both before and after the titular underground brawls come together, and maybe even oozes a bit of estrogen when Meat Loaf’s Bob is around. 

For all of the smart and discussion-worthy topics that are tackled with face-pounding glee, Fight Club is, unfortunately, the kind of movie whose natural sheen has been somewhat tarnished by a fanbase who lost the point of the satire, but still holds so many visual and verbal treasures for those outside such bubbles. Especially for any new viewers who manage to go into it without knowing what kicks off the final act. It’s hard to think of a ‘90s movie with a more story-heightening ending, and The Pixies’ “Where Is My Mind?” remains an inarguably perfect needle drop.  

8. Pulp Fiction (1994)

Pulp Fiction changed the rules of Hollywood moviemaking. That’s no exaggeration. Before Quentin Tarantino fired a shotgun blast through the screen with his nonlinear gangster picture, there was a chasm separating big-budgeted studio films and independent cinema that usually thrived on the film festival circuit before making its way to art house theaters. In the years following Pulp Fiction, studios, actors and audiences chased talent and inspiration, wherever it could be found. 

The irony of Pulp Fiction blazing so many trails is that the movie itself is a pastiche of well-worn genres that Tarantino pored over while working the counter of a video shop. He’s paying homage to countless, gratuitous stories that had come before it. Only, Pulp Fiction built on the buzz created with Reservoir Dogs to attract a constellation of stars: John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Christopher Walken, Ving Rhames, and Bruce Willis. Pulp Fiction remains one of the best scripts you will ever read, crisscrossing itself at various intersections and packing repeated surprises (usually of the violent nature). But it was Tarantino’s powerful voice, and his use of soundtrack, that had clones copying his style for decades… and still, to this day.  

7. Jurassic Park (1993)

Anticipation for Jurassic Park began years before its release in the summer of 1993. Michael Crighton sold the rights to the film before he finished the book and because Steven Spielberg was the director who acquired it, the hype started early. Then, in June 1993, it finally hit theaters and was an absolute cultural sensation. Critics loved it, praising the unbelievable special effects and realism of the dinosaurs. Speilberg and the team at ILM broke so much new ground in creating the creatures that it changed how movies were made. Audiences loved it even more and showed up at theaters in hordes. Jurassic Park broke every box record there was to break. It had the biggest opening day, the biggest opening weekend, and finally, it became the highest-grossing movie of all time.

Jurassic Park also earned a slew of awards, mostly for its technical achievements, but that doesn’t mean the acting performances were bad, they were fantastic. Jeff Goldblum, Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Sir Richard Attenborough are all perfect in their roles. Finally, there’s the score by John Williams, which remains one of the most iconic of all time. 

6. Se7en (1995)

The film that rescued David Fincher’s career from the stench of Alien 3, and proved that the versatile music director could apply his grungy, moody, techno-acid style to a feature-length nightmare. It’s easy to say now that Fincher was destined to be a contemporary, visionary genius of a filmmaker. But prior to The Social Network, Zodiac, and Fight Club, we needed to see some evidence. Consider this disturbing plunge into the moral sewers to be Exhibit A in the case for Fincher’s mastery. 

Se7en is routine in many ways. It’s set in a rainy and nondescript city, which feels like San Francisco but could be anywhere. It follows odd-couple cops (Morgan Freeman, Brad Pitt) tracking a mysterious serial killer who cunningly stays one step ahead of them. But the performances are remarkable, including Gwyneth Paltrow as Pitt’s loving and innocent newlywed, plucked and moved to the grimy city so her husband can do his job. The film’s riveting conclusion – which benefits from the icy calm delivery of Kevin Spacey as John Doe – elevated Se7en above most others in the genre. Now, when someone asks, “What’s in the box?” you don’t have to say, “Gwyneth’s head.” Just tell them the box contains an unforgettable masterpiece. 

5. Heat (1995)

Look at just about every list breaking down the best heist films ever made and the movie you’re probably going to see the most is Michael Mann’s 1995 crime epic, Heat. With some of the most iconic (and loudest) robbery and shoot-out sequences, the first on-screen pairing of Al Pacino and Robert De Niro (both were in The Godfather Part II but appeared in different timelines), and an incredible cat-and-mouse story that uses Los Angeles as a backdrop better than any other film, there’s so much to love about this legendary film.

On top of all of that, Heat has become one of the most influential films of all time in the nearly 30 years since its theatrical release. Watch movies like The Town, Widows, and even The Dark Knight, and you’ll see how Mann’s thriller was so influential. Hell, even the Grand Theft Auto franchise has taken aspects of the movie to create some of the most action-packed video game moments of all time.  

4. The Lion King (1994)

1994’s The Lion King is perhaps the most effective entry in the Disney Renaissance era when it comes to combining gorgeous animation, original songs, and a story that continues to pack a punch decades later. As the coming-of-age story for cub-turned-king Simba, the film delivers arguably the most famous Disney death with the demise of Mufasa, and Scar’s villain song is both incredibly catchy and incredibly chilling. Aladdin lyricist Tim Rice joined forces with Elton John for the songs, while Hans Zimmer composed the score, earning The Lion King an Academy Award for Best Original Score, while “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” won for Best Original Song.

The Lion King was a massive commercial hit, becoming the highest-grossing traditionally animated film and holding that record to this day. The original movie also has a legacy that has extended to two TV shows, two direct-to-video sequels, and the 2019 CGI remake that was massively successful for Disney, although divisive among fans of the original animated version. Plus, there’s a generation of adults who learned about coups and succession crises thanks to Mufasa, Scar, and Simba back in the ‘90s. What’s not to roar with love about? 

3. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

Taking what he learned from making The Terminator and the two movies that followed (Aliens and The Abyss), James Cameron gave audiences not just a sequel in July 1991, but a game-changer of a film that completely rewrote the summer blockbuster and the action genre as we know it. While The Terminator was a small-scale sci-fi thriller about a futuristic cyborg sent back in time to kill a waitress before she could give birth to humanity’s last hope against extinction, T2 was a massive epic with numerous iconic action sequences and CGI that still holds up decades later.

The movie also gave us one of the best on-screen heroes with Arnold Schwarnegger’s T-800, a reprogrammed Terminator sent back not to kill John Connor but to protect him from the more advanced and more lethal T-1000, a character that remains an all-time villain. It is hard to imagine a timeline where Terminator 2: Judgment Day doesn’t exist, but luckily that’s a reality we don’t have to experience. 

2. Goodfellas (1990)

Of everything that Goodfellas is in part — a mobster saga, a crime drama, an ensemble biopic, etc. — it can’t properly be boxed into such a limited description, though it’s certainly safer to use fewer words when the Gambino crime family’s around, lest Joe Pesci’s Tommy DeVito lose his temper. Based on reporter (and eventual co-screenwriter) Nicholas Pileggi’s 1985 Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family, the film rides on the back of Ray Liotta’s Henry Hill, whose idea of the American Dream is to be living it up as a made man, but realizes over and over again how hard such a goal is to attain when everyone else around is just as hungry and ruthless. 

In many ways, it’s a perfect counterbalance to The Godfather saga, sharing similarities such as memorable food scenes and a stacked cast (with some mutual actors like Robert De Niro and Frank Sivero). But unlike Francis Ford Coppola’s masterpieces, Goodfellas was far less successful at the Oscars, with only Pesci taking home the gold, despite plenty of accolades earned elsewhere. Like much of Scorsese’s work, it’s only become more appreciated with time, and easily stands out as one of the best movies not just of the ‘90s, but of any era. 

1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

“Get busy living, or get busy dying” may be the better remembered quote from Frank Darabont’s The Shawshank Redemption, but it’s the line that Red (Morgan Freeman) says in the final moments of the film that sums up the heart and soul of this story. Not only is The Shawshank Redemption our #1 pick for the best ‘90s movies, but it’s also easily one of the best adaptations of a Stephen King story – in this case, the novella, Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption.

The movie follows Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), a banker who’s wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife and her lover, and sent to prison. For a movie that doesn’t shy away from the brutality this character experiences throughout his years behind bars – both at the hands of some of his fellow inmates, and the warden and guards – The Shawshank Redemption never loses sight of that ultimate message of hope – the thing that Andy clings to every step of the way. It’s there in the friendships he makes, and in the moments of happiness Andy manages to find. And it’s there in the final words Red says in the closing narration: “I hope.” 

Some filmmakers require time to find their voice. They have to make a few simply "ok" features before having the skills required to make their masterpiece. But that's not the case with the directors featured on this list. These folks quickly figured out what they could do with a camera, and they produced magic with their first feature.

It's a terribly hard thing to do, but here are 32 directors who made great films on their very first try.

Orson Welles – Citizen Kane

A lot of incredible films are highlighted on this list, but Citizen Kane is special given that in addition to being Orson Welles’ first feature, it’s considered by many to be the greatest movie all time. The hunt for the meaning behind a publishing titan’s last word is endlessly compelling and a fascinating examination of the soul corruption that comes with a rise to power.

Quentin Tarantino – Reservoir Dogs

Before making modern and instant classics like Pulp Fiction, Kill Bill, Inglourious Basterds and Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, the legend of Quentin Tarantino began with the phenomenal Reservoir Dogs. The sharp dialogue, the non-linear storytelling, the tense violence and the needle-drop centric soundtrack all instantly confirmed that Tarantino was a talent to watch.

Jordan Peele – Get Out

It came as a shock when comedian Jordan Peele announced that he was shifting to a new phase of his career, as he wanted to pursue his true passion: directing horror movies. It was hard to know what to make of the decision at the time, but Peele has since established himself as one of the industry’s greatest genre filmmakers, and it all started with the stunning Get Out. It’s scary, layered, and the big third act twist never loses its impact.

Spike Jonze – Being John Malkovich

Spike Jonze wasn’t exactly inexperienced when he took the helm of Being John Malkovich as his first feature, as he had established himself as a genius talent in the world of music videos, but that doesn’t take anything away from his accomplishments. It’s a wild, strange, and perfect execution of screenwriter Charlie Kaufman’s genius and cerebral script, and both the design and cinematography make it unforgettable.

Sidney Lumet – 12 Angry Men

It requires incredible skill to direct a film that almost entirely takes place in a single room and juggles 12 different characters with different perspectives… but there’s a reason why Sidney Lumet is considered one of history’s greatest filmmakers. The basic description of 12 Angry Men doesn’t sound particularly cinematic, but it grips you from the start, and keeps you fascinated throughout – particularly thanks to one of Henry Fonda’s greatest performances.

Joel & Ethan Coen – Blood Simple

Joel and Ethan Coen are masters of crime fiction, and they proved that instantly in the start of their careers as feature filmmakers. Blood Simple is a tense neo-noir that comes with all of the trimmings of the genre – from the chiaroscuro lighting to a brilliant femme fatale turn from Frances McDormand – and M. Emmett Walsh is a force as the relentless Loren Visser.

Rob Reiner – This Is Spinal Tap

Few filmmakers have had runs like what Rob Reiner accomplished in the 1980s/1990s, sequentially making Stand By Me, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally, Misery and A Few Good Men, but his genius as a director was first established with 1984’s This Is Spinal Tap: a hilarious rock n’ roll mockumentary widely considered to be one of the greatest comedies of all time.

Sam Raimi – The Evil Dead

In the late 1970s/early 1980s, Sam Raimi, Rob Tapert and Bruce Campbell were college students determined to make their first ever feature, and traveled from Michigan to a dilapidated cabin in Tennessee to make The Evil Dead. The production of the film was an absolute nightmare, but the juice was very much worth the squeeze, as the movie exists as a testament to brilliant imagination, and it is an important classic in the history of the horror genre.

Frank Darabont – The Shawshank Redemption

After writing a brilliant adaptation of Stephen King’s novella “Rita Hayworth And Shawshank Redemption,” Frank Darabont actually took a major pay cut so that Castle Rock Entertainment would allow him to make The Shawshank Redemption his directorial debut. This turned out to be a legendary move that has cemented Darabont in cinematic history, as the movie is one of the most beloved of all time and an antidote to cynicism.

John Singleton - Boyz n The Hood

With his directorial debut, John Singleton captured the perspective of an underrepresented audience on the big screen – crafting a Stand By Me-esque coming-of-age story about life in south central Los Angeles. In one of his earliest roles, Cuba Gooding Jr. demonstrates incredible talent alongside Ice Cube and Morris Chestnut, but it’s Laurence Fishburne’s Furious Styles for which the film will always be remembered.

Emerald Fennell – Promising Young Woman

Emerald Fennell made quite an impression in 2020 with the debut of Promising Young Woman – a primal scream of a movie that captures the horrors that women experience in our modern world and comes together as a darkly comedic revenge thriller. Carey Mulligan’s performance is wicked, and it sports a finale that leaves the audience breathless and mind-blown.

Dan Gilroy – Nightcrawler

Jake Gyllenhaal is unquestionably one of the greatest actors of his generation, and Nightcrawler sees him let off the leash to showcase his phenomenal cinematic presence. Dan Gilroy was an experienced screenwriter prior to making his directorial debut, and one can understand why he wanted to make this movie himself: it’s a vicious, Taxi Driver-esque look at crime scene videography and a stunning and cutting commentary on “if it bleeds, it leads” culture in local journalism.

George A. Romero – Night Of The Living Dead

There aren’t exactly a lot of filmmakers who successfully launched an entire new subgenre with their first feature, but that’s exactly what George A. Romero did with Night Of The Living Dead. The zombie film was a shocking standout upon its original release – featuring a Black actor as its lead and a series of nightmarish scenes of horror – and its genius is no less apparent today.

Rian Johnson – Brick

Long before wowing us with his ensemble-driven Benoit Blanc mysteries Knives Out and Glass Onion, Rian Johnson stunned cinephiles as a first-time director with Brick. It’s a stylized neo-noir that stands out with its high school backdrop and young characters, and it dazzles with unyielding tension, unique dialogue, and a terrific third act reveal.

Tom Hanks – That Thing You Do!

Admit it: even just seeing the title of That Thing You Do! has immediately gotten the eponymous song stuck in your head. But on top of that track being two minutes and 50 seconds of peppy greatness, the film is a fantastic tale about a one hit wonder that pops thanks to Tom Hanks’ excellent direction and a delightful ensemble cast.

David Lynch – Eraserhead

It didn’t take long for David Lynch to tell cinephiles what he is all about. The auteur filmmaker established his nightmarish, cerebral sensibilities from the get-go with Eraserhead – which is a confident work from the first time director and paved the road for further masterpieces like Mulholland Drive and Twin Peaks.

Amy Heckerling – Fast Times at Ridgemont High

Amy Heckerling would easily be in the Coming-Of-Age Movie Hall Of Fame if Clueless were the only film on her filmography, but it was 13 years earlier that she made one of the genre’s all-time greatest titles as her directorial debut: Fast Times At Ridgemont High. There is so much to love about this film, from the radical Jeff Spicoli, to the drama of the relationship between Stacy and Mark, to the sounds of The Cars’ “Living In Stereo.”

Destin Daniel Cretton – Short Term 12

It’s a remarkable thing when a film, a series of images mixed with sound rapidly displayed to show movement, can touch your soul, but that’s something that Destin Daniel Cretton’s powerful directorial debut does – centering on the staff of a residential treatment facility. In retrospect, the ensemble cast in this one is beyond outstanding (including Brie Larson, Kaitlyn Dever, Rami Malek, LaKeith Stanfield, and Stephanie Beatriz), and their talents are on full display.

Patty Jenkins – Monster

Patty Jenkins’ directorial debut, Monster, is far from a fun cinematic experience, and one actually feels compelled to take a shower after watching it, but it’s a riveting work. Charlize Theron delivers what is arguably the best performance of her career and earned her Academy Award.

Josh & Benny Safdie - Good Time

Cinephiles were thrilled to discover the cinematic heart attack that is Josh and Benny Safdie’s Uncut Gems in 2019, but anyone who watched the brothers’ directorial debut was at the very least mentally prepared for the experience. Starring Robert Pattinson, Good Time is a deeply stressful crime film that comes packed with touches of Of Mice And Men, and it leaves a deep impression on whoever watches it.

Darren Aronofsky – Pi

Darren Aronofsky has a gift for making movies that makes you want to curl up in a ball and cry (see: Requiem For A Dream, Black Swan, mother!), and it’s a mode he hasn’t diverted from since making his feature debut with Pi. It’s a stylistic story of obsession and has one of the most upsetting endings of all time.

John Huston - The Maltese Falcon

There are some films that are held up as the true classics of classic film noir, and right alongside Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo, Bill Wilder’s Double Indemnity and Carol Reed’s The Third Man is John Huston’s phenomenal The Maltese Falcon. Humphrey Bogart’s Sam Spade is an icon of detective fiction, and the twists and turns of the mystery feel as fresh today as ever.

Ari Aster - Hereditary

Ari Aster has quickly become one of the most exciting modern filmmakers making original horror, and that’s in part because audiences are still experiencing nightmares from his directorial debut. A look at both generational trauma and grief, Hereditary is a movie so scary that it would make you feel cold if you were in the middle of the desert, and has more than a few images that end up tattooed on the back of your eyelids as you try to go to sleep at night.

Michael Mann - Thief

Nobody makes crime movies like Michael Mann, and it all started with Thief. It’s a thrilling and captivating look at a talented Chicago criminal who is looking for his way into legitimacy and finds himself fighting forces that try and drag him back into his shady business. The movie features one of James Caan’s best performances, and the talented ensemble includes Jim Belishi, Dennis Farina and Willie Nelson.

Francois Truffaut - The 400 Blows

Valued as an important part of cinema history and the French New Wave, Francois Truffaut’s The 400 Blows is a powerful coming-of-age story starring Jean-Pierre Léaud as Antoine Doinel, a troubled youth who ends up quitting school and turning to thievery, only to be apprehended and thrown in a juvenile detention center. Truffaut is recognized for having created some of the most beautiful films to ever be produced in France, and it all started here.

Jean Luc Goddard - Breathless

Another evocative title that emerged from the French New Wave, Jean Luc Goddard’s Breathless is a visually stunning work of crime and love, with tremendous cinematic innovation, attitude that bleeds off the screen, and an outstanding performance from star Jean-Paul Belmondo in his breakout role.

Barry Jenkins – Medicine For Melancholy

Barry Jenkins first earned widespread acclaim in 2016 for his film Moonlight (which deservingly won Best Picture at the Academy Awards), but not to be slept on is the debut feature he made eight years earlier: Medicine For Melancholy. Starring Wyatt Cenac and Tracey Heggins and set over the course of a single day, it’s a beautiful and emotional romantic drama.

Steven Soderbergh - Sex, Lies, And Videotape

Steven Soderbergh is now recognized as one of the most talented, eclectic filmmakers in cinema, but it all started with Sex, Lies And Videotape – a fascinating romantic drama with brilliant meta levels examining intimacy via camera.

George Miller – Mad Max

Many genre classics have been covered in this list, and now it’s time to dive into one of the greatest action/adventure films of all time. With Mad Max, George Miller takes us to an unnerving not-to-distant future full of violence and chaos, and his unique skills as a filmmaker capturing all that wildness all in camera is what makes this a forever-thrilling experience.

Damien Chazelle – Whiplash

One can read and learn that there is intense competition in performance arts schools, but it’s another thing to live it – and that’s what audiences get to do in Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash. Miles Teller is brilliant as the determined and talented Andrew Neiman, but it’s the Oscar-winning work of J.K. Simmons that makes this outstanding directorial debut exceptional.

Mel Brooks – The Producers

Every legendary cinematic run has to start somewhere, and for Mel Brooks, it was with the brilliance of The Producers. Long before he was shocking with the world with Blazing Saddles and History Of The World Part I, the brilliant comedian unleashed his tale of a Broadway scheme and the insanity of “Springtime For Hitler.”

Jim Abrahams, David Zucker And Jerry Zucker – Airplane!

In the 1980s/1990s, nobody made spoof movies like Jim Abrahams, David Zucker And Jerry Zucker, and they quickly established their special comedic voice with their directorial debut: Airplane! The insane pacing of the jokes and the sheer ridiculousness of everything make this a movie that threatens to choke you with laughter, and there are so, so many quotable lines – many thanks to the deadpan brilliance of Leslie Nielsen.

This list obviously has the potential to grow forever, and it'll be exciting to see who the next big breakout movie directors are. 

As a cult classic with a beat you can dance to almost 30 years later, That Thing You Do is iconic for the movie that bears its name and its accompanying soundtrack. Writer/director Tom Hanks crafted a beautifully catchy movie about one-hit wonders, and his team didn’t forget to create some tunes to come along for the ride. If you’re with me so far when it comes to the subject at hand, it’s time to get even more excited, as that collection of songs is finally getting a Wonder-ful update as beautiful as Gina Lollobrigida. 

The vinyl release of That Thing You Do’s soundtrack is about to go up for pre-order, courtesy of Mondo Records. Starting at 12 P.M. CT on September 6th, this long-promised album will finally be up for grabs, with an estimated October 2023 shipping date to be determined. Seeing as this is a Mondo release, it’s not your standard reissue without pomp and fanfare.

Those of you who love to scout out special variants to play or horde by choice should check out what the special color splatter edition looks like. See the reveal video the company put on social media below: 

So what are you getting for the firm and friendly price of $40, plus shipping and handling? Well, in addition to that one-hit wonder from 1964 that never happened, you’re also getting Wonders songs like “Dance With Me Tonight” and “All My Only Dreams.” Plus, everything from Del Paxton’s “Time to Blow” to Freddy Frederickson’s “Mr. Downtown” is also present and accounted for on this beautiful potential addition to your vinyl collection. 

If you’re into bonuses thrown in for fun and collecting purposes, then fear not! A special 45 RPM single of the Academy Award-nominated tune written by the late Adam Schlesinger is part of the package going up for sale. And yes, it includes “All My Only Dreams” as the B-Side, so it’s a screen-accurate replica of the entry in the Playtone galaxy. Just be sure you’re observing the old man’s rules about playing music on the in-store hi-fi when you get your copy.

Those of you in the audience who remember seeing a test pressing of the That Thing You Do vinyl being auctioned off for charity in 2020 are probably ready to fork over your jukebox money about now. I’m right there with you, as the night we learned that Tom Hanks’ pop music comedy was way different than originally written was also the day that I wanted to own this album in the flesh. 

A little over three years later, we’re absolutely closer to owning the vinyl soundtrack that celebrates Tom Hanks crushing his directorial debut! It’s worth celebrating by looking at the love and care put into the packaging alone, but trust me when I tell you that even the instrumentals are proper earworms as well. Even people who would try to argue against That Thing You Do as one of the best soundtracks ever have to admit, that this is a pretty sweet deal.

Now if we can get a 4K update of the theatrical version, as well as That Thing You Do's superior extended cut, we'd truly be in business. That said, if you’re looking to get your hands on these smooth sounds, head over to Mondo’s Record Shop at 12 P.M. CT on September 6th. And whatever you do, don’t try to order this record from Tele-Mart, as those cats don’t know squat about service!

Almost 30 years ago, triple threat Tom Hanks wrote, directed and starred in the cult classic That Thing You Do, and the world continues to be in love with those boys known as The Wonders. From time to time, the gang has gotten together in one form or another, which is almost always something that sparks interest in watching the movie again. 

Thanks to Mr. Hanks’ reunion with former Wonders member Johnathon Schaech, I definitely need to dig out my Blu-ray copy and watch this beautiful gem again. Sitting down for what looks like a lunch meeting with his former director, Schaech and Hanks smiled for the camera to commemorate the moment. A very familiar message was also included in this beautiful photo shared online for all to see:

It looks like Jimmy and Mr. White have made up, and That Thing You Do might be recorded in Spanish after all. C’mon, if you’re a fan of this 1996 classic, you’re basically thinking the same thing. And no, it’s not about how The Wonders almost had a very different journey in the original version of this movie. 

You’re thinking about that scene. You can practically hear Johnathon Schaech singing and snapping his infamous retort in the recording studio. If you can’t recall this memory or you haven’t seen That Thing You Do, take a moment and watch this classic scene for yourself: 

This is basically the pop music equivalent of Michael Myers and Laurie Strode sitting down to brunch on Halloween. At least, that’s how it would feel if Tom Hanks and Johnathon Schaech were actually as combative as their That Thing You Do characters ended up being in the finale. 

In terms of reunions for those wonderful Wonders, there have been quite a few other moments where the entire band has gotten back together. During the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a very insightful reunion that included Schaech and his bandmates Tom Everett Scott, Steve Zahn and Ethan Embry along for the ride.

And on behalf of the 25th anniversary of the film in 2021, an in-person reunion took place with members of the That Thing You Do cast in the band’s home of Erie, PA. As part of an MILB game for the Erie SeaWolves, the gang got together to do those things you do when you don't have a prize hog entered at the livestock pavilion. 

It's small reunions like the one between Tom Hanks and Johnathon Schaech that really tie together a fandom such as this. With the 30th anniversary looming in 2026, and fans still waiting for Mondo to release the vinyl version of the film's soundtrack at some point, there's going to be plenty to do surrounding that thing the Wonders did in the near future. 

If you’re like me and you’re ready to rewatch or discover That Thing You Do for the first time, you’re in luck. The film is currently streaming through AMC+, which can also be used as an add-on to your Prime Video subscription. Though if you have choice in the matter, I still highly recommend That Thing You Do’s superior extended cut. 

There are only so many movies that fall under the category of “musical,” but most movies do have a musical element to them that lends much to their timelessness. I am not specifically talking about film scores here, but of the catchy and powerful pop hits that have accompanied some of cinema’s iconic moments - most of which were written specifically for the movie and helped launch its popularity, and vice versa. The stories behind how these iconic movie songs came to be (and other intriguing relative facts) are almost as fascinating as the films they appear in.

"Writing's On The Wall" - Sam Smith (Spectre)

While co-writing "Writing's on the Wall" -- from 2015's Spectre -- brought him great success -- including the Best Original Song Oscar -- Sam Smith does not enjoy singing his James Bond theme. Before singing the song for an audience for the first time on The Graham Norton Show, the Grammy winner revealed that he was "dreading" that very performance because it requires him to hit such a painfully high note. He then joked he would have to "grab [his] balls" to achieve the right pitch. 

“Danger Zone” - Kenny Loggins (Top Gun)

The secret as to why the opening scene of Top Gun - the highest grossing film of 1986 - is so unforgettable is the accompaniment of the infectious rock hit “Danger Zone,” which was composed and produced by Giogio Moroder with lyrics from Tom Whitlock. Vocalist Kenny Loggins recalled to MovieWeb that the film’s director, the late Tony Scott, also helmed the song’s music video, which was rare for a major Hollywood filmmaker to do at the time.

“Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head” - B.J. Thomas (Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid)

Of the four Academy Awards that the seminal western Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid earned in 1970, one of them was for its equally seminal original song, “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head.” While the iconic track was memorably sung by B.J. Thomas, the late singer revealed in an interview for The Tennessean that co-writer Burt Bacharach approached folk legend Bob Dylan about singing the vocals. 

“Moon River” - Audrey Hepburn (Breakfast At Tiffany’s)

Composed by Henry Mancini with lyrics from Johnny Mercer, “Moon River” became a unique standout after its appearance in the classic romantic-comedy Breakfast at Tiffany’s as sung by its star, Audrey Hepburn, who was not known as a singer at the time. According to The Telegraph (via Southern Living), that is why Paramount Pictures’ then-president, Barney Balaban, wanted to remove the song from the 1961 adaptation of Truman Capote’s novel, but Hepburn said that would only happen over her dead body.

“Lose Yourself” - Eminem (8 Mile)

Seventeen years after it won the Oscar for Best Original Song for its appearance in 8 Mile, Eminem took the stage at the 2020 Academy Awards for a surprise performance of his powerful track, “Lose Yourself.” Co-writer Jeff Bass told Billboard in 2017 that it took roughly a year to complete the song, partly because it was not until after receiving Scott Silver’s script that the rapper (born Marshall Mathers) began developing the autobiographical lyrics.

“Theme From Shaft” - Isaac Hayes (Shaft)

Isaac Hayes became the first Black man to ever win a music Oscar for the theme song of the 1971 Blaxploitation classic, Shaft. In 2000, the late musician-turned actor told NPR that, after he was hired to score the film, he requested to audition for the title role before it went to Richard Roundtree.

“Fight The Power” - Public Enemy (Do The Right Thing)

One of the most striking hits in the history of rap music is Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power,” which got a lot of exposure in writer, director, and star Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing. According to an oral history by Rolling Stone, Lee wanted the “anthem” for his influential, and still socially relevant, 1989 classic to be a hip-hop rendition of the iconic hymn “Lift Every Voice and Sing” as performed by the rap group, until co-writer Hank Shocklee of the Bomb Squad suggested making something new that would “resonate on the street level.”

“Don’t You (Forget About Me)” - Simple Minds (The Breakfast Club)

According to a Guardian article written by lead singer Jim Kerr, Simple Minds initially turned down the offer to perform “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” for John Hughes’ influential teen dramedy, The Breakfast Club until the song’s writer, Keith Forsey, spent some time with the band and they hit it off. Kerr also improvised the “la, la-la-la-la” at the end and planned to incorporate real lyrics later, but Forsey insisted it should stay.

“Mrs. Robinson” - Simon & Garfunkel (The Graduate)

In an interview for The Game 365, Paul Simon recalled a time he happened to spot Joe DiMaggio - who is mentioned in the Grammy-winning song from The Graduate - at a restaurant, approached him, and was questioned why the song asks where the baseball legend has gone. The singer-songwriter explained that the namedrop in “Mrs. Robinson” was a nod to a seeming absence of great American heroes at the time, which DiMaggio was then flattered by.

“St. Elmo’s Fire (Man In Motion)” - John Parr (St. Elmo’s Fire)

The ultimate film from the “Brat Pack” era would have to be director Joel Schumacher’s star-studded 1985 drama, St. Elmo’s Fire, for which John Parr wrote and performed the theme song. When speaking to NPR, the British musician revealed the unlikely source for the lyrics to “St. Elmo’s Fire (Man In Motion),” which has little to do with the actual plot of the film, but with the inspirational story of a wheelchair-using Olympian from Canada named Rick Hansen.

“See You Again” - Wiz Khalifa Feat. Charlie Puth (Furious 7)

Charlie Puth told Entertainment Weekly that he wrote the chorus for the Oscar-nominated “See You Again” in 10 minutes while thinking of a friend of his who had passed in a similar way to Paul Walker. The actor’s untimely death in 2013, caused by a car crash, inspired Universal to approach Puth to pen a song for the end of Furious 7, which pays tribute to Walker.

“Shallow” - Lady Gaga And Bradley Cooper (A Star Is Born)

While having a more romantic meaning in the context of the story from 2018’s A Star is Born, Lady Gaga told Variety that she believes the popularity of “Shallow” stems from a more serious real-world topic. She said that, in the wake of the #MeToo movement, the content of the Oscar-winning hit’s lyrics being a conversation between a man and a woman who are connecting and openly listening to each other is “why people cry when they hear it.”

“(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life” - Bill Medley, Jennifer Warnes (Dirty Dancing)

The Dirty Dancing cast played writer Franke Previte’s original demo of “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life” while filming the iconic ending performance, which was also the first scene they shot. Previte told American Songwriter that star Patrick Swayze later thanked him at the Oscars for the on-set camaraderie that the demo provided them.

“Eye Of The Tiger” - Survivor (Rocky III)

Survivor guitarist and “Eye of the Tiger” co-writer, Jim Peterik, revealed to Songfacts that Sylvester Stallone initially wanted to use “Another One Bites the Dust” in the montage where the song appears in Rocky III. When he could not get Queen’s permission, he hired the ‘80s rock outfit, who originally thought to call the Oscar-nominated power ballad “Survival,” which would have been the last word of the chorus to rhyme with the lyric “rising up to the challenge of our rival.”

“Ghostbusters” - Ray Parker Jr. (Ghostbusters)

With only a few days given to complete the Ghostbusters theme song (the film itself was conceived, shot, and released within a year), Ray Parker Jr. struggled with the lyrics, especially with figuring how to incorporate the title, as he recalled on an episode of Netflix’s The Movies That Made Us. His breakthrough came when the titular paranormal exterminators’ TV ad in the film reminded him of bug exterminator commercials and inspired him to lead into the famous “Ghostbusters!” shout with the equally iconic phrase “Who you gonna call?”

“Stayin’ Alive” - Bee Gees (Saturday Night Fever)

According to ProCPR.org, a study proved that CPR trainees can maintain the technique at the recommended momentum of 100-120 compressions per minute even more effectively while listening (or singing aloud) to the Bee Gees hit which opens the 1977 film Saturday Night Fever. How fitting that a song called “Stayin’ Alive” really can help save lives.

“Purple Rain” - Prince And The Revolution (Purple Rain)

The title song from the soundtrack for Purple Rain was originally recorded by Prince and The Revolution during their live performance of it in the movie’s final scene, which was also the first time the band ever played it on stage. Alan Light, who wrote a book about the making of the 1984 film called Let’s Go Crazy, assured NPR that only minimal editing was applied to the track as it appears on the album, such as the omission of a verse and few notes in Prince’s guitar solo.

“9 To 5” - Dolly Parton (9 To 5)

According to Biography, Dolly Parton agreed to star in the 1980 comedy 9 to 5 on the condition that she could also write the theme song. The country music legend came up with its baseline (which resembles the sound of a typewriter) on the set while strumming her acrylic fingernails in between takes, which is why “Nails by Dolly” can be found in the soundtrack credits.

“Kiss From A Rose” - Seal (Batman Forever)

While it is impossible to separate “Kiss From a Rose” from Batman Forever, the song was not originally written for the superhero film and, in fact, Seal wrote it in 1987 - years before he was even signed to a label, according to People. In response to Joel Schumacher’s passing in 2020, Seal posted an Instagram video recalling how the director’s inclusion of the song in the 1995 blockbuster turned the romantic ballad - previously a flop - into the defining hit of the artist’s career.

“Footloose” - Kenny Loggins (Footloose)

When speaking to Bart Herbison of Nashville Songwriters Association International for an interview published by The Tennessean, Kenny Loggins made a “confession” about the title song from the 1984 Kevin Bacon-led hit Footloose. The lines “Please, Louise, pull me off of my knees” and then “Jack, get back. Come on before we crack” were inspired by a similar lyrical device Paul Simon used for “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover,” specifically when Simon sings, “Slip out the back, Jack / Make a new plan, Stan,” etc.

“My Heart Will Go On” - Celine Dion (Titanic)

Penned by James Horner, the love theme from Titanic, “My Heart Will Go On,” won the hearts of many - including those at the Academy Awards - but, initially, not its vocalist, Celine Dion, who told Billboard, “When I recorded it, I didn’t think about a movie; I didn’t think about radio. I thought, Sing the song, then get the heck out of there.” Additionally, director James Cameron was, at first, against the idea of adding a pop song to the end of his historical tragedy, but after a push from the studio and some convincing from Horner, he conceded and came to really admire the ballad’s resonance to the film’s romantic plot.

“I Will Always Love You” - Whitney Houston (The Bodyguard)

Whitney Houston’s career-defining song, “I Will Always Love You,” was recorded specifically for her 1992 romantic thriller The Bodyguard, but it is actually a cover of a Dolly Parton classic. Curiously enough, according to an oral history by EW, producer David Foster actually based his arrangement of the song on a previous cover by Linda Ronstadt, which was the only version he could find at the time.

“Gangsta’s Paradise” - Coolio Feat. L.V. (Dangerous Minds)

As Coolio revealed to Rolling Stone, Stevie Wonder had a few conditions that had to be met before he and L.V.’s “Gangsta’s Paradise” - the de facto theme for 1995’s Michelle Pfeiffer-led drama Dangerous Minds - could be released, because it samples his 1976 song “Pastime Paradise.” Ironically, the rapper himself was not happy with “Weird Al” Yankovic’s parody, “Amish Paradise,” and would not make peace with it until years later.

“A Whole New World” - Alan Menken, Tim Rice (Aladdin)

Alan Menken has won several awards for iconic, sweeping songs from some of the best animated Disney movies, including “A Whole New World” from Aladdin. The composer revealed in an interview with Jake Hamilton (co-host of the ReelBlend podcast) that the original title he had in mind was “The World At My Feet” until lyricist, Tim Rice, suggested that “the word ‘feet’ would be better not in the title of a Disney love song.”

“Goldfinger” - Shirley Bassey (Goldfinger)

We all know that the title track from Goldfinger (one of the all-time greatest Bond movie theme songs) is sung brilliantly by Welsh songstress Shirley Bassey, but less people are aware that a young Jimmy Page played guitar in the orchestra. The future Led Zeppelin founder recalled to GQ how Bassey performed the session in one take and, after holding the huge final note, ran out of breath and collapsed on the floor.

“The Power Of Love” - Huey Lewis & The News (Back To The Future)

Huey Lewis & The News wrote and performed two songs for 1985’s masterful time travel adventure, Back to the Future - most famously the Oscar nominated hit, “The Power of Love.” As Lewis recalled in a video for Rolling Stone, the musician makes a funny, uncredited cameo as a Battle of Bands judge who believes the rendition of the song that Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) and his band perform for their audition is “too darn loud.”

“That Thing You Do!” - The Wonders (That Thing You Do!)

The titular, Oscar-nominated 1960s-style pop song from Tom Hanks’ 1996 directorial debut, That Thing You Do!, was actually written by Fountains of Wayne’s Adam Schlesinger, who went on to compose Howard Stern’s theme music, became the musical director for Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, and other notable works. When he passed away from Covid-19 in 2020, the members of the fictional band from the film, The Wonders, reunited over Zoom for a livestream as a pandemic relief benefit.

“Rainbow Connection” - Jim Henson (The Muppet Movie)

One of the most celebrated achievements of prolific songwriter Paul Williams is “Rainbow Connection,” which Kermit the Frog (voiced by Jim Henson) performs in The Muppet Movie from 1979. In a video interview shot for The Tennessean in 2016, Williams told Bart Herbison that he and and co-writer Kenneth Asher wanted to give Kermit a song as heartwarming and “spiritual” as Jiminy Cricket’s “When You Wish Upon A Star” from 1940’s animated Disney classic Pinocchio, which served as a jumping-off point for the Oscar-nominated ballad.

There really is nothing like dropping the needle on your favorite movie soundtrack and reminiscing about the scenes in which each killer song appears. Now you have many more stories to associate them with.

Ethan Embry would enjoy Legendary Status in Hollywood with only one film credit on his resume: The Bass Player from Tom Hanks’ iconic That Thing You Do! And he was only in HALF of that movie before he enlisted in the armed services and left The Wonders in limbo. (He was quickly replaced.) So yeah, Embry was high on our list, and that’s long before we heard this story that he just shared about the time he had a close encounter with Mark Wahlberg in Las Vegas. It’s an all-timer, and it’s on Embry’s Twitter page as we speak:

We have so many questions. For starters, was it even New Year’s Eve? Also, who’s lipstick was on Ethan Embry’s face? Should he really admit to having his face covered in cocaine? And is this story even true?!

Well, Ethan Embry responds to a couple of those, including the final one, in the comments underneath the original Tweet. He proclaims:

Which is outstanding. Let’s remember that Ethan Embry went on to have an incredible career long after That Thing You Do! Yes, he had been in Empire Records the year before, but he parlayed that flash of success into starring gigs in Can’t Hardly Wait, Sweet Home Alabama, and a slew of television roles. You want to know when this Mark Wahlberg story might have happened? In 1997, Embry got to play Rusty Griswold, the son of Chevy Chase’s legendary Clark Griswold, in Vegas Vacation. So maybe he was celebrating the end of a long shoot? Or a particularly gruelling day? Mark Wahlberg probably just needed context on poor Ethan Embry’s day.

Instead of reaching out a helping hand to one Wonder, the band’s lead singer Johnathon Schaech jokingly reached out:

Naturally, inside of the comments underneath the original post, there’s a fair share of people who are criticizing Mark Wahlberg for telling ANYONE to get their shit together when he also has been accused of a handful of controversial encounters. Now, maybe Wahlberg saw a little bit of his own possible reality in the Ethan Embry who is lying on the floor of a Las Vegas casino covered in lipstick and cocaine. And obviously Embry eventually listened, because he’s still a working performer.

What this Tweet basically tells me is that Ethan Embry has now become a Hollywood character actor who needs to write a tell-all biography of his time as a 90s screen star. Just think of the number of wild stories that should come out of the Can’t Hardly Wait set, or Empire Records. Maybe Embry can reach out to Mark Wahlberg and get him to write the foreword.

Bryan Cranston is currently one of the most well-known and respected actors of the 21st Century. He is an actor who effortlessly plays both serious and comedic roles. He has won six Emmy awards and been nominated 15 times. He won most of those Emmy awards for his portrayal as Walter White on Breaking Bad.

Bryan Cranston is an actor who is constantly taking on new projects and reinventing himself. He’s such a big name in Hollywood now that it’s hard to picture those days when the name Cranston didn’t strike awe and amazement in the heart of movie and TV fans. Well, let’s look back at some of those early roles (and some recent ones that you may have missed).

Gus Grissom - That Thing You Do

That Thing You Do is a 1996 comedy movie written and directed by Tom Hanks. It depicts the rise and fall of a one-hit-wonder pop group in the 1960s. It stars Tom Hanks, Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn, and Ethan Embry.

Bryan Cranston only has a brief appearance in That Thing You Do. It’s almost a blink-and-you’ll-miss it moment as he portrays real-life astronaut Gus Grissom. He appears on a scene where the band is on a variety show called The Hollywood Television Showcase. He appears before The Wonders. Cranston had been acting since the '80s, so this was far from his first role, but it was still before his name became so recognizable.

Dr. Tim Whatley - Seinfeld

Seinfeld was one of the most popular series of the '90s. It was created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld and starred Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Michael Richards, and Jason Alexander. The NBC comedy ran for nine seasons and is considered one of the best sitcoms of all-time.

Cranston played the recurring role of Dr. Tim Whatley from 1994 to 1997. He appeared in five episodes total. Tim was the dentist of Jerry and several other characters. He also had a brief romance with Elaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus). Like many Seinfeld characters, he becomes kookier with each appearance. Before Seinfeld, Cranston was the main character on the short-lived series Raising Miranda and an original cast member on the soap Loving, but Seinfeld was still one of his early recurring character roles.

Colonel I.W. Bryce - Saving Private Ryan

Saving Private Ryan is a World War II movie directed by Steven Spielberg. It stars Tom Hanks as a man who goes on a mission to track down Private First Class James Ryan (Matt Damon) and send him home. Saving Private Ryan’s cast also includes Giovanni Ribisi, Tom Sizemore, Edward Burns, and Adam Goldberg.

Bryan Cranston only appears in a few early scenes of Saving Private Ryan. He plays Colonel I.W. Bryce. He’s one of the first leaders informed that the other Ryan brothers have died. He basically sets off the quest to find and retrieve Ryan, so at least one of the Ryan children can make it back home. Saving Private Ryan came a few years before Cranston landed his breakout role on Malcolm in the Middle.

Patrick Crump - The X-Files

The X-Files was a science fiction series that began in 1993 and ran until 2002. It had a revival in 2016. It starred David Duchovny as Fox Mulder and Gillian Anderson as Dana Scully. They are two FBI special agents who investigate unusual cases, usually involving paranormal activity and extraterrestrials.

Bryan Cranston appeared in The X-Files Season 6, Episode 2, “Drive.” This episode happened to be directed by Vince Gilligan, the creator of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. The episode revolves around Patrick kidnapping Mulder and forcing him to drive him around to keep himself from exploding. Crump is not the most compassionate character as he’s full of bigoted views, but Cranston is able to make him a character that you come to care about and want to survive. Cranston appeared on X-Files in 1998, when his career was starting to pick up with him appearing in well-known shows and movies, like Seinfeld.

Lightbringer - Fallen

Fallen was an ABC Family miniseries that aired in 2006 and 2007. It had three episodes and was based on The Fallen novels by Thomas Sniegoski. My favorite actor who played a teen vampire, Paul Wesley, stars in Fallen as Aaron Corbett. The events of the film start with Aaron discovering that he’s half-human and half-angel. He also learns that he’s been burdened with the duty of saving the world with his powers, which are to send fallen angels back to heaven by redeeming them.

Bryan Cranston plays the Lightbringer, a mysterious figure who is trying to ensure that Aaron fulfills his destiny and prophecy. This is another role where Cranston effortlessly toes the line between good and evil. Fallen aired in 2006, after Malcolm in the Middle ended, so by this time, Cranston had become well-known as lovable quirky dad Hal.

Nick Wrigley - ’Twas the Night

‘Twas the Night is a Disney Channel Original Movie that aired in 2001. It was a Christmas themed movie that aired during the holidays. Shady Uncle Nick (Bryan Cranston) decides to visit his brother and his family for the holidays -- also to escape consequences for his crimes. This excites his 14-year-old nephew Danny (Josh Zuckerman) who idolizes Nick. On Christmas Eve, while trying to deliver presents, Santa makes a mistake and Nick knocks him out.

Nick and Danny decide to borrow Santa’s sleigh to deliver the gifts for Santa, but Nick is really stealing from the houses. This is a fun Holiday movie that allows Cranston to embrace his goofier side, while also creating a complex character for a movie geared towards little children. ‘Twas the Night aired a year after Cranston began working on Malcolm in the Middle, so he was just gaining name recognition at the time.

Vince Lonigan - Sneaky Pete

Sneaky Pete is a series starring Giovanni Ribisi as a con artist named Marius who, once he is released from prison, steals his cellmate, Pete (Ethan Embry)’s identity to hide from Vince (Bryan Cranston), a man he and his brother owe a lot of money.

Sneaky Peter was executive produced and co-created by Bryan Cranston. Sneaky Pete was an underrated series that left too soon. Cranston’s character only appeared in the first season. Sneaky Peak’s first season was released on Amazon Prime in 2017, so by then, Cranston was a big name and a multiple Emmy winner. However, Sneaky Pete is one of those series that many may have missed, and it’s a show worth checking out if you’re a Cranston fan or just a fan of con artist series.

Cranston has built a diverse body of work since he started acting, so it’s nice to look back at some of his earlier or lesser-known projects to see the evolution of Mr. “I am the danger.” This summer, Cranston teamed up with Sam Rockwell, Angelina Jolie, and others for Disney’s The One and Only Ivan. You can currently stream The One and Only Ivan on Disney+. Stream it here.

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Through decades of adaptable performances, Bryan Cranston has proven his incredible acting talents in a variety of roles, both big and small, on screens both large and not. Through an impressively unwavering dedication to his craft and a fiery commitment to complicated characters, Cranston is a continuously dynamic performer with vigorous versatility and astonishing range. The Emmy/Tony-winning actor proved his talents once more in Disney+'s The One and Only Ivan, but the Breaking Bad actor showed his skills in several outstanding performances, many of which are currently accessible on various streaming services. Here's what you should stream if you love Bryan Cranston.

Breaking Bad (Netflix)

Diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer, a mild-mannered chemistry teacher (Bryan Cranston) manufactures methamphetamine with a former student (Aaron Paul) to provide for his family.

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: Over the course of five excellent seasons, Bryan Cranston went from being "the dad on Malcolm in the Middle" to one of our greatest working actors through his Emmy-winning work in AMC's exhilarating Breaking Bad. While credit is rightfully given to creator Vince Gilligan's brilliant vision, the incredible cast, the distinctly vivid Albuquerque backdrops, the consistently amazing writing, and the pulpy camerawork, Breaking Bad is an addictive, intentionally Shakespearean character study of how an unassuming man becomes a powerfully wicked force of destruction. It's to Cranston's immense credit that this vivid transformation is sold with gusto and greedy vengeance. It's undeniably Cranston's finest performance and one of TV's finest roles.

Stream it on Netflix here.

The One And Only Ivan (Disney+)

A gorilla (Sam Rockwell) promises to help a baby elephant (Brooklynn Prince) escape captivity from an overzealous circus owner (Bryan Cranston).

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: In this cuddly and immensely sweet Disney+ exclusive, Bryan Cranston demonstrates many layers, allowing himself to be hammy and boastful when endearing a crowd, tender and caring when he's with his animal companions, but also insistent and demanding when business isn't what he wants it to be. The role could've been less dynamic with a less capable actor, but Cranston brings sincerity and sensitivity to his prominent role, particularly when he's often the only live-action actor on-screen. While it sometimes seems like the movie isn't sure how far to push the character's darker side, Cranston brings vibrant, winning humanity to this animal-centric Disney production.

Stream it on Disney+ here.

Contagion (HBO Max)

A lethal, fast-spreading novel virus causes social order to collapse.

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: While it doesn't make for the most comfortable viewing experience in the midst of an ongoing worldwide pandemic, Steven Soderbergh's immersive, nerve-wracking, and unsettlingly foretelling Contagion is a tightly-wound globe-trotting thriller with precise pacing, an unflinching vision, and a smart, well-researched screenplay which gets down to the nitty-gritty of this devastating illness without sacrificing the entertainment value. Though, perhaps "entertaining" isn't the right word in a modern lens. Nevertheless, in an outstanding ensemble, including Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet, Laurence Fishburne, and Jude Law, Bryan Cranston plays a dutifully formal role as a public health service rear admiral hoping to keep the nation from diving into full-blown panic. It's a buttoned-down role that Cranston handles with proper gravitas and dramatic authority.

Stream it on HBO Max here.

Malcolm In The Middle (Hulu/IMDbTV)

A gifted teenage middle child (Frankie Muniz) tries living with his dysfunctional suburban family (Bryan Cranston, Jane Kaczmarek, Christopher Masterson, Justin Berfield, Erik Per Sullivan).

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: As Hal Wilkerson, an immature, goofy father of four unruly sons, Bryan Cranston gave one of his most recognizable and memorable performances in Fox's long-running Malcolm in the Middle. As the often-bumbling, socially awkward patriarch who wants to do the right thing but is often helpless without his wife's assistance, Cranston's performance is frequently funny and not without its moments of off-kilter sweetness. He's often game for anything and filled with lighthearted giddiness, showcasing the future Emmy-winning actor's unrestrained commitment and bubbling enthusiasm. It's a sincere, highly-entertaining career-building performance that remains one of his most signature roles.

Stream it on Hulu here and IMDB TV here.

Last Flag Flying (Amazon Prime)

Reuniting with his Vietnam War buddies, Marine Sal Nealon (Bryan Cranston) and Reverend Richard Mueller (Laurence Fishburne), Former Navy Corpsman Larry "Doc" Shepherd (Steve Carell) goes on a mission to bury his solider son.

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: Though it flew under the radar upon release, Richard Linklater's Last Flag Flying is a wonderfully delicate, thoughtful, and mature character-based dramedy with the added benefit of its terrific trio of lead performances from Steve Carrell, Bryan Cranston, and Laurence Fishburne. While Carell's refrained, commendably contemplative performance is the movie's anchor, Cranston's rambunctious, outspoken persona works well as his opposite, showcasing his entertaining talents for playing broad, attention-grabbing characters. While some critics dismissed his high-energy performance, it balances the buddy dynamic between Carell's grief-filled character and Fishburne's evaluative reverend well, providing a dependably lively, engaging presence.

Stream it on Amazon Prime here.

Little Miss Sunshine (Starz)

A dysfunctional family embarks on a cross-country road trip when the youngest child (Abigail Breslin) enters the finals of a beauty pageant.

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: Little Miss Sunshine is like the Little Engine That Could, chugging along with its humble Sundance debut to become an incredible box office smash and, eventually, a Best Picture-nominated triumph. While the main ensemble, including Greg Kinnear, Toni Collette, Abigail Breslin, Paul Dano, Steve Carell, and an Oscar-winning Alan Arkin, got most of the recognition — and understandably so — Bryan Cranston also played a small-but-pivotal role as Stan Grossman, whom our patriarchal lead (Kinnear) believes will bring about his next step as a motivational speaker. It's a minor part, but Cranston plays a big part in the comedy's dramatic undercurrent.

Stream it on Starz here.

Last Chance (Tubi)

In a desert cafe, an unhappy married couple (Robin Dearden, Bryan Cranston) has their lives changed by a charming drifter (Tim Thomerson).

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: In his screenwriting and directorial debut, Bryan Cranston makes an appealingly old-fashioned, commendably character-focused drama aided by strong performances from Robin Dearden, Cranston's wife, and Tim Thomerson. Though it can be overly familiar with its well-worn narrative and subdued by its tempered pacing, Cranston's homegrown film is benefitted by its indie earnestness and its refrained storytelling, allowing the strengths of the performers to carry the low-budget production in an agreeably undemanding fashion. The results aren't especially noteworthy, but it proves that Cranston has decent chops as a director. It's a shame that the actor hasn't helmed another feature since. In any case, Last Chance was an early showcase for Cranston's multi-faceted talents.

Stream it on Tubi here.

The Lincoln Lawyer (Amazon Prime/Netflix)

A charismatic lawyer (Matthew McConaughey), who does business out of his Lincoln Continental sedan, defends a wealthy man (Ryan Phillippe), only to believe his client is guilty of more than one crime.

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: While it doesn't verge too far out of the lines of your typical procedural courtroom drama-thriller, The Lincoln Lawyer is a brisk, commendably enjoyable starring vehicle for Matthew McConaughey. While it's undoubtedly his show, the supporting ensemble is surprisingly strong, particularly with standout talents like Marisa Tomei, John Leguizamo, Michael Pena, William H. Macy, Josh Lucas, and Bryan Cranston onboard. As a detective with a strong dislike towards our Lincoln-loving criminal defense attorney, Cranston brings sharp personality to what might've been a throwaway role in less dependable hands, resulting in a commendable turn.

Stream it on Amazon Prime here and Netflix here.

All The Way (HBO Max)

After President John F. Kennedy's assassination, President Lyndon B. Johnson (Bryan Cranston) spends his first year in office trying to pass the Civil Rights Act.

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: Reprising his Tony-winning portrayal of the former president, Bryan Cranston gives a thunderous performance as Lyndon B. Johnson in HBO's All The Way. Though its boisterousness can make an unsteady transition into television, the characterization still contains the magnitudes of Johnson's ferocity and tenacity, making it easy to see why it was such a triumphant Broadway success. It matches the outsized personality of his real-life inspiration, showcasing Cranston's proven talents for playing loud, bombastic characters with steering, unwavering desires to achieve greatness. It makes sense why Cranston adopted this role shortly after Breaking Bad. It's a stunning performance, outshining the film itself.

Stream it on HBO Max here.

Drive (Netflix)

A Hollywood stunt driver (Ryan Gosling) moonlights as a getaway driver. But complications ensue when he falls for his neighbor (Carey Mulligan).

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: In this visceral, heavily-stylized blend of high-speed action and arthouse cinema sensibilities, Drive became one of 2011's coolest, most celebrated achievements, pushing director Nicholas Winding Refn further into cult status. With an ensemble that includes Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Christina Hendricks, Ron Perlman, Oscar Isaac, and a surprisingly terrifying Albert Brooks, Bryan Cranston doesn't get as much time to shine as he did in other projects he landed once Breaking Bad's success grew, but his auto shop owner plays an emotional part in our sullen, cold exterior lead's buried warm heart, providing Gosling's character with more motivation to seek vengeance when things go south.

Stream it on Netflix here.

That Thing You Do! (HBO Max)

In 1964, a small-time band (Tom Everett Scott, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn) rises up the charts with the help of their manager (Tom Hanks).

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: While it's a brief role in Tom Hanks' beloved directorial debut, Bryan Cranston's appearance as Gus Grissom, an astronaut interviewed only moments before The Wonders perform on live TV, makes for a fun surprise for fans of the actor's long-spanning work. While he isn't given too much to do, Hanks clearly enjoyed Cranston's company. The director later cast him in a more prominent role in his sophomore film, 2011's Larry Crowne, which is streaming on Peacock.

Stream it on HBO Max here.

Wakefield (Netflix/SundanceNow)

A successful-but-unhappy attorney (Bryan Cranston), living on the edge of madness, decides to disassociate himself from his own life.

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: In what's considered one of his finest recent portrayals, Bryan Cranston provides a dependably committed, darkly unstable lead performance in Wakefield. Playing a man collapsing from his fraught mental stability, Cranston is given a challenging role to pursue, particularly when the character can often be unpleasant. But the award-winning actor is up for the challenge, producing an intriguingly complex, achingly human powerhouse performance which, yet again, demonstrates his towering talents.

Stream it on Netflix here and SundanceNow here.

Seinfeld (Hulu)

Four neurotic friends (Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander, Michael Richards) deal with the minutiae of NYC daily living.

Why It's A Good Option for Bryan Cranston Fans: As Tim Whatley, Jerry Seinfeld's extremely eccentric dentist, Bryan Cranston played a recurring role in Seinfeld's extended time on TV. While this role only consisted of five episodes scattered throughout the sitcom's 172 episode run, the standout character became an early favorite for Cranston, particularly as the comedy's cultural longevity allows him to still be recognized for this scene-stealing part. Whether it's his office collection of Penthouse magazines or his switch to Judaism solely to make jokes (which offends Jerry as a comedian, but not as a Jewish man), Cranston's character provided great splashy variety to the proceedings. His involvement in some of Seinfeld's most revered episodes wasn't incidental.

Stream it on Hulu here.

In addition to all these titles, it's worth noting that Trumbo is available on Netflix, The Infiltrator can be seen on Crackle, The Upside is on Showtime, Sneaky Pete is on Amazon Prime, and Cold Comes The Night is also on Crackle. What's your favorite Bryan Cranston performance? Let us know below!

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If you were to choose a selection of actors whom you would feel comfortable entrusting your life with, it is hard to imagine Charlize Theron not showing up on that list. From her death-defying race across the desert in Mad Max: Fury Road, death-defying stunts around Berlin in Atomic Blonde, her complete immunity from death in The Old Guard, among other exciting films, she is an undeniable badass.

However, the South African-born, Academy Award-winning actress and producer has not always been a reigning action movie queen, having first gotten noticed for films of a much subtler tone by comparison. In fact, amid her globetrotting adventures, she still finds time to squeeze a smaller, arthouse indie or even a super-raunchy romantic comedy into her schedule, proving her to be one of the most versatile talents working in Hollywood today. I would not be surprised if her portrayal of news anchor Megyn Kelly in Bombshell would have been just as convincingly uncanny without the transformative, Oscar-winning makeup process.

Speaking of Bombshell, that modern historical drama is actually not available stream on any major platform at the moment. However, several other films starring Charlize Theron (pronounced “shar-leeze thare-in,” by the way) are. The following are 13 of the Oscar winner’s best movies and where you can find them.

That Thing You Do! (1996)

A struggling Philadelphia rock band get a taste for the trials and tribulations of fame, under the guidance of their experienced manager (Tom Hanks), after their first recorded single reaches the top of the charts in the mid-1960s.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: If you ever needed another reason to admire Tom Hanks, you can thank him for introducing the world to Charlize Theron with his under appreciated directorial debut, That Thing You Do!, in which the then 21-year-old actress plays the overbearing Tina, who is dating drummer Guy Patterson (Tom Everett Scott) at the time his band The Wonders, formerly The One-ders, hit it big with the titular track.

Stream That Thing You Do! on HBO Max here.

The Devil’s Advocate (1997)

A young, highly successful Florida attorney (Keanu Reeves) is hired into a powerful New York City law firm under the mentorship of its owner (Al Pacino), who begins to show disturbing signs that he is not all who he claims to be.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: In The Devil's Advocate, her first movie with Keanu Reeves, Charlize Theron is stunning as Mary, the wife of Reeves' hotshot lawyer Kevin Lomax, who becomes increasingly upset by how his new job has began to take up all his attention and starts to make her life a living hell... literally.

Stream The Devil's Advocate on Netflix here.

Mighty Joe Young (1998)

A zoologist (Bill Paxton) convinces a woman who has lived in the jungle most of her life (Charlize Theron) to bring a 15' gorilla she calls "Joe" to a California sanctuary, only to learn sinister motives behind the transfer.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: Charlize Theron channels her support for animal rights into this performance from Disney's Oscar-nominated remake of the 1949 adventure Mighty Joe Young, which, essentially takes the plot of King Kong, but gives the female lead a pre-existing relationship with the homesick, giant primate.

Stream Mighty Joe Young on Disney+ here.

The Legend Of Bagger Vance (2000)

In the Depression-era South, a war veteran and former golfing pro (Matt Damon) receives unexpected help in taking back control of his game, and his life, with the help of a mysterious caddy (Will Smith).

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: The golf match that leads the title character of The Legend of Bagger Vance to enter the picture is set up by Charlize Theron's character Adele Invergordon, who also once had a relationship with Matt Damon's self-destructive character in this heartwarming story of redemption from director Robert Redford.

Stream The Legend of Bagger Vance on Showtime here.

Monster (2003)

Based on the true story, Aileen Wuornos (Charlize Theron) finds romance with a young woman (Christina Ricci) while working as a prostitute whose clients usually tend to become her victims in 1990s Daytona Beach.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: A harrowing biographical drama from writer and director Patty Jenkins, Monster sees an unrecognizable Charlize Theron as the notorious serial killer in the performance that earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.

Stream Monster on Tubi here or on IMDbTV here.

Aeon Flux (2005)

A highly-skilled, leather-clad assassin (Charlize Theron) discovers some earth-shattering secrets about her utopian society, inhabited by the last of humanity four centuries after a deadly virus, in the 25th century.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: Director Karyn Kusama's live-action update of the sci-fi, animated MTV series Aeon Flux is an otherwise guilty pleasure with striking visuals and an equally striking performance by Charlize Theron, headlining an action film for the first time in the title role.

Stream Aeon Flux on Amazon Prime here.

Battle In Seattle (2008)

A promise of peace is broken as tensions rise between the World Trade Organization and those picketing its meeting in Seattle, resulting in innocent people getting caught in a violent collision between the police and the protestors.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: As part of a star-studded ensemble, Charlize Theron plays the pregnant wife of a riot cop (Woody Harrelson) tasked with preventing tragedy in Battle In Seattle, a historical drama released 12 years ago that depicts a real incident from 21 years ago, but feels like it could have happened yesterday.

Stream Battle In Seattle on Amazon Prime here or on Tubi here.

Hancock (2008)

An alcoholic, belligerent bum with superhuman abilities (Will Smith) receives the chance to become a more ideal superhero when he rescues a PR executive (Jason Bateman) who, in return, helps him clean up his image.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: The wife of Bateman's character, played by Charlize Theron, has a serious issue with her husband's interest in helping title character of Hancock for reasons that eventually come to light, and amusingly so, in this blockbuster that puts a unique spin on the comic book hero persona.

Stream Hancock on Netflix here.

Young Adult (2011)

The recently divorced author of an unsuccessful young adult novel series (Charlize Theron) returns to her hometown in hopes to steal back her ex-boyfriend (Patrick Wilson), who just had a child with his wife (Elizabeth Reaser).

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: Charlize Theron received a Golden Globe nod for her performance as the cynical, childish protagonist of Young Adult, a dramedy from director Jason Reitman and writer Diablo Cody, the creative duo behind 2007's Juno.

Stream Young Adult on Amazon Prime here.

Gringo (2018)

A pharmaceutical rep (David Oyelowo) finds himself at the discouraging mercy of his bosses (Charlize Theron, Joel Edgerton), whom he discovers have been selling their revolutionary marijuana pill to the Mexican cartel that has taken him hostage.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: As her Golden Globe nomination for the previously mentioned Young Adult has proven, Charlize Theron is just as good at dark comedy as she is at breakneck action, and Gringo, an Amazon original directed by star Joel Edgerton's brother Nash, is a thrilling mix of both.

Stream Gringo on Amazon Prime here.

Tully (2018)

A housewife (Charlize Theron) feeling the pressures of motherhood at an all-time high receives help from a new nanny (Mackenzie Davis) who becomes an unexpected force in her life.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: Charlize Theron gained 50 pounds and received yet another Golden Globe nod for Tully, her second collaboration with Jason Reitman and Diablo Cody, which reveals the dark side of parenting through very unconventional circumstances.

Stream Tully on Peacock here.

Long Shot (2019)

A rebellious investigative journalist (Seth Rogen) has a chance reunion with his childhood crush (Charlize Theron) as she is making a bid for presidency, at which point their relationship begins to take an unforeseen turn when she hires him as his speechwriter.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: By now, Charlize Theron's comedic talent should be undeniably clear and, despite a title like like Long Shot, she and comic genius Seth Rogen (yes, I mean that), have surprisingly great chemistry in this sweet romantic comedy that takes a shot at the political climate in an unusually fun and meaningful way.

Stream Long Shot on HBO Max here.

The Old Guard (2020)

Soon after recruiting a new member, a crew of mercenaries discover their gifts of eternal life have been exposed, forcing them on the run from an organization that wants to profit from their immortality.

Why It's A Good Option for Charlize Theron Fans: As I said before, Charlize Theron is, just about, this generation's queen of action movies and The Old Guard, a Netflix original based on a graphic novel, is an exhilarating thrill ride that cements that claim.

Stream The Old Guard on Netflix here.

Be sure to check back for additional information and updates on Charlize Theron, as well as even more recommendations for what movies and TV shows you can stream now, here on CinemaBlend.

Over the course of his more than 40-year career, Tom Hanks has given audiences around the world some of the best performances ever captured on film. The two-time Academy Award-actor has shown up the highs and lows of the human condition, explored death and rebirth, and has inspired countless actors and filmmakers to follow in his footsteps. Oh, and he has mastered the art of the on-screen freakout better than anyone.

There is just something about a great Tom Hanks meltdown. They have this certain quality about them where they seem to come out of nowhere even though they've been building up for quite some time. When Hanks' loud and boisterous voice begins to stretch as a crazed expression comes over his face, we in the audience know that something good is coming our way. And with that, I thought it would be fun to take a look at the different times where Tom Hanks freaked out on screen and it was perfect in every way.

The Burbs - Ray's Epic Meltdown In Front Of The Ambulance

Ray Peterson's meltdown at the end of The Burbs is one of, if not the best on-screen freak-outs from Tom Hanks, and that says a lot about a film that came out more than 30 years ago. What makes it so great is the fact that Ray's blowup on his neighbor Rick (Art Weingartner) has ebbs and flows as he goes between being rational and a loose-cannon as he comes to terms with being one of the lunatics on Mayfield Place. It all ends with Ray pretty much stopping himself before yelling out "I've been blown up, take me to the hospital" before throwing a gurney into an ambulance and climbing on top of it.

Honorable Mention: Ray and Carol fight during breakfast.

The Money Pit - It's A Big House

Who knows if we'll ever get that TV adaptation of The Money Pit, but if we don't, there is always the the 1986 comedy starring Tom Hanks and Shelley Long who think they get an incredible deal on a country estate only to find out it's plagued with issues. When the deplorable conditions and never-ending renovation project get too much for the young couple, they have a major blow-up and argue over who keeps the house. It's here we get classic Tom Hanks with the "It's a big house" speech that's full of manic rage and a little bit of uncertainty that is sill visible in the actor's eyes and audible in his loud voice all these years later.

Honorable Mention: Walter laughs after the bathtub falls through the floor.

Cast Away - Chuck Cuts His Hand And Creates Wilson

Two Oscars and the several other high profile roles didn't stop Tom Hanks from bringing his sense of comedic (or tragic) timing in the 2001 epic Cast Away which saw him playing FedEx analyst Chuck Noland who gets stuck on a deserted island in the middle of the Pacific. Going in, you know there's going to be a moment where Chuck loses all touch with reality (and sanity), and that moment comes when he slices his hand open and inadvertently creates Wilson. After cutting his hand, Chuck kicks water-logged FeEx boxes, grabs the volleyball, and yells to the heavens like a madman. There are other freak-outs here, but nothing comes close to this one.

Honorable Mention: Chuck creates fire.

Toy Story - Woody Tells Buzz He's A Toy

I must admit, Woody is probably the most unlikable character in the first Toy Story movie, but that doesn't mean he's wrong when he finally lets Buzz Lightyear have it when they're stranded at the Dinoco gas station. He tries to convince the astronaut action figure that he's a toy time and time again until he finally loses it completely and begins jumping around like a lunatic yelling "You are a toy!" Woody has other great moments in the movie (and in further installments in the franchise), but none capture the crazy side of Tom Hanks better than this one.

That Thing You Do - Mr. White Tells Guy Patterson To Get To The Studio

For most of That Thing You Do, Tom Hanks' portrayal of band manager Mr. Amos White is relatively calm if not a little hard on the Oneders and never really loses his cool. That all changes when the band is getting ready for a big television gig and Mr. White has to give Guy Peterson (Tom Everett Scott) a wakeup call no one wants to receive. It starts off fine enough but the speed, volume, and rage in the manager's voice all go into overdrive with each word that comes out of his mouth, ending in a fit of rage like nothing the drummer had seen before.

A League Of Their Own - There's No Crying In Baseball

Whenever the tragic day comes when Tom Hanks passes away, his iconic "There's no crying in baseball," line from A League of Their Own will be a staple of all the tribute videos at awards shows and news reports. Seriously, there are few lines from Hanks' phenomenal career that compare to his portrayal of coach Jimmy Dugan as he berates Everlyn Gardner (Bitty Schram) from the dugout. But the scene doesn't end there as it continues to escalate and ultimately ends with Dugan getting thrown out of the game. Classic.

Honorable Mention: Dugan kisses Miss Cuthbert, then realizes what he just did and loses it.

Turner And Hooch - Turner Tells Hooch To Quit Barking And Howling

One of the best dog movies currently available on Disney+, the 1989 buddy cop movie Turner & Hooch is also one of the highlights of Tom Hanks' career before he transitioned from standout comedy actor to the megastar he's known as today. The relationship between Hanks' Scott Turner and his K-9 partner Hooch goes without comparison and is built up with scenes like the one where the police detective begins to yell at his dog to quit barking. He runs through an extremely long list of types of foods and beverages at his disposal before asking Hooch if wants him to make a margarita. I wonder if he regrets that outburst at the film's tragic ending.

Honorable Mention: Don't eat the car.

Big - Josh Freaks Out When He's Transformed Into An Adult

The 1988 fantasy comedy Big is young Tom Hanks at his finest. His boyish looks and gentle demeanor are perfect for a character who's supposed to be a child stuck in a man's body after making a wish at a carnival. There are times throughout the movie where Hanks' portrayal of 12-year-old Josh Baskin absolutely kill me, including the part where he first talks to his mother, which doesn't go well,  the scene when he tries to convince his best friend he's not some creep trying to kidnap him. He goes from yelling Billy's full name to singing "Shimmy Shimmy Cocoa Pop" in a matter of seconds. Just don't make me watch the scene where Josh has to spend the night in the seedy hotel again.

Sleepless In Seattle - Sam Yells About Fatal Attraction

I'm not going to lie, Sleepless in Seattle is one of my all-time favorite romantic comedies and it's not just because of Bill Pullman. The pairing of Tom Hanks as Sam Baldwin and Meg Ryan as Annie Reed (who only share one scene together) as star-crossed lovers is amazing and makes for some great scenes, including the one where Jonah Baldwin (Ross Malinger) tries to convince his father to meet the woman on the phone. Sam could be polite and say no, but he goes on a long tangent about Fatal Attraction and compares her to a psychopath.

Forrest Gump - Greenbow, Alabama!

And finally, we have the only time in Forrest Gump where Tom Hanks quits being the dim-witted yet lovable titular character and loses his southern accent for a few seconds when tells Jenny (Robin Wright) that she should go back to Greenbow, Alabama, when leaving the anti-war rally in Washington, D.C. The brief moment of white-hot rage is about the only anger we see from Forrest throughout the movie and remains one of the most quotable lines in any of Tom Hanks' feature films.

Those are just some of the great Tom Hanks meltdowns, freak-outs, and fits of insanity from the actor's legendary career. Do you agree with the list or do you think something else should have been added? Either way, let me know in the comments below.

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Out of all the times that The Wonderful World of Disney could have chosen to return, this current era of isolation is probably one of the best and most fitting opportunities. With people stuck in their homes and entertainment being at even more of a premium at this point, the four week event starting next Wednesday is a great opportunity for Disney to raid its storied vault and entertain the masses.

But why stop at four weeks? Why not keep this train going, especially when there’s so much content to throw into the queue? That’s exactly what we’re proposing on this end, as we’ve thought up a list of 10 movies that would be wonderful for Disney’s iconic night at the movies to capitalize on. Just imagine turning on the TV, and seeing Tinkerbell flying over Cinderella’s castle, waving her wand to usher in one of these gems.

Atlantis: The Lost Empire

As far as Disney’s animated film library is concerned, there are quite a few titles that don’t get the love they deserve. Atlantis: The Lost Empire falls firmly into that bucket, as the action-adventure picture became a cult classic, but hasn’t exactly been a cottage industry for the studio. Now’s as good a time as any to bring viewers old and new back to the lost continent, in the hopes that a live-action remake could finally happen in the near future.

Treasure Planet

In that same era of Disney films that saw Atlantis: The Lost Empire released into the world, Treasure Planet’s reworking of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island was also a film that didn’t hit it as big as the studio had hoped. A space-based quest for treasure and finding one’s self in the middle of a life-changing adventure, it’s another throwback that’ll please those that have seen it, and capture the imaginations that haven't had the pleasure.

Captain America: The First Avenger

It’s not all animated adventures on the Disney lot, especially after their acquisition of Marvel Comics and its film apparatus made the studio the leading purveyor of four panel blockbusters. While Captain America: The First Avenger isn’t exactly an obscure piece of their collection, it is one of the Marvel Cinematic Universe films that gets pushed to the side often in favor of bigger fare. Much like Agent Phil Coulson told Cap himself in The Avengers, the world could use some of the old-fashioned hero action that this film beautifully piles on.

The Rocketeer

Director Joe Johnston is a Disney Legend in his own right, as he’s delivered solid cult classics like Honey, I Shrunk The Kids, as well as laid down the basis for the studio’s later work in the MCU with Captain America: The First Avenger. But one film that latter blockbuster owes a huge debt to is Johnston’s previous work in the comic’s realm, The Rocketeer. Designed as an adaptation/tribute to comics of the past, it’s probably the movie that landed Johnston the gig directing Steve Rogers’ first adventure in the first place. Most importantly, it still holds up as a hell of a ride.

Tomorrowland

Talking about director Brad Bird’s Tomorrowland is a very bittersweet experience. On the one hand, the film was a flop that probably landed its name on the pile of things not to talk about on the Disney lot. Not to mention, it probably killed the sequel to Tron: Legacy dead in its tracks. And yet, this visionary story of the promise of the future, and deciding to make it a good one in the present, is worth a nice re-examination. What better way to get people talking about Tomorrowland than showing its hopeful future on TV screens far and wide?

Tron: Legacy

You could call Tron: Legacy the Tomororrowland of its day. While director Joseph Kosinski’s film was actually a hit on paper, it didn’t make enough money to prioritize any sequels over, say, all those Pirates of the Caribbean sequels. The child, much like its parent, exposed viewers to a digital frontier no one ever thought they’d see again; and it did so in dazzling color. People could uses something as gorgeous and hopeful as Tron Legacy in their living rooms.

The Martian

We’re digging a little deeper into the Disney vault now, as the 20th Century Fox films that are now sitting in there are equally exciting prospects for televised entertainment. While The Martian does have some slightly salty language, director Ridley Scott’s film adaptation of Andy Weir’s novel of survival and isolation is apropos of the world we live in right now. Watching Matt Damon’s Mark Watney snark his way through sciencing the hell out of Mars makes a lot of sense right about now. Just as the book itself was edited for classrooms, some minor surgery would be needed to turn this gem into a family movie night.

That Thing You Do

Another Fox acquisition, Tom Hanks’ writing/directing debut That Thing You Do would pretty much be able to run as is. Fondly remembered far and wide as a heartfelt look into ‘60s pop music, the semi-musical comedy spawned a memorable hit from the late Adam Schlesinger, and a bunch of scenes of whimsy and tomfoolery that are still quoted to this day. With the recent watch party commentary still out there, folks would only need to account for commercials to get in on the fun; or they could opt to just watch the film as is.

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

You knew you weren’t leaving here without a Star Wars movie being thrown onto this list, right? To omit the other huge powerhouse that Disney acquired in recent history would have been akin to siding with the Empire as they plan to build the Death Star in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Sure, ABC could show any of the other movies in the series, but that’s been done before. Bringing the story of hope in a rebellious time in the galaxy would be a fresh move involving an old friend. Also, that Darth Vader scene can make anyone forget their troubles for its brief, but devastating duration.

Artemis Fowl

We’re going to wrap things up with a curveball, as Disney’s upcoming streaming original Artemis Fowl could be one hell of a TV event with the right timing. Kenneth Branagh’s film, set to debut on Disney+ June 12, is already making a name for itself as a play to bring people onboard with their platform. However, if ABC were to set aside a special night around the time of the Thanksgiving or Christmas holiday, Eoin Colfer’s tale of fairies and thievery could be a special occasion, with a nice plug for the home team built right in.

When you wish upon a star, it’s movies like this that get you far. The Wonderful World of Disney is something that should have never went away, and with quarantine bringing it back from the depths of the Disney warehouse of ideas, one could only hope it’ll stick with us for much longer than the four week run that’s currently planned. As you can see with the selections we’ve picked out, it’s not like the Mouse House doesn't have enough movies to show or anything.

The Wonderful World of Disney kicks off on ABC May 20 with its airing of Moana. Of course, if you want to bring the wonderful library of Disney films into your life on a much more frequent basis, you could check out the 7-day free trial that could change your cinematic life!

If That Thing You Do was an album, the watch party commentary from the recent Wonders reunion would be the ultimate liner notes. Throughout the evening’s tribute to writer/director, and recent SNL guest host, Tom Hanks’ classic comedy, and the late Adam Schlesinger’s timeless classic of a song, there were some interesting facts that came to light, thanks to all participating. One of the things we learned is that in earlier versions of the film, things played out rather differently.

As it turns out, an entirely different first act was supposed to detail The Wonders’ rise to fame, leading up to the pivotal moment where the group hears the song on the radio for the first time at Patterson’s Appliances. During the commentary, which saw Tom Everett Scott, Steve Zahn, Ethan Embry and Johnathon Schaech trading stories and raising money for a good cause, special guest star and unofficial That Thing You Do historian Colin Hanks came on board and dug deep into his memories of the film’s production.

With a memory as sharp as a tack, and a message about where his father’s character from the film is today, Colin Hanks and Tom Everett Scott told the following story about where That Thing You Do’s first act went in an earlier draft:

The scene that survived the late hour culling was where The Wonders record That Thing You Do’s title track in a church, thanks to the aid of Guy’s Uncle Bob, played by recording artist/actor Chris Isaak. The simple fix that kept this scene, and allowed Tom Hanks’ script to change The Wonders’ whirlwind tour of fame to include some stops at the Mercy Hearst Talent Show and Villapiano’s Italian Restaurant, was that Uncle Bob was a producer of church music.

So instead of Liv Tyler’s Faye bonding with Tom Everett Scott’s Guy at said church camp, the eventual lovers of That Thing You Do’s surprise romance would meet at the diner, on that first day Guy chatted up the then fledgling band. However, that’s not the end to the huge changes that the film would see.

Another interesting tidbit of That Thing You Do trivia came towards the end of the watch party commentary, and it naturally covered the original coda to the film’s story about one-hit Wonders. According to Colin Hanks’ veritable encyclopedia of film knowledge, we were originally going to see bellhop/jazz aficionado Lamarr (Obba Babatundé) end the film very differently:

The ending that That Thing You Do would eventually land on was a series of photos detailing where each member of the group wound up in their futures. Though if you were wondering where Mr. Amos White landed in his life, he’s retired with his boyfriend Floyd (played in an extended cut scene by Howie Long).

While there were a lot of aspects that Tom Hanks’ director’s cut of That Thing You Do actually drew in better context, the original ending is one of those deleted moments that still hasn’t seen the light of day. It would be interesting to see how The Wonders’ lives were originally supposed to play out, with Obba Babatundé’s Lamarr breaking that fourth wall barrier to inform us.

Perhaps next year’s 25th anniversary will provide the opportunity to give the world another re-release of That Thing You Do, be it as a theatrical event or a new home video restoration. But for now, the fact that such new and exciting details have come to light have given the world more insight into how That Thing You Do could have been an extremely different movie. Also, Colin Hanks should consider going into business as the official historian for this particular film, because his knowledge is pretty deep.

That Thing You Do is available to stream through Cinemax and can be purchased or rented on Digital HD, Blu-ray, and DVD. Stay tuned to CinemaBlend for all the latest updates in the movies realm.

But if you consider yourself a big tipper, there’s a first pressing of the future Mondo vinyl release of the soundtrack waiting for you to make a bid. Either way, it’s a generous gesture for a good cause, and a rockin’ classic.

Almost 25 years after writer/director Tom Hanks gave the world a music movie classic with That Thing You Do, the world has given the movie the love it truly deserves. A comedy about the ups and downs of becoming a one hit wonder, the men involved in The Wonders recently reunited for a charitable cause by providing a watch party commentary for the ages. And without this blessed reunion, we’d have never learned how Steve Zahn literally almost died while making the film.

Zahn took part in the That Thing You Do watch party, along with bandmates Tom Everett Scott, Ethan Embry (Tobias Player himself), and Johnathon Schaech. During the discussion, the group discussed a harrowing, but still kind of funny story, in great detail. What you’re about to read is a back and forth that took place between Scott and Zahn, as they recalled the event:

This particular moment happened during the shooting of the State Fair sequences that saw That Thing You Do’s cast playing deep cuts like “Dance With Me Tonight” to a huge crowd of extras, and making movie history in the process. But thankfully, that history didn’t include Steve Zahn getting taken out by a crane and instead, saw Zahn fighting through a 103 degree fever to perform one-liners about pigging competitions and how his “first boy-girl thing” happened to be connected to Diane Dane.

During their reunion, the men known as The Wonders also paid charitable tribute to the late Adam Schelsinger, the songwriter who gave the film its titular hit. His recent passing was the catalyst behind getting the film’s cast together again, leading to a night of reverent tribute and hysterical commentary.

With the recent trend of watch parties in isolation taking off, there are sure to be more reunions that divulge such interesting behind-the-scenes stories as the ones the That Thing You Do cast shared. But none of them are going to involve Steve Zahn, a Swiss crane crash, and a hit song that’s still melting hearts to this very day. Advantage: The Wonders.

That Thing You Do is available to stream through Cinemax and can be purchased or rented on Digital HD, Blu-ray, and DVD. A MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund has also been established. Those interested can also donate through a high roller bid on a first pressing for the future Mondo vinyl release of the soundtrack.

To honor Oscar-nominated songwriter Adam Schlesinger who tragically passed from COVID-19 complications, the cast of That Thing You Do has been giving interviews lately. Much of the talk has centered around how incredible the song “That Thing You Do” is and what an absolute treasure Schlesinger was to work with, but some great behind the scenes tidbits have emerged including a story about Tom Hanks giving a dad lecture to the young cast members.

The story itself was told during an interview with Rolling Stone. Apparently, the actors all showed up late on the same day. In response, Tom Hanks took them all in the same trailer and gave them some fatherly wisdom. Here’s the always delightful Steve Zahn and his version…

I’m sure there are plenty of other people in Hollywood who would do the same thing, but you can just hear that well-intentioned but stern lecture in Tom Hanks’ voice. He always seems like a man who doesn’t shy away from hard truths but has the people skills required to say them in a reassuring way that’ll get through. In some ways, he gave a similar lecture when he was honored at the Golden Globes earlier this year and implored his fellow actors to show up on time.

Later in the interview, the actors further hammered home the same point and told some additional stories. Apparently they were trying to film a scene and the crowd of extras was being too loud and started chanting Hanks’ name. So, he went out there, did the Forrest Gump wave in character and got everyone to quiet down. Tom Everett Scott also told a similar story about fan interactions…

That Thing You Do has remained well-liked and frequently discussed since its initial release, but the movie has re-entered the public consciousness in a big way since Adam Schlesinger’s tragic death. The cast is participating in a watch party tonight to raise money for charity and will be taking fan questions. It should be a great time, and if you can’t make that, I highly suggest pulling out your own copy of That Thing You Do and firing it up. It’s one of my favorite movies ever made, and it somehow gets even more fun and watchable with every single viewing.

It's been about a month since global concerns over the coronavirus pandemic began to dominate the news cycle. The virus has affect every aspect of daily life, and infected a number of high profile names. While Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson were able to recover safely, songwriter Adam Schlesinger passed away last week as a result of his symptoms. Schlesinger wrote the title track for That Thing You Do!, which was directed by Hanks himself. And now the fictional band from the movie is reuniting to raise money in the late songwriter's name.

That Thing You Do! focuses on a fictional band called The Oneders. Tom Hanks had a major role in the movie, in addition to directing the project. The title is the name of the hit single from the band, which was written by Fountains of Wayne songwriter Adam Schlesinger for the film. Shlesinger's death last week was another warning of the seriousness of COVID-19, and now the cast of That Thing You Do! is doing a benefit to raise money and honor his memory.

The benefit will be a watch party of That Thing You Do!, which will be available on The Wonders' new YouTube page. Said watch party will raise money for a COVID-19 relief fund from MusiCares, and pay tribute to Adam Schlesinger's memory. Actors Tom Everett Scott, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn, and Ethan Embry are all set to appear for the watch party, reuniting the band decades later.

Adam Schlesinger's contributions to pop culture extend further than his work on That Thing You Do!, which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Song in 1997. In film, he also wrote the music for Josie and the Pussycats, Music and Lyrics, There's Something About Mary, and Ice Age: Continental Drift. But his music also extends to theater, television, and live awards shows.

Throughout his career, Adam Schlesinger actually won three Emmy Awards, in addition to being nominated many other times. His first two win was for writing Neil Patrick Harris' songs for the 65th and 66th Tony Awards. He also wrote all the music for The CW's musical comedy Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, eventually winning an Emmy for his work on La La Land spoof track "Antidepressants Are So Not a Big Deal."

Additionally, Adam Schlesinger is known for his work on the band Fountains of Wayne, which is known for their hit song "Stacy's Mom." The band was nominated for two Grammy awards in 2003 with its debut album. Additionally, he wrote music for the the Broadway adaptation of Cry-Baby, which earned him a Tony nomination.

Adam Schlesinger isn't the only celebrity to have lost their life due to complications from COVID-19, but it was one that was felt within the entertainment world. Clearly his work as a songwriter has affected audiences across all mediums. As such, the That Thing You Do! watch party is a great opportunity to raise money and make a difference, while also honoring his memory.

Our thoughts continue to be with Adam Schlesinger's loved ones in this difficult time.

Be sure to check out our 2020 release list to plan your next trip to the movies once they reopen.

The news cycle has been dizzying over the past few months, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect all aspects of life across the globe. While many people are self-isolating in order to attempt to flatten the curve, the virus has still been able to take a serious toll on those infected. Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson are recovering from the safety of their home, but singer-songwriter Adam Schlesinger died yesterday after being in a coma due to COVID-19 symptoms. Schlesinger was nominated for an Oscar for his work on the title track for That Thing You Do!, and now Hanks has responded to his death.

COVID-19 affects every patient differently, and we've seen a huge range in symptoms. While Idris Elba is asymptomatic, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson suffered flu-like symptoms. But Adam Schlesinger was hit far harder, and ultimately succumbed to the virus. Aside from his work in the band Fountains of Wayne, Schlesinger has a legacy as a songwriter for TV and film, including That Thing You Do! Tom Hanks starred as Mr. White in the movie, and posted a tribute to Schlesinger, saying:

Succinct and powerful, it's clear that Tom Hanks is upset about Adam Schlesinger's death. He's got two degrees of connection with the late songwriter, as they both contribute to That Thing You Do! and were personally affected by COVID-19.

Tom Hanks responded to Adam Schlesinger's passing on his personal Twitter page. Hanks and Rita Wilson have been regularly communicating with the public on social media, as they recover from COVID-19 in isolation. And when news broke that Schlesinger died at the age of 52 following his own battle with the virus, the Oscar winning actor was sure to share his thoughts in a public way.

That Thing You Do! is a classic 1996 comedy that focuses on a one hit wonder band in the 1996. Said hit is the title track, which was written by Adam Schlesinger. The song became a hit single after the movie's release, and is undeniably catchy. Tom Hanks played Mr. White an A&R representative for Playtone Records that helps to discover the The Oneders.

Adam Schlesinger's contribution to pop culture and music in media doesn't only extend to That Thing You Do!, though. He also wrote songs for Music and Lyrics, Josie and the Pussycats, and Ice Age: Continental Drift. Schlesinger's work also extended to TV, awards ceremonies, and theater. He composed songs for Neil Patrick Harris to sing while hosting the Tony Awards, which in earned Schlesinger an Emmy of his own.

Most recently Adam Schlesinger wrote the countless hilarious songs for The CW's award winning musical comedy Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. He was nominated for a slew of awards through the show's four seasons, winning one in Season 4 for the La La Land spoof song "Antidepressants Are So Not a Big Deal." Additionally, he was part of the band Fountains of Wayne, which put out the hit song "Stacey's Mom."

In the world of theater, Adam Schlesinger helped to co-write the music to Cry-Baby's Broadway adaptation. He was also writing the music for a musical based off of Sarah Silverman's memoir Bedwetter. Additionally, he was collaborating with Crazy Ex-Girlfriend's Rachel Bloom on a musical version of The Nanny.

Adam Schlesinger's contribution to pop culture is significant, so his loss is going to be felt throughout the entertainment world and beyond. While Tom Hanks was able to recover from Coronavirus, Schlesinger's death proves just how serious the pandemic is. Our thoughts are with Schlesinger's loved ones at this time.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected people from all walks of life, including the entertainment industry. Some folks, like Tom Hanks and Daniel Dae Kim, have caught the coronavirus and managed to survive, while others, like Star Wars actor Andrew Jack, have died from the disease. Sadly, we must count Fountains of Wayne member and That Thing You Do! songwriter Adam Schlesinger in the latter category.

Per Variety, Adam Schlesinger died earlier today as a result of coronavirus complications at the age of 52. Word came in yesterday that Schlesinger had been on a ventilator for the last two weeks, and while it was initially reported that he’d been put in a medically induced coma, his attorney, Josh Grier, described him as “very sick and heavily sedated” before he passed away. Schlesinger is survived by his two daughters.

Along with his time on Fountains of Wayne, which produced songs like “Stacy’s Mom” and “Hey Julie,” Adam Schlesinger was also a founding member of the bands Ivy and Tinted Windows, as well as worked as a songwriting contributor and producer for Fever High. Additionally, Schlesinger left quite the impact on the film, TV and theatre worlds during his musical career.

Movie-wise, Adam Schlesinger composed songs for movies like Ice Age: Continental Drift and Music and Lyrics, and his music could also be heard in Shallow Hal (which he co-composed), There’s Something About Mary, Josie and the Pussycats and Two Weeks Notice, to name a few. However, arguably his biggest film credit is writing and co-producing the title song for That Thing You Do!, the 1996 ‘60s-set comedy starring Tom Hanks, Tom Everett Scott, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn, Ethan Embry, Lic Tyler and Charlize Theron, among many others.

You can listen to that Golden Globe Award-winning and Oscar-nominated single, which is performed by The Wonders within That Thing You Do!, below:

In the TV realm, Adam Schlesinger musically contributed to shows and specials like A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All!, Good Luck Charlie, Sesame Street and Saturday Night Live, not to mention that he won Emmys for his work on the 65th and 66th Tony Awards, both of which were hosted by Neil Patrick Harris. More recently, Schlesinger served as the executive music producer of, as well as wrote songs for, The CW series Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, which wrapped up its four-season run last year.

All the previously mentioned accolades, along with him earning two Tony Award nominations for his work on the musical Cry-Baby with frequent collaborator David Javerbaum, made Adam Schlesinger an EGOT contender. While we mourn his passing, at least his music will continue to be heard in all these different projects and be introduced to new generations for years to come.

We here at CinemaBlend offer our condolences to Adam Schlesinger’s family and friends. If you were a fan of his, feel free to share your thoughts about him in the comments section.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made its way throughout all corners of pop culture. Some, like Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, have been fortunate enough to survive the virus, reportedly without life-threatening complications. Other celebrities have not been so lucky. Fountains of Wayne frontman and Oscar nominated songwriter Adam Schlesinger is unfortunately in the latter camp, as the singer/songwriter has been reported as in a medically induced coma, thanks to his contraction of the coronavirus.

According to recent reports, Schlesinger has been on a ventilator for the past two weeks, and was only recently put into the coma. Deadline obtained this information from a fan account for one of the bands Adam Schlesinger was involved in, the indie pop group Ivy.

Most known for the Fountains of Wayne hit song “Stacy’s Mom”, Schlesinger has quite a fruitful resume in the world of TV and Movie music. He was also nominated for an Oscar and Golden Globe for the title track to the Tom Hanks written/directed cult classic That Thing You Do!, and has won Emmys for original songs written for Neil Patrick Harris’ hosting gig at the 65th and 66th annual Tony Awards telecasts.

Recently, Adam Schlesinger had served the Executive Music Producer on The CW’s Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, which won him his third Emmy; and he was set to open a musical, The Bedwetter, based on Sarah Silverman’s memoir of the same name, with previews planned for this May.

Schlesinger’s range of work also includes numerous other original songs written for the screen that most fans of his work might not have expected. In addition to the credits above, Adam Schlesinger crafted three original songs for the Hugh Grant/Drew Barrymore rom-com Music and Lyrics, and even co-wrote most of the songs in The Colbert Report’s Christmas special, A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All!

But what’s probably his most memorable song, aside from his output as a pop rock hitmaker, is That Thing You Do!’s eponymous single; which he also sang backing vocals on. The song that propelled Tom Hanks’s fictional band, The Wonders, to meteoric stardom, it’s as catchy and memorable as “Stacy’s Mom”, and just as worthy of further appreciation.

No matter which facet of Adam Schlesinger’s work you’re a fan of, it’s undeniable that the man has had a hand in songs audiences have left theaters humming or turned off their TVs singing to their friends. We send his family and friends our most heartfelt wishes of comfort, and we hope that Mr. Schlesinger himself makes a speedy recovery from this horrific ailment.

As soon as any updates on Adam Schlesinger’s condition are available, we’ll report back with the news here at CinemaBlend.

For over 25 years, Charlize Theron has proven herself to be one of the best and brightest performers working in Hollywood today. A versatile talent who has established herself in various genres, including drama, action, comedy and more, Theron is the real deal, and moviegoers have only grown more impressed with her skills as an actress — especially in recent years. Charlize Theron graced the screen in more-than-a-few exceptional movies in her varied career. It's clear that, as Theron continues proving herself as top-grade talent, she will only continue to grow and shine with her talents.

For instance, the acclaimed actress was recently nominated for a Golden Globe for her work in this past December's Bombshell, and the Oscar-winning performer might very well receive another Oscar nomination for her lead performance as former Fox news anchor Megyn Kelly. Charlize Theron will also soon be returning to the Fast & Furious franchise with this year's upcoming Fast & Furious 9. Whether it's awards-friendly dramas, popcorn-munching blockbusters, or winning comedies, Theron knows how to diverse herself with many great titles in her filmography. Therefore, we will take this opportunity to celebrate 10 of her best movies, of which there are quite a few exceptional and noteworthy titles we could choose from.

10. In The Valley Of Elah (2007)

Paul Haggis' directorial follow-up to his Best Picture-winning 2005 film Crash, 2007's In The Valley Of Elah didn't nearly get the same notoriety or attention as the writer/director's previous film, even though it's quite arguably the better, more nuanced film of the two. Centered on a retired military investigator who works with a police investigator to discover the truth about his son's disappearance following his tour in Iraq, In the Valley of Elah is certainly a somber, heartbreaking movie, if one filled with emotionally resonant scenes. While not without its heavy-handed moments, In the Valley of Elah is benefitted enormously by its wonderful stand-out performances, notably from both Tommy Lee Jones and Charlize Theron in their lead roles.

While Tommy Lee Jones' gets the bigger showcase in In The Valley Of Elah, one shouldn't dismiss Charlize Theron's fellow lead performance. The downbeat but nevertheless powerful antiwar tale is quite a fine acting showcase for these two Oscar winners, and they're aided nicely by their work alongside one another. It might not be the most memorable or lasting movie on Theron's resume, but it's certainly another tremendous example of her dramatic talents, and how she can continue to prove herself as an talented actress through challenging-yet-impacting characters and heartfelt stories.

9. Atomic Blonde (2017)

After 2014's outstanding John Wick opened the door for more action movies to feature fluid stunt work, rigorous action choreography, and intense dedication from both their crew and performers, 2017's Atomic Blonde, helmed by John Wick co-director David Leitch, felt very much like the next extension, allowing Charlize Theron's action talents to shine once more in a pulpy, moody, invigorating genre piece that kicked a whole bunch of ass.

Featuring some of the most memorable and astounding action sequences of the past few years, along with a strong central performance from a mesmerizing Charlize Theron. Atomic Blonde isn't quite as narratively strong compared to its gorgeous visuals and exceptional action sequences, but when you have a movie that is as rough and tough and cinematically splendid as this film often is, it's hard to complain. Atomic Blonde is the bomb.

8. The Road (2009)

An understated and appropriately dreary, atmospheric adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's extraordinary 2006 novel of the same name, The Road is certainly not the most uplifting movie out there, to say the least, but it's a striking film all-the-same, particularly thanks to its pair of commanding lead performances from Viggo Mortensen and Kodi Smit-McPhee, as well as Robert DuVall and Charlize Theron in two small-yet-crucial supporting turns.

While Charlize Theron is only seen in brief flashbacks sprinkled throughout, The Road is given several impacting scenes of depth and character thanks to her tender and commendable supporting performance, in a character known simply as "Woman" as none of the characters have names. It is through these flashbacks that we get a sense of what life once was in this dystopian future and what was lost in the intervening years since then. It is a role that thankfully was expanded compared to the book, allowing audiences with more time to appreciate Theron's gentle, gently moving work.

7. That Thing You Do! (1996)

Tom Hanks' immensely charming directorial debut, 1996's musical period piece That Thing You Do!, doesn't feature the most Charlize Theron screen-time, but it's apparent in here that, even in minor roles, the actress knows how to make an excellent impression. Indeed, for many folks, That Thing You Do! would serve as their proper introduction to the up-and-coming movie star, and it's only fitting for this immensely appealing movie in particular that it helped pave the way for Theron to become both the major A-list celebrity and award-winning actress many moviegoers know her to be today.

While That Thing You Do! might not be remembered specifically for Charlize Theron's performance, nor does it ever take the center stage, it's always good to look back on the fine films that are only elevated by the stand-out performers who fill out their ensembles. Certainly, That Thing You Do! is an easy favorite for many movie lovers, and Theron's presence in the movie gives us a great opportunity to look back on all the quality films she's done.

6. Tully (2018)

Reuniting with both director Jason Reitman and screenwriter Diablo Cody after their previous 2011 collaboration, Young Adult, Charlize Theron is once again given another great showcase for both her dramatic and darkly comedic talents with 2018's under-seen Tully. Playing Marlo, a deeply overburdened mother of three young children who forms an unlikely bond with her miraculous new night nanny, Tully (Mackenzie Davis), Theron gives one of her most emotionally open and honest performances. She is willing to show us, in unflinching regard, the struggles and burdens which come with motherhood and the elation that come from being reconnected with your own sense of youthful possibility from an unlikely source of joy and life.

In some respects, Tully might very well be Charlize Theron's most fearless performance. Willing to show audiences the horrors that can come from parenthood, specifically motherhood, Theron is unguarded and unafraid to show the pain, hardships, difficulties, struggles, and small moments of dark comedy that come from being an overburdened mother, as well as the elation and renewal found from an unexpected source of revitalization. It is quite easily among the best performances we've seen from Charlize Theron's already-stellar acting career, and one that shows her growing talents.

5. Monster (2003)

Undoubtedly, Monster is the movie that solidified Charlize Theron as one of our best working actresses. While many are quick to comment on how the beautiful actress changed her looks for the part, such shallow comments ultimately undermine how good this transformative turn is for the award-winning performer. In the role of Aileen Wuornos, a serial killer from Florida who murdered seven men between 1989 and 1990, Theron is absolutely a revelation, showcasing the depth of her talents and her commitment to her work. The film was also the launching pad through which director Patty Jenkins became a cinematic stand-out, eventually paving the way for the filmmaker to be at the helm of 2017's Wonder Woman and its new sequel.

Joined by a similarly strong and ultimately under-appreciated supporting turn from Christina Ricci, Monster is not only a tremendous showcase for Charlize Theron's acting prowess but also a gritty, impacting character piece exploring a deeply flawed-yet-intensely fascinating real-life figure, one who does no shortage of bad things and finds no redemption at the end of her road. Only through Theron's performance would we be able to process the full depths of this tragic character and romance through Theron's layered, impeccable character work. It's no surprise it earned Theron her Oscar.

4. The Italian Job (2003)

It might be easy to dismiss this film as an inferior remake of a classic 1969 title, but make no mistake. 2003's immensely entertaining The Italian Job is a giddy, good ole' fashioned thrill ride from beginning-to-end, bolstered by pulsating car crashes, exhilarating action sequences, fun locales and a great ensemble, which includes Mark Wahlberg, Jason Statham, Edward Norton, Donald Sutherland, Yasiin Bey, and quite a few more, in addition to Charlize Theron herself. While moviegoers have come around to seeing daring stunts and car chases galore on their silver screen with the Fast & Furious movies, this one helped pave the way for that money-making franchise, which makes it understandable that both Theron and director F. Gary Gray later reunited to work on The Fate of the Furious. While that movie didn't quite match this one standards, it's easy to see why they joined.

While she is working in an ensemble, Charlize Theron is no less electrifying in the role of Stella Bridger, who is an ace when it comes to cracking open vaults and safes. That comes in handy when you're trying to steal $35 million worth of gold. This movie is one of the most exciting, engaging remakes of the early '00s, and Charlize Theron's undeniable screen presence most certainly helped to make this one a winner. It's unclear if we'll ever get the long-proposed sequel, The Brazilian Job, from this would-be car heist film franchise, but there's no denying that The Italian Job is a hell of a fun ride.

3. Young Adult (2011)

Similar to Tully, Theron's follow-up collaboration with director Jason Reitman and screenwriter Diablo Cody, Young Adult didn't quite get the respect that it deserves. In some respects, this is understandable. This dark comedy is admittedly a bitter pill to swallow with its unlikeable lead character, uncomfortable character dynamics, and mean-spirited tone. Nevertheless, if you like your comedy with a bit of a kick in it and don't mind spending time with someone you would probably never want to meet in your real life, Young Adult is a sensational character study, one that is only elevated by Charlize Theron giving one of the best performances of her career to date in the role of Mavis Gary, a divorced, alcoholic author who goes back to her hometown in Minneapolis in order to reconnect with her old flame, Buddy Slade (Patrick Wilson), who is now currently married with a newborn child.

Along with her immense talents, it's also Charlize Theron's deep commitment to her roles that make her work so exceptional. Young Adult in particular is a hard-sell role that could've easily been played too loose or too crass without a speck of humanity. Yet, layered throughout this performance is a tragic humanity and bitter pathos that allows you to easily get invested in the plight of this uncomfortable and often unlikable lead character. This results in what is quite possibly her strongest and most fascinating character work to date, notably in a film that hasn't gotten its due.

2. Kubo And The Two Strings (2016)

A gorgeously vivid stop-motion animated epic from the animation wizards over at the Portland-based Laika, Kubo and the Two Strings is a fantastical masterpiece with some of the most beautiful visuals and visual storytelling in recent years. A splendidly realized, completely spectacular achievement, filled with grand sweeping emotions and movingly sincere themes, Kubo and the Two Strings is also highlighted by its strong voiceover work, notably from Matthew McConaughey and Charlize Theron as two parental figures who follow our titular protagonist through his epic journey of self discovery.

As a motherly snow monkey who guides our title character through his expansive journey, Charlize Theron is only heard throughout Kubo and the Two Strings but she nevertheless provides an elegance, maturity, sensitivity and emotional gravitas that benefits the deep-seated emotions at play in this touching animated story. Once more, Charlize Theron greatly benefits what's easily one of the most stunning films of this recently-concluded decade.

1. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Quite possibly the finest and most exhilarating blockbuster of the recently-concluded decade, Mad Max: Fury Road is an absolute stunner. A vivid, intense, top-to-bottom thrill ride unlike any other in recent memory, this powerhouse of an action flick is fast-paced, full-throttle masterwork for the dystopian genre that serves as an excellent showcase for both the action and dramatic talents of Charlize Theron as the badass Imperator Furiosa.

As the hard-willed, yet emotionally layered, woman who is driving Immortan Joe's five wives to safety, Charlize Theron's performance only makes this impeccable movie better, allowing us to see one of our best, most dedicated actresses give a tour-de-force performance amid several glorious action spectacles and stunning displays of stunt work in recent blockbuster history. The result is a quite glorious work of art that Theron benefits immensely.

What are your favorite Charlize Theron movies?

Over the years, Tom Hanks’ directorial debut That Thing You Do! has become a certified cult classic, with legions of loyal fans celebrating its innocence, its enthusiasm and its catchy-as-hell soundtrack. We don’t think anyone has ever actually soiled themselves because they were so excited about That Thing You Do! But now we know that one of the film’s stars crapped his own pants while filming an important scene in the movie, and the reason why is pretty outrageous.

Here’s the thread. Ethan Embry, who played the bass player of The Wonders in Tom Hanks’ jubilant rock-and-roll comedy, shared this story on social media in response to someone claiming to be a “Duck Dad.” It seems that Embry had a pet duck on the set of That Thing You Do! – which he awesomely named Salvador Ducky – but then he made some poor decisions… which led to the on-set shitting.

Man, that is beyond unfortunate. Stomach issues aside, not having your own bathroom is a serious issue. The Wonders were supposed to be bonding by playing an overnight-sensation band who strikes it big with a hit single. But if your bass player is crapping his pants because he let a baby duck eat out of his mouth, how much “bonding” is actually happening?

Maybe this is why The Bass Player (Ethan Embry didn’t even have a name in the movie) leaves the band mid-movie and gets written out?

Embry further shared that he was wearing a specific outfit form the film when this happened to him, in case amateur sleuths want to find the on-screen soiling:

And then he shares that story about Hollywood assistants having to lay down sheets of cardboard in Tom Hanks’ Airstream so that Embry could duck walk to the toilet without shit falling out of his pant leg. And really, who hasn’t been there, am I right?

These are the stories that I wish were shared at press junkets. Not how everyone got along, or how they improvised a few takes, but “the script was just so good.” Why do we have to wait decades to hear the real scoop on co-stars who shat themselves while filming live concert shots because they foolishly let a duck eat straight out of their mouth?

Well, anyway. We are contractually obligated to share this song every time that we write about the amazing That Thing You Do!

We will never think of Tom Hanks’ masterful movie musical the same way ever again.

The inception of many of the people on our current iteration of the a-list occurred in the 1990s. To witness the careers of celebrities like Sandra Bullock, Gwyneth Paltrow or Matt Damon, you can look no further than some of the most iconic, or infamous, ‘90s movies.

We saw the debut of Matthew McConaughey and his immortal catchphrase in 1993’s Dazed and Confused. Ben Affleck had his first (uncredited) film in the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer in 1992. The list of ‘90s movies that saw your favorite celebrities break into the business goes on and on.

The following are just a few well-known ‘90s movies that led to enduring careers of some of cinema’s most popular names. Enjoy!

Brad Pitt In Thelma & Louise (1991)

He was the definitive ‘90s movies hunk and still remains one of the most respected actors of this time, his next big role being in Quentin Tarantino’s upcoming Once Upon a Time… In Hollywood. In regards to Brad Pitt’s earlier work, I could have mentioned his groundbreaking role in the 1989 romantic horror comedy Cutting Class, but I figured he is more partial to this celebrated drama from director Ridley Scott and this is the one that made his name known.

Done with the men in their lives, Thelma (Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon) hit the road in search of freedom, but run into trouble when Louise kills a man who tries to rape Thelma. Along the way, the duo meet hitchhiker J.D. (Brad Pitt), whom Thelma takes a liking to.

Thelma & Louise is remembered as one of the first buddy action thrillers that put women in the lead. It is also remembered as the beginning of Brad Pitt’s reputation as a Hollywood heartthrob.

Jake Gyllenhaal in City Slickers (1991)

You may know Jake Gyllenhaal best as Donnie Darko, Jack Twist in Brokeback Mountain, or the leading role of 2001’s Bubble Boy. The Academy Award-nominee is as talented and versatile as he is because he started earlier than you may have realized.

Jake Gyllenhaal made his film debut at 11 in one of the funniest ‘90s movies, the western comedy City Slickers. He plays Danny, the son of Mitch Robbins (Billy Crystal), a radio ads salesman who joins his friends on a cattle drive to combat his mid-life crisis.

City Slickers earned veteran actor Jack Palance his only Academy Award and spawned a 1994 sequel and a 6-minute Westworld crossover, neither of which Jake Gyllenhaal reprised his role for. Given that his most recent role was Mysterio in Spider-Man: Far From Home, it seems he’s had enough luck since without playing Danny Robbins again.

Leonardo DiCaprio In What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? (1993)

When you think of the ‘90s movie that helped Leonardo DiCaprio’s career explode in Hollywood, of course you’re thinking of Critters 3, right? Well, I would respectfully argue that the beginning of Leo’s illustrious reputation was the film that earned him his first Oscar-nomination.

Johnny Depp plays the title role of the rural drama What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?, about a young man forced to care for his mentally disabled brother (Leonardo DiCaprio) and morbidly obese mother (Darlene Cates) after the death of his father. Things change when he falls for Becky (Juliette Lewis).

Leonardo DiCaprio skyrocketed to the A-list four years later in James Cameron’s Titanic and finally broke his losing streak at the Oscars in 2016 for The Revenant, but his powerful, heartbreaking performance in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? at age 19 was what really showed he had chops. I wonder if he still keeps in touch with the cast of Growing Pains, though.

Will Smith In Six Degrees of Separation (1993)

In one of the most astonishing examples of a transformative career path, Will Smith went from rapper to sitcom star and then alien killer, and most recently played a blue-skinned genie in Aladdin. Six Degrees of Separation, a film that proved to the world his skill as an actor, is far subtler than what he’s best known for.

Based on the play by John Guare, Six Degrees of Separation is about a pretentious New York couple (Stockard Channing and Donald Sutherland) who finds unexpected company in a young man (Will Smith) who claims to be the son of Sidney Poitier. However, not all is what it seems with this mysterious stranger.

You know the rest: Will Smith became an action star with Bad Boys, earned the title of Mr. Fourth of July with Independence Day, and continued to save the day from nocturnal mutants, crippling football injuries, and poverty. 1990s-era Smith will soon make a return in the upcoming sci-fi thriller Gemini Man.

Natalie Portman In Léon: The Professional (1994)

From ruling Naboo in the Star Wars prequels to romancing the God of Thunder in the Thor films, Natalie Portman has pretty much done it all. It helps she started off at a very young age, debuting in a film equally, and literally, as explosive as just about anything else she has done.

Luc Besson wrote and directed one of the most acclaimed ‘90s action movies, Léon: The Professional (or just simply Léon or The Professional, depending on what continent you are on) a tale of a French master assassin played by Jean Reno. When Léon reluctantly becomes the caregiver to young Mathilda (Natalie Portman), the two are roped into a vengeful stand-off against the unbalanced cop (Gary Oldman) who killed her brother.

Léon: The Professional has earned as much acclaim as it has controversy in regards to how uncomfortably close then-46-year-old Jean Reno and then-12-year-old Natalie Portman’s characters grow as the story progresses. Thankfully, did not stop Portman from leading an indisputably successful career, including an Oscar in 2011 for Black Swan.

Scarlett Johansson In North (1994)

Before she turned 30, Scarlett Johansson played an Avenger in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, an operating system in love with a human in Her, and the object of Bill Murray’s affection in Lost in Translation. Despite her ongoing success, ScarJo’s film debut is one with an infamous reputation.

Scarlett Johansson made her film debut at age 9 in director Rob Reiner’s family comedy North, starring a young Elijah Wood in the title role of a boy travels the world in search of replacements for his ignorant parents. Johansson, in her brief appearance, plays Laura Nelson, the daughter in an ideal family hoping to adopt North.

If you did not know that Scarlett Johansson was in North, I would imagine she would have no hard feelings over that. The film is most famous for critic Roger Ebert’s declaration that he “Hated hated hated hated hated this movie. Hated it.” Thank God for Black Widow.

Paul Rudd In Clueless (1995)

Say, speaking of Avengers, Paul Rudd has certainly come a long way in his career before helping save the world as Ant-Man in Avengers: Endgame. Has he always been the same charming and funny guy you’ve come to know? Yes, and this iconic high school ‘90s movie was the beginning of that persona.

Writer and director Amy Heckerling’s Clueless analyzes the social constructs of high school from the eyes of Cher (Alicia Silverstone), a seemingly superficial, privileged teenager from Beverly Hills. She often butts heads with her stepbrother, Josh (Paul Rudd), until their relationship takes an unexpected turn.

Paul Rudd would rise up as a comedic tour de force in films like Anchorman and The 40-Year-Old Virgin before being cast as the lead in Ant-Man 20 years after Clueless. During that time, the guy never aged a day.

Charlize Theron In That Thing You Do! (1996)

You need a woman with a fearsome disposition and razor sharp wit to lead your action movie? I’d recommend the incomparable Charlize Theron, whom you may have never seen fighting tyranny in the apocalyptic wasteland or tripping in night clubs with Seth Rogen if not for Tom Hanks.

That Thing You Do!, Tom Hanks’ directorial debut, the story of a Pennsylvania rock band that scores a one hit wonder in 1964 and struggles to ride the wave of fame as long as they can. It is one of the first films starring Charlize Theron, who plays the demanding girlfriend of central character Guy Patterson (Tom Everett Scott).

According to Tom Hanks, not only was Charlize Theron was the first to audition for her part, she was the first performer cast in That Thing You Do! because he immediately recognized that the South African-born actress had something special. The Academy seemed to agree, awarding her the Oscar for Best Actress in 2004 for Monster. She'll next appear in the upcoming Fast and Furious 9.

Edward Norton In Primal Fear (1996)

You can always rely on Edward Norton for a riveting performance, whether he is running a fight club with Brad Pitt or poking fun at his own behind-the-scenes reputation in Birdman. The actor really hit the ground running at 27 years old in his 1996 film debut.

In Primal Fear, hotshot lawyer Martin Vail (Richard Gere) takes on the seemingly unwinnable case of an altar boy (Edward Norton) accused of murdering a priest. In his attempts to spin the case in his favor, he ends up discovering the truth is far more shocking that he could have realized.

Edward Norton earned an Academy Award nomination (his first of three) and a Golden Globe win for the intense legal drama. Like I said, he really hit the ground running.

Ewan McGregor In Trainspotting (1996)

Obi-Wan Kenobi is a man of uncorrupted mind and pure heart, so I can imagine that it might be surprising to picture him as a heroin addict. Yet, that is the role that helped Ewan McGregor make a name for himself before the Star Wars prequels.

Trainspotting is a drama about Renton’s (Ewan McGregor) struggle to get himself clean and sober despite his friends’ deep immersion into Scotland’s drug scene. For a tale with bleak themes of addiction and mundanity, Danny Boyle’s visceral directorial vision and the charming cast makes the film a very lively and endearing experience.

Since Trainspotting, which spawned a 2017 sequel, Ewan McGregor has played younger Obi-Wan Kenobi, an updated Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast, and an older Christopher Robin. As for his next venture in assuming roles previously portrayed by other actors, he will play an older Danny Torrance in the adaptation of Stephen King’s sequel to The Shining, Doctor Sleep.

It may be hard to admit, but we owe the best that Hollywood has to offer today to the ‘90s. Who knows which stars we’ll be talking about in reference to movies from this decade that launched A-List careers?

Last year was the 20th anniversary of Tom Hanks' film That Thing You Do. While the band may have been a one-hit wonder, it turns out that two decades later they've still got it. The majority of the band recently reunited and they played that one big hit that we all love. It sounds just as good as it did back in 1996. Check it out.

The reunion took place at The Roxy in Los Angeles as part of The Goddamn Comedy Jam. The video was posted to social media by the show's host, Josh Adam Meyers. Taking part in the performance were Tom Everett Scott, the band's drummer Guy Patterson, Jonathan Schaech, who played lead singer Jimmy Mattingly, and Ethan Embry as T.B. Player, the bass player. Unfortunately, lead guitarist Lenny Haise, aka Steve Zahn, was apparently unavailable for the gig.

While That Thing You Do was never a colossal hit when it was released in 1996, the film, which marked the feature film directing debut of co-star Tom Hanks, clearly has built quite a following. This is probably in large part due to the incredibly catchy song that was written to be the film's major plot device. The song had to be the sort of thing that would get stuck in your head and never leave in order to be believable as the band's big hit. Needless to say, I'll now be humming this for the rest of the day.

That Thing You Do followed four aspiring musicians from their beginning as a garage band all the way to their collapse on the verge of potential superstardom. They called their band the Oneiders, sorry, that's The Wonders. A name that was a set-up to eventually fail, considering the band only ever had the one hit.

Checking out the band today they've certainly gotten older but they could certainly take the stage in a follow-up sequel, right? Lots of bands go on reunion tours decades after their initial popularity. Can somebody please get Tom Hanks to writing this please?

Although, we have to wonder what happened to Jimmy Mattingly over the last couple of years. He used to be the most straight-laced member of the band. Now, he's the one who forgot ot wear a tie. It's what brings the look together, man.

The Comedy Jam actually airs on Comedy Central, so it's possible we might get to see this reunion for ourselves on a future episode. We'll certainly be tuning in if that happens. Seeing these guys together again is a lot like seeing a favorite band get back together. But seriously Steve Zahn, what was so damn important that you couldn't be there?

To the majority of us, Steve Zahn will always be known as Lenny, the sarcastic guitar player from Tom Hanks' delightful directorial debut, That Thing You Do! But parents reading this may also recognize Zahn for his work as the beleaguered father Frank Heffley in a trio of Diary of a Wimpy Kid movies. Which is why I found it so funny that, with Zahn's time in the Wimpy Kid franchise coming to a close, he's being replaced by fellow That Thing You Do! band member Tom Everett Scott.

Scott is poised to begin playing Frank Heffley in a soft reboot of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid franchise, which will adapt The Long Haul into a family-friendly movie, due out later this year. When I sat down with Steve Zahn recently to discuss his work in War for the Planet of the Apes, we talked Wimpy Kid, where he revealed with joy what he loves most about his replacement:

His quote, while awesome, doesn't quite convey the enthusiasm that Steve Zahn has for Tom Everett Scott replacing him in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid franchise. Thankfully, we have video!

For three straight years, from 2010 to 2012, Steve Zahn held a cushy gig as the frazzled father in the backgrounds of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid movies. He and Rachael Harris held court as loving and supportive parents, but the problem with the series is that the young cast was destined to age out of the main parts.

Enter Jason Drucker, the young kid who has been cast as Greg in Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul, the fourth movie based on the books of Jeff Kinney, though one with an entirely new cast. In the process, Tom Scott and Alicia Silverstone have replaced Steve Zahn and Rachael Harris as the heads of the Heffley household. Zahn, adorably, couldn't be happier for his old band mate.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul hits theaters on May 19, while Zahn's War for the Planet of the Apes opens on July 14. Which ones are you going to see?

For 20 years, most people have been content with the version of That Thing You Do! that was released in theaters back in 1996, and there's nothing wrong with that. Tom Hanks's writing and directing debut is a bona fide classic in every sense of the word, and it's as fun and exciting today as it was the first time we dropped the proverbial needle on the record that is the film. However, did you know there's an extended cut with tons more footage reinstated that's been under your nose this entire time?

Come to think of it, I think that the extended cut of That Thing You Do! is the superior animal, though again I'll never knock the original cut as it's the one that brought me to the dance. My first exposure to the film was a $5 VHS from KMart that I treasured throughout high school and college, up until that second DVD came out. But once I'd seen the extended cut of Tom Hanks' original vision of pop stardom, I couldn't help but wonder where this film has been all these years.

You're probably still in the need of a little more selling, because why in the world would anyone extend a movie about 1960's pop from a little over an hour and a half into an almost two and a half hour epic? Actually, there's a couple really good reasons:

The Characters Are Better Developed

A huge portion of the cut footage from That Thing You Do! is a lot of deleted and extended moments with the film's characters, especially our lead protagonist, Guy Patterson (Tom Everett Scott). While the existing cut does a fine job of showing the friction Guy has with both his family and Tina (Charlize Theron), his girlfriend at the beginning of the film, the extended cut gives both plotlines more room to breathe. Not only do we see him getting hassled more by his family at the beginning of his career as a drummer, we also see Tina becoming more and more disinterested in Guy's life in general, and her growing relationship with her dentist. So instead of just giving Tina a quick heel turn, we see her gradually falling for the man who wants to do nothing but crown her #15 molar, which works better than a random betrayal.

The Humor Is More Adult

In its theatrical incarnation, That Thing You Do! is as harmless as the 60's pop music it crafted a full soundtrack's worth of material mimicking. While the extended cut doesn't go full R-rated with its humor, there is more of a mature bent on the material, and in a couple instances, the love lives of our characters are given more detail. For instance, a plot line involving T. B. Player and his infatuation with The Chantrellines shows that he eventually sleeps with one of the band members, thus losing his virginity. So when T.B. talks about how that was the act that popped his cherry, during the band's KJZZ radio interview, he's not talking about their musical inspiration, like he was in the theatrical cut.

Certain Scenes Make More Sense

Much like the cherry popping gag previously mentioned, there are other scenes in That Thing You Do's extended cut that make much more sense after being extended. A perfect example lies in Kevin Pollak's cameo as Victor "Boss Vic Koss" Kozlovich, which is a quick in-and-out affair in the theatrical cut. If you're looking for redemption for the Boss and his problem with being an asshole to a young band out of Erie, PA, you're not going to find it here. Rather, he's an even bigger jerk in the extended cut, as we see him kick the band out of his dressing room after they've been mistakenly sent there. With the extended footage added back into the film, moments like these become richer in detail, and only help further chronicle the band's meteoric rise that much better.

It's A More Complete Story

Put everything we've told you together, and what do you get? A film that's not just a story of a young band's rise and fall to one hit wonder-dom, but also a time capsule of living as a teen in the 60's. If That Thing You Do! was a really good hamburger and fries in its theatrical cut, then the extended cut is a prime rib with whipped potatoes, and a side of your favorite vegetables. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: the original cut of Tom Hanks' film is not bad in any stretch of the imagination. In fact, it's a really good theatrical edit that doesn't sacrifice the film's story, and leaves minimal holes in its plot at best.

But once you've seen the extended edition, and seen all of the moments you recognize enhanced by the new material reinstated back into the film, you'll know the difference matters. You'll always have the theatrical cut to go back to, as both cuts are packaged on the same Blu-ray and DVD set, but any time you experience _That Thing You Do! _in the future, you'll have the option to take the path you've always known or the road less traveled. Do Robert Frost a solid, and check out the extended path, as you certainly won't regret it.

In the meantime, we'll wish The Wonders and That Thing You Do! a very happy 20th anniversary, as we look forward to at least another 20 years of an underrated classic doing that thing it's always done. If you want to get in on the fun, head over to Amazon and order yourself a copy of the film on Blu-ray or DVD, both featuring the theatrical and extended cuts of the film.

As hard as it may be to believe, Tom Hanks' cult classic musical comedy, That Thing You Do!, turns 20 years old today. The film has become one of the most beloved cult classics of the 1990s, and it has established a legacy that continues to thrive to this very day. However, after 20 years, it also seems that a major That Thing You Do! mystery has finally been solved. As it turns out, The Wonders' seemingly unnamed bass player actually went by the name "Tobias." Wait, what? Actor Ethan Embry explained:

The cast of That Thing You Do! recently reassembled for an interview with EW to honor the 20-year reunion of the cult classic 1996 film. During the conversation, actor Ethan Embry opened up and finally admitted the name of his bass player -- simply referred to as T.B. Player in the end credits of the film. Although many fans had initially assumed that T.B Player was just a cute abbreviation for "The Bass Player," Embry continued to insist that his actual name was "Tobias Player," but he preferred to remove the vowels from his given name.

While that answers certain questions about the true identity of The Bass Player, we still have so many burning questions about his fate following the events of the movie. In the final moments of That Thing You Do! it was revealed that The Bass Player was awarded a Purple Heart during his military service in Vietnam at the battle of Khe Sanh. What happened when he got home? Did he continue to play bass? Did he have ever write another hit? We need answers to these questions, Mr. Embry. I would pay cold hard cash for a T.B Player spin-off film.

Of course, it's probably taken you the last 20 years just to get the incredibly catchy That Thing You Do! title song out of your head. Here it is again, for old times sake:

It may have taken a solid 20 years for us to finally get some answers to this mystery, but it was well worth the wait. We have to admit: Ethan Embry has a point; T.B. Player definitely seems like a Tobias. As for the film itself, we would just like to wish That Thing You Do! a happy 20th birthday; our world has been made so much better because of Tom Hanks' ridiculous, genre-defying film.

On October 4, 1996, That Thing You Do opened to what would eventually pan out to be a third place showing at the end of its first weekend of release. The film, which marked the writing and directing debut of Tom Hanks, would gross $34.5 million by the end of its run, ranking in as the 60th place film of the entire year. And yet, despite all of this, it's become a classic in every sense of the word.

The trials and tribulations of Guy "Skitch" Patterson and The Wonders have been shown on cable, sold many home video copies, and catapulted the film into the cult classic status it deserves. But what of the stars of That Thing You Do? Where are they now, and what have they been up to? Well, it's been a good couple of decades, so now's a great time to see what everyone's been doing since they did that thing that they did.

Tom Everett Scott

Guy Patterson was our everyman, our focal point to the madness that was the 60's pop scene that reigns in That Thing You Do. With his trademark shades, his sick drum skills, and the wit and wisdom that helped the band last as long as it did, he truly was Spartacus. He is our biggest fan, and it's all thanks to the talents of Tom Everett Scott, a man who's been working quite regularly since career started on an episode of Law and Order back in 1993.

Of course, his huge breakout hit was That Thing You Do, which almost wasn't his big screen debut, thanks to his resemblance to Tom Hanks himself. Fortunately, co-star and Hanks' wife, Rita Wilson, convinced those in charge to take the leap, and Scott went on to drum his way into our hearts for years to come. After the music died down, Tom Everett Scott found himself in high visibility projects like Boiler Room, Van Wilder, and Parental Guidance.

Though in the years after That Thing You Do, Scott worked a lot in TV, most notably in roles on ER, Southland, and Sons Of Anarchy, as well as a return to Law and Order as New York Governor Donald Shalvoy. Recently, you may have seen Scott in his roles on MTV's Scream, The CW's Reign, and CBS' Elementary, but you'll be able to see Scott this December in La La Land, a film that was inspired by That Thing You Do. Talk about coming full circle.

Liv Tyler

Guy wasn't the only person who helped keep The Wonders going, as his eventual wife, Faye Dolan, was also one of the many keys to success for the band. Though she was dating the super serious founder and lead singer / guitarist for the band, James "Jimmy" Mattingly, Faye always seemed like the right type of girl for Guy, even when he couldn't see it. And we have the talented Liv Tyler to thank for being the bedrock of the That Thing You Do cast, an opportunity that came after she'd established herself with her appearance alongside Alicia Silverstone in the video for Aerosmith's song "Crazy."

A few film roles into her career, Tyler had landed a double tap of musical comedies, as she had also played Corey Mason in the cult 90's classic Empire Records in the year previous to That Thing You Do's release. It was certainly enough to put her on the radar of Hollywood, especially in the case of Michael Bay, who would then cast Liv Tyler as the female lead in his 1998 blockbuster Armageddon.

It wasn't until 2001 that her biggest role would land on her doorstep, as Tyler was cast as Arwyn, the elven princess who saved Frodo from Ringwraiths and had fallen for the half human ranger Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Since then, Liv Tyler has been in everything from Marvel's 2008 reboot of The Incredible Hulk to HBO's depressingly effective drama The Leftovers.

Johnathon Schaech

If That Thing You Do has a villain, it almost has to be the snide, sneering artiste that lead the band, James "Jimmy" Mattingly. Obsessed with his art, and singing his own material, Jimmy was never cut out for pop stardom, though if you read the liner notes to the soundtrack, he did eventually have another hit with a band of his creation. Not only does he consistently sour his bandmate's fun, he also breaks girlfriend Faye's heart by the end of the film.

Johnathon Schaech, on the other hand, seems pretty cut out for the business of show, as he's been consistently working since he first appeared in the TV movie, The Webbers, in 1993. Previous to That Thing You Do, Schaech's claim to fame was in his role as Leon, the man Winona Ryder's protagonist would romance while mulling over her boyfriend's marriage proposal in How to Make an American Quilt. But once pop superstar-dom kicked in, there was no turning back.

Schaech would go on to not only continue acting in films that varied from the Jessica Lange / Gwyneth Paltrow thriller Hush to the direct to video sequel Road House 2, as well as the horror remakes Prom Night and Quarantine, but he also became a fixture on television, as well as a writer! In fact, one of Schaech's more prominent roles in recent days has been as DC Comics anti-hero Jonah Hex on The CW's Legends Of Tomorrow. Still, after all that time, we can't get his unique method of quitting out of our heads.

Steve Zahn

Lenny Haise values three things in this life: being famous, pretty girls, and cracking jokes at both the right and wrong times to do so. Playing lead guitar and also singing lead vocals, he had ample opportunity to indulge in all three during The Wonders' one hit roller-coaster ride.

No one else in the world could have brought Lenny to life the way that comedic actor Steve Zahn did, and it's partially in thanks to the time Zahn had spent honing his craft in films like Reality Bites and Crimson Tide in the years preceding That Thing You Do. Though comedic statements about Generation X and drama aboard a nuclear submarine may not seem like the likely grist for the mill that brought us Zahn's hysterical performance, they certainly did something to put him where he needed to be for Tom Hanks' purposes.

In the years after That Thing You Do, Steve Zahn cemented himself as a go-to character actor, a skill he continues to trade on to this day. Highlights from his career include his role as George Clooney's dopey sidekick Glenn in Steven Soderbergh's Out of Sight, a part in the J.J. Abrams scripted Joy Ride, as well as the role of Frank Heffley - the father in the first three Diary of a Wimpy Kid films, and Tucker in Dallas Buyer's Club. He can next be seen in 2017's War for the Planet of the Apes.

Ethan Embry

In every band, there's an unsung backbone that almost always gets overlooked: the bass player. In the case of That Thing You Do, T.B. Player was our unnamed hero, who would go on to be a true hero, as he enlisted in the Marine Corps just before the Vietnam War. Unfortunately, he missed The Wonders' big break on TV because of it, but at that point the call to defend America has become his mission in life.

Ethan Embry, the man behind our low-key pop hero, had his first breakout role in the Ed O'Neill road comedy Dutch back in 1991, which is funny considering the two would reteam for ABC's Dragnet reboot in 2003. Much like Liv Tyler before him, Empire Records helped Embry maintain visibility in the Hollywood circuit, and more than likely helped him secure the role as the bass player who he thinks went by the name of "Tobias."

After serving under Tom Hanks' watchful direction, Embry would go on to score an even bigger hit in 1997, when he was cast as Preston, the head over heels protagonist who had a crush on Jennifer Love Hewitt's Amanda in Can't Hardly Wait. His career would go on to rack up other notable credits, such as parts in other films like Vegas Vacation and Timeline, as well as on TV shows like Brotherhood, The Walking Dead, and most recently the Netflix original Grace and Frankie.

Tom Hanks

Though simply named Mr. White, the man behind the colorful name is much more complicated, professionally and personally. Eventually promoted to President of Playtone Records, Mr. White was the manager behind The Wonders during their time as a member of the Playtone "Galaxy of Stars." He shepherd them through county fairs, recording sessions, and TV appearances, and all throughout he had each member of the band pegged to a tee. It's as if he'd written their story, and actively shaped it based off of his template.

Which is exactly what writer / director / co-star Tom Hanks did with That Thing You Do, a movie that came out of a 30 day writing spree inspired by his restless nature during the promotion of Forrest Gump. After almost two decades of acting in hits like Splash and Big, as well as taking part of prestige worthy films such as Philadelphia and Apollo 13, Hanks took the plunge and wrote this love letter to 60's Pop, while also directing it into existence.

Naturally, Tom Hanks continued acting after That Thing You Do, with roles in Saving Private Ryan, The DaVinci Code, and most recently Sully all keeping him active. As far as writing and directing are concerned though, Hanks has only one other entry on his hyphenated resume, the 2011 film Larry Crowne. Tom Hanks can next be seen as Robert Langdon in the latest Dan Brown adaptation, Inferno, arriving on October 28th.

Charlize Theron

While Guy and Faye always seemed like a natural item, one of the stumbling blocks that always held up the works was Guy's girlfriend, Tina Powers. A sort of vapid, disinterested woman, Tina never really bought into the whole project known as The Wonders, and before you could say "root canal," she ran off with her dentist - leaving Guy in the dust.

It's not the sort of role you'd give Charlize Theron lightly these days, but back when she was cast in this supporting role for That Thing You Do, Tom Hanks just knew she'd be an all-star. With two film credits to her name, Theron was a star that Hanks swore he'd always claim to have discovered, and with this film placing her on the track to greatness, he couldn't have been more right.

The year after That Thing You Do, Charlize Theron would star in the comedy Trial and Error, as well as the horror thriller The Devil's Advocate, with her high profile roles in films like The Cider House Rules and The Italian Job following in the years to come. But her super-stardom transcended into A-list home runs after her role as real life killer Aileen Wuornos in 2003's Monster earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. Theron still mixes things up with her resume, as roles in Prometheus, Mad Max: Fury Road, and The Huntsman: Winter's War, and she can be seen causing chaos next year as the villain in F. Gary Gray's Fast 8.

Giovanni Ribisi

If it wasn't for the fact that Chad broke his arm while hopping parking meters, he would have still been the drummer for The Wonders during their Mercyhurst Talent Show gig. Though, if he'd been the drummer that night, That Thing You Do wouldn't have become the hit it eventually was, as it was Guy Patterson's up-tempo drumming that saved the single from obscurity and landed the band its first gig. Still, Chad got to get in real cozy with Guy's family, and eventually worked at the family's appliance store, so he was pretty well taken care of during his recovery.

Giovanni Ribisi, on the other hand, didn't need to break an arm to land his next couple of jobs, as Tom Hanks must have put in a kind word to sell him into his next big project, Steven Spielberg's war epic Saving Private Ryan. While Ribisi did have a couple TV movies, as well as a healthy dose of guest spots and recurring characters on shows like Ellen and Friends under his belt, That Thing You Do was his first big Hollywood film. It may have been a minor role, but it was one that lead to only bigger and better things.

Recently, Giovanni Ribisi secured a role in the Amazon dramedy series Sneaky Pete, after scoring a decade plus of work in memorable roles in Boiler Room, Flight of the Phoenix, Lost In Translation, James Cameron's Avatar, and all three of Seth MacFarlane's feature films. We'd call that broken arm a lucky break, if we do say so ourselves.

Rita Wilson

As far as cocktail waitresses go, The Blue Spot Jazz Club is lucky to have someone as beautiful and helpful as Marguerite is. Able to light your cigarette, fill your drink, or introduce you to Del Paxton himself, she's always smiling and always on the lookout. Lucky for Guy Patterson, and the third act of That Thing You Do, she was on duty the night he wandered through the doors in search of some jazzy inspiration.

Tom Hanks is lucky too, considering he gets to spend his life with the lovely woman playing this goddess of the gin joint, Rita Wilson herself. With years in TV shows like The Brady Bunch and MASH, as well as film roles like Cheech & Chong's Next Movie, Wilson would cross paths with her future husband twice: on TV in the show Bosom Buddies, and in the film Volunteers. Their marriage took place in 1988, and Rita Wilson would continue to work alongside her husband here and there, with Sleepless In Seattle being one of the most memorable points in their shared filmography.

After making sure Guy got back to his hotel room a-ok, Rita Wilson would continue to act in projects like Jingle All The Way, Law and Order: SVU, and Girls, while also becoming a producer under the Playtone Productions label. In fact, Wilson produced one of the most successful independent films ever, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, as well as its sequel, which was released earlier this year.

Paul Feig

During an extremely short appearance on Los Angeles radio station KMPC, there's a familiar looking guy that has on a bright purple shirt, chatting up yet another spin of that chart-breaking hit That Thing You Do. While the band doesn't get a word in edgewise, we know that the film's really about their story. Though that DJ would go on to tell a tale or two himself.

For you 90's comedy geeks out there, yes that is Paul Feig playing the role of KMPC's disc jockey in That Thing You Do, though at this point in history you may have recognized Feig from roles in The Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult or the underrated Disney hit Heavyweights, as Feig's acting career was in full swing when he secured this role. However, it was his calling as a writer/director that would light the candle under his resume and send him screaming into the history books.

Perhaps Paul Feig's greatest creation, Freaks & Geeks, would come only three years after his fictional disc jockey days, which ushered in the era of Feig as a writer / director / actor in both the realms of TV and Film. Arrested Development, The Office, and even Mad Men are just a couple of the shows that would fall into his capable directing hands, with the coup de grace being his directorial efforts on the film Bridesmaids. The rest, as they say, is history.

Bryan Cranston

The second American to fly into space, a distinguished soldier, and pioneering astronaut in his time, Lt. Colonel Virgil "Gus" Grissom is a real life figure that makes a cameo during That Thing You Do's big "Hollywood Television Showcase" sequence. Though you may not have noticed back in 1996, the actor playing Lt. Col. Grissom was none other than award winning fan favorite Bryan Cranston himself!

With copious experience in TV, with shows such as Airwolf, Baywatch, and Seinfeld, as well as roles in films like Amazon Women on the Moon and Fletch Lives, Cranston secured a short, but memorable role in That Thing You Do which tied into another project Tom Hanks was working on. While Bryan Cranston played Gus Grissom in the film we're discussing, Hanks must have seen something extremely impressive in him, as he was then cast as Buzz Aldrin in Tom Hanks' HBO mini-series about the American space program, From The Earth To The Moon.

Of course, Cranston's most memorable roles would come further down the line, as 2000 brought him a six year run as Hal, the belittled father figure on Malcolm in the Middle, and 2008 would see Bryan Cranston take on his most iconic role yet - teacher turned Walter White on AMC's Breaking Bad. Though Cranston has still continued to keep up appearances in the movie world, and even managed to reunite with Tom Hanks for his other writing / directing effort, 2011's Larry Crowne. Bryan Cranston can next be seen returning to another franchise that did him well early on, as he's playing Zordon in the new Power Rangers reboot.

Kevin Pollak

Victor 'Boss Vic Koss' Kosslovich is not only the Three Rivers Mattress king, he's a hell of an emcee. At least, that's what he tends to think when he's on the stage. Off the stage he's got a bit of a temper, and isn't as cosy as one would think. Still, if you're looking to buy a mattress or introduce a Pop act in Pittsburgh, Boss Vic Koss is your man!

Playing the Boss himself is veteran character actor, and genuinely awesome raconteur, Kevin Pollak. A stand up comedian and actor of much renown by time That Thing You Do rolled around, Pollak was best known in the world of film for his role as Lt. Sam Weinberg in the film adaptation of Aaron Sorkin's A Few Good Men, as well as parts in both films in the Grumpy Old Men series, and Martin Scorsese's Casino.

In the two decades since That Thing You Do's road to cult success, we've seen Kevin Pollak crop up in supporting and leading roles in films like The Whole Nine Yards and Max Rose, as well as on TV shows like the CBS hit series Mom. Though if you're a child of the internet, you've probably heard him on his internet talk show / podcast, Kevin Pollak's Chat Show, which is available through the Earwolf network.

Audiences heading to the theaters this week will be partying like it's 1996, as Roland Emmerich rings in the 20 year anniversary of Independence Day with the bombastic blockbuster sequel, Independence Day: Resurgence. Original stars Jeff Goldblum and Bill Pullman try to recapture the magic of 1996's highest-grossing sci-fi thriller (only, they have to do it without Will Smith, which is easier said than done).

We liked Independence Day. It's cheesy, and larger than life, and more fun than we probably expected 20 years ago. But just because a movie's celebrating a milestone doesn't always mean it deserves a follow up. In fact, when combing over the box office results of 1996, we found six movies we wish were getting a Part Two instead of Independence Day. They're filled with colorful characters we wish we could catch up with, played by actors who absolutely need another day in the sun. It's too late to get these sequels into movie theaters this year, but can Hollywood at least start the ball rolling on some of these dream sequels?

The Rock

Arguably Michael Bay's best movie, The Rock found Nicolas Cage teaming up with Sean Connery to infiltrate the impenetrable Alcatraz and stop terrorists from launching a chemical weapon on San Francisco. In years past, this mismatched duo would have been reunited to prevent another disaster at a different tourist destination, but Hollywood let the dynamic duo of Mason (Connery) and Goodspeed (Cage) rest. But how awesome would a new Rock movie with a deranged, older Cage and a crusty Connery be in 2016? It'd get the iconic Connery out of retirement, and give Bay a better franchise than the Transformers in which to play. Set it at the Eiffel Tower, and we're ready to Rock and roll.

Happy Gilmore

Nowadays, Adam Sandler makes generic, forgettable fare that goes straight to Netflix. He could use a shot in the arm, and bringing back one of his beloved characters for a long-awaited sequel could score him huge brownie points with a fanbase that's grown dejected over the years. Even better: What if Sandler ignored the passage of time and did a Happy Gilmore sequel set days after the last one ended? Hire Julie Bowen (Modern Family). Call up Christopher McDonald. Don't acknowledge that anyone has aged. Just tell the next chapter in the story. I'd watch that tomorrow. So would you.

That Thing You Do!

The song immediately popped into your head, didn't it? Tom Hanks' directorial debut was an infectious piece of bubblegum pop, structured around a one-hit wonder '60s group who enjoyed a meteoric rise to fame, and the subsequent crash. But the joy of That Thing You Do! is that we came to love the characters, and if we had a chance to check in on Guy (Tom Everett Scot), Faye (Liv Tyler) and Lenny (Steve Zahn), it'd be delightful. Maybe Guy could play the sage role of Mr. White (Tom Hanks), leading a new group through the shark-infested waters of fandom? There are possibilities...

Kingpin

Yes, I saw Dumb & Dumber To, and I recognize the dangers of dusting off old characters for the benefit of a sequel no one needs to see. But the idiots at the heart of the bowling comedy Kingpin are ripe for another adventure, and I'd love to see if Roy Munson (Woody Harrelson) could find a new protégé to train. Or, take the rivalry between Roy and Ernie McCracken (Bill Murray) to a new sports arena. I don't care, so long as it's more time in the company of Harrelson and Murray. A crazed Randy Quaid would be icing on that cake.

Fargo

Listen, I know the Coen Brothers don't do sequels. And seeing them operate without a net in movies like this year's screwball Hollywood comedy Hail, Caesar! proves that they shouldn't bother with retreading old ground. Except, the TV show Fargo has proven that this universe -- this unique corner of the globe -- is loaded with interesting characters telling dark stories, so if the Coens WANTED to return anywhere, Fargo is where I would send them. You know you'd squeal with delight if a trade broke the news that Frances McDormand was willing to play Marge Gunderson again, sinking her teeth into a new murder mystery. It won't happen... but it'd be great if it could.

Multiplicity

Michael Keaton's back, baby. After Birdman and Spotlight, the Keaton Renaissance is in full effect, meaning the actor has the opportunity (and the muscle) to resurrect a delightfully quirky character in Doug Kinney, a man who -- 20 years ago -- was so busy, he created duplicates of himself. How relevant would that story be in today's 24-hour, media-saturated world, where we barely have time to watch anything longer than a Vine? Keaton makes every movie better. Multiple Keatons, even a second time, would be a win. Make it happen, Hollywood!

For most, That Thing You Do! is a sweet musical comedy drama starring and directed by Tom Hanks about a gang of guys who make it big with a one hit wonder and then slowly fall apart. It's got heartbreak, but it’s also pretty fun, as most Tom Hanks romps are…unless you consider the disgusting thing Ethan Embry just bravely revealed he did while filming. I don’t think I could put it into words, so I’ll just let this Tweet from Embry speak for itself.

Hopefully he was wearing his brown pants. Talk about that thing you do-do (last one, I promise). Okay, a couple questions here. Did anyone know this was happening? His castmates had to have known something funny was in the air. Was it like a one-time thing or did Ethan Embry just keep pooping all day? Why did he have a pet duck? Unless you live in Friends, that’s not a normal pet by any means. What exactly was he doing with the duck that gave him dysentery (which I thought was mainly an Oregon Trail thing)? Did he poop while standing next to Tom Hanks? So many questions that will probably never be answered.

I can just imagine being on the set of what was probably one of his first big movies and he’s all excited to work with Tom Hanks. He suits up in the red jacket after a night of playing with his pet duck, and then he gets into position, the director yells action, and then he just poops right there. I don’t blame him for not saying anything. When you gotta go, you gotta go. If I got to work with Tom Hanks, a.k.a. Woody from my childhood, then I don’t want him thinking I need a diaper!

If you can’t remember who Ethan Embry played in the movie, despite being a part of the main band, he didn’t really do much. He was the bass player that ended up going to Disneyland and never coming back. The epilogue at the end of the movie reveals that he won a Purple Heart for injuries suffered in Khe Sanh.

If you need a reminder of the scene in question, you can catch a glimpse of it in this trailer for That Thing You Do!, which oddly enough, has a dramatic voice over.

What did you think of Ethan Embry’s big reveal? Will it change the way you watch That Thing You Do!? Did he do the right thing by not telling anyone for 20 years? At least he's finally wiping away the guilt. Sound off in the comments section below. 

Later this week, the mystery thriller The Gift arrives in theaters. Aside from getting fantastic reviews, the film also marks the feature directorial debut of actor Joel Edgerton. He’s helmed at couple of shorts, but this is his first go round in the big chair for a full-length movie. (Edgerton also wrote the script, but has more of a history with that side of things, including coming up with the story for the 2014 post-apocalyptic joint The Rover.)

With this release, Edgerton joins the long list of actors who have moved from in front of the camera to behind. As The Gift is getting high marks from critics (our own review gave the film four out of five stars) and looks like it’s going to wind up being well regarded, we thought we’d take the opportunity to look back and examine the directorial debut of some other actors who killed it their first time out of the gate.

Tom Hanks—That Thing You Do

After starting out in comedies like Bosom Buddies, Bachelor Party, and Splash, Tom Hanks went on to become one of the most celebrated actors in Hollywood. With multiple Oscars in his trophy case, just adding his name to your movie increases the prestige factor a few degrees. In 1996, he made his feature directorial debut with That Thing You Do (which he also wrote). Following a small town band on the road to success in the 1960s, the film turns a critical and satirical eye on show business, wrapped up in a light and fluffy story about friendship, and Hanks manages to skirt cliché and deliver a sweet, delightful debut. He only has one other directorial feature to his name, 2011’s modestly received Larry Crowne.

Robert Redford—Ordinary People

By 1980, Robert Redford already had 20 years of on-screen acting credits on his resume, but he had long harbored the desire to direct. Well, he got his chance with Ordinary People, a drama about the dissolution and disintegration of an upper-middle-class family, the Jarretts, after the death of their son. And what at debut it was. Not only was the film heralded as one of the best movies of the year, it walked away with a nice assortment of Oscar hardware, including a statue for Redford as Best Director. Though he continues to direct, and act in movies like All Is Lost and Captain America: The Winter Soldier, not to mention he founded the Sundance Film Festival, none of his subsequent efforts have topped that first one.

Charles Laughton—The Night Of The Hunter

Though it was not a critical or popular success when it was first released in 1955, Charles Laughton’s The Night of the Hunter has continued to grow in esteem and find new fans who recognize it as one of the most viscerally frightening movies of all time. Which isn’t bad considering that Laughton, making his debut behind the camera here, would never direct another film, though he did go on to appear in more, including Spartacus, before his death. With an influence that is still felt today, Hunter is a combination of Expressionist horror and film noir stylistics that still features one of the all time great villainous performances in Robert Mitchum’s Reverend Harry Powell.

Rob Reiner—This Is Spinal Tap

Starting off your career as a director with a movie that has become renowned as one of the funniest, most original comedies of its time, one that has spawned countless imitators, has to be a pretty good feeling. That’s just what happened to former All in the Family star Rob Reiner (he’s come so far from his days playing Meathead) and his initial foray into directing, the mock rockumentary classic This is Spinal Tap. The improv heavy movie follows over-the-top exploits of the eponymous hard rock act comprised of Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, and though this was his first, Reiner has gone on to churn out beloved movies, including Stand By Me, The Princess Bride, and When Harry Met Sally, among others.

Dennis Hopper—Easy Rider

As an actor, Dennis Hopper was a countercultural icon, and his directorial debut, Easy Rider, showed the not-always-pretty, free-wheelin’, on-the-road lifestyle. A touchstone for an entire generation, and beyond, the image of Hopper, who also starred, and Peter Fonda living life on their choppers came to symbolize freedom. The film caught the attention of the nation and dug into the cultural landscape of the late 1960s, including the rise and fall of the free love generation, drug use, communal living, and the tensions that were at war within the culture at the time. Hopper would go on to direct notable movies like The Last Movie and Colors, and not-so-notable movies like Chasers (yeesh), but he would never again hit the same highs as Easy Rider.

Sarah Polley—Away From Her

Still likely best known for her acting roles in films like Go, Splice, and Dawn of the Dead, Canadian born Sarah Polley has made waves as a director. Her first effort, 2006’s drama Away From Her, based on an Alice Munro short story and chronicling the struggles of an older couple being torn apart by the effects of Alzheimer’s Disease, debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival, won tons of critical praise, and marked Polley as a director to keep in eye on. She followed that up with the dramatic comedy Take This Waltz starring Seth Rogen and Michelle Williams in 2011, and the acclaimed documentary Stories We Tell in 2012, which dug into the secrets and storytelling and mythmaking inherent in her own family. She has a long future ahead of her behind the camera, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.

Harold Ramis—Caddyshack

If you turn out just one movie as beloved as Caddyshack in a career, you’re doing pretty well. After all, we’re still watching Harold Ramis' debut and quoting it with our buddies 35 years later. However, the former National Lampoon and SCTV performer wasn’t done with his directorial output, not by a long shot, and though we lost him too soon last year, he left a trail of comedy classics in his wake. He followed up his Saturday Night Live alum-stocked golf comedy with National Lampoon’s Vacation, Groundhog Day, and more, not to mention that he also continued to act, showing up in movies like Ghostbusters (you may have heard of that one) and even small roles in recent films, including Knocked Up and Walk Hard, connecting with a whole new generation of comic filmmakers he helped inspire.

Kevin Costner—Dances With Wolves

Remember that year Kevin Costner won all the Oscars? Remember when his directorial debut, 1990’s Dances With Wolves, beat out Goodfellas for Best Picture? Goodfellas! And not only did Kevin Costner beat out Martin Scorsese for Best Director, check out the rest of his competition that year, you may recognize some of these names: Francis Ford Coppola (The Godfather Part 3), Stephen Frears (The Grifters), and Barbet Schroeder (Reversal of Fortune). Not only did Costner decide to direct his first film, he decided to kick everyone’s ass while he was at it. Though he made a splash right out of the gate, his follow-ups haven’t fared so well. In 1997 there was the post-apocalyptic mailman saga The Postman, which has largely been remembered as a punch line, and 2003’s western Open Range, which is a solid gritty genre picture, if not widely recognized. Fortunately for Costner, he still has his lucrative acting career to fall back on.

Danny DeVito—Throw Momma From The Train

Most recognized as an actor in the likes of Taxi, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and recently It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Danny DeVito kicked off his new career as a director in 1987 with the blackly comic riff on Alfred Hitchcock’s Strangers on a Train, Throw Momma from the Train, in which he co-starred with Billy Crystal and the late, great Anne Ramsey. From there he went on to a varied career behind the camera with the dramatic comedy The War of the Roses, family film Matilda, and even the crime biopic Hoffa, not to mention the criminally underappreciated Death to Smoochy. Lately he’s mostly been directing shorts, though he does have a thriller called St. Sebastian in post-production, and we can always watch him as Frank on reruns of It’s Always Sunny when we need a fix.

Ben Affleck—Gone Baby Gone

Though he has gone on to greater success for helming The Town and the Oscar-winning Argo, Ben Affleck’s first feature film as director, 2007’s Gone Baby Gone, laid the groundwork for a successful side-career just in case that whole playing Batman thing doesn’t work out. And he got to put his little brother, Casey Affleck, in a movie. That has to earn him some points in the successful Hollywood version of a mother telling you to "let your brother play, too." The neo-noir crime story, based on the Dennis Lehane novel of the same name, Gone Baby Gone won a slew of awards, gathered near universal critical praise, and wound up on a bunch of best-of-the-year lists. Not only did it mark Affleck as a talent in a third area of filmmaking—in addition to his acting accolades, he also won an Oscar for writing Good Will Hunting—he used it as a stepping stone to even bigger things, including the upcoming Live by Night, another Lehane adaptation, and he’ll reportedly take the helm on an as-yet-untitled solo Batman film. Not bad for a kid from Boston.

It’s been a ridiculous amount of time since Tom Hanks wrote and directed his first feature film. He made his debut back in 1996, on the still highly underrated, toe-tappingly awesome movie That Thing You Do. Hanks proved he had real talent behind the camera, and then proved it again by helming the critically acclaimed television series Band of Brothers and From the Earth to the Moon. And then around 2001 he inexplicably abandoned directing entirely.

Now at long last Hanks is back with a new project. Deadline Hollywood says he’s written a movie called Larry Crowne for his Charlie Wilson’s War costar Julia Roberts. He’ll direct and also star in the film alongside Julia as a man forced to find a new career to reinvent himself at a late age. The movie’s a comedy and DH offers no explanation for where Julia Roberts fits in. Only that she’s in it.

It’s great news that Hanks is getting back to directing, but it’s even better news that this means he’s getting back to doing something besides those horrible Da Vinci Code movies. Sure they make a lot of money, but they’re a total waste of his talent.

Tom Hanks movies before Da Vinci Code? Cast Away, Road to Perdition, Catch Me if You Can, The Ladykillers, The Terminal. A couple of duds in there but at least Ladykillers was ambitious and The Terminal, whatever its flaws, allowed Hanks to give a great performance. And the rest… a legendary string of brilliant roles in three brilliant movies.

Now take a look at what he’s done since appearing in The Da Vinci Code circa 2006: Charlie Wilson’s War, The Great Buck Howard, Angels & Demons. Lame. Duds. Boring even. A total waste of his time and talent. I want Tom Hanks back. Maybe Larry Crowne will give him to us.