10 Underrated Action Movies from the 90s You Need to Revisit

The 1990s were a golden era for action movies, packed with high-octane classics like Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) and The Matrix (1999). But beyond the blockbusters, there are plenty of hidden gems that didn’t get the love they deserved. These films, often overshadowed by bigger hits or dismissed at release, still deliver thrills, stunts, and memorable performances that make them worth revisiting.

I’ve scoured the decade’s lesser-known action flicks and ranked ten that stand out for their energy, style, or unique spins on the genre. From gritty thrillers to campy fun, these movies deserve a spot on your watchlist for their bold action and surprising depth. Here’s the countdown from least to most underrated, with a look at what makes each one a must-see.

10. Kuffs (1992)

Christian Slater stars as George Kuffs, a slacker who inherits his brother’s private police patrol in San Francisco after a murder. This action-comedy mixes shootouts and humor as Kuffs, with help from Milla Jovovich’s character, takes on criminals while dodging responsibility. It’s a light, quirky ride that didn’t make waves at the box office but shines for its charm.

Slater’s snarky charisma carries the film, and the San Francisco backdrop adds a fresh vibe. The plot’s a bit far-fetched, but the action—car chases, fistfights, and a standout rooftop shootout—keeps it fun. It’s a breezy, underappreciated gem for fans of early ‘90s camp.

9. Sudden Death (1995)

Jean-Claude Van Damme plays a fire inspector caught in a terrorist plot during an NHL Stanley Cup game, where the vice president is held hostage. Directed by Peter Hyams, this Die Hard clone swaps skyscrapers for a hockey arena, delivering intense stunts and a fast pace. It grossed only $20 million domestically, far less than Van Damme’s Timecop (1994).

The action, including a wild fight in the arena’s kitchen, is pure ‘90s excess, and Van Damme’s earnest performance makes it work. Powers Boothe’s villain adds menace, but the contrived plot kept it from wider praise. It’s a thrilling, overlooked romp for action junkies.

8. The Chase (1994)

Charlie Sheen plays a fugitive who kidnaps a billionaire’s daughter, Kristy Swanson, during a high-speed police pursuit. This action-comedy leans into absurdity, with a reality TV crew trailing the chase, poking fun at media frenzy years before it became a cultural staple. It bombed at the box office but has since gained a cult following.

Sheen and Swanson’s chemistry, plus over-the-top car chases and explosions, make it a wild ride. The humor lands unevenly, but its fast pace and prescient satire make it a fun rediscovery. Perfect for a nostalgic, no-brainer action night.

7. Hard Rain (1998)

Christian Slater and Morgan Freeman star in this action-disaster hybrid, where armored-car drivers are ambushed during a massive flood. The rain-soaked setting, with practical effects and real water, gives the action—boat chases, shootouts, and a tense dam sequence—a gritty edge. It flopped theatrically but thrived on VHS.

The film’s simple plot and strong cast, including Betty White in a quirky role, make it endlessly watchable. Its blend of heist thrills and natural disaster chaos feels fresh, even if the story doesn’t dig deep. A solid pick for fans of tactile ‘90s action.

6. The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)

Geena Davis plays a suburban mom who discovers she’s a former assassin, with Samuel L. Jackson as her wisecracking ally. Directed by Renny Harlin and written by Shane Black, this action-thriller delivers sharp dialogue, explosive set pieces, and a killer ice-skating chase. It earned mixed reviews and underperformed, overshadowed by Harlin’s earlier flop Cutthroat Island (1995).

Davis shines as she transforms from timid to badass, and Jackson’s banter elevates every scene. The film’s cult status has grown, but it deserves more mainstream love for its bold action and clever twists.

5. Ricochet (1991)

Denzel Washington’s first action role sees him as a cop-turned-DA hunted by a vengeful criminal, played with unhinged energy by John Lithgow. This dark, stylish thriller features intense cat-and-mouse games and brutal action, including a shocking prison sequence. It grossed only $21 million and was overlooked compared to Washington’s later hits.

Lithgow’s wild performance steals the show, while Washington proves his action-hero chops early on. The gritty tone and fast pace make it a standout that action fans should revisit for its raw energy.

4. The Rocketeer (1991)

Billy Campbell stars as a 1930s pilot who finds a rocket pack, battling Nazis and mobsters in this Disney superhero flick. Directed by Joe Johnston, it captures the charm of old-school serials with stunning practical effects and a retro vibe. It earned $46 million but didn’t spark a franchise, fading against bigger hits.

Jennifer Connelly and Timothy Dalton add star power, and the aerial action scenes still dazzle. Its heartfelt story and visual flair make it a gem for fans of adventure and early superhero films. Stream it on Disney+.

3. Desperado (1995)

Antonio Banderas plays a mariachi-turned-gunslinger in Robert Rodriguez’s stylish action flick, a follow-up to El Mariachi (1992). Packed with explosive shootouts and slick choreography, it’s a love letter to Westerns and ‘90s excess. Despite a modest $7 million budget, it grossed $25 million but was overshadowed by flashier blockbusters.

Banderas’ charisma and Salma Hayek’s breakout role add heat, while Rodriguez’s inventive direction keeps every fight fresh. It’s a lean, thrilling ride that deserves more love from action fans.

2. Ronin (1998)

Robert De Niro leads a team of mercenaries, including Jean Reno and Sean Bean, chasing a mysterious briefcase in this John Frankenheimer thriller. Known for its jaw-dropping car chases through European streets, Ronin blends gritty action with a smart, twisty plot. It earned $70 million but never reached the fame of The Matrix or Speed.

The ensemble’s chemistry and practical stunts give it a timeless edge. Its understated style and relentless pace make it a must-watch for fans of grounded, lo-fi action.

1. Face/Off (1997)

John Travolta and Nicolas Cage swap faces in John Woo’s wild sci-fi action epic, playing an FBI agent and a terrorist locked in a surreal duel. The insane premise, paired with Woo’s signature slow-motion shootouts and operatic flair, makes it a standout. It grossed $245 million but often gets dismissed as over-the-top compared to Woo’s Hard Boiled (1992).

Cage and Travolta’s unhinged performances, mimicking each other’s mannerisms, are pure genius. The bonkers plot and relentless action—especially the iconic boat chase—make it the most underrated gem of ‘90s action cinema.

Which of these ‘90s action flicks is your favorite, or did I miss a hidden classic? Drop your thoughts in the comments!