When it comes to action films, the 1990s was a revolutionary decade. It was the start of computer generated effects becoming commonplace in films. We saw some pretty new stuff on the screen, and Toy Story was a game changer for animation, but we will not focus on Pixar cartoons.

Here are some of my favorite action films from the 90s.

James Cameron made some serious cash in the 90s with Terminator 2:Judgement Day. This movie still holds up the “wow” test. Basically what that means is you can put this movie on today and still be wowed by the effects.

The Matrix absolutely blew me away. The Wachowski brothers introduced us to bullet time, or the effect of slowing of bullets and found Keanu Reeves the role of a lifetime. I’m not always a fan of his work, but I cannot imagine anyone doing a better job in the role of Neo that Keanu Reeves.

Ironically, a film that spoofed all the action movies of the 90s ended up being one of my favorites. Of course, I am talking about Hot Shots: Part Deux. I have incredibly fond memories of this film and any time it is on (which is very rare), I feel the need to watch it.

The Rock is another great action film. Sean Connery plays the only convict to ever escape from the Rock, also known as Alcatraz and when a hostage situation on the island turns nuclear, Connery and Nicholas Cage team up to break into the Rock and stop the bad guys.

The most critically acclaimed action film on this list is The Professional. Starring Natalie Portman in her breakout role, as well as the great Jean Reno, the Professional tells a story about a hitman (Reno) who takes a young girl (Portman) under her wing in a great revenge story.

These are at the top of the list, but there are so many others from this decade that are worthy of praise in another article.

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