10 Deep Cut Indie Movies From The 1990s That You'll Wish You Watched Sooner

10 Deep Cut Indie Movies From The 1990s That You’ll Wish You Watched Sooner

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Some people relish the fact that they have watched the most obscure independent films ever made. Some may have been absolutely unwatchable. Others may have been fantastic, but their limited budgets meant their reach was not wide enough, though their indie movie box office grew thanks to word-of-mouth. While there are undoubtedly countless genuinely unknown films, there are also those that live somewhere between commercial juggernauts and art house projects that resonate with nobody. The 1990s saw some independent movies reach dizzying heights of success and some fade away immediately.

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Box office hits and critical darlings like Pulp Fiction and The Virgin Suicides made an impact when they came out, with the indie movies launching their directors’ careers, and managed to stand the test of time. Ultra-niche drama students’ final exam projects made for an audience of 12 also exist. Then there are those films that are still considered deep cuts, compared to the likes of The Blair Witch Project, but later became some of the ’90s many cult classic movies. They may already have some fans, but it’s those films that are certainly worth discovering and make one wish they’d discovered them sooner.

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10

Girl (1998)

Directed by Jonathan Kahn

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Girl

R

Comedy

Drama

Romance

Music

Release Date

November 5, 1998

Runtime

99 minutes

Director

Jonathan Kahn

Writers

David E. Tolchinsky

Producers

Brad Wyman, Brandon K. Hogan, Chris Hanley

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This coming-of-age comedy-drama follows a bookish young girl on the verge of adulthood who feels that she missed out on many life experiences because of her dedication to her schoolwork and small group of friends. Very much like Booksmart did decades later, this film explores the lengths sheltered youths will go to in order to step out of their comfort zone. Prolific ’90s staple, Dominique Swain is the titular girl, and the supporting cast includes the likes of Portia de Rossi and Tara Reid.

Themes of eating disorders, suicide, and bullying are all explored as the young characters struggle with their changing circumstances. The transition from high school to whatever comes after is universally tough, and this scarcely-mentioned indie flick does a good job of addressing the awkwardness and questionable decisions that come with being a young adult. It also has a very nostalgic soundtrack that embraces the local rock scene in a way that feels realistic and familiar.

9

Living in Oblivion (1995)

Directed by Tom DiCillo

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Living in Oblivion

R

Comedy

Release Date

July 21, 1995

Runtime

90 minutes

Director

Tom DiCillo

Producers

Frank von Zerneck, Hilary Gilford, Marcus Viscidi

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A very ahead-of-its-time and meta film, Living in Oblivion was Peter Dinklage’s first film role and also features stars like Steve Buscemi and Catherine Keener. It’s a black comedy that satirizes the art of independent film-making, with obvious digs at itself. Broken into three parts, it shifts perspectives and allows the audience to find their own way within the non-linear story. With exaggerated versions of cast and crew, each character has their own demons to tackle, and issues to overcome.

Buscemi leads the film as the exacerbated director as each of the three dreamlike parts delves deeper into the aspects of creating a picture. With obstacles like budgets, egomaniacal actors, and various power struggles on set, it’s a rare glimpse into this fascinating yet stressful world. But, it’s the persistence of a deeply creative vision that keeps everyone going and, ultimately, what allows films like this to continue to be made.

8

Buffalo ’66 (1998)

Directed by Vincent Gallo

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Buffalo ’66

R

Comedy

Drama

Romance

9/10

Release Date

June 26, 1998

Runtime

110 Minutes

Director

Vincent Gallo

Writers

Vincent Gallo, Alison Bagnall

Cast

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In an attempt to shed her child star image, Christina Ricci had a spell of time when she picked some very interesting and bold independent projects, like this one. She received a lot of praise for her performance, which showcased a more mature side to the talented actor. Written and directed by, and also starring, Vincent Gallo, the film mixes dark comedy with romance and drama, creating a unique blend of plot points. The aesthetic of the film is one of its big draws, creating a surreal and dreamlike quality to it.

With topics like toxic masculinity, skewed family dynamics, and even Stockholm syndrome all tackled with nuance and flair, the story is not short of twists and turns.

With topics like toxic masculinity, skewed family dynamics, and even Stockholm syndrome all tackled with nuance and flair, the story is not short of twists and turns. As viewers get to know more about Billy Brown and his troubled past, it all ties in with the relationships he has with his parents, and explains his innate aggression and stunted emotional growth. Notable co-stars include Anjelica Huston and Mickey Rourke, who lend their experience and gravitas to this unusual film.

7

Boys Don’t Cry (1999)

Directed by Kimberly Peirce

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Boys Don’t Cry

R

Crime

Drama

Release Date

September 2, 1999

Runtime

118 minutes

Director

Kimberly Peirce

Writers

Andy Bienen

Producers

Caroline Kaplan, Christine Vachon, Eva Kolodner, John N. Hart, John Sloss, Jonathan Sehring, Pamela Koffler

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Hilary Swank’s powerful performance in this harrowing story earned the actor her first Academy Award, but the film itself did not receive quite as much recognition as its star did. It’s a biographical true story of a trans man, Brandon Teena, who moves to Nebraska to start a new life as his true self. As he strikes up new friendships and romances, he ultimately has to deal with the many transphobic and hateful attitudes that have plagued society for centuries. Though set around 1993, the theme sadly remains universal.

Daniel Radcliffe Brie Larson and Ryan Gosling

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The film is a true-crime retelling of sorts that introduces viewers to the life of Teena and covers the events that led to his brutal murder. Watching a hate crime unfold on the screen is tough to take in, but Kimberly Peirce tackled the subject matter with as much respect and care as possible. Plus, it was important to her on a personal level to share this impactful story. Chloë Sevigny received an Oscar nomination for her role as Brandon’s girlfriend and delivers a very raw performance of her own.

6

Go (1999)

Directed by Doug Liman

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Go

R

Crime

Comedy

Thriller

Release Date

April 9, 1999

Runtime

98 minutes

Director

Doug Liman

Writers

John August

Producers

Mickey Liddell, Paul Rosenberg

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A very alternative festive film, this Christmas-based crime caper is very fast-paced and quick-witted. ’90s indie queen, Sarah Polley, leads the strong cast as a struggling grocery store clerk who gets involved with some seedy characters as she attempts to dip her toe in the criminal world. The events occur out of order, which drew comparisons with some of Quentin Tarantino’s projects, and Go manages to similarly mix dark humor and action really well.

It provides some fascinating insight into the youth culture of the time, with a focus on raves, underground parties, and carefree attitudes that abounded in the pre-millennium world. It’s satisfying to see the stories interconnect, and seeing some successful actors in their early roles is always a treat. Katie Holmes and Timothy Olyphant are both pleasant surprises, and the soundtrack sets the mood very well. The film thrives on being unpredictable, and that’s what makes it exciting to watch time and time again.

5

Party Girl (1995)

Directed by Daisy von Scherler Mayer

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Party Girl

R

Comedy

Drama

Release Date

June 9, 1995

Runtime

94 minutes

Director

Daisy Von Scherler Mayer

Writers

Daisy von Scherler Mayer

Producers

Stephanie Koules

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Before wowing the world in White Lotus, Parker Posey had a long and illustrious resume of scene-stealing performances. She was one of the most prolific indie actors of the 1990s, which later led her to more mainstream projects like You’ve Got Mail and Scream 3. This film is arguably one of her most iconic roles of the decade, and she influenced a generation with her attitude and fashion choices. As a charismatic and fun-loving girl who likes to party, Posey is able to go on a journey of self-discovery and maturity, as she discovers a more stable and structured life.

The film serves as a time capsule that takes the viewers into the New York club scene, with its music, outfits, and culture. As the heroine transitions from a life of underground raves and the hottest bars, she must adapt to life as a librarian, which serves up some great comedic moments. But, she’s also able to challenge the “party girl” stereotypes and show that it’s possible to be both hip and square at the same time. The film is an indie cult classic, but has sadly been lost in the crowd over the years.

4

My Own Private Idaho (1991)

Directed by Gus Van Sant

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My Own Private Idaho

R

Drama

Release Date

February 1, 1991

Runtime

104 Minutes

Director

Gus Van Sant

Writers

Gus Van Sant

Cast

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A beautiful showcase of River Phoenix’s immense talent, this moving story touches on themes of unrequited love and a need for belonging. The Shakespearean influence can be felt throughout, as the story is loosely based on “Henry IV,” and the poetic nature of the story makes it feel more surreal and dreamlike. The chemistry between Phoenix and Keanu Reeves is central to the film and makes the feelings of yearning and desire jump off the screen.

A road film in its nature, My Own Private Idaho sees two best friends with very different backgrounds experience the uncertainty of life and growing up. It’s not every day that narcolepsy is at the center of a story, but this condition is crucial to Mike’s emotional state and the sense of unease each day brings. That’s probably most evident at the very end of the film, as he’s taken away in his narcoleptic state to a fate unknown. The film is a moving exploration of the search for something more, with some truly stunning performances and dreamy cinematography.

3

But I’m A Cheerleader (1999)

Directed by Jamie Babbit

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But I’m A Cheerleader

R

Comedy

Drama

Romance

10/10

Release Date

July 7, 2000

Runtime

85 Minutes

Director

Jamie Babbit

Writers

Brian Peterson, Jamie Babbit

Cast

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  • Headshot Of Natasha Lyonne

    Natasha Lyonne

    Megan

  • Headshot Of Clea DuVall

    Clea DuVall

    Graham

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This classic comedy-drama is a satirical exploration of the attitudes toward LGBTQ+ identities. With biting wit and scathing disdain, the film follows the journey of a queer teen who is sent to a conversion therapy camp in order to “cure” her of her “affliction”. The cast of characters she encounters there represents a spectrum of people at various stages of their journey, and allows viewers to laugh and cry at the ridiculousness of the situation.

Natasha Lyonne and Clea DuVall both shine in their respective roles as they journey hand in hand to self-discovery and, ultimately, self-acceptance.

The bright and colorful aesthetics provide a flamboyant backdrop to a dark story about the impact of imposing a hetero-normative lifestyle on youths who do not conform to traditional gender roles. It’s also, at its core, a beautiful love story between two people who find that special someone in the most unlikely of places. Natasha Lyonne and Clea DuVall both shine in their respective roles as they journey hand in hand to self-discovery and, ultimately, self-acceptance.

2

Run Lola Run (1998)

Directed by Tom Tykwer

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Run Lola Run

R

Action

Drama

Thriller

8/10

Release Date

March 3, 1998

Runtime

81 Minutes

Director

Tom Tykwer

Writers

Tom Tykwer

Cast

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There was a time in the 1990s and early 2000s when this indie classic was certain people’s favorite movie. Anyone with an interest in obscure foreign films and experimental movie-making would have boasted about how this gripping thriller would change the course of cinema. Because of all the high praise, the film actually became a commercial hit and made over 13 times its production budget, propelling its star Franka Potente into the limelight.

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But, not only did Run Lola Run hit a chord with audiences, it actually managed to live up to the hype. With similarities to Sliding Doors and The Butterfly Effect, the movie explores the outcomes of the same scenario three times. Small changes made to the heroine’s decision-making process carried huge consequences that changed the end result in often catastrophic ways. The clever storytelling keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, and for any indie fan who has not yet seen it, it’s an absolute must-watch.

1

Three Colors: White (1994)

Directed by Krzysztof Kieślowski

Three Colors White (1994)

This is the second part of the director’s colors trilogy, which also includes Blue and Red. The trio of films represents the hues of the French flag and the ideals that they symbolize. Blue represents liberty, white is equality, and red stands for fraternity. The type of equality Karol Karol tries to achieve is not only between him and his estranged wife, but also within society as a whole. As he’s left destitute and on the run after a very dramatic divorce, the hero tries to build back his life from scratch despite the many obstacles in his way.

Down on luck is an understatement, but through determination and the promise of revenge, he is able to find his footing and rebuild. Hailed as an “anti-comedy,” Three Colors: White mixes some very distressing themes with dark humor and dry Polish wit. Surreal at times, it leaves audiences confused and transfixed in equal measure, and the critical acclaim and accolades it received at the time is a testament to its enduring quality. It holds a score of 89% on Rotten Tomatoes and shows that independent cinema transcends themes as well as language barriers.

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Category: Entertainment

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