10 Best 90’s Law Movies, Ranked

The 1990’s were arguably the years for legal thrillers, perhaps largely due to the onset of John Grisham’s novels. His knowledgeable approach to the entire genre certainly found literary success, and film adaptations were inevitable on arrival.

And that decade sustained a cynical, counterculture attitude that so popularized shows like The X-Files. It’s possible the hypocrisies and ethical conflicts of the legal system appealed to that mindset. Either way, the 90’s produced some of the most iconic legal dramas and thrillers of all time. They were punctuated by superb casting, and grounded or clever storytelling that explored serious, often sensitive themes.

10 The Pelican Brief

Denzel Washington always brings a perfect balance of gravitas and relatable, everyman qualities. He’s had great chemistry with every co-star, and America’s longtime sweetheart Julia Roberts was no exception here. Like so many Grisham novels, a young and innocent lawyer is caught up in extraordinary criminal circumstances.

Roberts’ protagonist is endearing for her determination, and the conspiracy itself is interesting enough. But ultimately, it reaches too far, somewhat casting aside the earned character development. The ride is fun, but its tropes can undermine the strong performances.

9 The Client

This was a surprise hit back in the 90’s, and doesn’t feel especially dated thanks to some powerful leads. Even the central child actor thankfully delivers a standout performance, which is rare. The plot involves a child who has witnessed a suicide, and subsequently ends up wanted by the mob.

The villainous mobsters have definitely aged poorly, almost offensively stereotypical and cheesy. Which is strange, with something like the convincing and brutal Goodfellas preceding this. Regardless, the plot moves briskly, and the child protagonist allows for easy investment.

8 The Devil’s Advocate

This is quite unlike most films, let alone the other legal adventures listed here. In fact, it so transcends tales of the law, ranking any higher would feel like a technicality. This is a supernatural thriller, about an utterly selfish man who ends up working for the actual Devil.

This provides yet another iconic Al Pacino performance, and the film is brimming with racy themes. It’s a potent, graphic story that uses the legal world to discuss lust and shameless ambition. It’s a perfect fit, thanks to the moral ambiguity of the law. The film boldly flaunts a villainous protagonist, which Keanu Reeves keeps compelling throughout.

7 The Firm

John Grisham’s source material achieved massive success, and the fast-tracked film adaptation was no exception. Once again, the plot incorporates the mafia, which is more convincing here despite releasing a year before The Client. Tom Cruise’s protagonist obliviously ends up in the middle of an FBI criminal investigation, resulting in a tightly plotted thriller.

The movie is actually more concerned with mystery and chases than the law itself. It’s a satisfying ride that isn’t planted in court, like so many of its peers. But that accessibility bolstered popularity, and probably invited more fans to Grisham’s work.

6 My Cousin Vinny

This unexpected comedy boils down to Joe Pesci as a fish out of water, but that’s hardly an insult. The high-concept premise is just catchy enough to enable Joe Pesci’s iconic personality. He plays a novice lawyer from New York, who must rescue family members from execution in Alabama.

Surprisingly, the film handles its trial depiction very well, while always remembering to entertain. The leads are endearing and charming, while the case itself is interesting enough. None of the laughter is cheap, but earned. And Fred Gwynne’s frustrated Judge has terrific chemistry with Pesci.

5 Amistad

This underrated Steven Spielberg gem touches on highly sensitive themes of slavery, and doesn’t shy away from hard truths. While inspirational, there is no overt sentimentality that detractors so often criticize Spielberg for.

It has never been more undue. This poignant historical drama is traversed carefully and earnestly, despite boasting an all-star cast. The performances feel sincere in their approach to a difficult conversation. Best of all, the legal battle itself illustrates the cruel, surrounding world of enablers in the slave trade.

4 A Few Good Men

This is a striking film that is frequently reduced to one line—“you can’t handle the truth”. However, the plot unfolds with all the sharpness, wit, and intrigue that Aaron Sorkin could possibly muster.

Most casual viewers could hardly assume that the plot was about Marines accused of killing their own. Possibly ordered by Jack Nicholson’s Colonel Jessup, no less. The movie can feel overlong at times, but otherwise avoids most pitfalls in adapting a play. It rarely feels stagnant, and it remains surprisingly plot-driven throughout.

3 The Rainmaker

This fascinating drama is yet another hit for director Francis Ford Coppola. While some might find the plot rather wandering, it offers highly intriguing and grounded insight into becoming a lawyer. Unlike other John Grisham books, this source material reviewed the justice system as a whole, traversing everything more broadly.

It expands beyond a single case, and is deeply preoccupied with moral ambiguity. Matt Damon is a good fit for another innocent, young lawyer from Grisham. And his journey remains exciting for its honesty, regarding corruption and ethical problems wholly unique to legal battles.

2 A Time To Kill

Director Joel Schumacher returns to adapt another Grisham novel, strangely sitting between two very campy Batman films. This time around, the level of authenticity far exceeds The Client. The subject matter is deeply upsetting, absorbing and delicate.

However, this film also structured like a very traditional courtroom drama. Despite the lengthy runtime, the film doesn’t waste a minute. It is an emotionally charged story, driven by stirring and sincere dialogue. In fact, the titular argument is enough to stoke controversy, without the conversations about racism and rape. And the performances are moving and nuanced, even in explosive dramatic scenes.

1 In The Name Of The Father

While the opening scenes can feel slightly meandering, this harrowing biography quickly careens into an electrifying tale of injustice. Daniel Day-Lewis’ performance is staggering, selling every relationship and psychological punishment. The severe coercion scene alone is agonizing and heartbreaking.

Based on a true story, this adaptation was sure to draw serious controversy. But its message remains powerful, and is illustrated well through subtlety and honesty. Politics aside, themes of corruption and stereotyping are perpetually relevant. And the familial drama between the protagonist and his father is touching, especially with the genuine tone of the film.

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