5 Must-See Southern Movies from the 1990s On

Here are some top 5 picks of the best movies for lovers of Southern films made between the 1990s and the present day.

A lot of incredible motion pictures inspired by the South were made in the mid-20th century. However, the film industry continues to grow and, thankfully, Southern movies have not been neglected.

Although piles of superhero blockbusters and revivals of old franchises have been bombarding us all, there are plenty of original Southern films that have had an influence on the region’s culture. Let’s have a look at how these cinematic masterpieces modified our own viewing of ourselves.

We will also focus on how these films have altered the perception of the South. Have they challenged stereotypes, and do other nationalities perceive Southerners differently now?

Tradition Is a Weapon

What better way to implement one’s culture than by showing them your traditions? “Forrest Gump” is a prime example of a conventional family with traditional Southern values. This homely, heartwarming story will melt even the roughest of hearts.

Perhaps that’s why the film won an Oscar in 1994. “Forrest Gump” remains a legendary piece of cinema and a great depiction of the Deep South.

One the other hand, you can’t ignore more recent depictions of the land. For example, “Django Unchained,” directed by Quentin Tarantino, shows the history of the South in a much crueler way. This film shows the struggles of the past, as the South was home to great battles for human rights. Some hobbies, such as gambling, were reserved for the white race only. In a scene in “Django Unchained,” we see Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio), a devoted gambler, look down on Django. And perhaps “look down on” is a euphemism.

Either way, by the end of the film, we see evolution and hope for change. Gambling is a great example of how something simple can play such an important role in a person’s life. Many a person’s favorite spare-time activity, gambling should not be luxury, but a choice. If you’re looking for a place to get informed, check out reviews of the best online casinos and games right here.

Patriotism and Universal Values

Another dark, hard-to-digest film on this list is “No Country for Old Men.” Selected as one of the best movies of the 21st century, the Coen Brothers masterpiece is still the talk of the town.

The movie adaptation of the 2005 Cormac McCarthy novel takes us on a ride through Texas with a whole new lens. This film is a cat-and-mouse drama displaying the lengths to which Javier Bardem’s acting can go.

Moreover, this 2007 cinematic masterpiece reflects the captivating beauty of the Southern landscape. As the villain moves forward, we see locals who characterize the West in the 1980s. “No Country for Old Men” is truly one of the finest movies that have been made to date.

Traveling on to South Carolina, we are looking back at “The Patriot,” the 2000 film directed by Roland Emmerich. The “Independence Day” writer wisely wielded Mel Gibson and Heath Ledger as authentic representatives of traditional America. Employing such influential and globally loved figures for this historical drama did wonders for both the film and the South.

Namely, the motion picture brought viewers closer to how it felt living and surviving during the American Revolution. Pain, love, suffering and loss: all of that is depicted on screen in “The Patriot.”

Coming to the end of the list, our final pick is “October Sky.” Directed in 1999 by Joe Johnston (famous for “Captain America: The First Avenger”), this is a story of ambition and believing in oneself.

Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, “October Sky” is an emotional biography that speaks volumes of the well-known Southern faith. To an extent, it is also a coming-of-age chronicle. A young man in West Virginia’s desires do not go hand-in-hand with those of his parents. Ultimately, his deepest wish comes true as he follows his heart.

You’ll notice that the titles here are quite different from each other, but you’d have to agree that the overarching element of Southern pride can be felt throughout.