1999 was a monumental year in cinema, often referred to as the last great year of the 20th century for movies. Rolling Stone magazine recently curated a list ranking the 99 best films of 1999, reigniting debates over which films truly defined the era. While classics like Magnolia and The Matrix dominate the top spots, the list also includes surprising omissions and controversial placements. Let's take a closer look at the highlights, the surprises, and what this ranking says about the enduring legacy of these films.
Rolling Stone's Top Picks
Topping the list is Paul Thomas Anderson's Magnolia, a sprawling, emotional drama that embodies the ambition of 1999's cinematic offerings. Following closely is the groundbreaking sci-fi masterpiece The Matrix, which redefined the action and sci-fi genres with its innovative storytelling and visual effects. Other notable entries in the top 10 include Being John Malkovich (#3), The Insider (#4), and Fight Club (#9).
Despite the critical acclaim for these films, Rolling Stone's choices have raised eyebrows, particularly for their inclusion of Wes Anderson's Rushmore (#10) and Sofia Coppola's The Virgin Suicides (#5), as neither strictly qualifies as a 1999 release.
Controversies and Omissions
Perhaps the most contentious ranking is Sam Mendes' American Beauty, placed at #87. Once celebrated as a cultural touchstone, winning five Oscars including Best Picture, its fall from grace reflects changing societal attitudes and the controversies surrounding lead actor Kevin Spacey. Rolling Stone's critique notes that the film's themes of suburban ennui and its iconic imagery have not aged well.
Adding to the debate, The Green Mile, a beloved audience favorite with a stellar IMDb score of 8.6/10, is entirely absent from the list. Fans of Frank Darabont's adaptation of Stephen King's novel may find it puzzling, especially when films like The World Is Not Enough (#93) and Big Daddy (#97) secured spots.
Spike Lee's Summer of Sam (#84) and Martin Scorsese's Bringing Out the Dead (#88) are also ranked surprisingly low, sparking discussions about the recognition of these lesser-known gems in the directors' filmographies.
A Closer Look at the Mid and Lower Rankings
The middle of the list features cult classics and animated favorites, including Office Space (#21), Toy Story 2 (#22), and The Iron Giant (#24). These films, though not at the forefront of critical acclaim during their release, have gained significant fan followings over the years.
In the lower rankings, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me (#92) and Varsity Blues (#96) reflect Rolling Stone's eclectic approach, balancing high art with cultural phenomena that defined the late '90s.
The Legacy of 1999 in Film
Rolling Stone's rankings serve as a reminder of the extraordinary diversity of films in 1999, from introspective dramas to genre-defining blockbusters. This was a year when directors like Stanley Kubrick (Eyes Wide Shut), David Fincher (Fight Club), and Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich) pushed the boundaries of storytelling.
While not everyone will agree with Rolling Stone's choices, the list highlights how cinema from this year continues to influence filmmakers and audiences alike.
Rolling Stone's 99 Best Films of 1999
- Magnolia
- The Matrix
- Being John Malkovich
- The Insider
- The Virgin Suicides
- Beau Travail
- Election
- The Straight Story
- Fight Club
- Rushmore
- The Limey
- The Sixth Sense
- Three Kings
- American Movie
- Eyes Wide Shut
- Topsy-Turvy
- South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut
- The Blair Witch Project
- Last Night
- Boys Don't Cry
- Office Space
- Toy Story 2
- Run Lola Run
- The Iron Giant
- The Talented Mr. Ripley
- Audition
- Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels
- Notting Hill
- The Wind Will Carry Us
- All About My Mother
- Galaxy Quest
- Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai
- Mr. Death
- The Best Man
- Go
- 10 Things I Hate About You
- Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace
- Buena Vista Social Club
- Ratcatcher
- American Pie
- eXistenZ
- The Mummy
- Any Given Sunday
- Girl, Interrupted
- Cruel Intentions
- The Wood
- But I'm a Cheerleader
- Rosetta
- Cookie's Fortune
- The Hurricane
- Ravenous
- Holy Smoke
- Felicia's Journey
- Instrument
- Dick
- The Thomas Crown Affair
- Bowfinger
- Princess Mononoke
- Analyze This
- Jesus' Son
- Pola X
- Ride With the Devil
- The End of the Affair
- Judy Berlin
- October Sky
- Sleepy Hollow
- Deep Blue Sea
- Cradle Will Rock
- Stuart Little
- Limbo
- An Ideal Husband
- Sweet and Lowdown
- Miss Julie
- Titus
- For the Love of the Game
- Man on the Moon
- She's All That
- Tarzan
- Double Jeopardy
- The Muse
- Following
- The Cider House Rules
- The Winslow Boy
- Summer of Sam
- Flawless
- Mystery Men
- American Beauty
- Bringing Out the Dead
- Jawbreaker
- The Red Violin
- Black & White
- Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me
- The World Is Not Enough
- Angela's Ashes
- Music of the Heart
- Big Daddy
- Varsity Blues
- Boondock Saints
- Dogma
Personal Impressions
Rolling Stone's list is both a nostalgic trip and a catalyst for debate. While it's hard to argue against the brilliance of Magnolia or The Matrix, omissions like The Green Mile feel glaring. Personally, I find the low ranking of American Beauty a bit extreme, as the film's craftsmanship remains undeniable despite its controversies. However, seeing gems like Galaxy Quest (#31) and Notting Hill (#28) recognized reminds us of the incredible variety that 1999 had to offer.
What are your thoughts on Rolling Stone's rankings? Do you agree with their top picks, or were your favorites left out? Let us know which 1999 films you believe deserve more recognition!
