We love movies. And we can’t help but throw our money at them. Around the world, millions and millions of people spend billions of dollars to see the next big thing on the big screen.
In many cases, motion pictures are events and multimillion-dollar spectacles. They involve red carpets, press junkets and marketing strategies that entice viewers to open their wallets just so they can be a part of the hype.
But even with an innovative marketing strategy, a film needs a good story, strong cast and overall creative juice to become a hit. When everything clicks, movies make tons of money. These films have made the most.
60. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" is the sixth installment of the "Harry Potter" series. Warner Bros. / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $934,418,753*
Domestic: $302,305,431
Overseas: $632,113,322
Studio: Warner Bros.
Year: 2009
*Numbers are from Box Office Mojo and not adjusted for inflation.
Bottom Line: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Michael Gambon plays Dumbledore and Daniel Radcliffe is Harry Potter in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince." Warner Bros. / IMDB
In the sixth installment of the "Harry Potter" franchise, Harry Potter and others at Hogwarts learn more about Lord Voldemort.
Harry has to stop Severus Snape and Draco Malfoy from carrying out a sinister plan while also dealing with Voldemort's followers and dark forces.
"The Half-Blood Prince" had an enormous budget, costing an estimated $250 million to make, but it made it back by three-and-a-half times in ticket sales.
59. Finding Nemo
In "Finding Nemo," Albert Brooks plays Nemo’s dad, Marlin, a clownfish desperate to rescue his son. Disney/Pixar / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $940,350,194
Domestic: $380,843,261
Overseas: $559,506,933
Studio: Pixar/Disney
Year: 2003
Bottom Line: Finding Nemo
"Finding Nemo" was an enormous box-office success. Disney/Pixar / IMDB
When his son gets captured at the Great Barrier Reef, a clownfish — joined by a memory-challenged blue tang — goes on a desperate search to be reunited.
With lead performances by Albert Brooks and Ellen DeGeneres, "Finding Nemo" brought tears of joy to audiences around the world.
58. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
In "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," the fifth movie in the series, Harry, Ron and Hermione do their parts in the battle against Voldemort. Murray Close/Warner Bros. / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $942,142,943
Domestic: $292,353,413
Overseas: $649,789,530
Studio: Warner Bros.
Year: 2007
Bottom Line: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Emma Thompson plays Sybill Trelawney in "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." Murray Close/Warner Bros. / IMDB
"Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" is the fifth movie in the "Harry Potter" series.
In this film, Harry, Ron and Hermione step up with a group of Hogwarts students in defense of brewing evil.
It’s also the movie where Harry begins to develop feelings for Cho Chang.
57. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
"The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers," is the middle installment of the LOTR series. New Line Cinema / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $943,282,270
Domestic: $342,551,365
Overseas: $600,730,905
Studio: New Line Cinema
Year: 2002
Bottom Line: The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn in "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers." New Line Cinema / IMDB
The second installment of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy is the first movie in the series to appear on this list, making roughly $50 million more than "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring."
"The Two Towers" sees Frodo and Sam continue their journey to Mordor.
It also features the epic Battle of Helm's Deep, which was a remarkable cinematic achievement.
56. The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
The final film in trilogy comes to an epic conclusion with "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies." Warner Bros. / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $956,019,788
Domestic: $255,119,788
Overseas: $700,900,000
Studio: Warner Bros.
Year: 2014
Bottom Line: The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
Ian McKellen is Gandalf in "The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies." Warner Bros. / IMDB
"The Hobbit" trilogy concluded with "The Battle of the Five Armies," a film that is considered the worst in the entire "The Lord of the Rings" series.
That doesn't mean it's terrible, but many fans felt this film fell flat and served as an unceremonious send-off to such a fantastic franchise.
55. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
"The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" is the second installment of "The Hobbit" trilogy. Warner Bros. / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $958,366,855
Domestic: $258,366,855
Overseas: $700 million
Studio: Warner Brothers
Year: 2013
Bottom Line: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
Martin Freeman stars as Bilbo Baggins in "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug." Warner Bros. / IMDB
The second film of "The Hobbit" trilogy was the fourth-highest grossing film of 2013.
If you loved "The Hobbit" trilogy, more power to you.
If you don't and want to know what happened behind the scenes, there's a very in-depth video on YouTube explaining what went wrong.
54. Pirates of the Caribbean: At the World’s End
The third movie in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series got mediocre reviews, but still made a ton of money. Peter Mountain/Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $960,996,492
Domestic: $309,420,425
Overseas: $651,576,067
Studio: Disney
Year: 2007
Bottom Line: Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End
Bill Nighy as Davy Jones in "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End." Disney / IMDB
The third "Pirates of the Caribbean" film didn’t open to great reviews, but it was still a solid flick.
In this adventure, Jack Sparrow and his crew face off against an English imperialist who controls the squid-faced Davy Jones.
53. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
Jack Black, Nick Jonas, Karen Gillan, Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart (left to right) star in the reboot of the beloved 1995 film starring Robin Williams. Sony Pictures / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $962,000,000
Domestic: $404,500,000
Overseas: $557,400,000
Studio: Sony Pictures
Year: 2017
Bottom Line: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
Jack Black checks out his character's strengths and weaknesses in "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle." Sony Pictures / IMDB
The remake/reboot of the beloved 1995 film starring Robin Williams features Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and Karen Gillan as the avatars of four high schoolers who get sucked into a video game.
With big-name comic actors as stars, "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle" retained the sense of humor of its predecessor. The movie’s appeal to kids and parents helped it succeed at the box office. Plus, it was good.
Its sequel, "Jumanji: The Next Level" was also a success, although it earned roughly $140 million less.
52. The Jungle Book (2016)
Baloo (Bill Murray) and Mowgli (Neel Sethi) in "The Jungle Book." Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $966,552,003
Domestic: $364,001,123
Overseas: $602,550,880
Studio: Disney
Year: 2016
Bottom Line: The Jungle Book (2016)
Bagheera (Ben Kingsley), Baloo (Bill Murray), and Mowgli (Neel Sethi) in The Jungle Book. Disney / IMDB
Disney first made a movie out of Rudyard Kipling’s "The Jungle Book" in 1967. A classic, the Mouse brought it back to life in 2016 with live-action and gorgeously rendered computer animation.
Thanks to the direction of Jon Favreau and an excellent cast that includes Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley and Scarlett Johansson, "The Jungle Book" proved to be a worthy remake and might even be better than the original.
51. The Lion King (1994)
The film version of the classic book satisfied on critics and fans alike. Disney
Worldwide gross: $968,511,805
Domestic: $422,783,777
Overseas: $545,728,028
Studio: Disney
Year: 1994
Bottom Line: The Lion King (1994)
"The Lion King" is a Disney classic. Disney / IMDB
This Disney animated film became a triple threat as critics raved about its story, music and animation. It was an instant classic.
Since its release, "The Lion King" has been recreated for Broadway, and it spawned an even more successful CGI remake. multiple fronts.
50. Despicable Me 2
Gru and the Minions fueled another smash in the second installment of the "Despicable Me" movies. Universal Pictures / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $970,766,005
Domestic: $368,065,385
Overseas: $602,700,620
Studio: Universal Studios
Year: 2013
Bottom Line: Despicable Me 2
"Despicable Me 2" was Universal Pictures' highest-grossing animated film until "Despicable Me 3." Universal Pictures / IMDB
The second installment of the "Despicable Me" franchise did not only open to rave reviews. It also took over the music world with its catchy soundtrack song, "Happy."
The movie grossed so much money that it became Universal Studios’ most profitable animated film for a while.
It also fueled all those terrible Minion memes.
49. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1
The first of the two-part finale sets up the climax of the beloved film series based on J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" books. Warner Bros.
Worldwide gross: $976,953,845
Domestic: $296,347,721
Overseas: $680,606,124
Studio: Warner Brothers
Year: 2010
Bottom Line: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1
Ralph Fiennes played Voldemort throughout the "Harry Potter" movie franchise. Warner Bros. / IMDB
The penultimate film in the "Harry Potter" franchise showed that the series still had a huge following worldwide.
It raked in $977 million in ticket sales around the globe.
Part 2 earned even more money.
48. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
The first "Harry Potter" movie introduced moviegoers to Harry, Ron and Hermione. Warner Bros.
Worldwide gross: $1,002,888,703
Domestic: $318,087,620
Overseas: $684,801,083
Studio: Warner Bros.
Year: 2001
Bottom Line: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Hagrid (Robbie Coltrane) and Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone." Warner Bros. / IMDB
The first "Harry Potter" movie kicked off a string of eight successful movies based on J.K Rowling’s beloved books.
While Harry Potter was already a well-known character, he became even more famous once he migrated to the big screen.
This movie, and the entire franchise, made Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson household names.
47. The Dark Knight
It's a Batman movie, but critics raved about the performance of Heath Ledger as The Joker. Warner Brothers
Worldwide gross: $1,005,455,497
Domestic: $535,234,033
Overseas: $470,221,464
Studio: Warner Brothers
Year: 2008
Bottom Line: The Dark Knight
Heath Ledger made an iconic Joker in "The Dark Knight." Warner Bros. / IMDB
The preceding Batman movie, "Batman Begins," did pretty well with critics and at the box office, but "The Dark Knight" bested it in every way and became the new gold standard for "Batman" movies.
"The Dark Knight" was praised for its painfully human story and an outstanding performance by Heath Ledger as the Joker.
Tragically, Ledger died six months before the film’s release.
46. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
The prequel to "The Lord of the Rings" series was a smash hit, but disappointing to many LOTR fans. Warner Brothers/New Line Cinema / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,017,003,568
Domestic: $303,003,568
Overseas: $714 million
Studio: Warner Brothers/New Line Cinema
Year: 2012
Bottom Line: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
Ian McKellen returned for "The Hobbit" movies. Warner Bros./New Line Cinema / IMDB
Even though the original "Lord of the Rings" fantasy franchise ended, moviegoers flocked to the big screen to see LOTR prequels come to life. They also experienced confused disappointment when "The Hobbit" films weren't half as good as the original trilogy.
Ian McKellen reprised his role as Gandalf, but he acted almost entirely alone due to the extensive use of green screens.
"All I had for company was 13 photographs of the dwarves on top of stands with little lights – whoever’s talking flashes up. Pretending you’re with 13 other people when you’re on your own, it stretches your technical ability to the absolute limits," McKellen said, noting that he "actually cried" in frustration.
45. Zootopia
A rookie bunny cop and a con artist fox uncover a conspiracy in "Zootopia." Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,023,791,495
Domestic: $341,268,248
Overseas: $682,523,247
Studio: Disney
Year: 2016
Bottom Line: Zootopia
Jason Bateman and Ginnifer Goodwin in "Zootopia." Disney / IMDB
A Disney animated movie that killed it at the box office? You don’t say.
This time around, Disney’s furry cast wowed audiences and became the studio’s highest-grossing film since "Frozen."
"Zootopia 2" is rumored to be in development, with a possible release date of 2021.
44. Alice in Wonderland
The live-action version of the classic story proved to be a winner. Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,025,467,754
Domestic: $334,191,110
Overseas: $691,276,644
Studio: Disney
Year: 2010
Bottom Line: Alice in Wonderland
"Alice in Wonderland" did well at the box office but wasn't a good movie, setting the stage for a failed sequel. Disney / IMDB
Another Disney animated movie that got remade into a live-action flick. While it was visually stunning, it got terrible reviews.
But Johnny Depp and Mia Wasikowska were able to draw audiences to theaters. Depp joined forces with Disney once again, this time to play the Mad Hatter. Wasikowska played the iconic Alice.
The movie's sequel, "Alice Through the Looking Glass," was a box-office bomb.
43. Forrest Gump
Tom Hanks as the titular character in "Forrest Gump." Paramount Pictures / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,025,920,021
Domestic: $330,455,270
Overseas: $695,464,751
Year: 1994
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Bottom Line: Forrest Gump
Tom Hanks as Forrest Gump in "Forrest Gump." Paramount Pictures / IMDB
Tom Hanks created one of the most iconic characters of all time with Forrest Gump, a man with low intelligence but a big heart.
"Forrest Gump" was a sensation when it came out, wowing audiences with the technology used to blend Gump into historical footage. The movie also gave the world some immortal lines.
"My momma always said life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get."
"Run, Forrest, run!"
"Stupid is as stupid does."
42. Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
The "Star Wars" saga returned with the first of three prequels. Lucasfilm Ltd. / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,027,082,707
Domestic: $474,544,677
Overseas: $552,538,030
Studio: Lucasfilm Ltd.
Year: 1999
Bottom Line: Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
Ewan McGregor and Liam Neeson in "The Phantom Menace." Lucasfilm Ltd. / IMDB
George Lucas returned to the "Star Wars" franchise after a nearly two-decade hiatus. This go-round tells the story of young Anakin Skywalker and how he became the infamous villain we know and (kinda) love.
The story of his descent to the dark side is interesting, but the trilogy ended up being terrible, and Lucas sold "Star Wars" to Disney for $4.05 billion in 2012.
He donated most of the money to education-based charities.
41. Finding Dory
Memory-challenged Dory is the star of the sequel to "Finding Nemo." Disney/Pixar
Worldwide gross: $1,028,570,889
Domestic: $486,295,561
Overseas: $542,275,328
Studio: Disney/Pixar
Year: 2016
Bottom Line: Finding Dory
"Finding Dory" was even more successful than "Finding Nemo." Disney/Pixar / IMDB
In this sequel to the beloved "Finding Nemo," Dory tries to find her mom and dad while learning to manage her short-term memory loss.
She has the help of old and new friends she meets and has an epic journey along the way.
40. Jurassic Park
The dinosaur flick launched one of the most successful movie franchises of all time and remains a fan favorite. Universal Pictures
Worldwide gross: $1,033,917,066
Domestic: $404,214,720
Overseas: $629,702,346
Studio: Universal Studios
Year: 1993
Bottom Line: Jurassic Park
A gloriously backlit Jeff Goldblum in "Jurassic Park." Universal Pictures / IMDB
This adventure classic ranks as director Steven Spielberg's most successful movie.
Even though the franchise has been rebooted, this dino flick remains the best installment in the "Jurassic Park" series.
39. Despicable Me 3
Gru meets his long-lost twin brother, and together with the Minions, they fight off an evil villain. Universal Pictures
Worldwide gross: $1,034,800,131
Domestic: $264,624,300
Overseas: $770,175,831
Studio: Universal Studios
Year: 2017
Bottom Line: Despicable 3
Minions have a luau in "Despicable Me 3." Universal Pictures / IMDB
Gru and his mischievous Minions returned to the big screen to meet his long-lost twin brother, and eventually fight off an evil villain, Balthazar Bratt.
While the movie opened to mixed reviews, it still became the fourth highest-grossing film of 2017.
Because it's quality entertainment for the whole family.
38. Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
The fourth movie in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series sends the characters in search of the Fountain of Youth. Disney
Worldwide gross: $1,045,713,802
Domestic: $241,071,802
Overseas: $804,642,000
Studio: Disney
Year: 2011
Bottom Line: Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) rides a stage coach in "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides." Disney / IMDB
Disney gave Captain Jack Sparrow a solo flick, where he joined forces with another swashbuckling pirate, played by Penélope Cruz.
While this movie is considered the worst of the "Pirates" franchise, even a lackluster movie from this series is still fun to watch.
"On Stranger Tides" is considered to be the most expensive movie ever made, with a reported budget of $379 million.
37. Aladdin (2019)
Will Smith is the Genie in "Aladdin." Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,050,693,953
Domestic: $355,559,216
Overseas: $695,134,737
Studio: Disney
Year: 2019
Bottom Line: Aladdin (2019)
Aladdin (Mena Massaud) walks along planks in the city of Agrabah in "Aladdin." Disney / IMDB
Disney's live-action remake of their classic animated film was an enormous success, raking in over $1 billion worldwide.
Will Smith took on the role of the Genie, and Disney chose Guy Ritchie to direct this big-budget film, which cost $183 million to make.
Critics gave "Aladdin" mixed reviews, but audiences loved it.
36. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
The Force was with "Rogue One." Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,056,057,720
Domestic: $532,177,324
Overseas: $523,880,396
Studio: Disney
Year: 2016
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
"Rogue One" introduced a new droid, the K-2SO. Disney / IMDB
How did the Rebel Alliance know the Death Star's weakness? "Rogue One" tells the story of how the rebels stole the plans from the Empire. This "Star Wars" saga spin-off became one of the most loved original stories since Disney rebooted the franchise.
While there might’ve been reshoots, and even a completely different ending from what was first envisioned, "Rogue One" turned out to be the grittier "Star Wars" film we didn't know we needed.
35. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest
The ride-turned-movie-franchise returned for a sequel, with captain Jack Sparrow and Elizabeth Swann (above, played by Keira Knightley) racing to recover the heart of Davy Jones. Disney
Worldwide gross: $1,066,179,747
Domestic: $423,315,812
Overseas: $642,863,935
Studio: Disney
Year: 2006
Bottom Line: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Bill Nighy as Davy Jones and Stellan Skarsgard as Bootstrap Bill in "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest." Disney / IMDB
Sequels rarely live up to the original film, but the second installment of this ride-inspired franchise didn’t disappoint.
Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp), Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) and Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) set sail to find Davy Jones' heart and end the curse of the Dead Man's Chest.
It was an exciting time for all.
34. Toy Story 3
The third installment of the "Toy Story" franchise had a lot of suspense. Disney/Pixar
Worldwide gross: $1,066,969,703
Domestic: $415,004,880
Overseas: $651,964,82
Studio: Pixar
Year: 2010
Bottom Line: Toy Story 3
Tim Allen returns to voice Buzz Lightyear in "Toy Story 3." Disney / IMDB
After 10 years, the toys from "Toy Story" returned for another adventure.
This time, they're accidentally dropped off at a daycare center and need to get back home before Andy leaves for college.
This one is an emotional rollercoaster.
33. Toy Story 4
"Toy Story 4" concluded the series. Disney / Disney.com
Worldwide gross: $1,073,394,593
Domestic: $434,038,008
Overseas: $639,356,585
Studio: Disney
Year: 2019
Bottom Line: Toy Story 4
Woody walks with Forky in "Toy Story 4." Disney / Disney.com
"Toy Story 4" marked the end of the "Toy Story" movies.
The franchise has been around forever, but only three movies have been released since the original "Toy Story" came out in 1994.
"Toy Story 4" is a fitting, beautiful end to the series. We're not sure where the franchise is going from here, but Forky seems like he's here to stay.
32. Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker
Daisy Ridley plays Rey in "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker." Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,074,144,248
Domestic: $515,202,542
Overseas: $558,941,706
Studio: Marvel Studios
Year: 2019
Bottom Line: Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker
John Boyega, left, is Finn and Oscar Isaac is Poe in "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker." Disney / IMDB
J.J. Abrams returned to the "Star Wars" franchise to direct "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker." As the final installment in the Skywalker saga, "Rise of Skywalker" had a $275 million budget.
Was it a good movie? Some fans loved it, some fans loathed it. There certainly was a lot going on.
Abrams tried to button it all up until the next "Star Wars" installment, which is rumored to be set 400 years before the Skywalker timeline.
31. Joker
Joaquin Phoenix won an Academy Award for best actor for the role of Joker in "Joker." Warner Bros. / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,074,251,311
Domestic: $335,451,311
Overseas: $738,800,000
Studio: Warner Bros.
Year: 2019
Bottom Line: Joker
Joaquin Phoenix gave a captivating performance as Arthur Fleck/Joker in "Joker." Warner Bros. / IMDB
Heath Ledger's Joker character appeared out of nowhere, lacking a backstory and a rhyme or reason for his actions. Joaquin Phoenix's Joker character is sort of the opposite: In this film, we find out exactly who the Joker is, where he came from and why he acts the way he does.
Whether or not this Joker is the "real" Joker from the DC Universe, and not just a precursor, still remains to be seen.
"Joker" is not only one of the highest-grossing movies of all time. It's also the highest-grossing R-rated film ever made.
30. The Dark Knight Rises
“The Dark Knight” sequel outperformed its predecessor. Warner Brothers
Worldwide gross: $1,081,140,725
Domestic: $448,139,099
Overseas: $ 633,001,626
Studio: Warner Brothers
Year: 2012
Bottom Line: The Dark Knight Rises
Bane (Tom Hardy) and Batman (Christian Bale) tussle in "The Dark Knight Rises." Warner Bros. / IMDB
After "The Dark Knight" smashed box-office records and opened to rave reviews, "The Dark Knight Rises" was highly anticipated.
Catwoman (Anne Hathaway) and Bane (Tom Hardy) joined the cast as villains, while Christian Bale reprised his role as Batman.
"The Dark Knight Rises" was not as critically acclaimed as "The Dark Knight," but the third film was a worthy successor, and Hardy's Bane made the film that much better.
29. Transformers: Age of Extinction
"Age of Extinction" is the fourth "Transformers" flick. Paramount / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,104,054,072
Domestic: $245,439,076
Overseas: $ 858,614,996
Studio: Paramount
Year: 2014
Bottom Line: Transformers: Age of Extinction
Mark Wahlberg stars in "Transformers: Age of Extinction." Paramount Pictures / IMDB
Optimus Prime returns in the fourth "Transformers" flick, but a new lead actor took over.
Mark Wahlberg plays Cade Yeager, who helps the Transformers fight off the Decepticons.
This flick takes place five years after the previous "Transformers" movie.
28. Skyfall
Out of the many James Bond movies, this is the best performer. Columbia Pictures
Worldwide gross: $1,108,561,013
Domestic: $304,360,277
Overseas: $ 804,200,736
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Year: 2012
Bottom Line: Skyfall
Daniel Craig is James Bond in "Skyfall." Columbia Pictures / IMDB
Fall. Skyfall.
This James Bond movie is the 23rd Bond movie and is the highest-grossing of all of the Bond flicks. It also has a kick-ass score. The movie's titular main song won Adele an Academy Award and Golden Globe.
Guess it's hard to beat the Daniel Craig/Adele combo.
27. Transformers: Dark of the Moon
Even with cast changes, the third movie of the "Transformers" franchise succeeded at the box office. Paramount Pictures
Worldwide gross: $1,123,794,079
Domestic: $352,390,543
Overseas: 771,403,536
Studio: Paramount/Di Bonaventura
Year: 2011
Bottom Line: Transformers: Dark of the Moon
Optimus Prime in "Transformers: Dark of the Moon." Paramount Pictures / IMDB
The third movie of the "Transformers" franchise may not have had the same hype as the first or second movies, but it became the highest-grossing one of the series.
And it was another reminder that these movies are loud.
26. Captain Marvel
"Captain Marvel" was another winner for Marvel Studios. Marvel Studios
Worldwide gross: $1,128,276,090
Domestic: $426,829,839
Overseas: $701,446,251
Studio: Marvel Studios
Year: 2019
Bottom Line: Captain Marvel
Brie Larson stars as Danvers/Captain Marvel in "Captain Marvel." Marvel Studios / IMDB
"Captain Marvel" made $456 million worldwide just during its opening weekend, easily making back its $160 million budget and then some within four days.
Brie Larson is set to return in a second "Captain Marvel" film, slated for release in the summer of 2022.
25. Spider-Man: Far From Home
Jake Gyllenhaal plays Mysterio in "Spider-Man: Far From Home." Marvel Studios/Columbia / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,131,927,996
Domestic: $390,532,085
Overseas: $741,395,911
Studio: Columbia Pictures
Year: 2019
Bottom Line: Spider-Man: Far From Home
Tom Holland and Sendaya in "Spider-Man: Far From Home." Marvel Studios/Columbia Pictures / IMDB
The "Spider-Man" movies are charming, feel-good superhero popcorn flicks that continue to draw audiences worldwide.
Tom Holland plays an endearing Peter Parker, while Jake Gyllenhaal stars as the dastardly Mysterio in "Spider-Man: Far From Home."
The movie received great reviews from both critics and audiences.
24. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
"The Return of the King" marked the end of the "Lord of the Rings" series. New Line Cinema
Worldwide gross: $1,142,270,989
Domestic: $377,845,905
Overseas: $764,425,084
Studio: New Line Cinema
Year: 2003
Bottom Line: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Viggo Mortensen played Aragorn in "The Lord of the Rings" franchise. New Line Cinema / IMDB
"The Return of the King," is the last in the "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy and is one of the best fantasy movies ever made. Then again, all three of the LOTR movies are some of the best fantasy movies ever made.
ROTK is the epic conclusion to an epic series, and it was done beautifully.
Many consider it to be the best of the series.
23. Aquaman
Jason Momoa as "Aquaman." Warner Bros. / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,148,485,886
Domestic: $335,061,807
Overseas: $ 813,424,079
Year: 2019
Studio: Marvel Studios
Bottom Line: Aquaman
Patrick Wilson as Orm in "Aquaman." Warner Bros. / IMDB
DC botched its DCU franchise with "The Justice League" and "Suicide Squad" and needed a hit to renew fan interest.
"Wonder Woman" was the film that showed DC could make a great movie, and "Aquaman" was the movie that showed the DCU could embrace its humorous side.
"Aquaman" was a funny and light-hearted superhero flick, and Jason Mamoa was perfectly cast as Aquaman.
22. Captain America: Civil War
When several Avengers share the big screen, as they do in this third "Captain America" film, you know it's going to be a hit. Marvel Studios
Worldwide gross: $1,153,332,120
Domestic: $408,084,349
Overseas: $ 745,247,771
Studio: Marvel Studios
Year: 2016
Bottom Line: Captain America: Civil War
Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man. Marvel Studios / IMDB
"Captain America: Civil War" is the movie that transformed "The Avengers" and MCU into something special.
The stakes were raised, setting the tone for the rest of the MCU movies to follow.
21. Minions
This spin-off from the "Despicable Me" franchise was a huge success. Universal Studios
Worldwide gross: $1,159,444,662
Domestic: $336,045,770
Overseas: $823,398,892
Studio: Universal Studios
Year: 2015
Bottom Line: Minions
The Minions in a car from "The Minions." Disney/Pixar / IMDB
This spin-off from the “Despicable Me” franchise took everyone by surprise because of its down-to-earth humor and unique story.
While reviews were mixed, it became the highest-grossing non-Disney animated children's film.
People, it turns out, love Minions.
20. Iron Man 3
The signature character in "Iron Man 3." Marvel Studios
Worldwide gross: $1,214,811,252
Domestic: $409,013,994
Overseas: $805,797,258
Studio: Marvel Studios
Year: 2013
The last “Iron Man” film was nothing short of a spectacle, as Robert Downey Jr. put on his iron suit one more time.
While the story didn’t hit the mark as well as the other installments, Downey Jr. reprised his role in the best way possible: by being a lovable jerk who fights evil.
Bottom Line: Iron Man 3
Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man in "Iron Man 3." Marvel Studios / IMDB
It wasn't one of the greatest movies from the MCU, but the third "Iron Man" film was a decent entry into the "Iron Man" trilogy.
While the story didn’t hit the mark as well as the other installments, Robert Downey Jr. reprised his role in the best way possible: by being a lovable jerk.
And the formula — lovable jerk who fights evil — worked again.
19. The Fate of the Furious
The eighth installment of the "Furious" franchise succeeded. Universal Studios
Worldwide gross: $1,236,005,118
Domestic: $226,008,385
Overseas: $1,009,996,733
Studio: Universal Studios
Year: 2017
Bottom Line: The Fate of the Furious
Dwayne Johnson in "The Fate of the Furious." Universal Pictures / IMDB
Universal Studios continued to produce this franchise even without its lead, Paul Walker, who died during the making of "Furious 7."
This time around, two Oscar-winning actresses, Charlize Theron and Helen Mirren, joined the cast and revved things up.
Interestingly, "The Fate of the Furious" only made $226 million in North America and Canada. That's $24 million less than its $250 million budget.
18. The Incredibles 2
"The Incredibles 2" was an incredible success. Disney/Pixar / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,242,805,359
Domestic: $608,581,744
Overseas: $634,223,615
Studio: Pixar
Year: 2018
Bottom Line: Incredibles 2
Craig T. Nelson as Mr. Incredible. Disney/Pixar / IMDB
It took 14 years for the sequel to "The Incredibles" to come out, but audiences hadn't lost their love for the animated superfamily.
"The Incredibles 2" performed beyond expectations, taking in $1.24 billion at the box office and becoming Pixar's third-highest-grossing movie.
17. Beauty and the Beast (2017)
The adaptation of the classic tale resonated at the box office. Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,264,064,386
Domestic: $504,481,165
Overseas: $759,583,221
Studio: The Walt Disney Studios
Year: 2017
Bottom Line: Beauty and the Beast (2017)
Dan Stevens and Emma Watson in "Beauty and the Beast." Disney / IMDB
This once-animated movie about a beastly prince and young woman who fall in love was remade and brought to life in 2017. And it crushed it at the box office.
Emma Watson played the lead and Dan Stevens played the beast in the retelling of "Beauty and the Beast," which used digital effects and incorporated new songs.
Audiences fell in love with all of everything.
16. Frozen
The icy story of Elsa and Anna captured the hearts of little ones — and their parents — everywhere. Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,280,803,353
Domestic: $400,738,009
Overseas: $880,065,344
Studio: The Walt Disney Studios
Year: 2013
Bottom Line: Frozen
Kristen Bell stars as Elsa in "Frozen," which made bank at the box office. Disney / IMDB
Disney usually knocks it out of the park when it comes to its animation films. This movie knocked it out of the park and over the skyscraper across the street.
Elsa is an extremely popular Disney princess among kids today. But she's still not as beloved "Cinderella," who wears the most popular Disney princess crown.
15. Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom
Chris Pratt tames a baby raptor in "Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom." Universal Pictures / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,308,484,847
Domestic: $417,719,760
Overseas: $890,765,087
Studio: Universal Pictures
Year: 2018
Bottom Line: Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom
"Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom" received middling reviews but was hugely successful. Universal Pictures / IMDB
"Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom" was not a great movie, but it was hugely successful at the box office.
"Jurassic Kingdom: Dominion" is slated for a 2021 release date. Hopefully, it gives the franchise a fitting end.
Until they reboot it again a decade later.
14. Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Luke Skywalker returns to fight the First Order alongside Finn (pictured), Rey and other new characters breathing new life into the epic space saga. Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,332,540,187
Domestic: $620,181,382
Overseas: $712,358,805
Studio: Disney
Year: 2017
Bottom Line: Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Mark Hamill reprised his role as Luke Skywalker in "Star Wars: The Last Jedi." Disney / IMDB
The second installment of the third trilogy in this beloved series turned the "Star Wars" franchise on its head, thanks to creative direction by Rian Johnson.
It was certainly the weirdest movie in the "Star Wars" franchise, and it wasn't very good. But enough people were hyped from "The Force Awakens" to drop cash on "The Last Jedi," although it hurt the franchise overall.
"The Rise of Skywalker" made about $250 million less than "The Last Jedi" because the "Star Wars" hype train got derailed.
13. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2
The final chapter of this iconic books-turned-movies franchise came to a close with a powerful send-off for the main characters. Warner Brothers / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,342,180,260
Domestic: $381,409,310
Overseas: $960,770,950
Studio: Warner Bros.
Year: 2011
Bottom Line: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
"Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part II" is the highest-grossing Harry Potter film. Warner Bros. / IMDB
The final chapter of this iconic books-turned-movies franchise came to a close as "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2" debuted on the big screen.
Warner Bros. decided to split the seventh book into two movies, and for good reason. Not just because the book is 607 pages, but because they could make bank by hyping up audiences for the finale.
And hey, it was good. Both part 1 and 2 were shot back-to-back, with part 2 being the most beautifully shot "Harry Potter" film to date.
12. Black Panther
"Black Panther" blew away audiences with its attention to detail, incredible action and thoughtful storytelling. Marvel Studios / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,347,426,059
Domestic: $700,426,566
Overseas: $646,999,493
Studio: Marvel Studios
Year: 2018
Bottom Line: Black Panther
Chadwick Boseman as the T'Challa/Black Panther in "Black Panther." Marvel Studios / IMDB
People across the world celebrated the release of "Black Panther" largely due to its attention to detail, use of African roots and thoughtful storytelling.
Chadwick Boseman put on a masterful performance as T'Challa/Black Panther. It wasn't until his death in August 2020 that the world learned he was battling colon cancer since 2016.
Boseman's final film, "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," will be released on Netflix.
11. Avengers: Age of Ultron
In "Avengers: Age of Ultron," Marvel once again proved that if it puts many of its superheroes in one movie, people will fill theater seats. Marvel Studios / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,402,809,540
Domestic: $459,005,868
Overseas: $943,803,672
Studio: Marvel Studios
Year: 2015
Bottom Line: Avengers: Age of Ultron
The Avengers team up to fight Ultron in "Avengers: Age of Ultron." Marvel Studios / IMDB
The second Avengers film was much anticipated after the huge success of the first one, "Marvel’s The Avengers."
While there might’ve been conflict between director Joss Whedon and the studio, and this movie is considered the weakest "Avengers" film, "Avengers: Age of Ultron" was still a box-office smash.
10. Frozen II
Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad and Jonathan Groff in "Frozen II." Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,450,026,933
Domestic: $477,373,578
Overseas: $972,653,355
Studio: Disney
Year: 2019
Bottom Line: Frozen 2
Kristen Bell sprinkles some magic dust in "Frozen 2." Disney / IMDB
"Frozen" was Disney's biggest hit since "Toy Story 3" in 2010 and became the highest-grossing animated film of all time.
Six years after "Frozen" was released, "Frozen II" became the second-highest-grossing animated movie of all time, behind only Disney's other juggernaut: the 2019 "The Lion King" remake.
9. Furious 7
A story of revenge fuels the seventh installment of the "Furious" franchise. Universal Studios / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,515,048,151
Domestic: $353,007,020
Overseas: $1,162,041,131
Studio: Universal Studios
Year: 2015
Bottom Line: Furious 7
Dwayne Johnson wields a minigun in "Furious 7." Universal Pictures / IMDB
After more than a decade of "The Fast and the Furious" franchise being on the big screen, "Furious 7" became the highest-grossing film out of all the movies put together.
This success was partially due to the lead actor Paul Walker’s accidental death. But the film also made a name for itself based on how they beautifully ended it by using Walker’s brother in his place to shoot the final scenes.
8. Marvel’s The Avengers
The first movie with all of the Avengers on the screen together drove audiences wild. Marvel Studios / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,518,815,515
Domestic: $623,357,910
Overseas: $895,457,605
Studio: Marvel Studios
Year: 2012
Bottom Line: Marvel's The Avengers
The Avengers assemble for the first time in "Marvel's The Avengers." Marvel Studios / IMDB
The universe’s mightiest heroes finally came together after years of being in their own solo flicks in "The Avengers."
With "The Avengers," the MCU hit the next level with superhero movies. Audiences fell in love with the characters and complex storytelling.
The whole experience changed how we look at movie franchises and set the new gold standard for how to make a cinematic universe.
7. The Lion King (2019)
"The Lion King" (2019) is the highest-grossing animated film of all time. Disney / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,656,963,790
Domestic: $543,638,043
Overseas: $1,113,325,747
Studio: Disney
Year: 2019
Bottom Line: The Lion King (2019)
JD McCray voiced young Simba in the 2019 "Lion King" remake. Disney / IMDB
"The Lion King" came roaring back to theaters in CGI form and an all-star cast in 2019. The film, which was met with some skepticism before it was released, turned out to be a huge success.
Donald Glover, Beyoncé, Seth Rogen, John Oliver, James Earl Jones and Chiwetel Ejiofor lent their voices to this $260 million picture, which needed a massive box-office turnout to turn a profit.
It succeeded and then some.
6. Jurassic World
A genetically modified hybrid dinosaur escapes and goes on a rampage, bringing the franchise back to life in a big way 14 years after the previous installment. Universal Studios / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $1,670,401,444
Domestic: $652,270,625
Overseas: $1,018,130,819
Studio: Universal Studios
Year: 2015
Bottom Line: Jurassic World
Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard in "Jurassic World." Universal Pictures / IMDB
After the 2001 release of “Jurassic Park 3,” the dino-centric franchise came back in 2015 with "Jurassic World."
It was an enormous success, bringing in $1.67 billion at the box office and elevated Chris Pratt's career as an action star.
5. Avengers: Infinity War
Multiple threads of the Marvel cinematic universe converge in "Infinity War." Marvel Studios / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $2,048,359,754
Domestic: $678,815,482
Overseas: $1,369,544,272
Studio: Marvel Studios
Year: 2018
Bottom Line: Avengers: Infinity War
The Avengers fight Thanos in "Infinity War." Marvel Studios / IMDB
The first part of the finale of the ever-popular Marvel Cinematic Universe rocketed into the top five after less than two months at the box office.
The movie brought together multiple threads that "Avengers: Endgame" (mostly) resolved.
4. Star Wars: The Force Awakens
The "Star Wars" saga picks up three decades after the Empire's defeat, with new characters Finn, Rey and others fighting the rising First Order and searching for Luke Skywalker. Walt Disney Studios / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $2,068,224,036
Domestic: $936,662,225
Overseas: $1,131,561,811
Studio: Disney
Year: 2015
Bottom Line: Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Harrison Ford (Han Solo) and Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia) were back together again. Disney / IMDB
George Lucas’s iconic science fiction series was brought back to the big screen after a 10-year hiatus.
J.J. Abrams’s direction of the first movie in this new trilogy set took the world by storm.
It beautifully introduced new characters while still maintaining the story arcs of the old ones.
3. Titanic
The fictional love story with Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet aboard the Titantic captivated moviegoers. Paramount / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $2,195,169,869
Domestic: $659,363,944
Overseas: $1,535,805,925
Studio: Paramount
Year: 1997
Bottom Line: Titanic
Leonardo DiCaprio is "the king of the world" in "Titanic." Paramount / IMDB
Groundbreaking director James Cameron film boosted Leonardo DiCaprio's and Kate Winslet's careers with this three-hour epic.
Audiences fell in love with their portrayals of fictional characters (Jack Dawson and Rose Dewitt Bukater) who were guests on the Titanic's first and only voyage in 1912. Their love story overlayed the tragic real story of the ship, which sank in the icy waters of the North Atlantic.
The film was king of the box-office world for over a decade. Until "Avatar" came along.
2. Avatar
"Avatar" made over $2.7 billion. Twentieth Century Fox / IMDB
Worldwide gross: $2,790,439,092
Domestic: $760,507,625
Overseas: $2,029,931,467
Studio: Twentieth Century Fox
Year: 2009
Bottom Line: Avatar
"Avatar" was an amazing achievement. Twentieth Century Fox / IMDB
Director James Cameron already had big hits like "Titanic" under his belt when he made "Avatar."
The story is about a paraplegic marine who's able to walk again via an avatar. He ends up torn between his mission and protecting a world he comes to love.
This science-fiction flick had an amazing cast, gorgeous visual effects and a unique story, but it also had great timing. The movie debuted while 3D movies were all the rage, which contributed to the film's incredible success.
1. Avengers: Endgame
Robert Downey Jr. in "Endgame." Marvel Studios
Worldwide gross: $2,797,800,564
Domestic: $858,373,000
Overseas: $1,939,427,564
Studio: Marvel Studios
Year: 2019
Bottom Line: Avengers End Game
Captain America attacks Thanos in "Endgame." Marvel Studios / IMDB
It didn't take long for "Endgame" to shatter box-office records. The battle between Iron Man, Captain America, Black Widow and the rest of the Avengers (and their intergalactic allies) versus Thanos and his army performed even better than its massive expectations.
After two weeks in theaters, it was the second-highest-grossing film of all time, and by July 2019, it surpassed "Avatar" to become the highest-grossing film to date.
What did it cost? Not everything, but the $356 million production budget was recouped on its opening weekend.