Film remains crucial as long as we cherish the unique thrill of gathering with strangers in a dimly lit theater. It's not merely entertainment; it reflects our humanity and addresses the everyday issues that grip us. It is a form of storytelling that deeply matters to us, transcending borders and languages to become universal. It is not just a medium but also an art form and phenomenon that connects us into one collective experience.
At least, that's what I'd like to expect in an ideal world. But in today's Hollywood, it feels more like wading through a sea of mediocre scripts drowned in dreadful CGI and flashy, billion-dollar action sequences. Yet amidst the chaos, those rare cinematic gems still cut through the noise, reminding us of the true power of storytelling and the magic of the big screen. It's these moments of cinematic brilliance that reaffirm my faith in blockbusters.
This list is based on data from IMDb's Top Lifetime Adjusted Grosses list, adjusted to 2022 ticket prices, helping us compare a movie's popularity over time by accounting for inflation. It reveals the number of tickets sold for each film, adjusted to reflect 2022 ticket prices, facilitating fair comparisons across different years. While not flawless and subject to variations from other sources, it is a handy tool for comparing box office successes equally. (All amounts are in USD and rounded up).
Here are the top 15 heavyweight box office champions for the highest-grossing movies of all time:
15. Avatar (2009)
Director: James Cameron
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $912 million
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $785 million
James Cameron's visually stunning sci-fi epic mesmerized audiences with its groundbreaking 3D technology and powerful environmental message. Immersing viewers in the lush landscapes of Pandora and the captivating culture of the Na'vi, the CGI has aged like fine wine, a testament to Cameron's visionary genius.
Released in 2009, Avatar not only left an indelible mark on cinema but also sparked what many dubbed "Avatar withdrawal syndrome," a longing for the immersive world long after the credits rolled and viewers yearning to return to the fantastical realm and reconnect with its inhabitants.
Although this is at the bottom of our list today, on other lists looking at the overall box office gross, Avatar and its 2022 sequel, Avatar: The Way of Water, take the top spots. Its impact on culture and filmmaking is undeniable. Cameron also confirmed that they are in the works of developing Avatar 3 and hope to have a trilogy franchise that takes over the charts.
14. Ben Hur (1959)
Director: William Wyler
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $919 million
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $74.4 million
An epic tale of revenge, redemption, and heart-pounding chariot races, Ben Hur captivates audiences with its grandeur and scale. From its sweeping vistas to its jaw-dropping set pieces, this cinematic is the kind of movie that reminds you why they invented the widescreen format.
It was a huge commercial success and a massive production for its time. It even set a record for most Academy Award wins, taking home 11. Yes, its long runtime of 3.5 hours can put off some viewers, but TRUST ME; if you put biases aside, it's incredibly entertaining. Just make sure you're watching the original one, not the 2016 remake. That one is a flop.
13. Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Director: Irvin Kershner
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $921 million
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $293 million
The middle child of the original trilogy, this darker, more mature installment took audiences to a galaxy on the brink of destruction. With epic battles and insane plot twists, it's a rare case of a sequel setting the bar even higher than its predecessor.
The cultural impact of the single line of "I am your father" is incredible, and you see it constantly referenced in other media. Mark Hamill even shared on The Graham Norton Show that director Ivan Kershner pulled him aside to reveal the twist and how the screenplay had a fake line replacing it to ensure its secrecy. Along with that legendary reveal, this one is a top-tier Star Wars film.
12. One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961)
Director: Wolfgang Reitherman, Clyde Geronimi, Hamilton Luske
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $936 million
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $145 million
In Disney's whimsical canine escapade, a fearless duo embarks on a daring odyssey to rescue their spotted pups from the clutches of a fur-obsessed villain. Along their journey, they make alliances with a motley crew of animal accomplices, each boasting their distinctive quirks and talents, injecting an extra layer of charisma and exhilaration into their quest.
This beloved classic has left an indelible mark on pop culture, spawning a slew of sequels and spin-offs, including the most recent 2021 origin story for Cruella, which featured Emma Stone playing the iconic crazy-haired villain.
While its staggering box office triumph may have taken some by surprise, it stands as a timeless ode to courage, loyalty, and, most of all, puppy love.
Billionaires Club
11. Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015)
Director: J.J. Abrams
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.01 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $937 million
Now, I personally don't understand this one. Although J.J. Abrams breathed new life into the galaxy far, far away, it felt like nostalgia bait and lacked any real substance. I was genuinely shocked to see the high ratings it got. Although, yes, I do understand why it did well box-office-wise.
With a massive fanbase that's been yearning for a new Star Wars blockbuster, we end up getting this? The visuals were great, and some of the new characters were compelling and a great addition to the Lucasfilm universe, but the story felt just so… empty.
It was so mid compared to the rest of the franchise. C'mon now, we can definitely do better than this.
10. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Director: David Hand
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.02 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $185 million
Walt Disney's first feature-length animated movie, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, initially faced skepticism from the film industry, earning the name "Disney's Folly." Yet, against all odds, the enchanting tale of the princess and her seven endearing companions—Doc, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, Bashful, Sneezy, and Dopey—proved to be the cornerstone of Disney's legacy.
Its monumental success wasn't just about its revolutionary animation and unforgettable characters; it resonated deeply with audiences of all ages, tapping into universal themes of love, friendship, and resilience. With its timeless storytelling, Snow White set the gold standard for animated films, cementing its place as an icon in cinematic history.
9. The Exorcist (1973)
Director: William Friedkin
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.04 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $233 million
No list of highest-grossing movies would be complete without mentioning The Exorcist. This iconic horror film, released in 1973, shocked and terrified audiences worldwide, becoming a cultural phenomenon and cementing its place in cinematic history.
Directed by William Friedkin and based on William Peter Blatty's novel, The Exorcist's gripping narrative, groundbreaking special effects, and stellar performances. Notably, Linda Blair's portrayal of Regan MacNeil propelled it to unparalleled success. The film also got its sequel, The Exorcist: Believer, in 2023; however, many described it as unnecessary and a letdown to the original.
Despite its controversial subject matter, "The Exorcist" became a cultural phenomenon, setting the standard for horror films and leaving an indelible mark on the genre for generations to come.
7. Jaws (1975)
Director: Steven Spielberg
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.20 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $267 million
In the summer of 1975, a movie about a Great White Shark scared audiences to go back into the water. Steven Spielberg transformed a basic movie premise about a killer shark into a cultural phenomenon, especially with its iconic theme song, composed by the legendary John Williams. Initially, Spielberg thought it was a joke, reportedly laughing, “That’s funny, John, really; but what did you really have in mind for the theme?” but later stated that the movie would not be complete without it.
However, the movie also had a substantial negative impact on sharks. It portrayed them as the epitome of evil, mercilessly hunting and slaughtering them, causing significant damage to marine ecosystems. Even worse, it caused many painfully average sequels, spinoffs, and remakes that just make you cringe instead of scream.
6. The Ten Commandments (1956)
Director: Cecil B. DeMille
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.23 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $65.5 million
During The Ten Commandments' production, director Cecil B. DeMille suffered a heart attack while checking a faulty camera atop one of the giant gates used in the Exodus scene. He ended up taking only two days off before returning against doctor's orders to finish the film. Thankfully, this turned out to be fortunate, as The Ten Commandments became not only a captivating historical epic but also a reflection of Cold War tensions, earning significant box office success.
5. Titanic (1997)
Director: James Cameron
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.27 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $674 million
A doomed love story between Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet aboard a sinking ship with just one door. Naturally, this tugged at the heartstrings of audiences everywhere. Through its compelling storytelling and breathtaking visuals, the film not only immortalized the tragic sinking of the Titanic but also propelled the careers of DiCaprio and Winslet to even greater heights. Their performances as Jack and Rose not only solidified their status as Hollywood royalty but also endeared them to audiences worldwide, cementing the movie's legacy as a timeless classic.
Additionally, the movie cost about $200 million, meaning every minute of this film cost over $1 million. This is because most of the ship's decor is historically accurate, from the lavish ballroom scenes to the intricate details of the grand staircase. This level of attention transported viewers back in time to experience the tragic romance amidst the impending disaster of the Titanic. And it paid off, as it is 5th on our list.
4. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
Director: Steven Spielberg
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.33 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $437 million
A movie following the unusual friendship between a small boy and an alien with no knees and a big heart-shaped head, Spielberg hits this list once again with his heartwarming sci-fi tale.
It touched the hearts of millions and became an instant classic. Its story of friendship and acceptance transcended its genre and dominated the cultural sphere. The funny-looking alien saying, "E.T. phone home," and the iconic flying bicycle are scenes that pop culture still references to this day.
If you want to cheer yourself up, this film is a guaranteed "feel good" watch.
3. The Sound of Music (1965)
Director: Robert Wise
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.34 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $159 million
The hills are aliveeee, with the sound of muuuuusic…
You can ask my roommate how often I belt this single verse out on a weekly basis. It just goes to show how iconic and charming this musical is.
From "Do-Re-Mi" to "My Favorite Things," every song is a timeless classic that stays with you long after the credits roll. It's a cinematic experience that enchants audiences of all ages, making it a must-watch for any movie lover.
I mean, it's Julie Andrews twirling on a hillside, with gorgeous cinematography that feels like a warm hug, all while still juggling serious themes. Need I explain more?
2. Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977)
Director: George Lucas
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.67 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $461 million
George Lucas was beyond convinced that A New Hope would flop, even showing an early cut to his brutally honest film director buddies, including Brian De Palma, who famously dubbed it the "worst movie ever." So, instead of facing the premiere jitters, Lucas opted for a getaway with none other than Steven Spielberg, where they came up with the idea for Raiders of the Lost Ark.
That said, it clearly was not a "flop" but forever changed the cinema landscape for the sci-fi genre. This space opera skyrocketed into a cultural phenomenon thanks to its revolutionary special effects and unforgettable characters.
Good luck trying not to hum Darth Vader's Imperial March while reading this paragraph. Even if you haven't watched any Star Wars media, you still know what I'm talking about.
1. Gone with the Wind (1939)
Director: Victor Flemming
Box Office Gross, Adjusted for Inflation: $1.90 billion
Box Office Gross, of its Time: $201 million
Gone with the Wind remains an enduring classic, reigning supreme for nearly a century. As an epic love story, it offered audiences a much-needed escape during the Great Depression with its captivating Technicolor portrayal of love, loss, and resilience. It's clear why the film is still relevant nowadays, examining its historical and cultural importance.
It is also a snoozefest that romanticizes the American Civil War, disregards the realities of slavery, and drags on for a mind-numbing 4 hours. No matter how hard I try to stay awake, I fall asleep. Every. Time.
Are you a big cinephile? For more movie-related articles, make sure to check out the History of Costume Design, the Best Gangster Movies of All Time, and Highsnobiety’s Guide to Cinema, where we have selections of all other related film articles! Still want to read more? Download the Highsnobiety app to keep up with all the latest news!
