It would be quite helpful to have a list of the most successful movies of the past few decades, wouldn’t it? Also, it might help you select which flick to watch this weekend. With that in mind, we have curated a list of some of the finest cinema in recent years. We have no doubt you will find them all to your liking. So grab your popcorn and get ready to scroll down a list of the most successful movies. In this century, at least. Let’s discuss further.
Avatar
IMDb: 7.8/10
Avatar officially became the best-selling movie worldwide, surpassing Endgame. In 2021, it was reissued in China, earning an additional $12.3 million. Before Endgame’s release, Avatar held the title of the highest-grossing film for 12 years.
James Cameron, the director, may have been disappointed to see his hard work surpassed at the box office, but the good thing is that he outdid his own masterpiece, Titanic.
This groundbreaking sci-fi blockbuster, where humans explore a planet inhabited by blue people, not only revolutionized special effects but also surpassed Titanic as the highest-grossing movie just two months after its release.
Avengers:Endgame
IMDb: 8.4/10
The epic showdown that concluded the third phase of the MCU in 2019 broke all box office records within weeks and remained the most successful movie ever for two years. Endgame held the title of highest-grossing movie of all time until Avatar swiftly stole the crown.
To increase its chances of becoming the box office king, Disney and Marvel re-released the film two months later, adding six minutes of new footage. This brilliant idea quickly made film history.
In this stunning epilogue, the Avengers strive to defeat Thanos and save the world years after he wiped out half the planet with a single snap.
Titanic
IMDb: 7.8/10
In 1997, James Cameron released an unforgettable romance movie that was inspired by Romeo & Juliet and set on the Titanic. It touched our hearts and became a huge success.
For many years, Titanic held the record as the highest-grossing film of all time until it was surpassed by Cameron’s own Avatar in 2010.
This Hollywood blockbuster turned Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet into international stars and surprised everyone by earning 14 Oscar nominations and winning 11 awards. It broke free from the stereotype of being just another silly blockbuster. The heartwarming story truly captivated audiences.
The Lion King
IMDb: 6.9/10
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, parents worldwide flocked to theaters to introduce their young children to the beloved Disney classic through this CGI reboot. They wanted their little ones to experience the magic of songs like “Hakuna Matata”.
Interestingly, the film achieved tremendous success at the box office, even though it received the lowest rating (52%) on Rotten Tomatoes. However, this hasn’t affected the sleep of anyone at Disney. Nevertheless, it is one of the best reboots till date.
Jurassic World
IMDb: 7/10
Twenty years after Steven Spielberg terrified us with his theme park filled with supposedly “friendly” dinosaurs, director Colin Trevorrow was given permission to create his own sequel to the 90s classic. And what a sequel it was. Everyone fell in love with it.
The new film, using advanced CGI technology, may not have captured the same charm as the original movies. But it still managed to entertain audiences and earn an impressive $600 million domestically. In fact, it became only the third movie since Titanic to achieve such a feat. James Cameron is surely keeping a close watch on these soaring pterodactyls.
Spider Man: No Way Home
IMDb: 8.8/10
In just three weeks after its release, the latest and final installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe featuring the web-slinger has climbed to 12th among the highest-grossing films ever. It has over $600 million earned in the United States and Canada, as well as more than $750 million in other parts of the world. No Way Home has a total worldwide gross of over $1.360 billion. It even surpassed the record previously held by Infinity War, grossing $260 million in its opening weekend and becoming the second highest-grossing domestic box office opening of all time.
Avengers: Infinity War
IMDb: 8.4/10
Marvel and Disney continue their world domination with their latest installment, which serves as the second-to-last chapter in the Thanos storyline. Captain America and his friends discover that the giant manipulative purple man might not be a good guy after all, leading to an epic reunion of all our beloved heroes.
This blockbuster film captivated audiences with its long-awaited crossovers, delivering thrilling moments and leaving us hanging on a nail-biting cliffhanger. The result? A staggering $2 billion earned in just 48 days, making Disney a happy camper.
Star Wars: Episode VIII: The Force Awakens
IMDb: 7.8/10
The highly anticipated comeback of the Star Wars saga in 2015 created a massive buzz. The film’s box office success proved that the magic of the saga was still alive, even after nearly a decade and some less popular movies (we’re talking about you, George Lucas).
With a familiar plot about a special hero fighting against an oppressive empire, The Force Awakens went above and beyond expectations. Thanks to J.J. Abrams’ creative direction and a new talented cast, the movie delivered the thrilling space adventure that fans had been eagerly awaiting.
Furious 7
IMDb: 7.1/10
The highly anticipated comeback of the Star Wars saga in 2015 created a massive buzz. The film’s box office success proved that the magic of the saga was still alive, even after nearly a decade and some less popular movies (we’re talking about you, George Lucas)
With a familiar plot about a special hero fighting against an oppressive empire, The Force Awakens went above and beyond expectations. Thanks to J.J. Abrams’ creative direction and a new talented cast, the movie delivered the thrilling space adventure that fans had been eagerly awaiting.
Frozen II
IMDb: 6.8/10
In 2015, LucasFilms rebooted Star Wars. It caused a massive buzz among fans of the original series and prequels. It had an all new cast and an all new story. But although there was massive hype, the new movie fell flat. But this could not stop it from earning the top spot in the box office. However, something must be said about the visuals. They are quite stunning. The lightsaber duels are even better. And the new villain, Kylo Ren, has become something of a fan favorite.
Avengers: Age of Ultron
IMDb: 7.3/10
Age of Ultron brought together the beloved heroes once more, attracting enthusiastic fans who eagerly awaited the return of Iron Man and his comrades. While the film didn’t receive the same level of praise and earnings as its predecessors, it still satisfied audiences with its action-packed sequences. Disney also profited from the film’s success.
Who doesn’t love an Avengers movie? Plus, Ultron is one of the best villains of our time. The self-aware android and his nihilistic sense of existence can be quite ridiculous at times. Do give it a watch.
Black Panther
IMDb: 7.3/10
Black Panther, the first superhero film with an all-Black cast, impressed with its captivating visuals and compelling storytelling. The film ventured beyond the familiar territory of the MCU, introducing fans to the hidden nation of Wakanda and its newly crowned king, T’Challa. It achieved a remarkable milestone by earning a staggering $200 million in its opening weekend, becoming the fifth film to do so. It was one of the best movies ever. Everyone loved the characters. Also, a black superhero was a long time coming. The sequel was also nice.
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