The world of cinema has produced some truly unforgettable experiences through movies, but only a select few have managed to capture the hearts and wallets of audiences worldwide to become the highest-grossing movies of all time. These highest-grossing movies have not only dominated the box office but have also left an indelible mark on popular culture. From epic space battles to emotionally charged romances, these films have pushed the boundaries of storytelling, visual effects, and audience engagement.
This list of the 10 highest-grossing movies as of 2024 includes a mix of science fiction adventures, superhero epics, and timeless tales that have resonated with viewers across the globe. Each film on this list has its own unique appeal, whether it’s through groundbreaking special effects, compelling characters, or iconic moments that have become a part of cinematic history. Starting from number 10 and counting down to the highest-grossing movies of all time, this list highlights not only the financial success of these movies but also what made them so special and beloved by audiences everywhere.
10 Highest-Grossing Movies Till Date:
10. Inside Out 2 (2024)
“Inside Out 2,” the sequel to Pixar’s 2015 hit “Inside Out,” continues to explore the complex world of human emotions. The film follows Riley as she navigates new life challenges, with her emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust—guiding her through the ups and downs. The sequel delves deeper into the psychological and emotional development of Riley, making it both a fun and thought-provoking watch.
The emotional depth and relatability of “Inside Out 2” are what truly set it apart. By exploring themes of growth, change, and emotional maturity, the film resonates with both younger and older audiences. The creative representation of emotions as characters allows viewers to connect with their own experiences, making it a powerful and introspective film.
Key Information:
- Release Date: June 14, 2024
- IMDB Rating: 7.8
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 91%
- Directors: Kelsey Mann
- Cast: Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Maya Hawke, Lewis Black,
- Worldwide Streams: 400 million
- Gross Collection: $1.628 billion
9. The Lion King (2019)
Disney’s “The Lion King” (2019) is a live-action/CGI remake of the 1994 animated classic. Directed by Jon Favreau, the film follows the journey of Simba, a young lion who must reclaim his rightful place as king after the murder of his father, Mufasa. The photorealistic animation brought the beloved characters and African landscapes to life in a way that was both nostalgic and visually stunning.
The Lion King’s success is rooted in its ability to combine the timeless appeal of the original with cutting-edge technology. The film’s realistic animation and faithful adaptation of iconic scenes struck a chord with audiences, making it a major hit. Its musical score, featuring the talents of Elton John, Beyoncé, and Hans Zimmer, also played a significant role in its popularity.
Key Information:
- Release Date: July 9, 2019
- IMDB Rating: 6.8
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 52%
- Directors: Jon Favreau
- Cast: Donald Glover, Beyoncé, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, James Earl Jones
- Worldwide Streams: 650 million
- Gross Collection: $1.663 billion
8. Jurassic World (2015)
“Jurassic World,” directed by Colin Trevorrow, resurrects the iconic dinosaur franchise by setting the story in a fully operational dinosaur theme park. The film takes place 22 years after the events of “Jurassic Park” and introduces genetically engineered dinosaurs, including the fearsome Indominus Rex. As chaos ensues, the characters must fight for survival against these prehistoric creatures.
Jurassic World’s success can be attributed to its blend of nostalgia and modern blockbuster thrills. The return to Isla Nublar, combined with cutting-edge visual effects, captured the imagination of both fans of the original film and new audiences. The film’s mix of suspense, action, and stunning visuals made it a thrilling ride from start to finish.
Key Information:
- Release Date: June 12, 2015
- IMDB Rating: 6.9
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 71%
- Directors: Colin Trevorrow
- Cast: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Vincent D’Onofrio, Ty Simpkins
- Worldwide Streams: 900 million
- Gross Collection: $1.671 billion
7. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
“Spider-Man: No Way Home” is a Marvel Cinematic Universe film that brought together three generations of Spider-Man actors—Tom Holland, Tobey Maguire, and Andrew Garfield—in an unprecedented crossover event. The film follows Peter Parker as he deals with the fallout of his identity being revealed to the world, leading him to seek help from Doctor Strange to alter reality.
The sheer nostalgia and fan service in “Spider-Man: No Way Home” made it an instant classic. The film’s ability to weave together different versions of Spider-Man and their respective villains, along with its emotional depth and spectacular action sequences, resonated with fans worldwide. The multiverse concept was both a creative and commercial triumph.
Key Information:
- Release Date: December 17, 2021
- IMDB Rating: 8.2
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 93%
- Directors: Jon Watts
- Cast: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield
- Worldwide Streams: 1 billion
- Gross Collection: $1.923 billion
6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
“Avengers: Infinity War” is a Marvel Cinematic Universe film that brings together a massive ensemble of superheroes to face their greatest threat yet—Thanos. The film is the culmination of a decade’s worth of interconnected stories, leading to an epic showdown that leaves the fate of the universe hanging in the balance.
The sheer scale and ambition of “Infinity War” are what make it so remarkable. The film masterfully balances multiple storylines and characters, building up to an unforgettable and devastating climax. Thanos, as portrayed by Josh Brolin, is one of the most compelling villains in cinema, adding depth and complexity to the story.
Key Information:
- Release Date: April 27, 2018
- IMDB Rating: 8.4
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 85%
- Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo
- Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Evans, Josh Brolin
- Worldwide Streams: 1.3 billion
- Gross Collection: $2.052 billion
5. Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015)
“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” marked the return of the beloved Star Wars saga, introducing a new generation of heroes and villains while paying homage to the original trilogy. Directed by J.J. Abrams, the film follows Rey, a scavenger on a desert planet, who discovers her connection to the Force as she embarks on an epic adventure.
“The Force Awakens” successfully revitalized the Star Wars franchise by blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling. The film introduced compelling new characters, such as Rey, Finn, and Kylo Ren, while also reuniting fans with old favorites like Han Solo and Leia. Its blend of action, humor, and heart made it a resounding success.
Key Information:
- Release Date: December 18, 2015
- IMDB Rating: 7.8
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 93%
- Directors: J.J. Abrams
- Cast: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Adam Driver, Harrison Ford
- Worldwide Streams: 1.5 billion
- Gross Collection: $2.071 billion
Read Also: 10 Best Superhero Movies Of All Time
4. Titanic (1997)
James Cameron’s “Titanic” is a historical romance and disaster film set against the backdrop of the infamous sinking of the RMS Titanic. The story follows the ill-fated love affair between Jack Dawson, a poor artist, and Rose DeWitt Bukater, a wealthy young woman engaged to another man. The film’s tragic ending and emotional depth made it a global phenomenon.
“Titanic” resonated with audiences due to its epic love story, groundbreaking special effects, and emotional resonance. The film’s meticulous attention to historical detail, combined with Cameron’s visionary direction, made it a cinematic masterpiece. The iconic performances by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, coupled with the hauntingly beautiful score, made “Titanic” unforgettable.
Key Information:
- Release Date: July 2, 1997
- IMDB Rating: 7.9
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 88%
- Directors: James Cameron
- Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane, Kathy Bates
- Worldwide Streams: 2 billion
- Gross Collection: $2.264 billion
3. Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)
“Avatar: The Way of Water” is the long-awaited sequel to James Cameron’s groundbreaking 2009 movie, “Avatar” which is one of the highest grossing movies. This installment dives deeper into the world of Pandora, focusing on the oceanic tribes and the struggles they face to protect their home. The film continues the story of Jake Sully and Neytiri as they lead a rebellion against the human invaders threatening their planet.
The visual effects in “Avatar: The Way of Water” are nothing short of revolutionary, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in filmmaking. The underwater sequences, in particular, are a testament to Cameron’s innovative use of technology. The film’s environmental themes and epic storytelling also resonated with global audiences, making it a box office success.
Key Information:
- Release Date: December 14, 2022
- IMDB Rating: 7.5
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 76%
- Directors: James Cameron
- Cast: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Kate Winslet
- Worldwide Streams: 2.3 billion
- Gross Collection: $2.320 billion
2. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
“Avengers: Endgame” is the epic conclusion to the Infinity Saga in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film picks up after the devastating events of “Avengers: Infinity War”(one of the highest grossing movies), where Thanos wipes out half of all life in the universe. The remaining Avengers assemble one last time to undo the damage and defeat Thanos once and for all.
“Avengers: Endgame” succeeded because it delivered a satisfying conclusion to over a decade of interconnected stories. The film balanced intense action, emotional depth, and a sense of finality, creating a memorable experience for fans. Its time-travel plot, epic battles, and character arcs, particularly Tony Stark’s, made it an unforgettable cinematic event.
Key Information:
- Release Date: 2019
- IMDB Rating: 8.4
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 94%
- Directors: Anthony and Joe Russo
- Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson
- Worldwide Streams: 2.5 billion
- Gross Collection: $2.799 billion
1. Avatar (2009)
James Cameron’s “Avatar” is a science fiction epic set on the alien world of Pandora, where humans seek to mine a valuable mineral. The film follows Jake Sully, a paraplegic former Marine, who becomes part of the Avatar Program, which allows him to inhabit a Na’vi body and integrate with the indigenous people. As Jake learns more about the Na’vi, he must choose between the world he knows and the world he’s come to love.
“Avatar” revolutionized the film industry with its groundbreaking use of 3D technology and motion-capture animation. The film’s immersive world-building, visual splendor and environmental themes captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. Cameron’s visionary storytelling and the film’s universal themes of love, sacrifice, and environmentalism resonated deeply with viewers, making it the highest-grossing film of all time.
Key Information:
- Release Date: May 22, 2009
- IMDB Rating: 7.9
- Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 81%
- Directors: James Cameron
- Cast: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang
- Worldwide Streams: 3 billion
- Gross Collection: $2.923 billion
Read Also: Top 10 Television Shows Of All Times
FAQ
What is the most viewed movie of all time?
The most viewed movie of all time is James Cameron’s “Avatar” (2009), which has captivated global audiences and remains the highest-grossing film in history, with over $2.923 billion in worldwide gross. Its groundbreaking visual effects and immersive 3D experience contributed significantly to its massive viewership.
Who is the most popular actor in the world?
As of 2023, “Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson” is often regarded as the most popular actor in the world. His widespread appeal stems from his versatility as an actor, charismatic personality, and presence in blockbuster films like the “Fast & Furious” franchise and “Jumanji” series. Additionally, his strong social media presence and relatable public persona have solidified his global fanbase.
Who is the highest paid actor in the world?
As of 2023, the highest-paid actor in the world is “Tom Cruise”. His earnings skyrocketed primarily due to the massive success of “Top Gun: Maverick”, where he not only starred but also took a significant share of the film’s profits. Cruise’s income from the movie is estimated to be around $100 million, placing him at the top of the earnings list for that year.
Conclusion
The highest-grossing movies of all time represent the pinnacle of cinematic achievement, both in terms of storytelling and technological innovation. These highest-grossing movies have captivated audiences across the globe, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in filmmaking and leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. From the lush jungles of Pandora to the final showdown with Thanos, these films have delivered unforgettable experiences that continue to inspire and entertain. As the box office continues to evolve, it’s likely that new films will join this prestigious list, but the impact of these ten highest-grossing movies will remain timeless.
