Blockbuster films that shatter box office records are a common occurrence these days, with many of the highest-grossing films being released in the last decade, thanks to modern-day ticket prices. Yet, even with the advantage of higher revenues, these films have displayed impressive staying power, dominating the global box office charts and cementing their place in cinema history.
At the top of the worldwide box office is James Cameron’s 2009 epic, Avatar. The fact that this film remains No. 1 more than 15 years after its release, when ticket prices were considerably lower, only underscores its enduring impact. Not far behind is its sequel, Avatar: The Way of Water, which currently sits at No. 3. Interestingly, Cameron also claims another spot in the top 4 with Titanic, reinforcing his reputation as a master of the box office.
It’s important to note that these rankings are not adjusted for inflation, which would present a different picture of the all-time top films. When adjusted for inflation, domestic (U.S. and Canada) leaders include classics like Gone With the Wind, Star Wars, The Sound of Music, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, and Titanic.
Now, let’s dive into the top 15 highest-grossing movies worldwide:
1. Avatar (2009)
Worldwide gross: $2.92 billion | Domestic: $785.2 million
James Cameron’s sci-fi masterpiece transported viewers to the world of Pandora, where Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) embarks on a journey that’s as visually stunning as it is emotionally compelling.
2. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Worldwide gross: $2.80 billion | Domestic: $858.4 million
Marvel’s ambitious crossover event was a culmination of over a decade of storytelling, bringing together heroes from across the Marvel Cinematic Universe to defeat Thanos in an unforgettable finale.
3. Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)
Worldwide gross: $2.32 billion | Domestic: $684.1 million
The long-awaited sequel to Avatar dives into Pandora’s underwater realms as Jake Sully and Neytiri (Zoë Saldaña) face new threats while raising a family.
4. Titanic (1997)
Worldwide gross: $2.26 billion | Domestic: $674.3 million
Another James Cameron hit, this iconic love story set against the tragic sinking of the Titanic continues to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide.
5. Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)
Worldwide gross: $2.07 billion | Domestic: $936.7 million
The return of Star Wars sparked global excitement, reintroducing the beloved franchise with both familiar characters and fresh faces.
6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
Worldwide gross: $2.05 billion | Domestic: $678.8 million
The MCU’s penultimate chapter before Endgame, Infinity War left audiences in shock as Thanos’ snap erased half of all life in the universe.
7. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
Worldwide gross: $1.92 billion | Domestic: $814.1 million
This multiverse adventure delivered on fan theories by bringing together three generations of Spider-Men—Tom Holland, Tobey Maguire, and Andrew Garfield—for an epic showdown.
8. Jurassic World (2015)
Worldwide gross: $1.67 billion | Domestic: $653.4 million
Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard reignited the Jurassic Park franchise with this thrilling return to Isla Nublar, where dinosaurs once again run amok.
9. The Lion King (2019)
Worldwide gross: $1.66 billion | Domestic: $543.6 million
Disney’s live-action adaptation of its beloved animated classic struck a chord with audiences, retelling Simba’s journey to reclaim Pride Rock.
10. The Avengers (2012)
Worldwide gross: $1.52 billion | Domestic: $623.4 million
The original superhero team-up film that forever changed the box office landscape, The Avengers saw Earth’s mightiest heroes unite to face Loki.
11. Furious 7 (2015)
Worldwide gross: $1.52 billion | Domestic: $353 million
Marking Paul Walker’s final appearance, this Fast & Furious installment packs an emotional punch alongside its high-octane action sequences.
12. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Worldwide gross: $1.50 billion | Domestic: $718.7 million
Decades after the original, Top Gun: Maverick soared past expectations, giving Tom Cruise’s iconic character a triumphant return to the skies.
13. Frozen II (2019)
Worldwide gross: $1.45 billion | Domestic: $477.4 million
The magic of Arendelle returned in this visually stunning sequel as Elsa embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
14. Barbie (2023)
Worldwide gross: $1.45 billion | Domestic: $636.2 million
2023’s viral sensation saw Barbie (Margot Robbie) leave the perfection of Barbie Land for the real world, igniting a whirlwind of color, comedy, and social commentary.
15. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
Worldwide gross: $1.41 billion | Domestic: $459 million
The second Avengers film introduced new characters like Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver while pitting the team against the menacing AI, Ultron.
