Ever get the sense that all the movies you watch are a part of a franchise you’ve heard of already? That’s no mistake. Today’s cinematic world belongs to franchises. From superheroes and astronauts to cartoon animals and ghost stories, the biggest-grossing film franchises keep fans enthralled—and studios raking in cash. Let’s take a closer look at 10 of the most successful movie franchises of all time, and why they endure.
1. Star Trek: From Cult Classic to Box Office Mainstay
Total Gross: $2.26 billion
What began as a niche TV show in the 1960s has evolved into a multi-generational sci-fi empire. Star Trek has delivered 14 films, with J.J. Abrams’ 2009 reboot giving the series new energy and broader appeal. The franchise continues to thrive by balancing nostalgia with fresh storytelling, drawing in both longtime fans and newcomers.
2. Madagascar: Animated Charm That Travels Well
Total Gross: $2.27 billion
It began as a wacky zoo breakout film, but Madagascar has since become an unexpected franchise phenomenon. The franchise has found its humor and heart resonate with all corners of the globe through four films and a spin-off. Word of a possible fourth installment is circulating, but it remains to be seen if the original cast members will come back.
3. Indiana Jones: The Adventurer Who Defined Blockbusters
Total Gross: $2.34 billion
In his fedora, whip, and fearless attitude, Indiana Jones was an icon of the screen. Stretched over five films, this action-adventure franchise has left its mark for good, even though the subsequent entries haven’t equaled the original trilogy’s impact. Nonetheless, the character’s legacy is cemented, and his legacy on the genre is not disputable.
4. Kung Fu Panda: A Hero with Heart (and Humor)
Total Gross: $2.36 billion
Combining martial arts action, slapstick humor, and an all-star voice talent cast, Kung Fu Panda has consistently captured fans’ hearts. Eight years after its last outing, Kung Fu Panda 4 returned Po to the big screen, reminding audiences why this unlikely Dragon Warrior is still a family favorite.
5. The Conjuring Universe: Horror with Staying Power
Total Gross: $2.38 billion
Horror franchises don’t often make it into the billion-dollar club, but The Conjuring is the exception. With nine films connected in some way, from Annabelle to The Nun, this horror movie universe has become a staple of contemporary horror. And with its core saga winding down, spin-offs may keep the scares going for years to come.
6. Iron Man: The Hero Who Started It All
Total Gross: $2.42 billion
Before the Marvel Cinematic Universe domination, it all began with Iron Man. Robert Downey Jr.’s performance as Tony Stark not only brought the character back to life but also set the foundation for Marvel’s multi-billion-dollar empire. Although Stark’s journey might have concluded, the influence of the franchise remains paramount throughout the MCU.
7. The Dark Knight Trilogy: A Game-Changer for Superheroes
Total Gross: $2.44 billion
Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy set the standard for comic book movies. Through its realism and strong performances—particularly Heath Ledger’s unforgettable portrayal of the Joker—these movies redefined what a superhero film could be. All subsequent Batman movies have been measured against Nolan’s innovative vision, which continues to influence films today.
8. Guardians of the Galaxy: Marvel’s Most Unexpected Hit
Total Gross: $2.48 billion
When Marvel originally introduced this misfit crew, they didn’t expect them to be fan favorites. But with a stinging script, a killer score, and real chemistry, Guardians of the Galaxy has turned into one of the MCU’s most popular sub-franchises. Even as director James Gunn exits, the Guardians’ saga doesn’t seem anywhere near its conclusion.
9. MonsterVerse: Bigger Is Better
Total Gross: $2.49 billion
By bringing together iconic monsters such as Godzilla and King Kong, the MonsterVerse has made giant creature fights blockbusters gold. Whether monsters are fighting or banding together to save humanity, the franchise shows that spectacle sells. With additional titles in the works, the kaiju mania isn’t going away anytime soon.
10. Planet of the Apes: Sci-Fi with Substance
Total Gross: $2.51 billion
Since 1968, when it first hit screens, Planet of the Apes has tackled grand concepts with exquisite sci-fi storytelling. With ten films spread over multiple reboots and continuities, it’s the longest-running American sci-fi franchise. Its combination of action, sentiment, and social commentary makes it fresh and successful with every new generation.
Why Franchises Dominate the Box Office
What’s the secret to these box office behemoths? For media analysts such as Sean Duncan and Jack Hamilton, it’s all about familiarity and minimal risk. Studios recognize that consumers will pay more for characters and plots they already know. And for fans, there’s security in going back to favorite worlds.
Nostalgia is a big part of it as well—grown-up adults who used to watch specific franchises now take their kids with them and make one-off hits a family affair. As Jack Hamilton says, even new ideas tend to come in familiar packaging—reboots, sequels, or legacy spinoffs—because they are easier to promote and have higher chances of success.
Evolving the Formula: How Studios Keep It Fresh
It’s intelligent to stick with what’s working, up to a point. Franchises must be revamped to stay alive. Consider Pixar, for instance. With the success of Finding Dory and Incredibles 2, the studio has embraced sequels and also experimented with new formats in Disney+ series and select release scheduling.
The Ghostbusters franchise is another excellent example of adaptation. From its 1984 comedy origin to animated spin-offs, reboots, and recent legacy sequels, it has grossed more than $1 billion while remaining relevant in pop culture.
What’s Next for Hollywood’s Heavy Hitters?
As long as viewers want the familiar—and studios want reliable returns—film franchises will be king. The tactics might change, and the forms might vary, but the largest brands in movies aren’t disappearing. The only question is: which franchise will ascend next to join the billion-dollar club?