The era of cinema has seen a new “golden age,” with franchises ruling the box officeand fan demands no larger than the budgets themselves. For those wondering which movie franchises have ruled the North American box office, here’s a definitive guide to the ten highest-grossing film franchises, each a behemoth in its own right.
1. Marvel Cinematic Universe
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is the undisputed box office champion, having accumulated an incredible $11.71 billion. This gargantuan total includes the enormously successful Tom Holland Spider-Man trilogy and therecord-smashing Avengers movies, which top the all-time lists week in, week out. MCU’s sheer might was amply proven when Black Widow broke pandemic-era records with an $80 million opening domestically and a further $60 million from Disney+ Premier Access. With more than 24 films and still rising, Marvel’s dominance shows no indication of abating.
2. Star Wars
Out of a galaxy far, far away, Star Wars introduced a cinematic behemoth, placing itself in the second position with $5.09 billionfrom 11 movies.This still doesn’t consider the incredibly successful Disney+ streaming phenomena, which add to its cultural and fiscal supremacy. George Lucas’s universe is still a force to be reckoned with, holding generations of viewers under its spell.
3. Disney Live-Action Reimaginings
Nostalgia is a strong currency, and Disney has used its live-action reboots of cartoon classics to great success, raking in $3.49 billion. Critical reception may be mixed, but these beautiful reimagining exercises, not infrequently with A-list casts and enormous budgets, always keep the Mouse House’s coffers full.
4. Spider-Man
Your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man has swung to breathtaking heights, raking in $3.31 billion. Three live-action variations and the critically successful animated Miles Morales movies are included. No Way Home’s multiversal mayhem and artistic achievement of Across the Spider-Verse prove that Spidey’s web is only expanding and becoming more complex.
5. J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World
Wands poised! J.K. Rowling’s magical Harry Potter series, including Fantastic Beasts spin-offs, has cast a spell worth $2.88 billion. Its deep cultural influence is certain, and with upcoming ventures such as an HBO show, the magic won’t dissipate anytime soon, offering endless enchantment to fans globally.
6. Batman
Gotham’s Dark Knight, Batman, is a constant box office giant, with $2.78 billion in 12 films. From Adam West to Robert Pattinson, Batman’s on-screen heritage is as long-lasting as his rogues’ gallery is vibrant. Animated or live-action, followers always show up for the Caped Crusader.
7. DC Extended Universe
The DC Extended Universe (DCEU), though maybe having a more bumpy ride than Marvel’s, has also managed to lock in $2.65 billion over 14 films, demonstrating its longevity. Although some of its entries have received mixed reviews, the DCEU continues to pump out content, as recently boosted by outings such as The Flash and Blue Beetle.
8. Avengers
Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, the Avengers, have just four team-up films to their credit, but they deliver a mighty punch, grossing $2.61 billion. Avengers: Endgame alone broke many records. Although there is no new Avengers team-up in the works now, these films are still the gold standard for superhero team-ups.
9. X-Men
Mutants unite! The X-Men film franchise, including hit Wolverine and Deadpool spin-offs, has grossed over $2.45 billion. Even since being assimilated into the Marvel universe, the X-Men universe keeps expanding, with further R-rated escapades (such as upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine) coming down the line.
10. James Bond
The world’s greatest spy, James Bond, has been suavely agitating (not stirring) the box office since 1962’s Dr. No. With 26 films and six actors playing the legendary role, the franchise has collected more than $2.27 billion. Although it stands as the oldest on this list, Bond’s legacy guarantees his spot within the top ten even as newer film universes appear.
These ten giants have irreproachably raised the benchmark of success on the big screen for blockbuster franchises, proving that when it comes to the North American box office, bigger can indeed be better.