Wondering which movie franchise is the richest? Which are highest-grossing movie franchises of the world?
Movies are considered to be one of the most popular modes of expression. Even a silent movie has lots of messages to convey to its audience. With the advancement of technology, making great movies has become much easier. Especially the science fiction movies saw a huge leap in their quality.
The pandemic left everyone trapped inside their houses, which in turn made them bored and cranky. Movies were a constant companion during this time. Surveys suggest that the adults spent around 6 hours a day, in front of their television and mobile screens.
People began subscribing to online streaming platforms, which saw a staggering rise of 71%. In short, the common man chose movies as the way to kill their boredom.
There have been several great movies in the past. Some were so popular, they had to be woven into a franchise! While some of them were hit, some lost the fire somewhere in between. Here, we will discuss some of the highest-grossing movie franchises of all time.
The Coveted List of Highest-Grossing Movie Franchises
1. Marvel Cinematic Universe
- No of films: 23
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 22,557,315,232
Within a short time, span, the studio released several films, constituting the marvel universe. While the majority of them were successful, Ant-Man and the Wasp were considered semi-hit, despite collecting $622 million. This shows how much popular the other films were.
Avengers: Endgame is the highest-grossing movie of this franchise for now. With multiple movies planned, these records are bound to be broken.
You can read about Marvel Cinematic Universe in details, here.
2. Star Wars
- No. of films: 12
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 10, 320,189,178
This franchise is a true tribute to the sci-fi genre. The movies were popular, especially among the younger generation. The show took a rebirth under the brand of Disney. Star Wars: The Force Awakens is the highest-grossing film of the franchise.
3. Wizarding World
- No. of films: 10
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 9,245,413,281
A total treat for lovers of the supernatural and thriller genre, this franchise was a massive hit among children. Based on original books by J.K. Rowling, the franchise was a super hit. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 was the highest-grossing film of the franchise.
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4. Avengers
- No. of films: 4
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 7,770,077,764
The film’s characters became popular overnight. Not only in movies, but this movie also cast its spell on the clothing industry, stationaries and toys. Endgame was the most profitable film for the franchise.
5. Spider-Man
- No. of films: 9
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 7,213,542,971
The character is one of the most popular superheroes apart from superman and batman. Its popularity ensured entry as a regular into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Spider-Man: Far from Home was the highest-grossing film of the franchise.
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6. James Bond
- No. of films: 26
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 7,041,394,771
A great mystery thriller movie franchise that launched back in 1963. 7 actors have played the titular role of “James Bond” to date. According to recent reports, the hunt for the 8th actor to play the role will begin soon. Skyfall is the highest-grossing film of the franchise.
7. X-Men
- No. of films: 13
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 6,084,519,451
Although coming from the same comic company, the X-Men franchise was always kept separate from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, talks are on for merge in future. Deadpool 2 stands as the highest-grossing film of the franchise.
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8. Batman
- No. of films: 16
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 6, 072,549,025
Batman is a highly famous superhero, with multiple games and comics based on the character. Several actors have played the titular role, Robert Pattinson being the latest. The Dark Knight Rises is the most successful film in terms of revenue and viewership.
9. Middle Earth
- No. of films: 7
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 5,947,221,947
Based on a book by J.R.R Tolkien, the film franchise was a successful attempt. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is the highest-grossing movie of the franchise. According to recent news, the franchise might inspire a television series in near future.
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10. The Fast and The Furious
- No. of films: 9
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 5,893,952,279
The film franchise is based on various road sport, illegal betting and racing and concepts woven around it. Considered a successful franchise, there are multiple movies in it. The Fast and the Furious 7 is the most grossing film of the series. The ninth film got delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
11. DC Extended Universe
- No. of films: 9
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 5,649,501,102
Another great superhero film franchise, based on multiple comic characters. It hit the right note and made a mark in the international film market. Aqua man is the biggest hit of the film franchise.
You can learn about DC Extended Universe from here.
12. Jurassic Park
- No. of films: 5
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 4,998,557,380
Kids loved the idea of dinosaurs coming alive. The action-thriller movies were an instant hit among the audience, making the franchise super popular. Jurassic World was the highest-grossing film.
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13. Transformers
- No. of films: 7
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 4,853,126,073
Based on giant and ruthless robots, this American film series was an absolute delight. It became very popular throughout the world. Transformers: Dark of the Moon was the most successful venture.
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14. Pirates of The Caribbean
- No. of films: 5
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 4,524,439,761
The gripping tale of pirates won hearts all over the world. This franchise has performed exceptionally well in the overseas market, garnering massive revenue from there. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest was the biggest hit of the franchise.
15. Despicable Me
- No. of films: 4
- Worldwide Box Office: $ 3,708,073,676
The fun and emotional series about a man won the hearts of all and was declared a box office hit. Minions were the highest-grossing film of the franchise.
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Each of these franchises is unique and priceless on its own. The best part of them is their timeless nature. They are going to be in the Hollywood hall of fame for a very long time to come.
