Top 10 Horror Movies: Ranked by Box Office Success

Horror movies have a special way of grabbing our attention and making us feel intense emotions. They can make us jump out of our seats or keep us on the edge, exploring our deepest fears and curiosities. What's amazing is that horror movies are loved by people all around the world, no matter their culture. The excitement of not knowing what's going to happen next, combined with great storytelling, makes fans want to watch more.

In this article, we'll be looking at the top 10 horror movies that did really well at the box office. These films scared audiences and also made a lot of money. Here's how we picked these top 10 horror movies:

1. Worldwide Box Office Earnings: How much money the film made globally.
2. Opening Weekend Performance: How well it did when it first came out in theaters.
3. Long-term Revenue Generation: How much money it continued to make over time.

These factors help us figure out which horror films were most popular with audiences worldwide. Whether you're looking for the top 10 horror movies to bingewatch or simply interested in the best horror films ever made, this list offers a comprehensive overview of the box office top 10 in the horror genre.

How Box Office Success Shapes the Horror Genre

Box office performance can significantly shape the future of horror films. High earnings often serve as a green light for studios to invest in similar projects, creating a ripple effect across the genre. For instance, It (2017)'s massive success prompted a wave of Stephen King adaptations and reboots.

Impact on Future Projects

1. Increased Investment: Financially successful horror movies encourage studios to allocate larger budgets to upcoming projects. This can result in higher production quality, better special effects, and more notable actors.
2. Sequels and Franchises: A strong box office showing often leads to sequels or even entire franchises. The Conjuring universe, for example, expanded due to its initial success.
3. Genre Hybrids: Commercially successful horror films can inspire genre hybrids. Movies like World War Z blend horror with action, broadening their appeal and potential audience.

Commercial Success vs. Critical Acclaim

The relationship between a film’s financial success and critical reception can be complex:

• High Earnings, Mixed Reviews: Some high-grossing horror films receive mixed reviews from critics but still perform exceptionally well at the box office. I Am Legend is a prime example; despite mixed critical opinions, it resonated with audiences.
• Critical Darlings: Occasionally, critically acclaimed horror movies also achieve significant box office success. Get Out received both critical acclaim and financial success, proving that quality storytelling in horror can attract large audiences.
• Cult Classics: Some horror films may not achieve immediate financial success but gain cult status over time, influencing future projects through their lasting impact.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the dynamics of box office analysis and commercial success helps industry professionals predict trends and make informed decisions. Sites like Box Office Mojo provide valuable insights into these patterns, aiding both creators and fans in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of horror cinema.

By examining how financial success influences future projects and exploring the intricate balance between commercial appeal and critical praise, you gain a deeper appreciation for what makes certain horror movies stand out both financially and artistically.

The Influence of Directorial Techniques

Moreover, the role of directorial vision cannot be overlooked in shaping a film's success. For instance, Ridley Scott's directing techniques have been instrumental in creating some of the most memorable films in cinema history. His unique storytelling approach has not only garnered critical acclaim but also achieved remarkable box office success. If you're interested in understanding more about such impactful directing styles, you might want to check out this ultimate guide to Ridley Scott and his directing techniques.

The Impact of Movie Ratings on Audience Perception

Furthermore, it's worth noting that movie ratings significantly influence audience perception and consequently box office success. High ratings can draw larger crowds to theaters while low ratings might deter potential viewers. This Quora discussion provides an insightful exploration into this topic.

The Unpredictable Nature of Horror Films

Top 10 Highest-Grossing Horror Movies of All Time

1. It (2017)

Brief Plot Summary and Notable Characters

Adapted from Stephen King's 1986 novel, It tells the story of a group of children known as "The Losers' Club" who are terrorized by an ancient, shape-shifting entity that primarily appears in the form of Pennywise the Dancing Clown. Set in the town of Derry, Maine, the film dives into themes of childhood trauma and fear. The main characters include:

• Bill Denbrough (played by Jaeden Lieberher) - The unofficial leader of The Losers' Club.
• Beverly Marsh (played by Sophia Lillis) - The only female member of the group.
• Ben Hanscom (played by Jeremy Ray Taylor) - The new kid with a knack for historical research.
• Richie Tozier (played by Finn Wolfhard) - The jokester of the group.
• Pennywise (played by Bill Skarsgård) - The malevolent entity haunting Derry.

Box Office Performance Breakdown

It shattered several records upon its release. The film earned $123.4 million during its opening weekend in North America, setting a new record for the highest-grossing opening weekend for a horror film. Globally, It amassed approximately $702.8 million at the box office:

• Opening Weekend (North America): $123.4 million
• Total Domestic Gross: $327.5 million
• Total International Gross: $375.3 million
• Worldwide Total: $702.8 million

This performance solidified It as one of the highest-grossing horror movies of all time.

Why 'It' Resonated Strongly

Several factors contributed to It's massive success:

1. Nostalgic Appeal: Fans of Stephen King's novel were eager to see a modern adaptation that captured the essence of the original story.
2. Engaging Characters: Audiences connected deeply with The Losers' Club, whose camaraderie and individual struggles were portrayed authentically.
3. Terrifying Villain: Bill Skarsgård's portrayal of Pennywise was both terrifying and captivating, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
4. Effective Marketing: Warner Bros.' marketing campaign built anticipation through trailers that teased just enough horror without giving away key plot points.
5. Wide Audience Reach: Unlike many horror films that cater to niche audiences, It appealed to both hardcore horror fans and general moviegoers.

The combination of these elements created a perfect storm that propelled It to unprecedented box office heights, making it a standout entry in any list of top 10 horror movies to bingewatch or must-see highest-grossing horror movies.

2. The Sixth Sense (1999)

The Sixth Sense is a psychological horror film directed by M. Night Shyamalan. The story revolves around a young boy, Cole Sear, who can communicate with spirits that don't know they're dead. Dr. Malcolm Crowe, a child psychologist played by Bruce Willis, attempts to help Cole make sense of his terrifying abilities. The narrative builds on eerie encounters and emotional depth without revealing the stunning twist ending that has become one of the most iconic in cinema history.

Box Office Performance Highlights

• Opening Weekend: $26.6 million
• Total Gross Worldwide: $672.8 million

As one of the highest-grossing horror movies ever made, The Sixth Sense holds a prominent position in box office history. Its successful run began with an impressive opening weekend and sustained momentum thanks to strong word-of-mouth and critical acclaim.

Enduring Popularity

M. Night Shyamalan's masterful twist ending is crucial to the film's enduring popularity. This unexpected narrative turn not only captivated audiences but also invited multiple viewings to catch the subtle hints sprinkled throughout the story. The combination of compelling storytelling, powerful performances by Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment, and an unforgettable conclusion ensured that The Sixth Sense became a cultural phenomenon.

3. I Am L

egend (2007)

I Am Legend, starring Will Smith, is a compelling post-apocalyptic horror film that delves into themes of isolation and survival. Smith plays Dr. Robert Neville, a brilliant scientist who is seemingly the last human in New York City after a virus decimates the population. His character arc revolves around his relentless quest for a cure while battling loneliness and the dangerous nocturnal mutants that the virus spawned.

Financially, I Am Legend achieved remarkable success during its theatrical run. Its opening weekend in December 2007 brought in $77.2 million domestically, setting a record for the highest December opening at the time. The film's international earnings significantly boosted its total gross, culminating in an impressive worldwide box office of $585.5 million. This solidified its position among the highest-grossing horror movies ever.

The film's exploration of isolation and survival resonates deeply with audiences. It portrays Neville’s daily routine of scavenging for supplies, sending out radio broadcasts to find other survivors, and his emotional struggles with solitude. The movie also delves into the ethical dilemmas faced when attempting to reverse the mutation effects on infected humans.

Key Points:

• Will Smith as Dr. Robert Neville
• Opening weekend: $77.2 million
• Total gross: $585.5 million

Comparatively, I Am Legend stands out not just for its financial success but also for its profound narrative elements that explore human resilience amidst despair.

4. World War Z (2013)

World War Z takes audiences on a thrilling journey across the globe, following Brad Pitt's character, Gerry Lane, as he races against time to stop a zombie pandemic threatening humanity. The film stands out for its fast-paced narrative and diverse settings, which include South Korea, Israel, and Wales.

Box Office Performance:

• Domestic Earnings: World War Z opened with an impressive $66.4 million in the United States.
• International Earnings: It achieved significant success internationally, bringing its total worldwide gross to approximately $540 million.
• Notable Records: The film became one of the highest-grossing zombie movies ever, surpassing many contemporaries in the genre.

Comparison with Other Zombie Films:

• World War Z outperformed other zombie-themed films like 28 Days Later and Zombieland both critically and financially.
• Its unique approach to the zombie apocalypse, emphasizing global scale and high-stakes action, set it apart from more localized or character-driven narratives in other zombie movies.

Through its globe-trotting storytelling and record-breaking box office numbers, World War Z cemented its place among the top horror movies to bingewatch. Its ability to blend intense action with elements of horror made it a standout entry in the genre.

5. Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation (2018)

Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation is a unique addition to the list of highest-grossing horror movies. Despite being an animated film from one of the top animation studios, it managed to compete fiercely against live-action blockbusters, carving out its niche among audiences of all ages.

Why It Worked

Here are some reasons why this movie did so well:

• Appealing Characters: The film brings back beloved characters like Dracula, Mavis, and Johnny, who already have a strong fan base from previous movies.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its light-hearted tone and humor, it attracts not just horror enthusiasts but also families looking for entertaining content.

Financial Success

This installment achieved impressive box office numbers across multiple markets:

• Opening Weekend: It debuted with a staggering $44.1 million in North America.
• Total Gross Worldwide: The film raked in approximately $528.6 million globally, solidifying its place among the top 10 highest-grossing horror movies.

The Hotel Transylvania franchise has consistently performed well financially, with each new release drawing significant attention. This third installment's success highlights the franchise's ability to innovate and remain relevant despite stiff competition.

6. Jaws (1975)

Jaws, directed by Steven Spielberg, is a groundbreaking horror film that has made a lasting impact on cinema. The story revolves around a small beach town terrorized by a man-eating great white shark. The main characters, Police Chief Martin Brody, marine biologist Matt Hooper, and professional shark hunter Quint, team up to track down the deadly predator. The intense and heart-pounding shark attacks have become unforgettable moments that still send shivers down viewers' spines.

Groundbreaking Box Office Success

• Opening Weekend: Jaws revolutionized the summer blockbuster template by grossing $7 million in its opening weekend.
• Total Gross Worldwide: The film went on to earn over $483.7 million globally, making it one of the highest-grossing horror movies of all time.

Jaws' unprecedented box office performance not only set a new standard for commercial success but also paved the way for future summer blockbusters in Hollywood. Its success demonstrated that horror films could attract massive audiences and generate significant revenue, influencing the industry's approach to marketing and releasing blockbuster films.

Enduring Legacy

Jaws remains beloved among horror enthusiasts for several reasons:

• Innovative Special Effects: The mechanical shark, though infamous for its malfunctions, added a layer of realism that captivated viewers.
• Masterful Direction: Spielberg's direction created an atmosphere of suspense and terror that few films have matched.
• Cultural Impact: The film instilled a widespread fear of sharks and popularized the concept of the summer blockbuster.

The impact of Jaws extends beyond its financial achievements; it reshaped the horror genre and remains a classic that continues to scare and entertain audiences.

7. Hotel Transylvania 2 (2015)

Hotel Transylvania 2 continues the charming saga of Dracula and his monster friends, capturing the hearts of both young audiences and adults alike. This sequel delves deeper into the character developments initiated in the first installment. Notably, we see Dracula grappling with his half-human grandson, Dennis, who hasn't shown any vampiric traits. The film explores themes of family dynamics and acceptance as Dracula attempts to bring out Dennis's monster side while reconciling with his daughter's marriage to a human.

Financial Performance Analysis:

• Opening Weekend: Hotel Transylvania 2 opened to an impressive $48.5 million in North America, surpassing its predecessor's debut.
• Total Gross Worldwide: The movie earned $475.2 million globally, making it one of the highest-grossing horror movies within the family-friendly category.
• Comparison to Predecessor: Compared to Hotel Transylvania's $358.4 million worldwide earnings, the sequel demonstrated considerable growth, indicating a strong fanbase and effective marketing strategies.

The success of Hotel Transylvania 2 highlights how animated horror-comedy can resonate well with audiences. This installment's financial achievements underscore its appeal across various demographics, ensuring its place in the top tens of box office hits.

8. It Chapter Two (2019)

"It Chapter Two" continues the terrifying story from "It" (2017). In this sequel, the Losers' Club members, now adults, return to Derry to face Pennywise again. The film explores their past traumas and friendships, adding depth to the characters we loved in the first movie.

Box Office Performance Insights:

• Opening Weekend: "It Chapter Two" had a strong start, earning around $91 million in its first weekend in the US. This set the tone for its future success.
• Worldwide Earnings: The movie made a total of $473.1 million globally, securing its spot among the top-grossing horror films.
• Long-Term Revenue Strategies: Warner Bros. used various promotional strategies to keep interest alive after the release. Special showings, extended theater runs, and related merchandise helped sustain interest and bring in more money.

"It Chapter Two" struck a chord with fans because it stayed true to Stephen King's book and expanded on themes from "It." These elements, combined with smart marketing, secured its place as one of the highest-grossing horror films.

The return of Pennywise isn't just another sequel; it effectively wraps up loose ends and provides closure while keeping audiences on edge. Its commercial success shows how sequels can do well when they continue a beloved story with care and creativity.

9. The Exorcist (1973)

The Exorcist is a classic horror film that explores the terrifying concept of religious possession. Directed by William Friedkin, the movie tells the story of Regan MacNeil, a young girl who becomes possessed by a demon. Her mother, desperate to save her daughter, seeks the help of two priests to perform an exorcism.

Box Office Records

When it was released in 1973, The Exorcist broke box office records. It made around $441.3 million worldwide, an incredible amount for its time and still impressive today among the highest-grossing horror movies. The film's ability to attract large audiences contributed to its position among the top tens in horror cinema history.

Cultural Impact

The Exorcist had a significant impact on both the horror genre and popular culture:

• Its portrayal of religious themes and possession terrified viewers like never before.
• Many scenes have become ingrained in pop culture, referenced in countless other movies and shows.
• The film sparked debates on faith, psychology, and the supernatural.

It remains one of the top 10 horror movies to watch even decades later, proving its lasting appeal. Even modern audiences find themselves captivated by its chilling story and disturbing visuals.

The success of The Exorcist opened doors for many films exploring similar themes, shaping how religious horror is depicted in cinema today. Its influence continues to be felt, not only as one of the top 10 best horror movies but also as a benchmark for box office success within the genre.

10. Signs (2002)

M. Night Shyamalan's Signs explores the eerie and unsettling topic of alien encounters. The film follows former priest Graham Hess, played by Mel Gibson, as he discovers mysterious crop circles on his family's farm. These signs suggest a larger, more ominous alien invasion. The story skillfully combines themes of faith, loss, and redemption while maintaining a gripping atmosphere that keeps audiences hooked.

Box Office Performance:

• Opening Weekend: $60.1 million
• Worldwide Total: $408.3 million

Signs quickly became one of the highest-grossing horror movies of its time, securing a strong position in the top 10 movies within the genre. Its commercial success was boosted by Shyamalan's reputation for delivering suspenseful stories with unexpected twists.

Impact on Alien-Themed Stories:

The success of Signs had a significant influence on later alien-themed stories in cinema. The film's approach to extraterrestrial storytelling inspired many directors to explore similar themes, combining human drama with science fiction horror.

The movie's focus on character development and psychological tension over special effects set a standard for future films within the genre. This shift towards more nuanced storytelling can be seen in later works like Cloverfield and A Quiet Place, which also emphasize personal experiences amidst otherworldly threats.

In addition to its box office success and influence on future films, Signs also serves as an interesting case study in the broader context of visual storytelling in cinema. The film demonstrates how the balance between visuals and narrative can significantly impact audience engagement and emotional resonance.

Signs remains an important entry in the list of top 10 horror movies to binge-watch, offering both thrills and thought-provoking content that stays with viewers long after the credits roll.

Noteworthy Horror Franchises with High Earnings Potential Beyond Box Office Numbers Alone

Successful horror franchises like the Dracula series and the Conjuring Universe continue to dominate the market. Despite the varying performances of individual films, these franchises collectively gross billions globally.

• The Dracula franchise has amassed approximately $2.38 billion across 23 films.
• The Conjuring Universe boasts a total of around $2.28 billion from eight films.

These numbers highlight their enduring appeal and high earnings potential, making them prime choices for any top 10 horror movies to binge-watch list.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are the top criteria for selecting the top 10 horror movies?

The top 10 horror movies were selected based on their box office performance, which includes factors such as total gross earnings and opening weekend numbers. Additionally, the films' impact on audiences and their lasting appeal within the horror genre were considered.

How does box office success influence future horror films?

Box office success can significantly impact future projects within the horror genre by attracting more investment and encouraging studios to produce similar films. It also affects how these films are marketed and can lead to sequels or adaptations of successful stories.

What makes 'It' (2017) resonate with audiences?

'It' (2017) resonated strongly with audiences due to its faithful adaptation of Stephen King's novel, compelling character development, and a blend of horror with emotional depth. Its impressive box office performance further solidified its status as a modern horror classic.

Why is 'The Sixth Sense' considered a landmark in horror cinema?

'The Sixth Sense' is considered a landmark in horror cinema largely due to M. Night Shyamalan's masterful twist ending, which not only shocked audiences but also contributed to its status as one of the highest-grossing films in history. Its ability to blend psychological depth with supernatural elements has left a lasting impact.

What themes are explored in 'I Am Legend' (2007)?

'I Am Legend' explores themes surrounding isolation, survival, and humanity's struggle against overwhelming odds in a post-apocalyptic world. Will Smith's character arc highlights the emotional toll of loneliness and the quest for hope amidst despair.

How did 'Jaws' (1975) change the landscape of summer blockbusters?

'Jaws' (1975) revolutionized summer blockbusters by demonstrating that a well-marketed film could achieve massive box office success during the summer months. Its groundbreaking use of suspense and iconic shark attacks set new standards for thrillers and established a blueprint for future blockbuster releases.