The Highest-Grossing Movie Franchises of All Time

Movie franchises are a big deal in Hollywood. They bring in billions at the box office and keep fans coming back for more. From superhero sagas to epic adventures, these series have made a huge impact on pop culture and the film industry.

This list ranks the top 15 highest-grossing movie franchises based on worldwide box office earnings. The numbers come from reliable sources and reflect the latest data up to August 2025. Let’s dive into the biggest money-makers in cinema history, counting down from 15 to 1.

Pirates of the Caribbean

The ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise has earned $4.52 billion worldwide. Five films, starting with ‘Curse of the Black Pearl’, follow Captain Jack Sparrow’s wild adventures. The series, based on a Disney theme park ride, mixes humor, action, and supernatural elements. International markets have been key, contributing about $3 billion to its total.

The franchise’s success comes from its memorable characters and thrilling stories. Fans love Johnny Depp’s quirky performance as Sparrow. While a sixth film has been rumored, no official plans are confirmed yet. The series continues to charm audiences with its swashbuckling energy.

Transformers

The ‘Transformers’ franchise has grossed $4.86 billion globally. Six live-action films and one animated feature, based on Hasbro’s toy line, focus on giant robots battling on Earth. The series started strong with Michael Bay’s high-energy direction. Most of its earnings, around $3.28 billion, come from international ticket sales.

These films are known for their massive action scenes and visual effects. The spin-off ‘Bumblebee’ brought a fresh, character-driven story to the series. Future films are in development, keeping the franchise alive. Its mix of nostalgia and spectacle keeps fans hooked.

Batman

The ‘Batman’ franchise has made $4.90 billion at the global box office. With 10 live-action films and one animated feature, this series follows the iconic DC superhero. Actors like Michael Keaton, Christian Bale, and Robert Pattinson have played the Dark Knight. The franchise includes standalone films and crossovers like ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’.

Batman’s gritty stories and complex characters drive its success. The Dark Knight trilogy, especially, earned critical praise and huge profits. New films are planned, ensuring Batman’s legacy endures. The character’s timeless appeal keeps audiences coming back.

Jurassic Park

The ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise has grossed $4.99 billion worldwide. Seven films, including the original trilogy and the ‘Jurassic World’ series, bring dinosaurs to life. The first film, directed by Steven Spielberg, set a new standard for visual effects. The latest, ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’, continues the saga with fresh faces like Scarlett Johansson.

The series thrives on its mix of wonder and terror. Dinosaurs like the T-Rex and Velociraptor are cultural icons. More films are expected, keeping the franchise relevant. Its ability to evolve while staying thrilling ensures its box office dominance.

DC Extended Universe

The ‘DC Extended Universe’ has earned $5.6 billion globally. Launched with ‘Man of Steel’, this franchise includes 14 films with heroes like Superman, Wonder Woman, and Aquaman. It competes with Marvel by offering darker, interconnected stories. Upcoming films like ‘The Suicide Squad’ and ‘Aquaman 2’ will add to its tally.

Despite mixed reviews, the DCEU has a loyal fanbase. Hits like ‘Wonder Woman’ and ‘Aquaman’ drove massive ticket sales. The franchise keeps growing with new characters and stories. Its bold take on superheroes keeps it in the top ranks.

Middle Earth

The ‘Middle Earth’ franchise has grossed $5.86 billion worldwide. Six films, based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ novels, make up this epic fantasy series. Peter Jackson’s direction brought Middle Earth to life with stunning visuals. The ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy alone earned critical acclaim and huge profits.

These films captivate with their rich world and deep characters. ‘The Return of the King’ won 11 Oscars, boosting the franchise’s legacy. A new animated film, ‘The War of the Rohirrim’, adds to its earnings. Middle Earth’s timeless stories keep fans enchanted.

Fast and the Furious

The ‘Fast and the Furious’ franchise has made $5.9 billion globally. With 11 films, including spin-offs like ‘Hobbs & Shaw’, it follows street racers turned global heroes. The series, distributed by Universal, thrives on diverse casts and exotic locations. International markets account for $4.2 billion of its total.

Known for high-octane action and family themes, the series keeps growing. ‘Fast X’ and future films promise more thrills. Its global appeal and loyal fanbase drive its success. The franchise’s mix of cars and heart keeps it speeding forward.

X-Men

The ‘X-Men’ franchise has earned $6.03 billion worldwide. Thirteen films, including ‘Deadpool’ and ‘Wolverine’ spin-offs, explore mutant heroes in a separate universe from the MCU. The series, once owned by 20th Century Fox, joined Disney in 2019. Films like ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ continue to boost its earnings.

The X-Men films blend action, drama, and social themes. Hits like ‘Logan’ and ‘Deadpool’ stand out for their bold storytelling. More films are planned, integrating mutants into the MCU. The franchise’s unique heroes keep it a box office powerhouse.

Spider-Man

The ‘Spider-Man’ franchise has grossed $6.35 billion globally. Eight films, including Sam Raimi’s trilogy, Marc Webb’s duology, and the MCU’s Tom Holland series, feature the web-slinger. The animated ‘Spider-Verse’ films also add to the total. ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ is the biggest earner, nearing $2 billion.

Spider-Man’s relatable hero and exciting stories drive its success. Sony produces the films, with some tied to the MCU through a Disney deal. Future films, including ‘Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse’, are in the works. The character’s charm keeps fans swinging back.

James Bond

The ‘James Bond’ franchise has made $6.89 billion worldwide. With 26 films since ‘Dr. No’, this series follows the iconic spy 007. Actors like Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig have played Bond. ‘Skyfall’ is the top earner, grossing $1.1 billion.

The series blends action, gadgets, and sophistication. Its long history and global appeal keep it relevant. Amazon MGM Studios now controls the franchise, with new films planned. Bond’s enduring style ensures its place among the top earners.

Avengers

The ‘Avengers’ franchise has grossed $7.7 billion globally. Four films, all part of the MCU, feature Marvel’s biggest heroes teaming up. ‘Avengers: Endgame’ is the highest-grossing film in the series, earning $2.79 billion. The ensemble cast, including Iron Man and Captain America, drives massive ticket sales.

These films are known for epic battles and emotional stakes. They tie together the MCU’s larger story, making them must-see events. Future Avengers films are planned, promising more profits. The team’s unity and spectacle keep audiences hooked.

Batman (Live-Action, Animated, and Spin-Offs)

The ‘Batman’ franchise, including spin-offs, has earned $7 billion globally. This includes 12 films, from early classics to ‘The Dark Knight’ trilogy and spin-offs like ‘Joker’. Different actors and directors have reimagined the character over decades. ‘The Dark Knight’ is the top earner, grossing over $1 billion.

Batman’s dark tone and gripping stories resonate with fans. The franchise spans live-action, animated, and standalone films like ‘Joker’. New projects, including a sequel to ‘The Batman’, are in development. Its versatility keeps it a box office giant.

Wizarding World

The ‘Wizarding World’ franchise has grossed $9.6 billion worldwide. Eleven films, including eight ‘Harry Potter’ movies and three ‘Fantastic Beasts’ films, make up this magical series. Based on J.K. Rowling’s books, it follows Harry Potter and Newt Scamander. ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2’ earned over $1.3 billion.

The franchise’s rich world and beloved characters fuel its success. Theme parks, video games, and a planned HBO series expand its reach. More ‘Fantastic Beasts’ films are coming, keeping the magic alive. Its emotional depth and wonder keep fans invested.

Star Wars

The ‘Star Wars’ franchise has earned $10.32 billion globally. Twelve films, including the original, prequel, and sequel trilogies, plus spin-offs like ‘Rogue One’, make up this sci-fi epic. ‘The Force Awakens’ is the top earner, grossing over $2 billion. Disney’s 2012 acquisition of Lucasfilm boosted the franchise’s growth.

Star Wars blends epic storytelling, iconic characters, and groundbreaking effects. Its cultural impact spans generations, with new films and Disney+ series adding to its legacy. The franchise’s universal appeal keeps it near the top. Fans continue to flock to its galaxy far, far away.

Marvel Cinematic Universe

The ‘Marvel Cinematic Universe’ tops the list with $31.62 billion worldwide. With 36 films through 2025, this superhero saga dominates the box office. Films like ‘Avengers: Endgame’ and ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ are among the highest-grossing ever. Marvel Studios’ interconnected storytelling draws massive audiences.

The MCU’s success comes from its mix of action, humor, and heart. It spans phases, introducing new heroes like Shang-Chi and teams like the Fantastic Four. With more films planned, its reign continues. The MCU’s ability to evolve keeps it the ultimate box office champion.

Which movie franchise is your favorite, and why do you think it’s earned its spot on this list? Share your thoughts in the comments!