The Most Profitable Movies of All Time

Movies can make huge profits when they connect with audiences. Some films, with small budgets, become massive hits, while others with big budgets rake in billions. Profitability isn’t just about box office numbers—it’s about how much a movie earns compared to its cost. This list ranks the top 50 most profitable movies based on their return on investment (ROI), starting from the least profitable to the most.

These films range from low-budget horrors to blockbuster franchises. Each one found success through smart budgeting, strong storytelling, or massive fan appeal. Let’s dive into the movies that turned small investments into huge paydays or maximized big budgets for record-breaking returns.

Minions (2015)

The animated hit ‘Minions’ cost $74 million to produce and $40 million to market. It grossed $1.159 billion worldwide, giving a net profit of about $465 million.
Its success came from the lovable Minion characters, already popular from the ‘Despicable Me’ series. The family-friendly humor and global appeal drove massive ticket sales.

Beauty and the Beast (2017)

Disney’s live-action ‘Beauty and the Beast’ had a $160 million production budget and $80 million in marketing costs. It earned $1.263 billion globally, yielding a profit of around $468 million.
The film’s stunning visuals and nostalgic appeal drew huge crowds. Emma Watson’s star power and the classic story ensured its box office dominance.

Furious 7 (2015)

‘Furious 7’ cost $190 million to produce and $100 million to market. It grossed $1.515 billion worldwide, resulting in a profit of about $467 million.
The emotional tribute to Paul Walker, combined with high-octane action, fueled its success. Fans of the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise turned out in droves.

Barbie (2023)

‘Barbie’ had a production budget of $145 million and $100 million for marketing. It earned $1.445 billion globally, delivering a profit of roughly $477 million.
Greta Gerwig’s fresh take on the iconic doll, paired with Margot Robbie’s charm, sparked a cultural phenomenon. The film’s clever marketing and broad appeal drove massive ticket sales.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

With a $100 million production budget and $100 million in marketing, ‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ grossed $1.361 billion worldwide, netting about $480 million in profit.
The animated adventure tapped into nostalgia for the video game franchise. Its colorful visuals and family-friendly story made it a global hit.

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

‘Top Gun: Maverick’ cost $170 million to produce and $90 million to market. It earned $1.495 billion globally, generating a profit of around $487 million.
Tom Cruise’s return as Maverick, combined with thrilling aerial sequences, captivated audiences. The film’s strong word-of-mouth kept theaters packed for weeks.

Frozen II (2019)

‘Frozen II’ had a $150 million production budget and $80 million in marketing costs. It grossed $1.453 billion worldwide, resulting in a profit of about $496 million.
The sequel built on the original’s massive fanbase with stunning animation and catchy songs. Its emotional story resonated with families globally.

Inside Out 2 (2024)

‘Inside Out 2’ cost $200 million to produce and $100 million to market. It earned $1.698 billion globally, yielding a profit of approximately $548 million.
The sequel’s exploration of teenage emotions and vibrant animation drew huge crowds. Pixar’s reputation for heartfelt storytelling boosted its success.

Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

‘Avengers: Infinity War’ had a $325 million production budget and $150 million in marketing. It grossed $2.052 billion worldwide, netting about $551 million in profit.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s epic showdown with Thanos thrilled fans. Its massive scale and cliffhanger ending drove repeat viewings.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015)

With a $258 million production budget and $175 million in marketing, ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ grossed $2.071 billion globally, earning a profit of around $602 million.
The return of the ‘Star Wars’ saga with new and classic characters created huge buzz. Nostalgia and excitement fueled its box office dominance.

Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)

‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ cost $350 million to produce and $200 million to market. It grossed $2.320 billion worldwide, resulting in a profit of about $610 million.
James Cameron’s visually stunning sequel built on the original’s legacy. Its immersive 3D experience drew audiences back to theaters.

Jurassic World (2015)

‘Jurassic World’ had a $150 million production budget and $75 million in marketing costs. It grossed $1.671 billion globally, yielding a profit of around $610 million.
The reboot of the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise brought fresh thrills and nostalgia. Chris Pratt’s star power and dinosaur spectacle packed theaters.

Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ cost $200 million to produce and $100 million to market. It earned $1.923 billion worldwide, generating a profit of about $661 million.
The multiverse storyline and surprise cameos created massive hype. Fans flocked to theaters, making it a pandemic-era phenomenon.

Titanic (1997)

‘Titanic’ had a $200 million production budget and $100-$200 million in marketing. It grossed $2.264 billion globally, resulting in a profit of roughly $732-$832 million.
James Cameron’s epic romance became a cultural juggernaut. Its emotional story and groundbreaking effects kept audiences coming back for months.

Avengers: Endgame (2019)

‘Avengers: Endgame’ cost $356 million to produce and $200 million to market. It earned $2.799 billion worldwide, netting a profit of about $843 million.
The epic conclusion to the Marvel saga drew massive crowds with its emotional stakes. Fans eagerly awaited the resolution of ‘Infinity War’s cliffhanger.

Avatar (2009)

‘Avatar’ had a $248 million production budget and $150 million in marketing. It grossed $2.923 billion globally, yielding a profit of around $1.063 billion.
James Cameron’s groundbreaking 3D visuals and immersive world captivated audiences. Its long theatrical run solidified its place as a box office titan.

Pretty Woman (1990)

With a $14 million production budget, ‘Pretty Woman’ grossed $463 million worldwide, achieving an ROI of about 2013%. Its profit was roughly $220 million after costs.
The romantic comedy’s charm, led by Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, won over audiences. Its fairytale story became a cultural touchstone.

Grease (1978)

‘Grease’ cost $6 million to produce and grossed $394 million globally, delivering an ROI of around 1975%. Its profit was approximately $184 million.
The musical’s nostalgic 1950s vibe and catchy songs made it a hit. John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John’s chemistry drove its success.

Star Wars (1977)

‘Star Wars’ had an $11 million budget and grossed $775 million worldwide, with an ROI of about 1938%. Its profit was around $350 million.
George Lucas’s space epic revolutionized sci-fi and pop culture. Its groundbreaking effects and iconic characters created a global phenomenon.

American Beauty (1999)

With a $15 million budget, ‘American Beauty’ grossed $356 million globally, yielding an ROI of 1780%. Its profit was about $170 million.
The thought-provoking drama resonated with audiences through its exploration of suburban life. Kevin Spacey’s performance and critical acclaim boosted its success.

The Passion of the Christ (2004)

‘The Passion of the Christ’ cost $30 million to produce and grossed $612 million worldwide, with an ROI of 1749%. Its profit was around $280 million.
Mel Gibson’s intense religious drama connected deeply with faith-based audiences. Its raw depiction of Jesus’s final hours drove massive ticket sales.

Home Alone (1990)

‘Home Alone’ had an $18 million budget and grossed $477 million globally, achieving an ROI of 1590%. Its profit was roughly $230 million.
The family-friendly comedy became a holiday classic with Macaulay Culkin’s charm. Its slapstick humor and heartwarming story drew huge crowds.

Ghost (1990)

With a $22 million budget, ‘Ghost’ grossed $506 million worldwide, delivering an ROI of 1446%. Its profit was about $250 million.
The romantic fantasy, starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore, blended love and supernatural elements. Its emotional story resonated globally.

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’ cost $10.5 million to produce and grossed $793 million globally, with an ROI of 3172%. Its profit was around $390 million.
Steven Spielberg’s heartwarming alien tale captured audiences’ hearts. Its universal themes of friendship and wonder made it a timeless hit.

Slumdog Millionaire (2008)

‘Slumdog Millionaire’ had a $15 million budget and grossed $378 million worldwide, yielding an ROI of 2520%. Its profit was about $180 million.
The uplifting drama’s unique storytelling and vibrant energy won over audiences. Its Oscar success further boosted its box office performance.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

With a $5 million budget, ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ grossed $369 million globally, achieving an ROI of 6150%. Its profit was roughly $180 million.
The romantic comedy’s relatable humor and cultural charm made it a sleeper hit. Word-of-mouth buzz kept theaters packed for months.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ cost $150,000 to produce and earned $5.3 million through theatrical and other releases, with an ROI of 3438%. Its profit was about $5 million.
The holiday special’s simple charm and heartfelt message resonated with audiences. Its enduring popularity boosted its long-term earnings.

Peter Pan (1953)

Disney’s ‘Peter Pan’ had a $4 million budget and grossed $139.7 million globally, delivering an ROI of 3394%. Its profit was around $68 million.
The animated classic’s timeless adventure and colorful characters appealed to all ages. Its theatrical re-releases added to its impressive earnings.

The Devil Inside (2012)

With a $1 million budget, ‘The Devil Inside’ grossed $37.4 million worldwide, achieving an ROI of 3642%. Its profit was roughly $18 million.
The low-budget horror film capitalized on the found-footage trend. Its shocking scares drew audiences despite mixed critical reviews.

The Big Parade (1925)

‘The Big Parade’ cost $245,000 to produce and earned $11 million globally, with an ROI of 4396%. Its profit was about $5.5 million.
The silent war film’s raw depiction of World War I resonated with audiences. Its critical acclaim and historical impact drove ticket sales.

An Inconvenient Truth (2006)

With a $1 million budget, ‘An Inconvenient Truth’ grossed $46.4 million worldwide, yielding an ROI of 4542%. Its profit was around $23 million.
Al Gore’s climate change documentary inspired global audiences. Its urgent message and cultural impact led to strong box office performance.

Eraserhead (1977)

‘Eraserhead’ cost $100,000 to produce and earned $7 million globally, delivering an ROI of 4553%. Its profit was about $4.6 million.
David Lynch’s surreal horror film gained a cult following over time. Its unique style and critical praise fueled its surprising success.

The Gallows (2015)

With a $100,000 budget, ‘The Gallows’ grossed $6.9 million worldwide, achieving an ROI of 6798%. Its profit was around $3.4 million.
The found-footage horror film’s low cost and creepy premise drew audiences. Its profitability showed the power of budget-conscious horror.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ cost $140,000 to produce and earned $14.2 million globally, with an ROI of 10,018%. Its profit was about $7 million.
Tobe Hooper’s gritty horror classic shocked audiences with its intensity. Its low budget and cult status led to massive returns.

Fireproof (2008)

‘Fireproof’ had a $500,000 budget and grossed $57.1 million worldwide, delivering an ROI of 11,319%. Its profit was around $28 million.
The Christian drama’s heartfelt story resonated with faith-based audiences. Kirk Cameron’s star power helped drive its box office success.

Paranormal Activity (2007)

With a $450,000 budget, ‘Paranormal Activity’ grossed $89.4 million globally, achieving an ROI of 19,761%. Its profit was about $44 million.
The found-footage horror film’s simple scares and viral marketing created huge buzz. Its low cost made it a massive financial win.

Facing the Giants (2006)

‘Facing the Giants’ cost $100,000 to produce and earned $38.5 million worldwide, with an ROI of 38,451%. Its profit was roughly $19 million.
The Christian sports drama’s uplifting message connected with audiences. Its low budget and strong word-of-mouth led to big profits.

Deep Throat (1972)

‘Deep Throat’ had a $25,000 budget and grossed $22.5 million globally, yielding an ROI of 90,014%. Its profit was about $11 million.
The controversial adult film’s mainstream appeal and “porno chic” trend drove ticket sales. Its low cost maximized its profitability.

The Blair Witch Project (1999)

With a $350,000 budget, ‘The Blair Witch Project’ grossed $248.6 million worldwide, achieving an ROI of 70,928%. Its profit was around $124 million.
The found-footage horror’s groundbreaking marketing and creepy premise created massive hype. Its minimal budget led to one of the highest ROIs ever.

Mad Max (1979)

‘Mad Max’ cost $260,000 to produce and earned $100 million globally, with an ROI of 38,361%. Its profit was about $50 million.
George Miller’s dystopian action film became a cult classic. Its gritty style and international appeal drove huge box office returns.

El Mariachi (1992)

‘El Mariachi’ had a $7,000 budget and grossed $2 million worldwide, delivering an ROI of 28,471%. Its profit was around $1 million.
Robert Rodriguez’s guerrilla filmmaking and intense action made it a sleeper hit. Its ultra-low budget maximized its profitability.

Rocky (1976)

With a $960,000 budget, ‘Rocky’ grossed $225 million globally, achieving an ROI of 23,337%. Its profit was about $112 million.
Sylvester Stallone’s underdog story resonated with audiences worldwide. Its inspiring narrative and Oscar win fueled its success.

Halloween (1978)

‘Halloween’ cost $325,000 to produce and earned $70 million worldwide, with an ROI of 21,438%. Its profit was around $35 million.
John Carpenter’s slasher classic redefined horror with its suspenseful style. Its low budget and iconic scares led to massive profits.

Super Size Me (2004)

With a $65,000 budget, ‘Super Size Me’ grossed $11.5 million globally, delivering an ROI of 17,592%. Its profit was about $5.7 million.
Morgan Spurlock’s documentary on fast food’s health impact shocked audiences. Its low cost and cultural relevance drove strong returns.

Easy Rider (1969)

‘Easy Rider’ cost $400,000 to produce and earned $60 million worldwide, with an ROI of 14,900%. Its profit was around $30 million.
The counterculture classic captured the spirit of the 1960s. Its low budget and iconic performances by Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper ensured huge profits.

Friday the 13th (1980)

With a $500,000 budget, ‘Friday the 13th’ grossed $59.8 million globally, achieving an ROI of 11,860%. Its profit was about $29 million.
The slasher film’s shocking kills and camp setting created a horror franchise. Its low cost and massive appeal led to big returns.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ had a $5 million budget and grossed $368.7 million worldwide, with an ROI of 7,274%. Its profit was around $180 million.
Nia Vardalos’s romantic comedy became a cultural phenomenon. Its relatable humor and word-of-mouth success drove massive ticket sales.

Eraserhead (1977)

With a $100,000 budget, ‘Eraserhead’ earned $7 million globally, delivering an ROI of 6,900%. Its profit was about $3.5 million.
David Lynch’s surreal debut gained a cult following over time. Its unique vision and low cost made it a profitable indie hit.

The Blair Witch Project (1999)

‘The Blair Witch Project’ cost $350,000 to produce and grossed $248.6 million worldwide, with an ROI of 70,928%. Its profit was around $124 million.
The found-footage horror’s viral marketing and terrifying concept revolutionized the genre. Its tiny budget made it one of the most profitable films ever.

Which of these profitable films is your favorite, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!