2024’s movie hits: Top 20 highest-grossing films of the year

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - December 26th 2024, 15:00 GMT+1

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For this list, we’re focusing on the movies that made the *most* money in 2024 – though let’s be honest, that doesn’t always mean they’re the best. In fact, you’ll find more than one *questionable* entry here...

Remember, the number next to each title is how much cash the film raked in at the global box office. And if you think there’s a movie that deserved a little more *monetary love*, why not shout it out in the comments? We’re all friends here – except maybe when it comes to debating movie taste.

Cropped Joker Folie à Deux — 20. Joker: Folie à Deux (2024) – $206,400,287

Joker returns – this time with a musical twist! Who would’ve thought a story of Gotham’s infamous clown prince of crime would waltz its way into the realm of singing and dancing? While the audacious sequel didn’t break the records set by its predecessor, it still managed to spark intense debates: *genius or gimmick?* Joaquin Phoenix reprises his bone-chilling role, but this time he's joined by Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn, bringing vocal prowess and unhinged chemistry to the screen. Sure, some critics found the concept a little too “arthouse meets Broadway,” but audiences embraced the chaos, giving the film a global haul north of $206 million. For better or worse, *Folie à Deux* proved that Joker can make crime and cabaret an oddly compelling combo. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped The Garfield Movie — 19. The Garfield Movie (2024) – $234,546,781

Garfield, the world’s laziest cat, finally made his big-screen comeback – and wouldn’t you know it, he still *hates Mondays*. This animated reboot leaned hard on nostalgia, serving up lasagna jokes, slapstick humor, and the titular cat’s snarky attitude to a new generation. While some fans adored the family-friendly fluff and Chris Pratt’s vocal performance, others felt the script played it a little *too* safe, recycling gags rather than innovating. Still, kids and their parents helped push this orange tabby to a solid $234 million at the global box office. Moral of the story: even after decades, Garfield can still purr-fectly cash in on our affection for grumpy cats. | © Columbia Pictures

Cropped A Quiet Place Day One — 18. A Quiet Place: Day One (2024) – $261,786,322

Turns out, staying silent is still the key to survival, but this prequel *loudly* delivered on suspense. Set on the first day of the alien invasion, *Day One* dropped us right into the terrifying chaos as society crumbled. Director Michael Sarnoski took the reigns from John Krasinski and managed to keep the tension needle firmly pinned in the red zone. While some fans missed the Abbott family’s familiar faces, this entry expanded the universe, offering new characters and terrifying close encounters. Though critics pointed out a slight déjà vu effect, audiences flocked to see (or *hear*) the carnage unfold, resulting in a box office haul of $261 million. Silence, once again, proved golden. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped The Wild Robot — 17. The Wild Robot (2024) – $324,080,580

In a year dominated by bombastic blockbusters, *The Wild Robot* stood out with its heartwarming simplicity. Based on the beloved children’s book, this animated gem told the story of Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island who learns to survive and bond with nature. The gorgeous animation and emotional storytelling charmed audiences of all ages, while critics praised its environmental themes and timeless message about coexistence. Sure, some cynics called it “slow,” but for many, it was a much-needed breather in a year of high-octane chaos. With a global take of $324 million, *The Wild Robot* proved that sometimes quiet stories about humanity can make the loudest impact. | © DreamWorks Animation

Cropped Alien Romulus — 16. Alien: Romulus (2024) – $350,865,342

Who knew the *Alien* franchise still had acid left in its veins? *Alien: Romulus*, a new installment set between *Alien* and *Aliens*, brought the horror back to its claustrophobic roots – and fans noticed. Director Fede Álvarez packed the movie with face-huggers, chest-bursting dread, and enough tense, shadowy corridors to make Ridley Scott proud. Was it groundbreaking? Not exactly. Some critics called it more of the same, but longtime fans of Xenomorph terror were thrilled to see the franchise rediscover its primal scares. Earning $350 million worldwide, *Romulus* proved that even after decades, the Alien still knows how to hunt…and haunt. | © 20th Century Studios

Cropped It Ends with Us — 15. It Ends with Us (2024) – $350,960,656

Colleen Hoover’s mega-popular novel made the leap to the big screen, and like its source material, it had fans talking, swooning, and crying – sometimes all at once. *It Ends with Us* delivers a heartfelt (and occasionally gut-wrenching) look at love, trauma, and resilience. Starring Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, the film tapped into its massive built-in audience, though it wasn’t without its critics. Some felt the adaptation stumbled into melodrama territory, while others praised its emotional performances and the story's raw honesty. Either way, with a worldwide haul of $350 million, it’s clear that Hoover’s words resonated loud and clear on screen. | © Sony Pictures

Cropped Twisters — 14. Twisters (2024) – $370,962,265

Remember when chasing storms was the coolest thing you could do in the 90s? Well, *Twisters* brings that high-flying chaos back with a new generation of tornado-obsessed adrenaline junkies. This semi-sequel/spiritual reboot goes big – *very big –* with CGI cyclones and heart-stopping action sequences that remind you why weather movies are the *real* disaster thrillers. Critics were split, with some applauding the sheer popcorn spectacle and others questioning the paper-thin plot. Still, it’s hard to argue with flying cows and massive box office numbers. Raking in $370 million globally, *Twisters* proves that when nature strikes, audiences will show up… if only to see what gets blown away next. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes — 13. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024) – $397,378,150

The Apes saga continues, and boy, those primates know how to dominate a box office! *Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes* carries the torch from the previous trilogy, moving the timeline forward and delivering stunning visuals, emotionally charged storytelling, and enough CGI magic to make your jaw drop. While some fans missed Caesar’s presence, the film’s new ape-centric narrative proved it still has plenty of evolution left. Critics praised the world-building and breathtaking cinematography, even if a few questioned whether the franchise could keep up its momentum. Clearly, audiences weren’t monkeying around, contributing nearly $400 million to this sci-fi epic’s kingdom. | © 20th Century Studios

Cropped Gladiator II — 12. Gladiator II (2024) – $399,214,105

After over two decades, Ridley Scott’s *Gladiator* finally got its sequel, and it came armed with swords, sandals, and an unapologetic flair for epic spectacle. *Gladiator II* brings us back to the Roman Empire, introducing new warriors and familial blood feuds worthy of the Colosseum. While some fans felt the sequel didn’t quite capture the magic of the original, others were swept up in its massive battles, emotional stakes, and gritty visuals. With a global box office haul of nearly $400 million, this gladiatorial showdown proved there’s still plenty of fight left in the arena – just don’t expect Russell Crowe to show up this time. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Bad Boys Ride or Die — 11. Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024) – $404,527,051

Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett are back, and once again, they’re proving that buddy cop chaos never gets old. *Bad Boys: Ride or Die* brings Will Smith and Martin Lawrence back together for another round of explosions, wisecracks, and wildly improbable action sequences. Fans of the franchise got exactly what they signed up for: high-octane fun with a sprinkle of nostalgia. While critics were divided – some loved the film’s playful energy while others called it a bit too “by-the-numbers” – audiences didn’t care. With over $404 million banked worldwide, these Bad Boys proved they’re still very much *for life*. | © Sony Pictures

Cropped Beetlejuice Beetlejuice — 10. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024) – $451,100,435

Say his name twice, and Beetlejuice is back – bigger, bolder, and with just as much creepy charm! Tim Burton’s long-awaited sequel brings back Michael Keaton as the iconic ghost with the most, and boy, does he deliver. Pair that with Winona Ryder reprising her role as Lydia and a fresh cast of quirky characters, and you’ve got a ghoulish good time. Sure, some critics argued the sequel leaned too hard on nostalgia, but audiences didn’t mind one bit. With its mix of practical effects, dark humor, and gothic whimsy, *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice* earned a hefty $451 million worldwide. Turns out, you really *can’t* keep a good ghost down. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped Venom The Last Dance — 9. Venom: The Last Dance (2024) – $475,553,266

Venom’s final (?) dance swung into theaters with a mix of chaos, symbiote silliness, and a whole lot of Tom Hardy talking to himself – because why not? The third installment of the *Venom* series embraced the absurdity that fans have come to love (or tolerate), delivering plenty of tongue-lashing action and questionable life choices. Critics weren’t exactly kind, calling it “messy” and “predictable,” but let’s be honest: *Venom* movies are all about turning off your brain and enjoying the gooey ride. With $475 million banked, it’s safe to say that the Lethal Protector’s final bow brought enough thrills to keep fans satisfied. | © Sony Pictures

Cropped Wicked — 8. Wicked (2024) – $527,847,965

Broadway’s beloved *Wicked* soared onto the silver screen and proved once again that musicals can cast their spell over audiences. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, this magical prequel to *The Wizard of Oz* brought soaring vocals, lavish visuals, and a heartfelt story of friendship and acceptance. While some musical purists grumbled about changes to the stage version, fans were enchanted by the performances, songs, and sheer spectacle. With a global box office haul of $527 million, *Wicked* showed that Oz still has the power to wow – and defy gravity – on the big screen. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Kung Fu Panda 4 — 7. Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024) – $547,689,492

Po is back, and he’s still kung fu-ing his way into our hearts – and the box office. *Kung Fu Panda 4* sees Jack Black return as everyone’s favorite noodle-slurping Dragon Warrior, this time facing new foes, rediscovering his purpose, and, of course, serving up belly laughs. While the fourth outing didn’t reinvent the wheel, it delivered exactly what fans wanted: humor, heart, and impressive fight sequences. Critics praised its charm and stunning animation, even if some called it “more of the same.” But hey, why fix what isn’t broken? With $547 million in the bank, Po proved he’s still the heavyweight champion of animated fun. | © DreamWorks Animation

Cropped Godzilla x Kong The New Empire — 6. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024) – $571,750,016

When two titans collide, the box office trembles – and so do audiences. *Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire* roared into theaters with all the skyscraper-smashing action fans could hope for, delivering more monsters, more mayhem, and a surprisingly heartfelt story. Sure, the plot might be as thin as a giant lizard’s scales, but who cares when you’re watching Godzilla and Kong team up to face a new, colossal threat? Critics admitted the spectacle was hard to resist, even if it felt a bit like “kaiju fan service.” With a monstrous $571 million haul, the movie proved that when giants fight, everyone wins. | © Legendary Pictures / Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped Dune 2 — 5. Dune: Part Two (2024) – $714,444,358

The spice flows, and so does the box office cash! *Dune: Part Two* continues Denis Villeneuve’s sweeping adaptation of Frank Herbert’s epic sci-fi novel, and the result is pure cinematic grandeur. Timothée Chalamet returns as Paul Atreides, battling his destiny amidst breathtaking desert landscapes, sandworms the size of skyscrapers, and power-hungry houses. Critics raved about the film’s visual splendor, immersive storytelling, and stellar performances (hello, Zendaya). While its slow-burn pacing isn’t for everyone, fans embraced the saga’s payoff, making it a $714 million success. *Dune* is proof that audiences will still show up for ambitious, auteur-driven sci-fi – especially when it looks *this* good. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

Cropped Moana 2 — 4. Moana 2 (2024) – $719,592,763

The ocean called again, and *Moana* answered! Disney’s long-awaited sequel to the 2016 hit reunites us with Moana, Maui (Dwayne Johnson, of course), and a wave of catchy tunes that stick in your head longer than seagull chatter. This time, Moana ventures into new waters, facing bigger challenges and uncovering new mysteries about her ancestors. While some critics argued the sequel didn’t quite capture the magic of the original, kids and families couldn’t get enough of the stunning animation and feel-good adventure. Earning $719 million globally, *Moana 2* proves Disney’s still got the power to make waves. | © Walt Disney Animation Studios

Cropped Despicable Me 4 — 3. Despicable Me 4 (2024) – $969,258,948

Gru, the Minions, and the whole chaotic gang are back, and – surprise! – they’ve dominated the box office yet again. *Despicable Me 4* serves up more of what fans love: slapstick humor, adorable yellow gibberish, and Gru’s ever-growing family of lovable oddballs. Sure, some critics bemoaned its “rinse and repeat” formula, but let’s be real – who’s here for the plot? It’s all about those little yellow mischief-makers wreaking havoc, and they didn’t disappoint. With nearly $1 billion earned worldwide, *Despicable Me 4* proves the Minions are still a global phenomenon. Banana? Box office gold. | © Universal Pictures / Illumination

Cropped Deadpool Wolverine — 2. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) – $1,338,073,645

What happens when you mix Deadpool, Wolverine, and the MCU? You get a billion-dollar box office explosion that’s as chaotic as it is genius. Ryan Reynolds’ foul-mouthed anti-hero meets Hugh Jackman’s grumpy, claw-wielding mutant in a buddy movie for the ages. Packed with meta jokes, brutal action, and fourth-wall-breaking shenanigans, *Deadpool & Wolverine* gave fans exactly what they wanted – unapologetic fun and over-the-top antics. Critics hailed the duo’s chemistry and the film’s unfiltered charm, while audiences showed up in droves, pushing the movie to a colossal $1.3 billion. Turns out, mutants, mayhem, and Marvel magic are the ultimate winning combo. | © Marvel Studios / 20th Century Studios

Cropped Inside Out 2 — 1. Inside Out 2 (2024) – $1,698,641,117

Pixar did it again – this time with a sequel that tugged at every heartstring and smashed every box office record. *Inside Out 2* brings us back inside Riley’s mind as new emotions join the party, including Anxiety, Envy, and Embarrassment – relatable, right? The film explores the growing pains of adolescence with Pixar’s signature blend of humor, creativity, and tear-jerking moments. Critics praised its emotional depth and clever storytelling, calling it a worthy follow-up to the 2015 classic. With an astonishing $1.7 billion in earnings, *Inside Out 2* didn’t just dominate the box office; it reminded us all why Pixar is still the king of animated storytelling. Joy? Sadness? Tears? You bet. | © Pixar Animation Studios / Walt Disney Pictures

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As the curtains close on 2024, it’s clear this year was monumental for cinema. From thrilling sequels and groundbreaking blockbusters to unexpected sleeper hits, audiences worldwide flocked to theaters (and streaming platforms) to experience the magic of storytelling on screen. The year saw familiar franchises dominate, visionary directors push boundaries, and a fresh wave of talent emerge, all contributing to the massive success of the global box office.

In this article, we take a closer look at the top 20 highest-grossing films of 2024 – the movies that captivated audiences, shattered records, and left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape. Whether you’re a fan of superhero showdowns, epic adventures, or heartfelt dramas, this list highlights the cinematic triumphs that defined the year.