The 9 highest all-time grossing films in the U.S.

Starting this list with the film that started the MCU is apt. Marvel movies existed before this, but this one united them. The MCU's first huge smash made it a cinematic powerhouse for nearly a decade.

"The Avengers" (2012)

You undoubtedly saw "Grease." as a '90s youngster. That soundtrack repeated. When you were older, you rewatched the movie, heard "Greased Lightning" as an adult.

"Grease" (1978)

Julie Andrews performed "My Fair Lady" for the stage. Audrey Hepburn was cast in the film despite not singing. Andrews beat Hepburn for Best Actress; "My Fair Lady" won Best Picture in 1964.

"Mary Poppins" (1964)

It was a huge success. In addition, it earned Best Picture and Tom Hanks his second Best Actor Oscar. Many folks then watched "Forrest Gump," thinking it was the ultimate Boomer dream.

"Forrest Gump" (1994)

The fact that The Godfather reached this list is amazing given its R rating. Few R-rated films made the cut. However, The Godfather is more than a big office hit. The film earned finest Picture and is one of the finest ever.

The Godfather (1972)

Before Endgame stole the crown, Avatar was the highest-grossing ever. It's 15th based on inflation. Avatar was released during the 3-D movie renaissance, yet it's usually forgotten. That increased ticket prices and box office revenue.

Avatar (2009)

Since adjusting for inflation doesn't help newer films, this is the latest. Moviegoers were banned from cinemas for months during the COVID-19 epidemic. 

"Spider-Man: No Way Home" (2021)

Disney has created many popular films, but Fantasia is surprising. The silent film has classical music and animation. Mickey Mouse played the sorcerer's apprentice, yet few people speak about this movie.

Fantasia (1940)

In this day of comic book and sci-fi movies, it's difficult to recall when a serious character study like The Graduate was a box office hit. A troubled college graduate, played by Dustin Hoffman.

The Graduate (1967)