“Dune: Part Two” grossed over $700 million, while “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” secured the second spot with $568 million, according to Box Office Mojo.
1. Dune: Part Two ($712 million)
The movie’s success is attributed to word-of-mouth promotion. Enthusiastic praise from critics intrigued audiences, leading them to theaters. RogerEbert.com noted that “Dune: Part Two” is not merely an adaptation but demonstrates how blockbusters can possess both artistic and nuanced qualities. Observer lauded the film for its adept fusion of special effects and cinematography.
2. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire ($568 million)
With a budget of approximately $135 million, director Adam Wingard capitalized on visual effects and setting to captivate viewers. The Titan battles are strategically interspersed throughout the film, enhancing the scale and intensity. The narrative primarily revolves around Kong, a creature with emotional depth and strong connections to humanity.
3. Kung Fu Panda 4 ($544 million)
Directed by Mike Mitchell and Stephanie Ma Stine, with an investment of around $85 million, this film appeals to all audience demographics, offering high entertainment value and striking visual graphics and color composition. The martial arts sequences, crafted by skilled artists, are visually stunning, with smooth motion effects.
4. Inside Out 2 ($380 million)
Kelsey Mann’s animated project, released on June 14, is set two years after the events of the 2015 original. According to The Guardian, the film grossed nearly $300 million globally within three days, surpassing “Dune: Part Two” for the year’s highest opening. Experts believe this success will allow “Inside Out 2” to recoup its $200 million production and marketing costs. The film received critical acclaim, with a 91% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an A CinemaScore, praised for its animation and storytelling.
5. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes ($377 million)
With a $165 million budget, director Wes Ball’s film is set years after “War for the Planet of the Apes” (2017). It is hailed for its advancements in CGI, with effects comparable to “Avatar: The Way of Water,” directed by James Cameron. Cinematic Reel noted that from the opening scene to the third-act action sequences, the film continually impresses. IndieWire predicts it will be a strong contender for Best Visual Effects at next year’s Oscars.
6. Bad Boys: Ride or Die ($223 million)
This $100 million project, released in early June and directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, maintains the intense action and creative humor of its predecessors. The film features a fast-paced rhythm and suspenseful sequences, from Miami street chases to gunfights. The performances of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence keep audiences engaged.
7. The Garfield Movie ($219 million)
Directed by Mark Dindal, with a production cost of about $60 million, the film offers a simple storyline with absurd elements that entertain viewers of all ages. Common Sense Media praised the well-chosen voice actors for bringing each character’s personality to life.
8. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire ($201 million)
Directed by Gil Kenan, this film follows the events of “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” (2021). The Spengler family moves from Summerville, Oklahoma, to start anew in New York. The ghost-hunting team advances their laboratory, aiming to eliminate spirits with new proton weaponry. However, they accidentally unleash Death Chill, a mysterious force that can freeze everything. The characters must work together to prevent a second Ice Age. The film, with a budget of $75-100 million, emphasizes special effects and includes numerous explosive scenes. The franchise’s mascot, Stay-Puft Man, adds to the film’s entertainment.
9. Bob Marley: One Love ($179 million)
Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, this $70 million film explores different phases of Bob Marley’s music career, from its inception to his rise to fame. Variety reported that the film, supported by Marley’s family and friends, provides an emotional perspective on a brief period of the singer’s life, highlighting his resilience and songwriting style. It also offers an opportunity for those unfamiliar with Marley to learn about him.
10. IF ($174 million)
Directed by John Krasinski, this film follows Bea (Cailey Fleming), a young girl who discovers she can see everyone’s imaginary friends. The adventure begins as Bea and her neighbor (Ryan Reynolds) help these imaginary beings reconnect with their former childhood friends, now adults, to avoid being forgotten. The film is praised for its creative characters and charming designs, with music and sound effects contributing to a joyful, warm atmosphere.