Top 15 Highest-Grossing R-Rated Movies, Ranked

R-rated movies often take risks, diving into mature themes, bold humor, or intense drama that captivate audiences worldwide. These films prove that stories with an edge can still pack theaters and spark conversations.

From dark character studies to action-packed comedies, this list ranks the top 15 R-rated films by their global earnings. Each one brings something unique, and I’ll break down what makes them shine, starting from the bottom up.

15. American Sniper (2014)

‘American Sniper’ follows Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, whose sharpshooting saves lives but strains his personal world. Bradley Cooper’s powerful performance grounds the film’s tense war scenes and emotional core.

The movie’s raw look at duty and trauma resonated, earning $547,326,372. It connected with viewers through its honest portrayal of sacrifice, becoming a standout in war dramas.

14. Ted (2012)

‘Ted’ is a comedy about a crude teddy bear, voiced by Seth MacFarlane, and his lifelong friend John, played by Mark Wahlberg. Their chaotic bond delivers laughs while exploring growing up.

Its mix of raunchy humor and heart pulled in $549,368,315. The film’s unexpected charm made it a global hit, proving R-rated comedies can steal the spotlight.

13. The Mermaid (2016)

‘The Mermaid’, directed by Stephen Chow, blends fantasy and comedy as a playboy falls for a mermaid aiming to stop his harmful business. Its quirky humor and eco-friendly message clicked with audiences.

The film grossed $553,810,228, especially in Asian markets. Its unique storytelling and vibrant visuals showed the power of bold, culturally rich narratives.

12. Fifty Shades of Grey (2015)

‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ explores the steamy dynamic between Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey, sparking intrigue with its bold romance. Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan’s chemistry drove its allure.

Earning $569,651,467, it tapped into widespread curiosity about its provocative story. The film’s cultural splash led to a trilogy, redefining romantic dramas.

11. The Hangover Part II (2011)

‘The Hangover Part II’ sends the Wolf Pack to Bangkok, where a bachelor party goes wildly off the rails. Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, and Ed Helms bring non-stop laughs with their antics.

The sequel’s outrageous comedy earned $586,764,305. Its bold humor and chaotic energy kept fans hooked, making it a comedy powerhouse.

10. The Passion of the Christ (2004)

Mel Gibson’s ‘The Passion of the Christ’ depicts Jesus Christ’s final hours with raw intensity. Jim Caviezel’s gripping performance carries the film’s unflinching look at faith and sacrifice.

It grossed $612,054,428, striking a chord with spiritual and historical drama fans. Its emotional depth drew massive crowds despite its heavy themes.

9. Logan (2017)

‘Logan’ offers a gritty send-off for Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, protecting a young mutant in a fading world. Its blend of brutal action and deep emotion sets it apart in the superhero genre.

The film earned $619,021,436, praised for its heartfelt story and intense fights. It showed how comic book movies could push boundaries with mature themes.

8. Detective Chinatown 3 (2021)

‘Detective Chinatown 3’ follows detectives Tang and Qin solving a murder in Tokyo, packed with wild action and humor. The Chinese comedy-thriller keeps viewers guessing with its fast pace.

It grossed $686,257,563, dominating Asian box offices. Its high-energy mix of laughs and twists proved the global appeal of fresh, dynamic stories.

7. It (2017)

‘It’, based on Stephen King’s novel, brings the terrifying Pennywise to life, preying on kids in a small town. Bill Skarsgård’s chilling clown performance anchors the horror with heart.

Earning $704,242,888, it tapped into universal fears while celebrating friendship. The film’s blend of scares and emotion made it a horror staple.

6. The Matrix Reloaded (2003)

‘The Matrix Reloaded’ expands the cyberpunk saga of Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus, fighting a machine-driven world. Keanu Reeves leads with iconic action, like the stunning freeway chase.

It grossed $741,847,937, building on the original’s revolutionary visuals. Its bold ideas and stylish sequences kept audiences glued to the screen.

5. Deadpool (2016)

‘Deadpool’ stars Ryan Reynolds as the irreverent mercenary Wade Wilson, mixing crude humor with superhero flair. Its witty, fourth-wall-breaking style and romance with Morena Baccarin’s Vanessa won hearts.

The film earned $782,612,155, proving R-rated heroes could shine. Its fresh take on the genre set a new standard for comic book films.

4. Deadpool 2 (2018)

‘Deadpool 2’ sees Wade Wilson teaming up to save a young mutant from a time-traveling foe, played by Josh Brolin. Ryan Reynolds’ sharp humor and big action keep the chaos flowing.

It grossed $785,896,609, matching the original’s wit with bolder stunts. The film’s heart and humor cemented its place in pop culture.

3. Oppenheimer (2023)

Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ follows J. Robert Oppenheimer, the mind behind the atomic bomb. Cillian Murphy’s intense performance drives a story of science, ethics, and consequences.

Earning $976,968,205, it blended brains with cinematic scale. Its deep dive into human ambition and destruction made it a modern classic.

2. Joker (2019)

‘Joker’ traces Arthur Fleck’s spiral into madness, with Joaquin Phoenix delivering a raw, unforgettable performance. Todd Phillips’ dark drama mixes psychological depth with social commentary.

It grossed $1,078,751,311, resonating with its intense look at chaos and mental health. The film’s bold vision made it a global phenomenon.

1. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)

‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ pairs Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool with Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine for a multiverse adventure. Their electric chemistry fuels a mix of humor, action, and heart.

With $1,338,073,645, it’s the top R-rated earner ever. Its clever gags and epic battles set a new high for the genre.

Which R-rated film blew you away, or is there a hidden gem I missed? Share your picks in the comments!