15 Highest Grossing Superhero Movies of All Time

Superhero movies have become a global phenomenon, packing theaters with thrilling action and iconic characters. Their ability to blend spectacle with storytelling has turned them into box office giants, earning billions across the world.

As a longtime fan of these larger-than-life tales, I’m excited to break down the 15 highest-grossing superhero films, ranked from the lowest to the highest earners, based on the latest worldwide figures.

15. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017) – $863.8 million

The cosmic crew returned with more humor and heart, led by Chris Pratt’s Star-Lord. This sequel explored family ties while delivering vibrant visuals and a stellar soundtrack. It earned a solid $863.8 million.

Baby Groot and Rocket’s emotional arcs stole the show, with James Gunn’s quirky direction keeping fans hooked. The film’s success proved the Guardians’ unique charm.

14. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) – $880.2 million

Tom Holland’s debut as Spider-Man brought a fresh, youthful spin to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Peter Parker balances high school drama with battling the Vulture, played by a chilling Michael Keaton. The film’s relatable humor and slick action made it a hit.

Its coming-of-age story, paired with Tony Stark’s mentorship, connected with audiences. The global haul reflects Spider-Man’s enduring appeal as a neighborhood hero with big dreams.

13. Spider-Man 3 (2007) – $894.9 million

Sam Raimi’s final Spider-Man film with Tobey Maguire tackled Peter Parker’s darker side. Despite mixed reviews for its crowded plot, the action and emotional stakes pulled in $894.9 million.

The film’s exploration of vengeance and redemption, plus iconic villains like Sandman and Venom, kept fans engaged. Its box office haul showed Spider-Man’s lasting pull.

12. The Dark Knight (2008) – $1.006 billion

Christopher Nolan’s dark masterpiece redefined superhero films. Christian Bale’s Batman faces Heath Ledger’s unforgettable Joker, whose chaotic brilliance earned an Oscar. The film’s intense narrative pushed it past $1 billion.

The gritty exploration of morality and Ledger’s haunting performance made it a cultural touchstone. Its box office success proved superhero films could be both deep and wildly popular.

11. Joker (2019) – $1.079 billion

Joaquin Phoenix’s raw portrayal of Arthur Fleck’s descent into madness was a bold, standalone hit. This dark character study, directed by Todd Phillips, struck a chord with its unsettling tone, grossing over $1 billion.

Phoenix’s Oscar-winning performance and the film’s dive into societal issues fueled its global draw. It showed a villain’s origin could outshine traditional hero tales.

10. The Dark Knight Rises (2012) – $1.085 billion

Nolan’s epic conclusion to his Batman trilogy saw Bruce Wayne take on Tom Hardy’s menacing Bane. The sprawling story of redemption and sacrifice captivated audiences, earning over $1 billion.

Despite a complex plot, the emotional stakes and grand visuals kept fans invested. The film’s success cemented Nolan’s trilogy as a benchmark for the genre.

9. Captain America: Civil War (2016) – $1.155 billion

This MCU clash pitted Iron Man against Captain America in a battle of ideals. Tom Holland’s Spider-Man debut added fresh energy, helping the film gross $1.155 billion.

The Russo brothers’ blend of personal drama and epic action made it a standout. Introducing Black Panther and Spider-Man boosted its global appeal.

8. Iron Man 3 (2013) – $1.215 billion

Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark faced trauma and a cunning foe in the Mandarin. The film’s mix of wit, action, and emotional depth earned it $1.215 billion worldwide.

Shane Black’s direction and Downey’s charisma carried the post-Avengers story. Its massive success showed Tony Stark’s star power was unstoppable.

7. Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) – $1.335 billion

Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman’s R-rated team-up was a wild, meta-filled ride. Packed with humor and brutal action, it became the highest-grossing R-rated superhero film, earning $1.335 billion.

Nostalgic cameos and the duo’s electric chemistry drove its massive success. It showed audiences craved bold, irreverent takes on superhero stories.

6. Black Panther (2018) – $1.349 billion

Chadwick Boseman’s T’Challa brought Wakanda to life in this cultural phenomenon. Ryan Coogler’s vibrant storytelling and Michael B. Jordan’s compelling Killmonger pushed it to $1.349 billion.

The film’s celebration of African culture and powerful themes resonated globally. Its box office triumph and Oscar nod marked a new era for superhero films.

5. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) – $1.405 billion

Joss Whedon’s second Avengers film saw the team battle a rogue AI, Ultron. Packed with action and new heroes like Vision, it grossed $1.405 billion.

The film’s global scale and team dynamics kept audiences hooked. Despite a tougher narrative, its spectacle ensured a massive box office win.

4. The Avengers (2012) – $1.520 billion

The MCU’s first team-up was a game-changer, uniting Iron Man, Thor, and more against Loki. Joss Whedon’s sharp script and epic battles earned $1.520 billion.

The film’s groundbreaking crossover thrilled fans, proving superhero teams could dominate. Its success laid the foundation for the MCU’s billion-dollar future.

3. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) – $1.921 billion

Tom Holland’s multiverse adventure brought back Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Men. Packed with nostalgia and emotional weight, it grossed $1.921 billion.

The return of iconic villains like Green Goblin and heartfelt storytelling drove its success. It became a global sensation, celebrating Spider-Man’s legacy.

2. Avengers: Infinity War (2018) – $2.052 billion

The Russo brothers’ epic saw Thanos take on the Avengers in a universe-shaking clash. Its shocking cliffhanger and massive cast pushed it to $2.052 billion.

The film’s bold stakes and emotional depth gripped audiences. It was the first superhero movie to cross $2 billion, setting a high bar.

1. Avengers: Endgame (2019) – $2.799 billion

The culmination of the MCU’s Infinity Saga, this epic united every major hero to undo Thanos’ snap. Its emotional payoff and record-breaking $2.799 billion made it the top superhero film.

The Russo brothers’ blend of heart, action, and closure resonated worldwide. It’s a landmark that redefined what superhero movies could achieve.

Which superhero film is your favorite, or did I miss a hidden gem? Share your thoughts in the comments!