The first half of 2025 has proven to be an exhilarating time for film enthusiasts, with a wide array of movies making their debut and achieving significant success at the global box office. From animated sequels to action-packed thrillers, cinema-goers have had plenty to enjoy. Standout hits such as Ne Zha 2 and Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, starring Tom Cruise in his final outing as Ethan Hunt, have drawn large crowds and generated considerable earnings.
This surge in box office numbers is reminiscent of last year’s impressive performances. In 2024, a string of sequels and franchise favorites like Deadpool & Wolverine, Inside Out 2, Moana 2, Despicable Me 4, and Kung Fu Panda 4 dominated cinema screens worldwide. The excitement surrounding returning characters and new adventures carried over into 2025, with eager fans flocking to theatres in the first six months of the year to watch their favorite stars return to action or embark on new story arcs.
According to data shared by Dexerto, here are the top 10 highest-grossing films of 2025 so far based on worldwide earnings:
Topping the list is Ne Zha 2, the animated action-adventure film that has taken audiences by storm, collecting a staggering $1.898 billion globally. Released at the end of January, the film’s success has positioned it as the only 2025 release so far to break the $1 billion mark. The phenomenal reception of Ne Zha 2 shows the continued popularity of animated epics and Eastern mythology-inspired storytelling among a broad audience.
In second place is A Minecraft Movie, which has earned $954 million worldwide. The adaptation of the popular video game has successfully translated its pixelated universe onto the big screen, resonating with fans of all ages. Its near-billion-dollar box office performance underlines the strength of gaming franchises in modern cinema.
Following closely is Lilo & Stitch, the live-action remake of the beloved animated classic. With earnings of $910 million, the film has not only met expectations but exceeded them, showcasing the enduring affection audiences have for Disney remakes.
Next is Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, which has earned $541 million. The film marks the end of an era for Tom Cruise as he reprises the role of Ethan Hunt for the final time. Still running in select theatres, this installment has managed to keep fans on the edge of their seats with its signature blend of high-stakes action and elaborate stunts.
Captain America: Brave New World also finds a spot on the top 10 list, having grossed $415 million globally. As part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the film continues the storyline following Steve Rogers’ departure, now focusing on Sam Wilson taking up the mantle of Captain America.
Another Marvel entry, Thunderbolts, has made $381 million and is still running in select cinemas. This team-up movie introduces a mix of antiheroes and morally complex characters, expanding the MCU’s scope beyond traditional heroism.
Sinners, a darker, original thriller, follows with $364 million in earnings, proving that original content still has a place amidst a landscape crowded with franchises and sequels.
In eighth position is the live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon, which was released on June 13 and is still currently showing in theatres. With $358 million in earnings, it features performances by Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gabriel Howell, and Julian Dennison. This reimagined tale of dragons and friendships continues to enchant both loyal fans and new viewers.
Rounding out the top 10 are Final Destination: Bloodlines with $280 million and Snow White with $205 million. These films reflect the enduring appeal of horror reboots and fairy tale adaptations, respectively. The latest Final Destination entry reinvigorates the long-running franchise with fresh scares, while Snow White brings a modern retelling of the iconic tale to a new generation.
Many of these films are still available in theatres, particularly Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Thunderbolts, Lilo & Stitch, and How to Train Your Dragon. This means their earnings could continue to climb in the weeks ahead, especially with summer holidays driving footfall.
Looking back at 2024, it was a record-setting year with several billion-dollar hits that have helped shape the current cinematic momentum. Inside Out 2 led the pack with $1.69 billion, followed by Deadpool & Wolverine with $1.34 billion. Both sequels benefitted from strong fan bases and positive word of mouth. Moana 2 joined the billion-dollar club with $1 billion in box office revenue, confirming that Disney’s animated adventures remain evergreen.
Despicable Me 4 also performed impressively with $969 million, continuing the Minions’ long-standing success. Meanwhile, Wicked brought in $728 million, giving musical fans a theatrical spectacle. Other major earners from 2024 included Dune: Part Two with $714 million, Mufasa: The Lion King with $699 million, and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire which made $571 million. Kung Fu Panda 4 and Sonic the Hedgehog 3 rounded out the top 10 with $548 million and $483 million respectively, showing strong performance from animated and hybrid films alike.
Looking ahead, the rest of 2025 is packed with exciting releases that are likely to keep the box office thriving. Some of the most anticipated films set for release this year include F1, M3GAN 2.0, Jurassic World: Rebirth, Heads of State, Superman, Smurfs, Eddington, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Splitsville, The Roses, The Toxic Avenger, The Conjuring: Last Rites, The Smashing Machine, Kiss of the Spider Woman, Now You See Me: Now You Don’t, and Avatar: Fire and Ash.
Each of these titles promises a unique cinematic experience, with several being part of well-established franchises and others representing bold, original storytelling. With such a diverse lineup on the horizon, box office momentum is expected to continue well into the second half of the year.
In summary, 2025 has kicked off with a strong performance in theatres around the world, offering a mix of sequels, remakes, and original stories that have connected with audiences across demographics. With only one film so far, Ne Zha 2, surpassing the $1 billion mark, it’s worth watching to see if any of the upcoming releases will join that elite club.
When asked about the timing of the highest-grossing film of the year, the answer is simple: “It was released at the end of January.”
And as for the billion-dollar club this year? “As per reports, only Ne Zha 2 ($1.898 billion) has crossed the $1 billion mark so far.”
With half the year still to go, audiences can look forward to more cinematic magic as new releases aim to leave their mark at the box office.