Unexpected Box Office Hits: Directors' Highest-Grossing Movies

Chloé Zhao: Eternals

Chloé Zhao, known for her indie hits, took a leap into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with 'Eternals.' While the star-studded ensemble cast drew attention, the film's box office performance was modest compared to MCU standards. Earning over $400 million, 'Eternals' surpassed Zhao's previous success with 'Nomadland,' which won multiple Academy Awards. Despite mixed reviews, the film showcased Zhao's transition to big-budget productions.

Ikaris is tied down in Eternals' final fight

Ridley Scott: The Martian

Ridley Scott's 'The Martian' stands as his highest-grossing film, featuring Matt Damon in a captivating solo performance on Mars. While the sci-fi adventure garnered significant box office revenue, it's not necessarily considered Scott's magnum opus. With a diverse filmography including iconic movies like 'Alien' and 'Blade Runner,' Scott's range and talent extend far beyond box office numbers.

Matt Damon in The Martian

Guillermo Del Toro: Pacific Rim

Guillermo del Toro's 'Pacific Rim' emerged as a blockbuster hit, raking in $411 million worldwide. Despite its commercial success, the film pales in comparison to del Toro's critically acclaimed works like 'The Shape of Water' and 'Pan's Labyrinth.' Known for his artistic finesse, del Toro's foray into big-budget sci-fi showcases a different aspect of his filmmaking prowess.

Pacific Rim Movie

Martin Scorsese: The Wolf of Wall Street

Martin Scorsese's 'The Wolf of Wall Street' dazzled audiences with its humor, parties, and stellar performances, grossing $389.8 million globally. While it remains a standout in Scorsese's filmography, classics like 'Taxi Driver' and 'Goodfellas' often overshadow it. The director's legacy of cinematic masterpieces proves that box office success is just one aspect of his illustrious career.

Jordan at his desk in The Wolf of Wall Street

Spike Lee: Inside Man

Spike Lee's heist thriller 'Inside Man' became his highest-grossing film, amassing $184.4 million in ticket sales. Despite its commercial triumph, 'Inside Man' doesn't reach the artistic heights of Lee's earlier works like 'Malcolm X' and 'Do the Right Thing.' Lee's ability to blend social commentary with gripping storytelling shines in his lesser-known gems.

Keith Speaks with Dalton in the Bank Vault in Inside Man

Guy Ritchie: Aladdin

Guy Ritchie's venture into the live-action realm with 'Aladdin' resulted in a staggering $1.05 billion at the box office. However, this Disney adaptation differs significantly from Ritchie's signature British gangster films like 'Snatch' and 'Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.' The allure of beloved characters and Will Smith's charisma propelled 'Aladdin' to financial success, showcasing Ritchie's versatility.

Will-Smith-Aladdin-Prince-Ali

Quentin Tarantino: Django Unchained

Quentin Tarantino's Western epic 'Django Unchained' soared to $449.8 million worldwide, marking one of his top-grossing films. While renowned for his groundbreaking 'Pulp Fiction,' 'Django Unchained' captivated audiences with its unique storytelling and dynamic action sequences. Tarantino's unparalleled style and storytelling prowess continue to redefine cinema, transcending mere box office numbers.

Samuel L. Jackson as Stephen Warren, Kerry Washington as Broomhilda

Christopher Nolan: The Dark Knight Rises

Christopher Nolan's superhero spectacle 'The Dark Knight Rises' reigns as his highest-grossing film, surpassing $1.08 billion in earnings. Despite its commercial success, 'The Dark Knight Rises' resides in the shadow of its predecessor, 'The Dark Knight,' known for its impact and innovation. Nolan's filmography is a testament to his directorial prowess, where financial triumphs do not always align with critical acclaim.

Bane approaching Batman with open arms in The Dark Knight Rises