Will Smith has absolutely no problem reminding us all everyone why he’s the “king of the box office.” And his history of popular films serves as proof of that!
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Not only did his 2024 film Bad Boys: Ride or Die—the fourth installment of the popular Bad Boys franchise—cement itself as the highest opening for an R-rated film since the previous summer’s awards season darling, Oppenheimer. But he’s continued to maintain himself and his star power decade after decade with projects ranging in various genres.
Of course, Smith’s success at the box office should come as no surprise to anyone as he’s one of the very few actors to consistently and consecutively release films that crossed the $100 million mark on opening weekend. The third film of the franchise, “Bad Boys For Life,” remains the highest grossing one in the series, coming in at a whopping $426.5 million.
So in honor of his massive success and his 57th birthday, check out Big Willy’s long history of movie millions! Happy birthday, Will!
Aladdin (2019)- $1.05 Billion
This shouldn’t come as a surprise to me since this is a remake of a beloved Disney film, but it’s not one of my favorite performances. I don’t hate it, but I like a few better than this one. But clearly others LOVED it and it showed at the box office.
Independence Day (1996)- $817 Million
The first movie that would cross the $100 million dollar over the Fourth of July weekend starring Smith would later prove to be the jump off point. In years following, Smith consistently became the unofficial King of the 4th of July with consistent releases that all hit $100 million.
Suicide Squad (2016)- $747 Million
I don’t know what Will likes about playing bad heroes/villains (we’ll get to Hancock soon), but between him, Margot Robbie, and Jared Leto—Suicide Squad has become one of my favorite comfort watch films. (I don’t know what that says about me, but let’s move on.)
Men in Black 3 (2012)- $654.2 Million
You would think a movie franchise would lose steam by the third film but when Will Smith is involved, you might want to think again!
Hancock (2008)- $629.4 Million
If our beloved superheroes from Marvel had that long lost cousin they never invite to the cookout because he can’t hold his liquor or restrain his powers—that would be Hancock. Not my favorite, but as a superhero fanl, I’m not mad at it.
Men in Black (1997)- $589.4 Million
Who knew Will Smith and Tommie Lee Jones would be a match made in alien-busting heaven? Obviously the stuidos did and that’s why we’ve got two sequels.
I Am Legend (2007)- $585.4 Million
This one hits a little too close to home given the worldwide pandemic we just dealt with (and arguably still are), but the people loved it!
Men in Black II (2002)- $441.8 Million
Admit it: you’ve never seen an alien immigration officer look as good as Smith does in this. I’m so glad there’s three of these!
Bad Boys For Life (2020)- $426.5 Million
They almost had us thinking this would be the last we’d see of the Will and Martin Lawrence together, but thankfully not. This breathed new life into the beloved franchise and I can’t wait to see them go for one, or two, or three more rides! I mean, they said “for life,” right?
Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024)- $404. 5 Million
Now this Bad Boys film just might be the best one out of the entire franchise. And if it’s not, it’s no doubt the most fun one to watch in a theater. If you still somehow haven’t seen it yet, do yourself a favor and watch it this weekend!
Hitch (2005)- $371.6 Million
It’s a damn shame that out of Will Smith’s entire filmography, he’s only given us one true rom-com. Is it a classic? Absolutely. But do we deserve at least 5 more? You’re damn right we do!
Shark Tale (2004)- $374.8 Million
A childhood favorite! One of the best animated comedies, hands down! Nemo ain’t got nothing on Oscar! I will not be hearing any other arguments. Let’s move one
I, Robot (2001)- $353.1 Million
There’s a lot to like about I, Robot although I can’t but think this may have been some sort of foreshadowing (or forewarning) considering the current AI takeover we’re experiencing!
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)- $307.1 Million
I can see why Smith views this as his best work, the trailer alone still brings tears to my eyes. You definitely did your big one, Big Willy!
Wild, Wild West (1999)- $222.1 Million
Though many folks (including Smith) acknowledge that Wild, Wild West wasn’t his best movie—as somebody who loved to watch it growing up, it holds a special place in my heart regardless of the naysayers!
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