12 Box Office Hits No One Saw Coming

By Meena

With a budget under $5M, this thriller tackled racial themes uniquely, grossing $255M worldwide. A dark horse from Jordan Peele!

12. Get Out (2017)

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A sci-fi masterpiece from South Africa with a modest budget, making over $210M. Neill Blomkamp's debut stunned audiences.

11. District 9 (2009)

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With its spellbinding space visuals, Gravity snagged $723M. Sandra Bullock's solo act in space was a gravity-defying hit.

10. Gravity (2013)

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This underdog story from India's slums danced its way to over $377M. Truly a 'millionaire' surprise from Danny Boyle.

9. Slumdog Millionaire (2008)

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Expected to flop, this galaxy far away became a legendary franchise. It began with a $775M start. The force was indeed strong.

8. Star Wars (1977)

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Amid production chaos, this epic war film garnered $150M. Coppola's Vietnam retelling left viewers in awe.

7. Apocalypse Now (1979)

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A DC film with no Batman? Yet, Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal made Joker the first R-rated film to hit $1B!

6. Joker (2019)

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Spielberg's shark terrorized the waters & made over $470M. The original summer blockbuster!

5. Jaws (1975)

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Shyamalan's twisty tale had us seeing dead people and raked in $673M. A truly unexpected 'sense' at the box office.

4. The Sixth Sense (1999)

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Made on a shoestring budget of $15k, this supernatural hit scared its way to $193M. Proof that less can be more!

3. Paranormal Activity (2007)

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After pandemic delays, Cruise's return as Maverick soared to new heights. A nostalgic flight collecting millions.

2. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

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With a young Macaulay Culkin, this holiday classic trapped $477M. The biggest small surprise of its time!

1. Home Alone (1990)

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