Determining the "number one" movie in history is a subjective question with no definitive answer. There are many ways to measure a movie's success, and each metric leads to different results.
Here are some common ways to define the "number one" movie:
By Box Office Gross
- Adjusted for Inflation: When accounting for inflation, Gone with the Wind (1939) holds the top spot with an estimated gross of over $3.8 billion.
- Unadjusted Gross: Avatar (2009) currently holds the record for highest-grossing film worldwide with over $2.9 billion in box office revenue.
By Critical Acclaim
- Awards: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003) is the only film to win all eleven Academy Awards for which it was nominated.
- Critical Reviews: While subjective, films like Citizen Kane (1941) and Casablanca (1942) are often praised by critics and consistently rank highly on "best movie" lists.
By Cultural Impact
- Pop Culture: Movies like Star Wars (1977) and The Godfather (1972) have profoundly impacted pop culture, influencing filmmaking, music, and fashion.
- Social Impact: Films addressing social issues, like To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) and 12 Angry Men (1957), have sparked conversations and contributed to social change.
Ultimately, the "number one" movie in history is a matter of personal preference and what criteria you prioritize.
