The Complete Overview of the Top Grossing Movies of 1987
1987 was a pivotal year for cinema, marking the transition between the analog and digital eras of filmmaking. The **top grossing movies of 1987** weren’t just financially successful—they were cultural milestones. *Fatal Attraction*, for instance, became a defining film of the decade, its exploration of toxic relationships sparking national conversations. Meanwhile, *The Last Emperor*, Bernardo Bertolucci’s visually stunning epic, won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, proving that art-house cinema could still thrive in mainstream theaters. The year’s box office leaders also showcased Hollywood’s growing global ambitions. *The Princess Bride* wasn’t just a hit in the U.S.—it became an international phenomenon, its clever writing and fairy-tale charm making it a timeless favorite. Similarly, *Moonstruck* and *Beetlejuice* demonstrated that quirky, character-driven stories could dominate the charts without relying on special effects. These films proved that in 1987, **the highest-grossing movies** weren’t just about explosions or action—they were about heart, humor, and human connection.Historical Background and Evolution
The late 1980s was a period of intense experimentation in Hollywood. After the blockbuster boom of the early ’80s (*E.T.*, *Star Wars*, *Raiders of the Lost Ark*), studios were looking for the next big thing. The **top-grossing films of 1987** emerged from this creative tension—some leaned into spectacle (*RoboCop*), while others focused on intimate character studies (*Moonstruck*). This duality defined the year’s cinematic landscape. The rise of home video also played a crucial role in shaping the **biggest box office hits of 1987**. With VHS becoming more accessible, studios had to compete with rentals, leading to a surge in re-releases and double features. Films like *The Princess Bride* benefited from this trend, as audiences flocked to theaters to see them on the big screen before renting them later. The **highest-grossing movies of 1987** weren’t just about initial box office numbers—they were about longevity, proving that a great film could sustain its popularity long after its release.Core Mechanisms: How It Works
The success of the **top box office movies of 1987** wasn’t accidental—it was the result of careful marketing, strategic releases, and strong word-of-mouth. Studios like Paramount and Warner Bros. invested heavily in promotional campaigns, using TV spots, posters, and even novelty merchandise to generate buzz. For example, *Fatal Attraction*’s infamous "I’m Adam, and this is my wife, Beth" tagline became a cultural shorthand for the film’s themes, driving audiences to see it. Another key factor was the **diversity of the year’s hits**. While action films like *Predator* and *RoboCop* dominated the summer, the fall brought more character-driven stories (*Moonstruck*, *Beetlejuice*). This balance ensured that there was something for every type of moviegoer, which helped sustain box office performance throughout the year. The **highest-grossing films of 1987** also benefited from strong critical reception, with many earning Oscar nominations or wins, further cementing their legacy.Key Benefits and Crucial Impact
The **top grossing movies of 1987** didn’t just make money—they shaped the cultural conversation. *Fatal Attraction*’s portrayal of a dangerous obsession became a national talking point, while *The Last Emperor*’s historical depth earned it widespread acclaim. These films proved that cinema could be both commercially viable and artistically significant, a balance that would define Hollywood for decades. Beyond their financial success, the **biggest films of 1987** influenced future storytelling. The rise of psychological thrillers (*Fatal Attraction*) paved the way for films like *Basic Instinct* and *The Silence of the Lambs*, while the success of *The Princess Bride* inspired a wave of meta-narratives in cinema. The year’s hits also demonstrated the power of nostalgia—whether through fairy tales (*The Princess Bride*) or musicals (*Dirty Dancing*), audiences craved stories that felt both familiar and fresh.*"1987 was the year Hollywood learned that intelligence and entertainment weren’t mutually exclusive."* — Roger Ebert, *Chicago Sun-Times*
Major Advantages
- Cultural Relevance: The **top grossing movies of 1987** tackled real-world issues (*Fatal Attraction*) while also delivering pure escapism (*The Princess Bride*), making them universally appealing.
- Visual Innovation: Films like *The Last Emperor* pushed the boundaries of cinematography, using practical effects and stunning set designs to create immersive worlds.
- Strong Character Arcs: Unlike many action films of the era, the **highest-grossing movies of 1987** prioritized well-developed characters, ensuring emotional investment from audiences.
- Global Appeal: Many of these films (*The Princess Bride*, *Dirty Dancing*) became international hits, proving that great storytelling transcends borders.
- Legacy in Pop Culture: From *Beetlejuice*’s iconic imagery to *Moonstruck*’s unforgettable dialogue, these movies left a lasting mark on music, fashion, and even language.
Comparative Analysis
| Film | Key Themes & Impact |
|---|---|
| Fatal Attraction ($196M) | Psychological thriller; redefined toxic relationships in cinema; sparked national debates on domestic violence. |
| The Princess Bride ($140M) | Meta-fantasy; blended romance, adventure, and humor; became a cult classic with enduring quotable lines. |
| The Last Emperor ($133M) | Historical epic; visually groundbreaking; won 9 Oscars, including Best Picture, proving art-house films could be mainstream hits. |
| Moonstruck ($126M) | Romantic comedy-drama; celebrated quirky, character-driven storytelling; earned Cher her first Oscar nomination. |
Future Trends and Innovations
The **top grossing movies of 1987** set the stage for the next decade of cinema. The success of psychological thrillers (*Fatal Attraction*) led to a surge in neo-noir and crime dramas in the ’90s, while the popularity of *The Princess Bride* inspired a wave of fairy-tale adaptations. The year’s hits also demonstrated that audiences were hungry for films that balanced spectacle with substance—a trend that would define the late ’80s and early ’90s. Looking ahead, the **highest-grossing films of 1987** foreshadowed the rise of franchises and intellectual properties. While 1987 itself didn’t see the birth of major franchises, the success of *The Princess Bride* and *RoboCop* proved that audiences would return to theaters for sequels and spin-offs. This paved the way for the blockbuster franchises of the ’90s (*Jurassic Park*, *Terminator 2*) and beyond.
Conclusion
The **top grossing movies of 1987** were more than just financial successes—they were cultural landmarks. From *Fatal Attraction*’s psychological depth to *The Princess Bride*’s timeless charm, these films proved that great cinema could be both commercially viable and artistically rich. They also marked a turning point in Hollywood, where studios began to prioritize storytelling over pure spectacle. As we look back on the **biggest films of 1987**, it’s clear that their impact extends far beyond box office numbers. They shaped the way we tell stories, the way we engage with cinema, and even the way we think about relationships and history. The **highest-grossing movies of 1987** weren’t just hits—they were the foundation of modern filmmaking.Comprehensive FAQs
Q: Which film was the highest-grossing movie of 1987?
A: *Fatal Attraction* topped the charts with a worldwide gross of over $196 million, making it the **highest-grossing movie of 1987** at the time.
Q: Why was *The Princess Bride* so successful?
A: *The Princess Bride* succeeded due to its clever writing, meta-narrative structure, and universal appeal—blending romance, adventure, and humor in a way that resonated with all ages.
Q: Did any of the **top grossing movies of 1987** win major awards?
A: Yes, *The Last Emperor* won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, while *Moonstruck* earned Cher an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.
Q: How did *Fatal Attraction* influence future films?
A: *Fatal Attraction*’s exploration of obsession and domestic violence set a precedent for psychological thrillers, influencing films like *Basic Instinct* and *The Silence of the Lambs*.
Q: Were there any family-friendly hits among the **top box office movies of 1987**?
A: Absolutely—*The Princess Bride* and *Beetlejuice* were both massive hits with families, proving that quirky, imaginative films could dominate the charts.
Q: How did the **highest-grossing films of 1987** compare to earlier blockbusters?
A: Unlike the pure escapism of *Star Wars* or *E.T.*, the **top grossing movies of 1987** balanced spectacle with strong character development and real-world themes, making them more grounded yet still commercially successful.
