As we say goodbye to 2023, let’s reflect on the standout tech-related movies that made waves throughout the year.
1. The Mario Movie
This one? Huge surprise. I mean, who expected the Mario Movie to smash the billion-dollar mark worldwide? Even Disney’s bigwig Bob Iger had to give Universal a nod with a “welcome to the billion-dollar club.” Sure, some of us might have taken a nap during bits of it, but hey, it was the second-highest grossing movie of the year, bagging a cool $1.3 billion. Just shy of the Barbie movie – believe it or not!
And can we talk about how video game movies are cashing in? Sonic paved the way, making $725 million with two flicks, turning video game adaptations into a goldmine for movie studios.
2. Oppenheimer
Oppenheimer, oh boy, it’s not your run-of-the-mill summer blockbuster. Directed by the maestro Christopher Nolan, this cinematic gem took us on a journey back to the events that led to the creation of the A-bomb – the single most mind-bending, world-altering piece of tech humanity ever dreamed up.
Let’s talk about Nolan’s genius for a sec. This guy knows how to spin a tale, and Oppenheimer is no exception. It’s not just about explosions and mushroom clouds; it’s about the minds behind the madness, the brains that birthed a tech beast.
Snagging the bronze medal for 2023’s box office hits, Oppenheimer clocked in at almost $1 billion worldwide. Now, that’s not just popcorn entertainment; it’s a glimpse into the history of tech that changed everything. Nolan, you’ve done it again.
3. Transformers: Rise of the Beasts
Transformers, the OGs of shape-shifting, car-flipping, robot-smashing fun. But Rise of the Beasts brought something fresh to the Autobots vs. Decepticons saga. Yeah, it’s the seventh installment – or as we’d call it, Transformers 7 if they followed Fast and Furious logic.
Sure, Transformers movies lost some shine along the way, with the cast playing musical chairs. But Rise of the Beasts, hitting #13 at the box office, made $439 million. Not too shabby, right?
Now, what’s the deal with this one? It’s not a Michael Bay original, and it might not feel like the Transformers you remember. But trust me, it’s got that metallic magic, and fans still lined up for the ride.
4. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Remember the animated dazzle of Into the Spider-Verse? Well, get ready for its mind-blowing sequel – Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Sony didn’t waste any time, cranking out a sequel that dialed the art style up to 11.
Why was it a game-changer? Into the Spider-Verse was a breath of fresh air, not just for Spidey fans but for animation in general. And Across the Spider-Verse takes that and runs with it. They even threw in some traditional comic book looks, just for kicks.
Rolling in at #6, this cinematic delight raked in $690 million at the box office. It’s not just a Spidey movie; it’s a visual feast, a celebration of animation, and a testament to the endless possibilities of storytelling in the digital age. Swing into the Spider-Verse; you won’t be disappointed.
5. Gran Turismo
Buckle up, speed demons, because Gran Turismo roared onto the movie scene straight from the adrenaline-soaked world of PlayStation. This action-packed joyride featured none other than Orlando Bloom and the fantastic David Harbour from Stranger Things. But it’s not your average car movie; it’s a master-and-apprentice sports saga with a turbocharged twist.
Picture this – a once-failed race car driver reluctantly agrees to coach a bunch of laid-back, video game-addicted youngsters. Their mission? Transform from joystick jockeys to real-life racetrack dynamos, with stakes higher than ever before.
Sure, it might remind you of The Karate Kid and Kickboxer, but replace the punches with screeching tires and revving engines à la Tom Cruise in the ’89 classic, Days of Thunder.
Now, what made Gran Turismo unique in a sea of blockbusters? It wasn’t just about flashy cars and heart-pounding races; it explored the intersection of technology, gaming, and real-world sportsmanship. The narrative delved into the challenges of translating digital prowess into tangible, high-stakes racing skills.
Released as the #43 movie of 2023, Gran Turismo didn’t just burn rubber at the box office – it tore through expectations, earning a whopping $122 million against a $60 million budget. So, whether you’re a petrolhead or just someone who loves a good underdog story, Gran Turismo hit the cinematic apex with its blend of high-octane action and a fresh take on the sports movie genre. Get ready to feel the G-force in every frame as Gran Turismo takes you on an unforgettable cinematic spin. 🏎️🎬
6. The Creator
Buckle up, sci-fi enthusiasts, because The Creator, crafted by none other than Gareth Edwards, the genius behind Star Wars: Rogue One, took us on an electrifying journey into the realms of artificial intelligence gone rogue.
Released in September, The Creator snagged the #47 spot at the 2023 box office, making $104 million against an $80 million budget. Now, that might not be breaking the bank, but let me tell you, it’s a wild ride into the darker side of tech.
Picture this: a plot to take down “the creator” of an AI that’s decided to wage war against us mere mortals. Edwards, known for his knack for weaving intense narratives, delivered a sci-fi action adventure that’s equal parts thrilling and chilling.
Sure, it might not have hit the billion-dollar mark, but it’s not about the numbers; it’s about delving into the ethical dilemmas and consequences of our ever-evolving tech landscape. The Creator is more than just a sci-fi flick; it’s a cautionary tale, a journey into the unknown, and a stark reminder that our own creations might just be our undoing.
So, if you’re craving a cinematic experience that’ll make you question the future of tech, dive into The Creator. Gareth Edwards invites you to witness the clash between man and machine, a tale that unfolds in the shadowy corners of our tech-driven world.
Box Office Breakdown
| Movie Name | Box Office Position | Box Office Gross $$ |
|---|---|---|
| The Mario Movie | 2 | $1,361,945,211 |
| Oppenheimer | 3 | $952,908,650 |
| Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse | 6 | $690,615,475 |
| Transformers: Rise of the Beasts | 13 | $438,966,392 |
| Gran Turismo | 43 | $121,987,663 |
| The Creator | 47 | $104,272,136 |
Conclusion
What have we missed out? Which movies are you looking forward to in 2024? Please leave your comment below…
