History's Best Selling Movies of 1957

From coast to coast, 1957 saw a swell surge of mid-century craze and suburban optimism in the world of movies! Leading the charge were mighty, top-selling marvels like 12 Angry Men and Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, capturing the public’s fancy in grand fashion. Distinguished creators from industry leaders like Sidney Lumet and John Sturges proved their mettle with Island in the Sun, delivering craftsmanship that became sensational mainstays in post-war American homes. Step right up and inspect our complete, rank-ordered historical archive below!

1. 12 Angry Men

   Released in 1957 by Sidney Lumet, Reginald Rose, Orion-Nova Productions

   On April 10, 1957, Sidney Lumet's directorial debut, '12 Angry Men,' held its premiere, forever changing the landscape of courtroom dramas. Released to critical acclaim but initial box office indifference, the film presented a gripping, real-time look into the deliberations of a jury room. The film's premiere marked the arrival of a significant new directorial voice in American cinema and introduced audiences to a powerful, thought-provoking narrative about justice, prejudice, and the concept of reasonable doubt. Confined almost entirely to a single room, the film's tension builds not through action, but through dialogue and character, a bold choice that cemented its place as a cinematic classic.

2. Gunfight at the O.K. Corral

   Released in 1957 by John Sturges, Paramount Pictures

   The legendary showdown of 'Gunfight at the O.K. Corral' burst onto cinema screens on May 29, 1957, instantly cementing its place as a quintessential Western. This release date marked the North American theatrical premiere of a film that would become a commercial powerhouse for Paramount Pictures, drawing audiences with its star-studded cast and gripping narrative of law, order, and conflict in the Old West. From its initial debut, the movie captured the public imagination, revitalizing the familiar tale of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday with a depth and intensity that resonated deeply. This pivotal moment launched a film that would not only achieve significant box office success but also leave an indelible mark on the Western genre, defining an era of cinematic storytelling.

3. Island in the Sun

   Released in 1957 by Robert Rossen, 20th Century Fox

   May 29, 1957, marked the world theatrical premiere of 'Island in the Sun' in New York City, launching a film that dared to tackle controversial themes of race and class in the mid-20th century. This date was special as it introduced audiences to a star-studded cast in a narrative that pushed societal boundaries, sparking widespread discussion. Despite its sensitive subject matter for the era, the film achieved significant commercial success, cementing its place as an important cinematic event. Its release demonstrated Hollywood's gradual willingness to address complex social issues, even if gingerly, setting a precedent for future films exploring similar themes.

4. Raintree County

   Released in 1957 by Edward Dmytryk, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

   October 2, 1957, marked the world premiere of 'Raintree County,' an epic American drama that aimed to capture the grand cinematic spectacle of the era. Launched with considerable fanfare in Louisville, Kentucky, this date initiated the journey of one of Hollywood's most ambitious, and at times, tumultuous productions. Billed as MGM's answer to 'Gone with the Wind' and a significant investment in Technicolor, the film sought to mesmerize audiences with its sweeping narrative and star-studded cast. The premiere was a momentous occasion, launching a motion picture that, despite its mixed critical reception and challenging production, left an indelible mark as a significant historical drama of the late 1950s, representing a peak in the studio's pursuit of prestige filmmaking.

5. Search for Paradise

   Released in 1957 by Otto Lang, Cinerama Releasing Corporation

   The lights dimmed on October 9, 1957, in New York City, marking the world theatrical premiere of 'Search for Paradise'. This Cinerama travelogue offered audiences an unprecedented immersive journey, leveraging the cutting-edge three-projector, curved-screen technology that redefined cinematic spectacle. Far more than a mere film, 'Search for Paradise' was an event, a technological marvel that transported viewers to exotic, far-flung locales from the comfort of their seats. Its debut was a significant moment in entertainment history, showcasing Cinerama's potential and setting the stage for a commercially successful run that would capture the imaginations of millions, becoming a notable box office hit for its era.

6. Pal Joey

   Released in 1957 by George Sidney, Columbia Pictures

   On October 25, 1957, the musical film 'Pal Joey' premiered, captivating audiences with its blend of music, glamour, and a star-studded cast. This date marked the launch of a movie that would become a memorable entry in Hollywood's golden age of musicals, starring Frank Sinatra, Rita Hayworth, and Kim Novak. While the film softened some of the darker edges of its Broadway predecessor, it skillfully translated the vibrant energy and classic Rodgers and Hart tunes to the big screen. Its release was a significant event, showcasing an iconic trio of performers and solidifying its place as a classic among fans of the genre.

7. The Bridge on the River Kwai

   Released in 1957 by David Lean, Columbia Pictures

   The 28th of November, 1957, marked a monumental day in cinematic history with the world premiere of David Lean's epic war drama, 'The Bridge on the River Kwai,' in London. This date wasn't just another film release; it heralded the arrival of a motion picture that would redefine the genre, sweep the Academy Awards, and set new benchmarks for commercial success. From its initial screenings, audiences and critics alike were captivated by its grand scale, intense psychological drama, and the profound questions it posed about war, honor, and sanity. The film immediately began its ascent to become the highest-grossing film of 1957 and a perennial classic, solidifying its place as one of the greatest war films ever made and establishing Columbia Pictures as a major force in Hollywood. Its launch was a testament to ambitious storytelling and masterful filmmaking.

8. Sayonara

   Released in 1957 by Joshua Logan, Warner Bros. Pictures

   The release of "Sayonara" on December 5, 1957, marked a significant moment in cinematic history, launching a powerful narrative that challenged societal norms of its era. This highly anticipated film quickly became a commercial triumph, captivating audiences with its sensitive portrayal of forbidden love and cultural clash. Its premiere was not merely an entertainment event but a cultural statement, sparking conversations about racial prejudice and military regulations that governed personal lives. The date cemented "Sayonara" as a daring and resonant production, foreshadowing its impressive box office success and critical acclaim, including multiple Academy Award wins.

9. Don't Go Near the Water

   Released in 1957 by Charles Walters, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

   The cinematic launch of "Don't Go Near the Water" on December 11, 1957, marked the debut of a charming and highly successful military comedy that delighted audiences and became one of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's biggest hits of the year. This specific date is significant as it represents the film's initial theatrical premiere in the United States, allowing moviegoers to first experience its lighthearted take on life in the South Pacific during World War II. Its immediate popularity at the box office cemented its place as a standout entry in the genre, offering a much-needed dose of humor amidst the serious post-war cultural landscape. This film's opening day set the stage for its enduring appeal and commercial triumph.

10. Peyton Place

    Released in 1957 by Mark Robson, 20th Century Fox

    Peyton Place," a cinematic sensation that dared to peel back the veneer of small-town American life, premiered on December 13, 1957, marking the beginning of its remarkable run. This powerful drama quickly became a cultural touchstone, drawing massive audiences eager to witness its bold exploration of hidden desires and societal hypocrisy. Its initial release immediately signaled a box office phenomenon, positioning it as one of the highest-grossing films of its year. The premiere date isn't just a calendar entry; it represents the moment this groundbreaking film began to spark national conversations, solidifying its place in cinematic history and captivating millions with its unforgettable narrative.

11. A Farewell to Arms

    Released in 1957 by Charles Vidor, 20th Century Fox

    On December 18, 1957, the silver screen welcomed a new adaptation of Ernest Hemingway's iconic novel, 'A Farewell to Arms'. This lavish production, starring Rock Hudson and Jennifer Jones, premiered amidst considerable anticipation, aiming to capture the epic romance and tragedy of the World War I era. Produced by the legendary David O. Selznick, the film was intended to be a grand cinematic event, a prestige picture that would resonate deeply with audiences who cherished Hemingway's original work. The release date marked the culmination of a challenging production, hoping to deliver both critical acclaim and commercial success during the holiday season.

12. Old Yeller

    Released in 1957 by Robert Stevenson, Buena Vista Film Distribution

    The heartwarming yet ultimately heartbreaking Disney classic, "Old Yeller," first graced silver screens on December 25, 1957. This Christmas Day premiere marked the launch of a film that would indelibly stamp itself into American cinema, captivating audiences with its poignant story of loyalty and sacrifice. Earning an impressive $5.9 million at the domestic box office, it solidified Disney's prowess in live-action family dramas. This particular date isn't just a calendar entry; it signifies the moment a beloved and culturally significant narrative about a boy and his dog began its journey into the hearts of generations, becoming a foundational piece of cinematic Americana.