History's Best Selling Movies of 1978

Hats off to 1978! Few movies commanded as much fanfare and nationwide excitement as Heaven Can Wait. Alongside sensationally popular hits like Grease and Revenge of the Pink Panther, consumers eagerly embraced the retro grooves and analog innovation. Pioneering outfits from industry leaders like Warren Beatty and Randal Kleiser set the standard for quality, producing celebrated items that defined the laid-back, radical spirit of the seventies. Browse our definitive retrospective below to rediscover the genuine articles of the era.

1. Heaven Can Wait

   Released in 1978 by Warren Beatty, Buck Henry, Paramount Pictures

   On March 29, 1978, moviegoers were introduced to the enchanting world of "Heaven Can Wait," a romantic fantasy-comedy that quickly captured hearts and box office receipts. This pivotal release date marked the debut of a film co-directed, co-written, and starring Warren Beatty, which would go on to become one of the year's biggest hits. Its blend of whimsical humor, heartfelt romance, and existential ponderings about life, death, and second chances made it an instant classic, setting the stage for its impressive commercial success and securing its place as a beloved cinematic gem. The premiere launched a unique narrative that resonated deeply, establishing the film as a cultural touchstone from its very first showing, promising a cinematic experience that was both thought-provoking and utterly delightful.

2. Grease

   Released in 1978 by Randal Kleiser, Paramount Pictures

   On June 16, 1978, theaters across America were electrified by the premiere of 'Grease.' Based on the 1971 stage musical, the film adaptation captured a romanticized, high-energy vision of 1950s American high school life. Starring John Travolta, fresh off his star-making turn in 'Saturday Night Fever,' and international pop sensation Olivia Newton-John, the movie arrived as a cultural event. In an era transitioning from the grit of the early '70s to the excesses of the '80s, 'Grease' offered a vibrant, nostalgic escape filled with leather jackets, poodle skirts, and unforgettable song-and-dance numbers. Its release marked the beginning of a phenomenon, cementing its place as one of the most beloved movie musicals ever made.

3. Revenge of the Pink Panther

   Released in 1978 by Blake Edwards, United Artists

   The summer of 1978 saw the eagerly anticipated return of Inspector Jacques Clouseau in "Revenge of the Pink Panther," hitting theaters on July 19th. This date marked a significant moment for fans worldwide, as it continued the beloved comedic saga after the massive success of "The Pink Panther Strikes Again." The film was not just another sequel; it was a triumphant commercial powerhouse, further solidifying the franchise's place in cinematic history and proving that Peter Sellers' bumbling detective still had immense drawing power at the box office. Its premiere launched a new wave of laughter, captivating audiences with its signature blend of slapstick and clever situational comedy, affirming the enduring appeal of the Pink Panther universe.

4. Hooper

   Released in 1978 by Hal Needham, Warner Bros.

   On July 28, 1978, the action-comedy film 'Hooper' roared into North American theaters, marking a significant moment for stunt professionals and fans of high-octane entertainment. This release date saw audiences flocking to witness the latest collaboration between box office titan Burt Reynolds and director Hal Needham, himself a legendary stuntman. 'Hooper' was not just another summer blockbuster; it was a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes of Hollywood – the stunt performers – wrapped in a thrilling package of comedy, drama, and spectacular, often record-breaking, stunts. Its successful launch solidified Burt Reynolds' position as one of the biggest stars of the era and underscored the public's appetite for films celebrating daring physical feats, ultimately leading to a robust box office performance for Warner Bros.

5. Halloween

   Released in 1978 by John Carpenter, Debra Hill, Compass International Pictures

   On October 25, 1978, the horror landscape was irrevocably altered with the premiere of "Halloween" in Kansas City, Missouri. This independently produced film, directed by a young John Carpenter, was unleashed upon an unsuspecting public just in time for its titular holiday. Its release marked the birth of a new subgenre: the slasher film. Without the backing of a major studio, its success was far from guaranteed, but its terrifyingly simple premise—an escaped lunatic stalking teenagers in a quiet suburban town—tapped into primal fears. This date is historic not just for the film's debut but for launching one of cinema's most enduring and influential horror franchises, making a star of Jamie Lee Curtis and a legend of the masked killer, Michael Myers.

6. The Deer Hunter

   Released in 1978 by Michael Cimino, Universal Pictures

   The Deer Hunter, a cinematic powerhouse, made its limited theatrical debut on December 8, 1978, laying the groundwork for its eventual Academy Award triumph. This initial release in select cities was a strategic move, building critical buzz and anticipation ahead of its wider distribution. While its initial box office figures were modest compared to its eventual widespread success, this premiere date marks the moment audiences first bore witness to Michael Cimino's unflinching portrayal of the Vietnam War's profound psychological toll. It was a film destined to spark both controversy and acclaim, ultimately becoming a cornerstone of late 20th-century cinema and a crucial entry in the genre of war epics. This date initiated its journey into the annals of film history, proving to be a landmark release.

7. Superman

   Released in 1978 by Richard Donner, Warner Bros.

   On December 15, 1978, director Richard Donner's "Superman" soared into theaters, fulfilling its ambitious tagline: "You'll believe a man can fly." This date marked the wide release of a film that would not only become a massive critical and commercial success but would also fundamentally change Hollywood's perception of comic book adaptations. Before 1978, superheroes on screen were largely confined to low-budget TV shows and serials. "Superman" treated the source material with unprecedented reverence and scale, presenting the Man of Steel not as a campy cartoon but as a modern myth. Its premiere was a watershed moment, proving that a superhero film could be a prestigious, epic blockbuster, thereby creating the blueprint for the dominant cinematic genre of the 21st century.

8. Every Which Way but Loose

   Released in 1978 by James Fargo, Warner Bros.

   The cinematic landscape was irrevocably altered on December 20, 1978, with the release of 'Every Which Way but Loose'. This date marked the arrival of a film that would not only defy critical expectations but also shatter box office records for its star, Clint Eastwood, cementing his versatility beyond his iconic tough-guy roles. A surprising foray into action-comedy, the movie quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its unique blend of bare-knuckle brawling, romantic pursuit, and an unforgettable animal companion. Its premiere was a testament to Eastwood's growing commercial power and a bold departure that resonated deeply with the public, making this release date a significant milestone in Hollywood history.