History's Best Selling Movies of 2007

Hats off to 2007! Few movies commanded as much fanfare and nationwide excitement as Freedom Writers. Alongside sensationally popular hits like 300 and Shrek the Third, consumers eagerly embraced the Y2K fever and early digital revolution. Pioneering outfits from industry leaders like Richard LaGravenese and Zack Snyder set the standard for quality, producing celebrated items that dominated airwaves and playground buzz alike. Browse our definitive retrospective below to rediscover the genuine articles of the era.

1. Freedom Writers

   Released in 2007 by Richard LaGravenese, Paramount Pictures, MTV Films

   On January 5, 2007, theaters across the United States premiered "Freedom Writers," a film that went beyond typical high school dramas to tell a profound true story of hope and transformation. Based on the book "The Freedom Writers Diary," the movie brought the incredible work of teacher Erin Gruwell and her students at a racially divided Long Beach high school to a mainstream audience. Its release on this day offered a powerful post-holiday message of unity and the immense impact that one dedicated educator can have on the lives of marginalized youth, sparking conversations about education reform and social justice.

2. 300

   Released in 2007 by Zack Snyder, Warner Bros. Pictures, Legendary Pictures

   On March 9, 2007, audiences across the United States were introduced to a new, hyper-stylized form of cinematic warfare with the wide theatrical release of Zack Snyder's '300.' Based on the 1998 comic series by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley, the film retold the ancient Battle of Thermopylae in a way never seen before. Its release marked a significant moment in action filmmaking, popularizing a distinctive visual aesthetic that blended live-action with heavy digital effects. This date unleashed a cultural phenomenon, with its visceral action, memorable dialogue, and striking visuals captivating viewers and spawning countless imitations and parodies, most notably the iconic line, 'This is Sparta!'

3. Shrek the Third

   Released in 2007 by Chris Miller, Raman Hui, Paramount Pictures

   Shrek the Third burst onto the global cinematic stage on May 18, 2007, marking a highly anticipated return to the beloved fairytale world created by DreamWorks Animation. This specific date signifies its broad theatrical premiere in North America, kicking off what would become another colossal box office success for the franchise. The film's launch was met with massive enthusiasm, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, and Puss in Boots. Its debut further solidified the "Shrek" series as a cornerstone of animated cinema, with audiences eager to follow the next chapter in the ogre's unexpectedly royal life. This release date was not just another movie premiere; it was a cultural event, promising humor, heart, and adventure, and it delivered impressive opening weekend figures that underscored its status as a major player in the summer movie season.

4. Ratatouille

   Released in 2007 by Brad Bird, Pixar Animation Studios, Walt Disney Pictures

   On June 29, 2007, Pixar Animation Studios served up its eighth feature film, "Ratatouille," to audiences worldwide. Released at the height of summer movie season, the film immediately stood out from the typical blockbuster fare with its sophisticated story, unique protagonist, and breathtaking Parisian setting. It was a gamble—a film centered on a rat in a kitchen, a concept that could easily repel audiences. However, the release date marked the beginning of a massive critical and commercial success story. The film would go on to not only dominate the box office but also capture the hearts of viewers and critics alike, solidifying Pixar's reputation as a master of emotionally resonant and artistically ambitious storytelling.

5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

   Released in 2007 by David Yates, Warner Bros. Pictures

   On July 11, 2007, the United States premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix' marked a fever pitch for global 'Pottermania.' The film arrived in theaters as the penultimate book, 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,' was just ten days from its release, creating an unprecedented whirlwind of anticipation. Fans lined up for midnight showings, eager to see the next chapter of the increasingly dark and complex saga. This fifth installment was pivotal, tasked with adapting the longest book in J.K. Rowling's series and setting the stage for the epic conclusion of the battle between Harry Potter and Lord Voldemort.

6. The Simpsons Movie

   Released in 2007 by James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, Al Jean, Mike Scully, Richard Sakai, David Silverman, Gracie Films, 20th Century Fox Animation

   On July 27, 2007, after nearly two decades on television and countless rumors, "The Simpsons Movie" finally arrived in theaters. This date marked a monumental cultural event, as one of the most beloved and influential television shows in history made its grand leap to the big screen. For fans who had grown up with the dysfunctional family from Springfield, it was the culmination of years of anticipation. The film's release was a global phenomenon, backed by an inventive marketing campaign that saw real-life Kwik-E-Marts and a worldwide search for a real Springfield, confirming the series' enduring status as a cornerstone of modern pop culture.

7. The Bourne Ultimatum

   Released in 2007 by Paul Greengrass, Universal Pictures

   On August 3, 2007, the action genre was redefined with the theatrical release of "The Bourne Ultimatum." The explosive finale to the original trilogy starring Matt Damon as the amnesiac super-spy Jason Bourne, the film was more than just a summer blockbuster; it was a cultural event. Director Paul Greengrass delivered a relentlessly paced, intellectually stimulating thriller that solidified the franchise's identity. At a time when spy films were often characterized by slick gadgets and fantastical plots, "The Bourne Ultimatum" offered a visceral, gritty realism that captivated both critics and audiences, setting a new benchmark for cinematic action.

8. Superbad

   Released in 2007 by Greg Mottola, Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Judd Apatow, Columbia Pictures

   On August 17, 2007, the raunchy teen comedy "Superbad" hit theaters, forever changing the genre and launching several careers into the stratosphere. Directed by Greg Mottola and produced by Judd Apatow, the film was the passion project of writers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, who had begun writing the script as teenagers. Its release came at the peak of Apatow's influence on comedy, but "Superbad" stood apart with its surprisingly heartfelt story of friendship amidst a torrent of crude humor. The film was a cultural phenomenon, capturing the awkward, authentic, and often vulgar vernacular of high school life in a way that resonated deeply with a generation of young moviegoers.

9. Atonement

   Released in 2007 by Joe Wright, StudioCanal, Working Title Films, Focus Features

   On September 7, 2007, UK audiences were first captivated by the sweeping romantic war drama "Atonement." While the film had premiered at the Venice Film Festival days earlier, this date marked its official theatrical debut, beginning a journey that would see it become one of the most acclaimed films of the year. Directed by Joe Wright and based on Ian McEwan's celebrated novel, the film's release introduced a powerful and tragic story of love, misunderstanding, and the lifelong consequences of a single lie. It immediately garnered attention for its stunning visuals, powerful performances, and heartbreaking narrative, setting the stage for its subsequent international success and awards season dominance.

10. No Country for Old Men

    Released in 2007 by Joel Coen, Ethan Coen, Miramax Films, Paramount Vantage

    On November 9, 2007, Joel and Ethan Coen unleashed a new kind of Western onto an unsuspecting public with the limited release of 'No Country for Old Men.' Adapted from Cormac McCarthy's bleak and powerful 2005 novel, the film's debut marked the arrival of a modern cinematic masterpiece. In a year of significant films, 'No Country' stood apart with its stark landscapes, minimalist dialogue, and an unforgettable villain. This initial release began the film's journey from a critically lauded neo-western thriller to a cultural touchstone and ultimately, the Academy Award winner for Best Picture, solidifying its place as one of the most important American films of the 21st century.

11. I Am Legend

    Released in 2007 by Francis Lawrence, Warner Bros. Pictures

    December 14, 2007, marked a significant moment in cinematic history with the global premiere of 'I Am Legend'. This post-apocalyptic thriller, starring Will Smith, wasn't just another entry in the genre; it became a record-breaking phenomenon right out of the gate. Its opening weekend shattered previous December records, signaling a massive audience hunger for its unique blend of sci-fi horror and poignant human drama. This date didn't just launch a movie; it launched a cultural conversation, solidifying its place as one of the most talked-about and commercially successful films of the year, and a definitive modern take on a classic story.

12. National Treasure: Book of Secrets

    Released in 2007 by Jon Turteltaub, Walt Disney Pictures

    On December 21, 2007, the highly anticipated sequel 'National Treasure: Book of Secrets' burst onto the big screen, captivating audiences with its thrilling blend of history, mystery, and high-stakes adventure. This holiday season launch proved to be a masterstroke, positioning the film perfectly to capitalize on families and moviegoers looking for escapism during the festive period. Building on the massive success of its predecessor, the movie quickly climbed the box office charts, reaffirming Disney's knack for crafting engaging, family-friendly blockbusters. This particular date marks its wide theatrical premiere across North America, setting the stage for its impressive global earnings and solidifying its place as a significant entry in the adventure genre.