History's Best Selling Products of 2015

Hats off to 2015! Few items commanded as much fanfare and nationwide excitement as The Revenant. Alongside sensationally popular hits like The Girl on the Train and Better Call Saul, consumers eagerly embraced the Y2K fever and early digital revolution. Pioneering outfits from industry leaders like Alejandro G. Iñárritu and Paula Hawkins 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. The Revenant

   Released in 2015 by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Regency Enterprises, 20th Century Fox

   While its wide American release would follow shortly, January 6, 2016, marks a key point in the international rollout of 'The Revenant,' a film that had already begun generating immense awards buzz following its limited 2015 release. Directed by the visionary Alejandro G. Iñárritu, this cinematic event was more than just a movie; it was an endurance test for its cast, crew, and audience. The date falls within the critical period when the film expanded its reach, bringing its brutal and beautiful story of survival to a global stage. This was the moment the general public began to truly witness the performance that would finally earn Leonardo DiCaprio his long-awaited Academy Award for Best Actor.

2. The Girl on the Train

   Released in 2015 by Paula Hawkins, Riverhead Books

   Released in early 2015, Paula Hawkins' 'The Girl on the Train' swiftly derailed expectations, becoming an instant international phenomenon. Hailed as the next 'Gone Girl,' this psychological thriller captivated readers with its intricate plot, unreliable narrator, and deeply flawed characters. Its gripping suspense and pervasive sense of unease resonated broadly, topping bestseller lists across the globe and solidifying its place as a defining novel of the mid-2010s. The book's immediate popularity wasn't just a testament to its compelling narrative but also signaled a burgeoning appetite for complex, character-driven thrillers that delve into the darker aspects of human psychology and domestic life.

3. Better Call Saul

   Released in 2015 by Vince Gilligan & Peter Gould, AMC

   On February 8, 2015, the world of television was captivated by the return to Albuquerque, but from a new perspective. This date marks the highly anticipated series premiere of 'Better Call Saul' on AMC. Coming off the monumental success of its predecessor, 'Breaking Bad,' the spin-off faced immense pressure and expectations. The premiere was strategically launched as a two-night event, with the first episode airing after a new episode of 'The Walking Dead,' AMC's ratings powerhouse. This clever scheduling ensured a massive lead-in audience, curious to see how the story of the fast-talking, morally flexible lawyer Saul Goodman began, setting the stage for a show that would defy expectations and carve out its own legendary status.

4. Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge

   Released in 2015 by Samsung

   On March 1, 2015, the tech world's attention was fixed on Barcelona for Mobile World Congress. Samsung took the stage for its highly anticipated 'Unpacked' event, carrying the weight of expectation. The predecessor, the Galaxy S5, had been criticized for its uninspired plastic design, leaving Samsung vulnerable to competitors, especially Apple's popular iPhone 6. This date marked a pivotal moment for the company. Under a project codenamed 'Project Zero,' Samsung promised a complete reimagining of its flagship line. The unveiling of the Galaxy S6 and the revolutionary S6 edge was Samsung's definitive answer, a bold statement intended to reclaim its position as the undisputed leader in Android design and innovation.

5. Bloodborne

   Released in 2015 by FromSoftware, Sony Computer Entertainment

   Bloodborne launched on March 24, 2015, exclusively for the PlayStation 4, immediately capturing the gaming world's attention with its grim, gothic aesthetic and unforgiving difficulty. Developed by FromSoftware, the masterminds behind the critically acclaimed Dark Souls series, Bloodborne wasn't just another action RPG; it was a deeply atmospheric and challenging experience that redefined expectations for the genre. Its unique blend of fast-paced combat, intricate lore, and a haunting Victorian-era setting quickly made it a cultural phenomenon, drawing in both veteran Souls-like players and curious newcomers eager to test their mettle against its monstrous inhabitants and unravel its dark mysteries, setting a new benchmark for console exclusives.

6. Ex Machina

   Released in 2015 by Alex Garland, A24, Universal Pictures

   On April 24, 2015, the cerebral science-fiction thriller "Ex Machina" expanded into its wide theatrical release across the United States. Following a successful limited run, this date marked the moment Alex Garland's stunning directorial debut reached a mainstream audience. In a landscape dominated by large-scale blockbusters, the film's arrival was a breath of fresh air, offering a tense, thought-provoking, and stylish exploration of artificial intelligence. It quickly became a major topic of conversation, praised for its intelligence and suspense, proving that a high-concept, character-driven story could captivate and challenge viewers on a grand scale.

7. The Magic Whip

   Released in 2015 by Blur, Parlophone, Warner Bros. Records

   On April 27, 2015, Britpop legends Blur made a triumphant and unexpected return with "The Magic Whip," their first studio album in 12 years. The release was a major event for fans who had long awaited a reunion of the original lineup, including guitarist Graham Coxon, who had been largely absent from their previous album, "Think Tank" (2003). The album's release on this date ended a long period of speculation and anticipation, instantly re-establishing the band's relevance and creative vitality in the 21st century. It was a moment of celebration, proving that the unique chemistry between Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James, and Dave Rowntree was not only intact but had evolved in fascinating new ways.

8. Avengers: Age of Ultron

   Released in 2015 by Joss Whedon, Marvel Studios

   On May 1, 2015, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) unleashed its eleventh installment, "Avengers: Age of Ultron," upon North American audiences. As the highly anticipated sequel to 2012's groundbreaking "The Avengers," the film's release was a monumental global event. It continued the overarching narrative of the MCU's "Phase Two," bringing together Earth's Mightiest Heroes for another epic battle. The date marked a pivotal moment in blockbuster filmmaking, demonstrating the unparalleled box office power and cultural dominance that Marvel Studios had cultivated, setting the stage for even grander conflicts to come in the franchise's future.

9. A Court of Thorns and Roses

   Released in 2015 by Sarah J. Maas, Bloomsbury Publishing

   The literary world exploded in 2015 with the debut of Sarah J. Maas’s 'A Court of Thorns and Roses,' a novel that swiftly transcended genre boundaries to become a cultural phenomenon. Its highly anticipated release was met with unprecedented demand, driving massive pre-orders and immediate sell-outs across major retailers. This captivating fantasy romance wasn't just a book; it was an event, sparking fervent discussions on social media platforms like BookTok and igniting a renewed passion for epic storytelling combined with intricate character development. It quickly solidified its place as a cornerstone of the year's literary landscape, captivating millions with its blend of darkness and dazzling magic.

10. Mad Max: Fury Road

    Released in 2015 by George Miller, Warner Bros. Pictures, Village Roadshow Pictures, Kennedy Miller Mitchell

    On May 15, 2015, theaters worldwide were engulfed in fire and chrome with the premiere of "Mad Max: Fury Road." Arriving thirty years after the previous installment, "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome," the film was the culmination of a legendarily troubled and long-delayed production. Director George Miller returned to his signature post-apocalyptic wasteland, rebooting his own franchise not with nostalgia, but with a visceral, high-octane vision that redefined the limits of the action genre. Its release was a cinematic event, a two-hour-long chase sequence that stunned audiences and critics alike with its breathtaking practical effects, relentless pacing, and unexpected thematic depth, immediately establishing itself as a modern classic.

11. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

    Released in 2015 by CD Projekt Red, CD Projekt

    On May 19, 2015, the landscape of open-world role-playing games was forever changed with the worldwide release of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Launched simultaneously on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, the game was the culmination of years of intense development by Polish studio CD Projekt Red. It arrived on a wave of massive anticipation, fueled by the success of its predecessors and stunning pre-release gameplay demos. This date marked not just the release of a new title, but the delivery of a promise: a vast, mature, and narratively rich fantasy world that would set a new benchmark for the genre and become one of the most critically acclaimed video games of all time.

12. Grey

    Released in 2015 by E. L. James, Vintage Books

    The literary world was once again captivated in 2015 with the release of E. L. James's "Grey," a highly anticipated retelling of "Fifty Shades of Grey" from the enigmatic Christian Grey's perspective. This novel wasn't just another installment; it was a cultural event, offering millions of readers a deeper dive into the mind of the series' dominant male protagonist. Its launch generated immense buzz, solidifying the "Fifty Shades" phenomenon and proving the enduring appeal of its characters and themes. "Grey" quickly became a publishing sensation, topping bestseller lists and reigniting discussions about desire, power, and the complexities of modern romance, cementing its place as one of the year's most talked-about books.

13. Inside Out

    Released in 2015 by Pete Docter, Pixar Animation Studios, Walt Disney Pictures

    On June 19, 2015, Pixar Animation Studios released "Inside Out," a film that ventured into the uncharted territory of the human mind. The premiere was more than just a new animated movie release; it was a cultural event that promised a story of profound emotional intelligence and creativity. Coming after a period where some critics felt Pixar had leaned too heavily on sequels, "Inside Out" was hailed as a stunning return to form, showcasing the studio's unparalleled ability to blend imaginative world-building with deeply human stories. Its release on this date marked the beginning of a global conversation about mental health and emotions, packaged in one of the most inventive and heartfelt films of the decade.

14. Minions

    Released in 2015 by Pierre Coffin, Kyle Balda, Illumination Entertainment, Universal Pictures

    On July 10, 2015, the world was officially taken over by small, yellow, pill-shaped creatures with the U.S. theatrical release of "Minions." Serving as a spin-off and prequel to the enormously popular "Despicable Me" films, this movie was a direct response to the massive public adoration for the franchise's gibberish-spouting sidekicks. The film's release date marked the moment these supporting characters proved they could carry a blockbuster movie on their own, transforming from a fan-favorite element into a full-blown cultural and commercial phenomenon. It cemented the Minions' status as global animation icons and demonstrated Illumination Entertainment's formidable power at the box office, rivaling even the industry's most established animation studios.

15. Go Set a Watchman

    Released in 2015 by Harper Lee, Harper

    The sudden announcement in February 2015 of a "new" novel by Harper Lee, nearly 55 years after 'To Kill a Mockingbird', sent shockwaves through the literary world. 'Go Set a Watchman' was not just a book; it was a cultural phenomenon, instantly becoming the most anticipated publication of the decade. Its release in July 2015 captivated millions, sparking intense curiosity about what Lee, who had famously refused to publish another novel, would offer. The sheer unexpectedness of its discovery and subsequent publication ignited a global conversation, transforming it from a mere book launch into a monumental literary event that dominated headlines and bookshelves alike, challenging perceptions and igniting unprecedented sales.

16. Straight Outta Compton

    Released in 2015 by F. Gary Gray, Legendary Pictures, New Line Cinema, Universal Pictures

    Released in theaters on August 14, 2015, "Straight Outta Compton" arrived at a pivotal moment in American culture. Amidst a renewed national conversation about racial injustice and police brutality, this biographical film chronicling the rise and fall of the revolutionary gangsta rap group N.W.A. felt less like a historical retrospective and more like an urgent, contemporary statement. Directed by F. Gary Gray, the film's release became a cultural event, powerfully connecting the rebellious spirit of the late 1980s with the social anxieties of the 21st century. It transcended the music biopic genre to become a touchstone for discussions on free speech, systemic racism, and the power of art as protest.

17. Everest

    Released in 2015 by Baltasar Kormákur, Working Title Films, Walden Media, Cross Creek Pictures, Universal Pictures

    On September 2, 2015, the 72nd Venice International Film Festival opened with the world premiere of "Everest," a gripping biographical survival drama directed by Baltasar Kormákur. The date marked the first time audiences would experience this harrowing, large-scale cinematic retelling of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster. As the festival's prestigious opening night film, its premiere was a major event in the film world, setting the stage for its global theatrical run. The choice to debut at Venice highlighted the film's artistic and technical ambitions, positioning it not merely as a disaster movie, but as a serious, character-driven drama intended to immerse viewers in one of the most infamous and tragic events in modern mountaineering history.

18. The Book of Souls

    Released in 2015 by Iron Maiden, Parlophone Records, BMG

    Released on September 4, 2015, 'The Book of Souls' was a monumental event for heavy metal fans worldwide. The date marked the triumphant return of Iron Maiden after a five-year hiatus between studio albums, the longest in their history. More significantly, it was released after lead singer Bruce Dickinson had successfully completed treatment for a cancerous tumor discovered just after the album's recording. This context transformed the album's release from a standard music launch into a testament to the band's resilience and Dickinson's personal strength, making its ambitious scope and powerful themes feel even more earned and resonant.

19. The Martian

    Released in 2015 by Ridley Scott, 20th Century Fox

    On October 2, 2015, director Ridley Scott's science fiction epic "The Martian" premiered, offering audiences a thrilling and surprisingly optimistic story of survival. Based on Andy Weir's meticulously researched novel, the film landed at a time of renewed public fascination with space travel, fueled by NASA's Curiosity rover exploring Mars and the rise of private space ventures. Starring Matt Damon as a stranded astronaut, the film distinguished itself from other bleak survival tales by focusing on ingenuity, humor, and the power of human collaboration. It presented a vision of space exploration that was not only perilous but also inspiring, celebrating science and resilience against impossible odds.

20. Rogue Lawyer

    Released in 2015 by John Grisham, Doubleday

    The release of John Grisham's 'Rogue Lawyer' in October 2015 was a highly anticipated event, instantly soaring to the top of bestseller lists. Grisham, a master of the legal thriller, introduced readers to an entirely new kind of protagonist: Sebastian Rudd, an unconventional attorney who operates outside the traditional legal system. Its immediate popularity underscored Grisham's enduring appeal, tapping into a public fascination with justice, or lack thereof, and the allure of a maverick hero. The book quickly became a cultural touchstone for readers seeking a thrilling escape infused with timely social commentary.

21. Spectre

    Released in 2015 by Sam Mendes, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

    October 26, 2015, marked a significant date for James Bond fans worldwide as 'Spectre' premiered in London, kicking off its global theatrical run. This eagerly anticipated 24th installment in the Eon Productions James Bond series saw Daniel Craig return as 007, promising a deeper dive into Bond's mysterious past. The film quickly became a box office juggernaut, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the franchise. Its premiere was not just an event; it was a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and massive marketing machinery behind one of cinema's most iconic characters, setting the stage for substantial commercial success and critical discussion.

22. LeTV LeEco Le 1s

    Released in 2015 by LeTV

    On October 27, 2015, Chinese streaming giant LeTV (later LeEco) held a major launch event in Beijing, unveiling the Le 1s. This date marks the official entry of a device designed to aggressively disrupt the highly competitive Chinese smartphone market. The company, known for its video content services, positioned the Le 1s not just as a phone, but as a portal to its burgeoning 'ecosystem'. Marketed as a 'superphone', it was unveiled with specifications and a premium metal design that were unheard of at its rock-bottom launch price of ¥1,099 (around $173 USD). This event signaled a new wave of competition, challenging established players like Xiaomi and Huawei by offering flagship-level features for a mid-range cost.

23. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2

    Released in 2015 by Francis Lawrence, Lionsgate

    The global cinematic landscape braced for a poignant farewell on November 04, 2015, with the world theatrical premiere of 'The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2' in Berlin. This monumental date marked the highly anticipated conclusion to one of the most successful dystopian sagas in film history. As the final chapter unfolded, fans worldwide eagerly witnessed Katniss Everdeen's ultimate stand against President Snow. This movie wasn't just a film; it was the culmination of a cultural phenomenon, destined to close out the beloved series with a massive box office performance and an emotional impact that resonated deeply with its dedicated audience, solidifying its place as a significant event in cinematic history.

24. Call of Duty: Black Ops III

    Released in 2015 by Treyarch, Activision

    On November 6, 2015, the gaming world was consumed by the worldwide release of Call of Duty: Black Ops III. This date marked a massive global event, with midnight launches attracting long lines of eager fans. Coming off a new three-year development cycle for developer Treyarch, anticipation was at a fever pitch. The release was not just another installment; it was positioned as a significant evolution for the series, promising futuristic combat, a darker narrative, and the highly anticipated return of the Zombies saga. For millions, this day represented the start of a new year of competitive multiplayer matches, co-op campaigns, and undead-slaying adventures.

25. Spotlight

    Released in 2015 by Tom McCarthy, Participant Media, Open Road Films

    On November 6, 2015, director Tom McCarthy's "Spotlight" opened in limited theatrical release, presenting a stark, methodical, and gripping account of real-world journalistic heroism. The film arrived at a time of increasing skepticism towards traditional media, offering a powerful reminder of the vital role investigative journalism plays in holding powerful institutions accountable. "Spotlight" wasn't a flashy, action-packed thriller; instead, its tension was built through meticulous research, difficult conversations, and the slow, horrifying unraveling of a conspiracy of silence. Its release on this date began a journey that would culminate in the highest honor in film, validating its quiet power and affirming the importance of its story in the public consciousness.

26. Fallout 4

    Released in 2015 by Bethesda Game Studios, Bethesda Softworks

    Fallout 4 exploded onto the gaming scene on November 10, 2015, immediately cementing its status as a major cultural phenomenon. The highly anticipated open-world role-playing game from Bethesda Game Studios was met with immense excitement, breaking sales records and dominating headlines. Its release was a landmark event for the gaming industry that year, capturing the imaginations of millions of players worldwide with its expansive post-apocalyptic Boston wasteland, compelling narrative, and signature blend of exploration, combat, and choice. The game wasn't just a commercial success; it sparked countless discussions, fan creations, and became a defining title of the mid-2010s.

27. 25

    Released in 2015 by Adele

    On November 20, 2015, the music world experienced a seismic event with the release of Adele's third studio album, "25". Following a nearly five-year hiatus after her record-breaking album "21", anticipation was at an unprecedented high. The album's arrival was more than just a new record drop; it was a global cultural moment, a throwback to the era of must-buy event albums. Millions of fans, who had followed her journey of heartbreak and healing, eagerly awaited this new chapter, and Adele delivered an album that would once again shatter commercial expectations and dominate conversations worldwide, proving her unique ability to unite a fragmented music market.

28. Krampus

    Released in 2015 by Michael Dougherty, Legendary Pictures, Universal Pictures

    On December 4, 2015, director Michael Dougherty delivered a deliciously twisted holiday gift to moviegoers with the theatrical release of "Krampus." Arriving as an antidote to the season's typically saccharine fare, the film reintroduced the terrifying figure from Central European folklore to a mainstream audience. It cleverly blended horror, dark comedy, and family drama, offering a cautionary tale for those who lose their Christmas spirit. Its release date positioned it perfectly as the go-to alternative for film fans seeking holiday chills instead of just holiday cheer, quickly establishing it as a new festive favorite.

29. Star Wars: The Force Awakens

    Released in 2015 by J.J. Abrams, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

    On December 18, 2015, a new chapter in one of the most beloved sagas in cinematic history unfolded with the North American theatrical release of 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens'. This date marked not just a film premiere, but a cultural phenomenon, signaling the triumphant return of the Star Wars universe under Disney's stewardship after a decade-long hiatus from the big screen. The anticipation for this installment, which served as both a sequel and a soft reboot, was unprecedented, leading to a global box office onslaught that shattered numerous records and reaffirmed the franchise's unparalleled appeal. This date became synonymous with a cinematic event that captivated generations, promising adventure, nostalgia, and a fresh direction for a galaxy far, far away.

30. LeapFrog Epic

    Released in 2015 by LeapFrog Enterprises

    The LeapFrog Epic, launched in 2015, burst onto the educational toy scene as a sophisticated yet child-friendly tablet, marking a significant evolution for the renowned LeapFrog brand. It was introduced at a time when traditional educational handhelds were giving way to the pervasive influence of tablets and smartphones. The Epic carved out its niche by offering a robust, secure, and engaging digital learning experience specifically tailored for children, allowing parents to embrace technology for their kids without the usual safety concerns. Its release was met with considerable excitement, positioning it as a premium learning device that blended educational rigor with the intuitive, app-driven play kids were becoming accustomed to.

31. See Me

    Released in 2015 by Nicholas Sparks, Grand Central Publishing

    'See Me,' launched in the fall of 2015, immediately captivated the vast readership loyal to Nicholas Sparks, cementing its place as a major literary event of the year. This romantic suspense novel offered a fresh twist on Sparks’s signature blend of poignant love stories, introducing elements of mystery and danger that propelled it onto bestseller lists across the globe. Its release was met with immense anticipation, as fans eagerly awaited another heartfelt narrative from an author renowned for his emotionally resonant tales. The book quickly became a cultural touchstone, discussed in book clubs and online forums, solidifying its status as a must-read for anyone seeking a compelling blend of romance and thrilling intrigue.

32. The Nightingale

    Released in 2015 by Kristin Hannah, St. Martin's Press

    The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah erupted onto the literary scene in 2015, immediately captivating readers and critics alike to become an undeniable cultural phenomenon. Its poignant narrative and deeply emotional exploration of World War II from a unique female perspective struck a profound chord, pushing it to the top of bestseller lists worldwide. The novel wasn't just a book; it became a talking point, a shared experience that resonated with millions who sought stories of resilience, courage, and sisterly love amidst unimaginable adversity. Its launch was met with enthusiastic reception, establishing it as one of the year's most impactful and beloved works of historical fiction, solidifying Hannah's place as a master storyteller.