You Won't Believe Will Ferrell's Top 15 Highest-Grossing Films Revealed!

Ferrell, Will, is universally recognized and revered for his significant contributions to comedy. Through his impressive stint on Saturday Night Live and his movies, he has provided some of the genre’s finest content. Kicking off his screen career in the mid-90s, Ferrell climbed steadily through the ranks in both television and film, eventually securing a spot among the highest-paid actors. His extensive comedic roles have cemented him as a prominent figure in Hollywood’s elite comedy actor group, known as the Frat Pack, which includes notables like Steve Carrell, Vince Vaughn, and Paul Rudd.

Ferrell’s screen presence is always a must-see, characterized by his side-splitting commentary and playful mischief. Across each movie, he consistently hits the mark in eliciting laughter from viewers. His comedies such as “Anchorman” and “Talladega Nights” showcase Ferrell’s exceptional talent well. Despite seldom cracking a smile himself, he often delivers the funniest lines with impeccable timing, serving up his dry humor flawlessly each time.

In 2003, Ferrell made a significant debut in cinema with the holiday comedy “Elf.” Following that, he appeared in films such as “Old School,” co-starring Vince Vaughn and Luke Wilson, and “Blades of Glory” alongside Amy Poehler. Interestingly, while Ferrell has played several roles on screen, his movies with the highest box office earnings might come as a shock.

Let’s take a look at Ferrell’s highest-grossing roles in film.

15
‘Blades of Glory’ (2006)

$145.7M

In an outstanding comedic performance, Ferrell brilliantly played a disgraced, sex-obsessed ex-professional ice skater in the hilarious ensemble comedy “Blades of Glory“, where the character Chazz Michael Michaels, known for his love of debauchery, teams up with his sworn adversary Jimmy MacElroy (Jon Heder). This unlikely pair, who had been banned from skating, find a loophole that lets them compete together in their once-dominating sport. With the guidance of a persistent coach, they engage in fierce competition not only against each other but also their opponents on the ice rink.

Ferrell Let’s Loose on the Rink

Starring alongside well-known actors such as Will Arnett, Amy Poehler, and Craig T. Nelson, the movie Blades of Glory extended Ferrell’s streak of box office victories. Prior to this film, Ferrell had been seen in movies like Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby and Stranger than Fiction, with the humor in this production outshining its competitors during its debut weekend and eventually generating a total of $145.7 million. Ferrell’s fearless acting was widely praised by both fans and critics, earning him a nomination for Best Comedic Performance at the MTV Movie & TV Awards.

14
‘Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby’ (2006)

$163.4M

In my humble opinion as a movie reviewer, the hilarious duo Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly left audiences yearning for more mayhem when they teamed up in the riotous comedy, “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.” This film showcased Ferrell in an unforgettable performance as the flamboyant NASCAR champion Ricky Bobby, whose dominant reign in the auto racing world was challenged by the charming French driver Jean Girard (portrayed by Sacha Baron Cohen). After a series of misfortunes, Ricky is forced to dig deep and rekindle his fierce competitive spirit to reclaim his rightful place at the top.

Ferrell & Reilly Make Movie Magic

One standout feature of “Talladega Nights” is the exceptional camaraderie between Ferrell, who portrayed Ricky, and Reilly, playing Cal, his best friend and teammate. This chemistry is a major highlight of the film, seamlessly weaving satire, laughter, and fearless acts by its vibrant ensemble. The movie, filled with memorable lines, was a box office smash for Ferrell, boasting the biggest opening weekend of his career ($47 million) and eventually earning $163.4 million. It solidified its place as a cherished addition to the comedian’s impressive body of work.

13
‘Starsky & Hutch’ (2004)

$170M

Despite not receiving credit for his role in “Starsky & Hutch”, it’s noticeable that Will Ferrell often steals the limelight with his legendary humor in his supporting roles. This action comedy is brought to life by Ferrell, who performs alongside comedians Vince Vaughn, Owen Wilson, and Ben Stiller. The main detectives, played by Wilson and Stiller, are drug-enforcement officers.

Ferrell’s Side-Splitting Cameo

In the movie, Ferrell portrays Big Earl Drennan, a criminal serving time in prison who refuses to cooperate with detectives until he gets a peculiar request met – a glimpse at Detective Hutch’s navel, played by Wilson. The remake of the original series proved successful, grossing $170 million against a budget of $60 million, making it well worth watching.

12
‘The Other Guys’ (2010)

$170.9M

If a movie perfectly showcased Will Ferrell’s dry wit, then that would undoubtedly be “The Other Guys.” This film hit theaters back in 2010 and grossed $170.9 million at the box office, despite having a production budget of $85 million. As both the star and producer, Ferrell significantly influenced the portrayal of his character, Detective Allen “Gator” Gamble, to resonate with viewers.

Ferrell & Wahlberg’s Winning Chemistry

In this movie, he partnered with Mark Wahlberg’s character, Detective Terry Hoitz. Their team, often ridiculed as the desk-bound duo at the precinct, found themselves handling a seemingly minor case. To their surprise, they stumbled upon a far larger issue instead. The ensuing events were filled with turmoil, but in the end, they managed to crack an embezzlement case and uncovered more crime than they initially anticipated. As a result, their perseverance paid off and they were ultimately successful.

11
‘Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues’ (2013)

$173.6M

In my opinion, “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues” truly showcases Will Ferrell’s comedic genius. The ensemble cast, featuring the likes of Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, David Koechner, and Kristen Wiig, among others, serves as a perfect complement to the film’s side-splitting humor. The storyline centers around Ron Burgundy’s news team who experience the ups and downs of employment due to their outrageous on-air shenanigans.

Burgundy Is Back for More Hilarious Hijinks

In the sequel to the Anchorman franchise, Will Ferrell once again stepped into the shoes of Ron Burgundy. Not only did he share the screen with an impressive ensemble cast, but he also penned and produced the movie, demonstrating his significant involvement in its creation. The film earned a whopping $173.6 million at the box office against a production budget of just $50 million, confirming its success as a result of Ferrell’s dedicated efforts.

10
‘Daddy’s Home 2’ (2017)

$180.6M

Previously working together with Mark Wahlberg in both “The Other Guys” and “Daddy’s Home”, Will Ferrell sought to leverage their entertaining screen partnership by joining forces once more, this time for the fittingly titled “Daddy’s Home 2”. The story revolves around Brad Whitaker (Ferrell) and Dusty Mayron (Wahlberg), who are still trying to co-parent their kids amicably while preparing for their respective fathers to arrive for Christmas. John Lithgow and Mel Gibson bring laughter with their portrayals of the starkly contrasting dads that make an appearance during the holiday season.

A Surprisingly Wholesome Bromance

Similar to its predecessor, Daddy’s Home 2 received mixed reviews from critics but garnered a strong A- rating from audiences, eventually earning $180.6 million at the box office on a budget of $69 million. The heartwarming bond between Ferrell and Wahlberg, along with the amusing introductions of their fictional dads Lithgow and Gibson, helped the sequel triumph over criticisms about its messy and predictable script.

9
‘The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part’ (2019)

$199.6M

In “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part,” Ferrell’s character, previously known as Lord Business, is now referred to as President Business following his resolutions with most inhabitants in the LEGO universe. In this sequel, it’s not a matter of conflict between them but rather uniting to protect themselves against an invasion by the Duplo Aliens who attacked their world at the end of the first movie.

Ferrell Returns as the Villainous Lord Business

In terms of Will Ferrell’s most successful movies, The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part ranks in the middle, generating $199.6 million at the box office with a production budget of $99 million. Although there hasn’t been an official announcement about a third film, producer Dan Lin had earlier mentioned plans for a second sequel. However, the possibility of its release seems uncertain as Universal is now responsible for creating and distributing future Lego films instead of Warner Bros.

8
‘Elf’ (2003)

$228.9M

The 2003 movie “Elf” is an outstanding holiday comedy that’s filled with laughter. Will Ferrell brilliantly plays Santa’s tallest elf, Buddy, who journeys from the North Pole to New York City in search of his biological father amidst a sea of candy canes. Throughout the film, Ferrell gives a flawless performance, reuniting with his family, finding love, and creating one of the most enchanting Christmases in recent memory. His melodious singing and infectious cheer lift our holiday spirit to new heights.

A Beloved Christmas Classic

The film ‘Elf’, earning $225.1 million at the box office on a budget of only $33 million, remains a beloved holiday classic more than twenty years after its premiere. Often hailed by media outlets such as Entertainment Weekly and The Hollywood Reporter among the best Christmas movies ever made, ‘Elf’ has solidified Will Ferrell’s comedic prowess in the eyes of audiences.

7
‘Daddy’s Home’ (2015)

$242.8M

In the film “Daddy’s Home,” Will Ferrell shares the screen with Mark Wahlberg, having a strong rapport from their previous collaborations. This movie grossed $242.8 million worldwide on a budget of $50 million, leading to its sequel, “Daddy’s Home 2.” In the storyline, Ferrell’s character Brad marries Sara, who was previously married to Wahlberg’s character Dusty. Dusty is portrayed as a dominating male figure, while Brad is a more gentle and physically unimposing man.

Ferrell Dazzlingly Reunites with Wahlberg

In a new chapter for them, Brad and Dusty are figuring out how to jointly raise their children, ensuring they enjoy a harmonious blended family life. As they establish fresh traditions together, they experience some humorous mix-ups, but ultimately, the kids find harmony between their two fathers, resulting in happiness for all.

6
‘Wedding Crashers’ (2005)

$288.5M

Debuting in 2005, the movie “Wedding Crashers” swiftly garnered favor with its candid and relatable material. Ferrell starred alongside notable actors like Vince Vaughn, Owen Wilson, and Rachel McAdams, although his role as Chazz was unaccredited but hard to ignore. While Vaughn’s character Jeremy and Wilson’s John crashed weddings for the women, Chazz amusingly chose to gatecrash a funeral in search of the most emotionally vulnerable catch he could find.

A Trailblazing Box Office Triumph

Boasting an impressive lineup of actors, it’s not surprising that the movie was a huge success, raking in $288.5 million at the box office against a production budget of just $40 million. This made it the first R-rated comedy to gross over $200 million domestically and played a role in rejuvenating the genre catering to adults. Although talks about a sequel had been circulating, as of 2022, production has been temporarily paused due to scheduling conflicts and complications in development.

5
‘Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me’ (1999)

$312M

1999 saw the release of “Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me,” a sequel to “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery.” In this film, Mike Myers reprises his role as Austin Powers, a British spy, who must thwart Dr. Evil’s plan to steal his mojo. Additionally, the comedy is bolstered by the presence of Will Ferrell as Mustafa, one of Dr. Evil’s henchmen. Despite being on Dr. Evil’s side, Mustafa finds himself in multiple life-threatening situations orchestrated by Dr. Evil, whom he was expected to trust.

A Worthy Entry in the Fan-Favorite Franchise

Despite plummeting off a cliff and getting shot in the neck by Mini-Me, which almost proved fatal, he miraculously lived with fractured bones. The movie raked in $312 million at the box office against a production budget of $33 million, and Ferrell would later reprise his villainous character in the 2001 cult favorite Zoolander. While its first and third installments may have followed, they were all equally hilarious and enjoyable.

4
‘Megamind’ (2010)

$321.9M

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I found myself drawn to the 2010 animated comedy “Megamind,” where Will Ferrell lent his distinctive voice to the titular character. This superhero flick, which raked in an impressive $321.9 million against a hefty production budget of $130 million, showcased a stellar cast including Brad Pitt, Tina Fey, and Jonah Hill, among others from Hollywood’s A-list. In the film, Ferrell portrays Megamind, an extraterrestrial who was sent to Earth before his home planet vanished forever.

Megamind Launches an Animated Franchise

After years of being picked on, Megamind finds himself drawn to the role of a supervillain. When Metro Man, his longtime adversary who is also an extraterrestrial, attempts to dominate their shared city, Megamind devises various schemes to outsmart and defeat his greatest foe. The original film launched a series of spin-offs, including sequels, television shows, and video games, and developed a dedicated following online.

3
‘The Lego Movie’ (2014)

$470.7M

With earnings of $468.1 million against a production budget of $60 million, “The Lego Movie” stands among Will Ferrell’s most financially successful films. Released in 2014, it spawned a sequel titled “The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part“. This animated comedy adventure features Ferrell in two roles – the antagonist Lord Business, an evil businessman with numerous adversaries, and The Man Upstairs, a Lego enthusiast.

A Critical & Commercial Knockout

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I must say that the thrilling flick I’m referring to is none other than “The Lego Movie.” This masterpiece revolves around an ultimate weapon known as the Kragle, capable of obliterating the entire Lego universe if used incorrectly. However, an unexpected turn of events occurs when Lord Business experiences a change of heart. Utilizing the Peace of Resistance, he manages to annihilate the Kragle, freeing his Lego-made victims from their unyielding bonds. This act paves the way for a reconciliation between good and evil.

This film was not just any ordinary movie; it was one of the top ten films of the year as recognized by the National Board of Review. It even earned nominations for both the Oscar and the Golden Globe, with many hailing it as one of the best animated films of the 2010s and possibly of all time.

2
‘Despicable Me 4’ (2024)

$971M

2024’s much-anticipated continuation of the beloved animated series, “Despicable Me 4,” finds Steve Carell reprising his role as the former villain-turned-spy Gru. After his old school rival Maxime Le Mal (played by Ferrell) and his seductive partner Valentina (Sofía Vergara) seek retribution, Gru and his family must flee and establish a new existence. Assuming the identity of a solar panel salesman named “Chet Cunningham Sr.,” Gru struggles to adapt to his fresh circumstances as he eludes his enemies.

Despicable Me Continues Dominating the Cinema

The popular “Despicable Me” series continued its success in 2024, with the sequel earning a spot as the fourth-highest grossing film of the year, amassing an impressive $971 million against a production budget of just $100 million. It also secured a nomination for Best Animated Film at the Saturn Awards. While critics gave it a 56% score on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences loved it more with an 86% rating on Popcornmeter. Particularly well-received was Will Ferrell’s portrayal of the cunning Maxime, garnering positive reviews and admiration from viewers.

1
‘Barbie’ (2023)

$1.446B

Inspired by Mattel’s famous fashion dolls, Greta Gerwig’s innovative fantasy comedy titled Barbie captivated audiences worldwide in 2013, igniting the “Barbenheimer” craze. Starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, this lively film chronicles the adventures of Barbie and Ken as they venture through both the real human world and Barbieland. Along their journey, Barbie grapples with a startling existential dilemma while Ken uncovers the intricacies of patriarchy, resulting in an exhilarating chain of events for this iconic pair.

Barbie Sparks a Worldwide Phenomenon

Highlighting the exceptional performances from actors such as America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, and Will Ferrell (in his role as Mattel’s CEO), this blockbuster hit garnered both critical and financial success, receiving eight Academy Awards (and taking home one) and being recognized as one of the top ten films of the year by both the American Film Institute and the National Board of Review. Barbie has been praised for addressing significant themes like feminism, capitalism, masculinity, and existentialism, and it stands as Will Ferrell’s highest-grossing film to date in his distinguished career.

2025-04-21 04:37

15 ‘Blades of Glory’ (2006)