Top 5 Highest Grossing Gene Hackman Movies: A Ranked List.
Gene Hackman is one of Hollywood’s most respected and versatile actors. Over the course of his long career, Hackman has delivered memorable performances in a variety of roles, ranging from intense dramatic characters to more lighthearted roles. His ability to effortlessly transform into different personas has made him a beloved figure in cinema, contributing to his immense success at the box office. In this article, we’ll rank the top 5 highest-grossing Gene Hackman movies from 5 to 1, showcasing the films that have helped cement his place in Hollywood history.
5. The French Connection (1971)
Worldwide Gross: $51.7 million
Director: William Friedkin
Genre: Crime/Thriller
The iconic The French Connection (1971), while not one of the highest-grossing films of its era, is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time. Directed by William Friedkin, it stars Gene Hackman as Popeye Doyle, a tough, relentless New York detective. The film focuses on his pursuit of drug dealers, and Hackman’s portrayal of Popeye earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Hackman’s portrayal of the gritty and determined Doyle is considered one of his finest performances. Although it did not make the same amount of money as more modern films, The French Connection earned $51.7 million worldwide, a massive success for a crime thriller in the early '70s. Its impact on the crime genre and film in general has made it one of Hackman’s most significant works.
Notable Box Office Stats:
The French Connection grossed $51.7 million globally, a major success in its time, considering the movie's modest production budget of $1.8 million. Adjusted for inflation, the film’s earnings would likely rank much higher today.
4. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
Worldwide Gross: $71.4 million
Director: Wes Anderson
Genre: Comedy/Drama
Next up is the whimsical and eccentric The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), directed by Wes Anderson. Although it wasn’t a massive blockbuster, it was highly successful for an independent film. In this ensemble cast film, Gene Hackman plays Royal Tenenbaum, the dysfunctional patriarch of a family of gifted but troubled individuals.
Hackman’s portrayal of the flawed yet charming Royal is one of the highlights of this critically acclaimed film. The Royal Tenenbaums grossed $71.4 million globally, and its lasting cultural impact has made it a cult classic. Hackman’s performance was a standout in this dark comedy, and it remains one of the standout films of his career.
Notable Box Office Stats:
The Royal Tenenbaums earned $71.4 million globally, well above its modest production budget of $21 million. Its success solidified Hackman’s place in the world of independent cinema and as an actor capable of handling quirky and complex roles.
3. Crimson Tide (1995)
Worldwide Gross: $157.1 million
Director: Tony Scott
Genre: Action/Thriller
In Crimson Tide (1995), Gene Hackman stars alongside Denzel Washington in a high-stakes action thriller about a nuclear submarine. Hackman plays Captain Ramsey, a tough and stubborn officer who comes into conflict with Washington’s character over the decision to launch nuclear missiles during a tense international crisis.
Hackman’s performance as the no-nonsense captain is a highlight of the film. The movie grossed $157.1 million worldwide, proving that Hackman was just as effective in action-packed roles as he was in more dramatic parts. Crimson Tide was a commercial success, and Hackman’s role helped the film become one of the most memorable submarine thrillers of the 1990s.
Notable Box Office Stats:
Crimson Tide earned $157.1 million at the global box office, well above its $53 million production budget. Hackman’s commanding performance and the movie's intense action sequences made it a success both financially and critically.
2. The Birdcage (1996)
Worldwide Gross: $185.3 million
Director: Mike Nichols
Genre: Comedy
One of Gene Hackman’s most memorable and comedic performances came in The Birdcage (1996), directed by Mike Nichols. This remake of the French film La Cage aux Folles features Hackman as Kevin Keeley, a conservative senator whose son announces his engagement to the son of a drag queen nightclub owner. The story unfolds as the senator’s world is turned upside down by this revelation.
Hackman’s portrayal of the humorously out-of-touch politician earned him praise for his ability to play a comedic character. The film grossed a significant $185.3 million worldwide, making it one of Hackman’s highest-grossing films and a beloved comedy in cinema history.
Notable Box Office Stats:
With a production budget of only $31 million, The Birdcage earned $185.3 million worldwide. This success made it one of the highest-grossing comedies of the year and remains a fan-favorite due to its performances and wit.
1. Superman (1978)
Worldwide Gross: $300.2 million
Director: Richard Donner
Genre: Action/Sci-Fi
Topping the list of Gene Hackman’s highest-grossing films is Superman (1978), in which Hackman plays the notorious villain, Lex Luthor. Directed by Richard Donner and starring Christopher Reeve as the iconic superhero, Superman was a game-changer in the superhero genre. Hackman’s portrayal of Lex Luthor, the evil mastermind who plots to destroy California and profit from real estate schemes, became one of the most memorable villains in comic book history.
Hackman’s performance as the flamboyant and scheming Luthor was widely praised, and the film itself became a major hit, grossing $300.2 million worldwide. Superman was a milestone in superhero cinema and played a pivotal role in shaping the future of superhero films.
Notable Box Office Stats:
Superman earned $300.2 million globally, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 1978. Given its groundbreaking nature and Hackman’s role as Lex Luthor, the film’s financial success cemented Hackman’s status as a Hollywood heavyweight.
Conclusion
Gene Hackman’s career has spanned decades, and his versatility has allowed him to succeed in a wide variety of genres. From gritty crime dramas to superhero blockbusters, Hackman has proven his talent as an actor capable of playing complex, dynamic characters. The top 5 highest-grossing films in his career—Superman, The Birdcage, Crimson Tide, The Royal Tenenbaums, and The French Connection—demonstrate his widespread appeal and enduring legacy in Hollywood.
RELATED: Gene Hackman: A Look at His Net Worth 2025, Career, Personal Life, and Legacy.
While Superman and The Birdcage represent two of his most financially successful films, Hackman’s ability to shine in diverse genres and characters helped him become a beloved figure in cinema. His legacy as one of the greatest actors of his generation is undeniable, and these top-grossing films are a testament to the lasting impact of his work.
