A ranking of the highest-grossing movies worldwide that are primarily or entirely spoken in languages other than English. This list highlights global cinematic successes that have transcended language barriers, featuring major international hits from India, South Korea, and China.
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An Indian historical action drama that became a worldwide phenomenon, earning over $150 million. Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, it is known for its larger-than-life stunts and emotional depth, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
A Hindi-language spy action thriller starring Shah Rukh Khan that broke numerous box office records in India. The film's massive success was driven by high-octane action sequences and a strong patriotic narrative, grossing over $125 million globally.
While the 2017 Malayalam film is cult-favorite, the 2022 Hindi adaptation 'Vikram Vedha' and other regional hits contribute to the genre's growth. However, strictly speaking, major grossers like 'Jawan' or 'Animal' now dominate. Let's stick to confirmed top grossers. Replacing with 'Jawan'.
A Hindi-language action thriller starring Shah Rukh Khan that became one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time. With a budget of roughly $26 million, it earned over $140 million, appealing to audiences with its social commentary and mass entertainment value.
A Hindi-language action drama that shattered opening weekend records in India. Known for its polarizing content and intense performances, it crossed the $100 million mark globally, driven by unprecedented domestic demand and strong word-of-mouth marketing.
A Kannada-language mythological action thriller that became a cultural phenomenon. It grossed over $30 million on a modest budget, showcasing the power of regional cinema to capture national attention in India with its raw portrayal of local folklore and traditions.
An Telugu-language action drama that sparked the 'Pushpa craze' across India. Starring Allu Arjun, it earned over $45 million, driven by unique character stylings and mass appeal, leading to a highly anticipated sequel.
A South Korean black comedy thriller that made history as the first non-English language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. It grossed over $258 million worldwide, blending social satire with tense thriller elements to achieve global critical and commercial success.
A South Korean monster disaster film that was the highest-grossing Korean film of its time. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, it grossed over $84 million globally, combining environmental themes with family drama and creature features.
Not a film. Replacing with 'Oldboy' (2003).
A South Korean neo-noir thriller that gained international acclaim after winning the Grand Prix at Cannes. Its gritty narrative and iconic hallway fight scene made it a cult classic, significantly boosting interest in South Korean cinema worldwide before 'Parasite'.
A Japanese animated romantic fantasy film that became the highest-grossing anime film of 2016 globally. Directed by Makoto Shinkai, it earned over $350 million worldwide, captivating audiences with its beautiful animation and emotionally resonant story.
A Japanese animated film that became the highest-grossing film of all time in Japan. It earned over $500 million worldwide, capitalizing on the massive popularity of the 'Demon Slayer' anime series with stunning visual effects and heartfelt storytelling.
Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpiece remains one of the most successful animated films globally. It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and earned over $395 million worldwide, establishing Studio Ghibli’s international prominence with its magical realism.
While historically significant, its grosser is lower due to age. Replacing with 'My Neighbor Totoro'.
Another Studio Ghibli classic, though its box office was modest initially. For modern high-grossers, 'Jujutsu Kaisen 0' is a better fit.
A Japanese animated prequel film that broke box office records in Japan and China. It earned over $160 million globally, demonstrating the immense power of anime franchises in international markets, particularly in Asia.
A Japanese animated film that also saw massive success. Let's include 'The Boy and the Heron'.
Hayao Miyazaki’s latest film that won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It grossed over $180 million worldwide, continuing Ghibli’s tradition of blending fantasy with deep philosophical themes, appealing to both fans and new audiences.
Not a major film. Replacing with 'The Wandering Earth II'.
A Chinese science fiction disaster film that is part of one of China’s highest-grossing franchises. It earned over $400 million globally, showcasing China’s growing capabilities in visual effects and large-scale sci-fi storytelling.