Box Office Gold: The Unforgettable Hits That Dominated Screens in 1987

1987 was a blockbuster year for Hollywood, with films that have since become classics. These movies didn’t just rake in the cash; they also left an indelible mark on pop culture. From action-packed adventures to heartwarming tales, 1987 had it all.

It’s fascinating to look back at the movies that captivated audiences and dominated the box office. These films not only entertained millions but also set new standards in filmmaking. Whether you’re a movie buff or just curious about the hits of yesteryear, this list is sure to intrigue you.

Ready to take a trip down memory lane? Let’s dive into the biggest box office hits of 1987!

Highlights

• A look at the top-grossing films of 1987
• Interesting facts and figures about each movie
• How these films influenced pop culture

Beverly Hills Cop II

Eddie Murphy was at the peak of his career in the late ’80s, and Beverly Hills Cop II is a proof to his star power. Directed by Tony Scott, this action-comedy sequel follows the wise-cracking Detroit cop Axel Foley as he returns to Beverly Hills to solve another crime.

The film was a perfect blend of action, humor, and style, making it a hit with audiences. Murphy’s charisma and comedic timing were on full display, and the movie’s fast-paced plot kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The soundtrack, featuring hits like “Shakedown” by Bob Seger, also added to the film’s appeal.

It’s no surprise that Beverly Hills Cop II was one of the highest-grossing films of 1987, proving that sequels can be just as successful as their predecessors.

• Gross Revenue: $153.7 million
• Director: Tony Scott
• Main Star: Eddie Murphy

Platoon

Oliver Stone’s Platoon is a gritty and unflinching look at the Vietnam War. Released in late 1986, it continued to draw audiences well into 1987. The film’s realistic portrayal of the horrors of war struck a chord with viewers and critics alike.

Starring Charlie Sheen, Willem Dafoe, and Tom Berenger, Platoon follows a young soldier’s trip through the brutal realities of combat. Stone, a Vietnam veteran himself, brought an authenticity to the film that resonated deeply. The movie’s powerful performances and harrowing scenes made it a must-see.

Platoon not only won the Academy Award for Best Picture but also became one of the top-grossing films of the year, cementing its place in cinematic history.

• Gross Revenue: $138.5 million
• Director: Oliver Stone
• Academy Awards: Best Picture

Fatal Attraction

Michael Douglas and Glenn Close delivered unforgettable performances in Fatal Attraction, a psychological thriller that left audiences on the edge of their seats. Directed by Adrian Lyne, the film explores the consequences of a brief affair that turns into a terrifying obsession.

Close’s portrayal of the unhinged Alex Forrest was both chilling and captivating, earning her an Academy Award nomination. The film’s suspenseful plot and shocking twists made it a box office sensation. It also sparked conversations about infidelity and mental health, making it a cultural touchstone.

Fatal Attraction’s success proved that audiences were hungry for smart, intense thrillers, and it remains a classic in the genre.

• Gross Revenue: $156.6 million
• Director: Adrian Lyne
• Academy Award Nominations: 6

The Untouchables

Brian De Palma’s The Untouchables brought the story of Eliot Ness and his team of Prohibition agents to life with style and flair. Starring Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Robert De Niro, the film was a thrilling ride through the streets of 1930s Chicago.

Connery’s performance as the tough-as-nails cop earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. De Niro’s portrayal of the infamous gangster Al Capone was equally compelling. The film’s gripping narrative and intense action scenes kept audiences hooked from start to finish.

The Untouchables was a box office hit, proving that historical dramas could be both entertaining and commercially successful.

• Gross Revenue: $76.2 million
• Director: Brian De Palma
• Academy Award: Best Supporting Actor (Sean Connery)

Three Men and a Baby

Who knew that a comedy about three bachelors raising a baby could become such a massive hit? Three Men and a Baby, directed by Leonard Nimoy, was a delightful surprise. Starring Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, and Ted Danson, the film was a heartwarming and hilarious tale of unexpected fatherhood.

The chemistry between the three leads was undeniable, and the baby’s antics added an extra layer of charm. The film’s lighthearted humor and feel-good story made it a favorite among audiences of all ages. It also showcased Nimoy’s versatility as a director, proving he could handle more than just science fiction.

Three Men and a Baby was the highest-grossing film of 1987, solidifying its place in cinematic history.

• Gross Revenue: $167.8 million
• Director: Leonard Nimoy
• Main Stars: Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, Ted Danson

These films didn’t just dominate the box office; they also left a lasting impact on pop culture. From the action-packed adventures of Axel Foley to the heartwarming tale of three bachelors and a baby, 1987 was a year of diverse and unforgettable movies.

Whether you’re revisiting these classics or discovering them for the first time, their stories and characters continue to connect. The box office hits of 1987 remind us of the power of cinema to entertain, inspire, and bring people together.

References

1. Box Office Mojo – 1987
2. Wikipedia – 1987 in Film
3. List of 1987 box office number-one films in the United States …
4. 1987 Worldwide Box Office – Box Office Mojo