Budget: $6M
Documentary filmmaker Michael Moore had already created a reputation for himself as a controversial figure with his film “Bowling For Columbine.” But nothing could compare to the documentary “Fahrenheit 9/11.” While most documentaries have a more niche appeal, this one gained attention on an international scale as it covered the events leading up to and post 9/11.
The film’s message created a heated international debate and even rivaled some 2004 blockbuster comedies and hit films like “Dodgeball,” “The Terminal,” and “Lemony Snicket.” In the end it made $222,446,320. Nobody expected this film to do as well as it did
Frances Ha
Budget: $3M
This delightful simple story follows the chaotic life of a dancer living in New York who is forever between apartments. The film was created by indie king and queen Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig. The two made this film together with little publicity. By the time it came out, it had created a huge buzz and a few million dollars.
The film actually brought the now-married couple closer together. For a couple of years, the two would share drafts of the script. When it was ultimately done, Baumbach (the now Oscar-nominated filmmaker) directed the film.
Home Alone
Budget: $15M
Probably the greatest Christmas classic of all time, "Home Alone" has been entertaining families for decades now. The reruns and screenings continue every year, making it one of the most beloved films in America and maybe even the world. From the look of it, it probably seemed like this was one big-budget film, especially with its great cast members including, Joe Pesci, Catherine O'Hara, and the legendary John Candy. But that was not the case at all!
This film, in fact, cost only $15 million to make, which, granted, in the late 80s' wasn't that cheap, but, considering that the film brought in almost half a billion dollars, it makes it all the more incredible. It also cemented child actor Mcauley Culkin as America's favorite kid.
March of the Penguins
Budget: 8M
This documentary film became a mega-successful box office hit. While the film was not political or controversial, it still seemed to capture the hearts of millions around the world as it followed the life story of an emperor penguin. It was as delightful as any live-action feel-good film, and it didn't even star one human. It wasn't even animated either. This was all purely penguins.
For six weeks, the film stayed in the top ten until it slowly dropped to number six. Still pretty high. This was a real feat for a non-mainstream film and even made ended up making $127,392,693. Impressive!
Slumdog Millionaire
Budget: $15M
Even with Danny Boyle's incredible reputation, no one foresaw the success of this 2008 heart-warming film coming. Especially not at that level of budget. It just goes to show you that's a good film is not all about money. The touching story followed the harsh life of a young man who grows up in Mumbai and his search for his childhood love. It's a film about destiny, overcoming hardships, and the power of true love.
Calling it a "sleeper hit" would be an understatement as the film grossed $82 million worldwide. The film was no doubt a critical and commercial success and outdid a bunch of blockbusters that year.