What Do America’s Top Movies Reveal About the Country?

Steve Deace, Todd Erzen, and Aaron McIntire aim to explore how America’s most successful films reflect the nation’s culture by looking closely at the 25 highest-grossing movies in U.S. history, adjusted for inflation.

The list ranges from classics like “Gone with the Wind,” “The Ten Commandments,” and “The Sound of Music” to modern hits such as “Star Wars,” “Titanic,” and current franchise powerhouses. It serves as a mirror, showcasing the narratives that once resonated with the collective American identity.

“The Graduate,” interestingly, comes up last on this list, which Deace describes as “the only intentionally subversive film on this list.” Erzen adds that it’s an exceptionally crafted piece about “people leading hollow, empty lives” in their quest for meaning. This raises a point he believes is essential to discuss—vacant lives, lack of direction, and the search for purpose.

“They’re just floundering, trying to find something that makes sense,” he notes. “That’s a conversation that deserves attention.” He also feels that many young white men today are struggling with their sense of identity and often opt for escapism through video games rather than addressing these deeper issues.

“These days,” he continues, “it seems to revolve around a culture of victimhood and endless complaints, and honestly, who wants to be associated with that?”

McIntire brings attention to the noticeable gap in significant cultural films from about 1999 to 2014 or 2015. “That period was dominated by films like ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘Lord of the Rings,’ and ‘Avatar.’… Really, those are cultural icons,” he posits. It’s curious that beyond that interval, the movies now appearing on the list tend to be part of larger franchises.

“So, nothing truly original,” Deace remarks. “It all feels derivative.” He doesn’t view this as a good sign and believes it aligns with broader cultural trends, especially in Hollywood.

On the flip side, Deace points out that despite Hollywood being largely influenced by leftist views, the right is slowly gaining traction in the ongoing culture war. “If you look at films like ‘Young Washington,’ we’re starting to see opportunities arise,” he explains. “This suggests a potential foothold within the most influential medium of pop culture ever.”

This focus on storytelling is crucial, he suggests, because “the ones who control a culture’s narratives ultimately control its very fabric.” If the right can solidify its presence in storytelling, Deace argues, the political gains could be significant—perhaps translating to “five to ten Senate seats.”