Universal Studios has produced some of the most memorable films in the movie industry. Their rich history in cinema spans many genres, from thrilling action films to heartwarming family tales.
People all over the world recognize their iconic hits.
Exploring the top movies from Universal Studios gives insight into the creativity and innovation behind these beloved films.
Whether it’s the magic of a dinosaur park gone wrong or the chilling moments in classic horror, Universal’s impact on entertainment is profound and lasting.
1) Jurassic Park
“Jurassic Park” is a groundbreaking film released by Universal Studios in 1993. Directed by Steven Spielberg, it combines adventure, science fiction, and suspense.
The story revolves around a theme park with cloned dinosaurs, created from DNA preserved in amber. The film’s visual effects and animatronics were revolutionary for their time, setting new standards in the industry.
The cast includes Sam Neill as Dr. Alan Grant, Laura Dern as Dr. Ellie Sattler, and Jeff Goldblum as the charismatic Dr. Ian Malcolm. Richard Attenborough plays the park’s visionary creator, John Hammond.
“Jurassic Park” became an instant classic, known for its thrilling plot and lifelike dinosaur effects. The Velociraptors and the iconic T-Rex scene are among the most memorable moments in cinema history.
The film received several awards, including three Academy Awards for its impressive technical achievements. It spawned a successful franchise, including sequels and spin-offs like the “Jurassic World” series.
“Jurassic Park” continues to captivate audiences, with its mix of suspense, humor, and cutting-edge effects.
It’s a must-watch for fans of science fiction and thrilling adventures.
2) E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” hit theaters in 1982 and quickly warmed the hearts of moviegoers everywhere. Directed by Steven Spielberg, it tells the story of Elliott, a young boy who befriends an alien left behind on Earth.
The film beautifully captured themes of friendship and family, making it a timeless favorite.
The movie stars Henry Thomas as Elliott, with a memorable performance by a very young Drew Barrymore as his sister, Gertie. Dee Wallace plays their mother, and Peter Coyote takes on the role of a government agent.
A standout feature of the film is its special effects. The alien, E.T., was brought to life thanks to the creativity of Carlo Rambaldi and Dennis Muren. Their work helped forge a believable connection between Elliott and E.T.
In its initial release, the movie received widespread acclaim from both audiences and critics alike. It was often compared to Disney films of the time for its heartwarming story and appeal to viewers of all ages.
“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” remains a beloved classic, frequently appearing in lists of the greatest movies of all time. Its influence on popular culture is undeniable, having left a lasting impact on the industry.
You can check out the original trailer here to get a feel for this enchanting film.
3) Back to the Future
“Back to the Future” is one of Universal Studios’ most iconic movies. Released in 1985, this sci-fi adventure quickly captured the imagination of audiences. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film blends comedy, adventure, and time travel in a way that keeps viewers engaged.
The story features Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox. He travels back in time using a time machine made from a DeLorean car. Christopher Lloyd stars as the eccentric inventor Doc Brown, a key figure in Marty’s adventures.
Part of what makes “Back to the Future” special is its setting. The scenes filmed in Hill Valley were shot at Courthouse Square, a famous backlot at Universal Studios. This location became iconic in its own right, embodying an “American town square” vibe.
The movie has left a lasting legacy and even inspired “Back to the Future Day,” celebrated annually on October 21st. This date is significant as it’s when Marty traveled to the future in the film’s second installment.
This classic film has become a vital part of pop culture, with memorable lines and unforgettable characters. Here’s a trailer to take you back to that timeless movie moment:
“Back to the Future” is simply a must-watch for anyone who loves movies from Universal Studios.
4) Jaws
Jaws, released in 1975, is a thrilling movie from Universal Studios that many still talk about today. Directed by Steven Spielberg, it focuses on a terrifying great white shark terrorizing a small resort town. This film became a massive hit and shaped the future of blockbuster movies.
The main characters in Jaws are Police Chief Brody, played by Roy Scheider, marine biologist Matt Hooper, portrayed by Richard Dreyfuss, and the shark hunter Quint, played by Robert Shaw. The characters’ mission to hunt down the shark keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
Jaws became famous for its suspenseful music score by John Williams. The movie’s unforgettable theme adds to the thriller vibe, making tension fill the screen. The film’s mechanical shark, known as “Bruce,” is another iconic element, though it often gave the filmmakers technical challenges during production.
Although Jaws led to several sequels, the original remains the favorite. It kicked off the summer blockbuster trend and influenced how creators approached suspense and thrill in films. The movie also showcased Spielberg’s skill in building suspense through careful pacing and masterful use of special effects.
Check out the trailer to get a feel for the epic adventure that is Jaws.
5) Fast & Furious
The “Fast & Furious” series has become a staple in action movies. Known for its thrilling car races and heist plots, it started back in 2001.
The series stars Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, and Michelle Rodriguez, among others. Each movie brings an adrenaline rush with high-speed chases and stunts.
“Furious 7” was especially popular. It earned $1.5 billion globally. This success led to more sequels being greenlit.
There’s also more Fast & Furious fun at Universal Studios. The park features “Fast & Furious: Supercharged,” a ride that puts guests right in the action.
The films have also inspired more attractions like the “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” roller coaster, set to open in 2026. The franchise continues to be a huge hit with fans both on screen and in the real world.
Check out the intense action and drama that keep audiences coming back for more. Here’s a quick glimpse of the thrills in the series:
Whether at the movies or theme parks, “Fast & Furious” delivers excitement. The blend of daring escapades and strong characters makes it a must-watch series.
6) Despicable Me
Despicable Me is a hit animated movie about a villain named Gru. He’s voiced by Steve Carell and dreams of stealing the moon. The film’s fun and quirky characters, especially the yellow Minions, have made it a favorite.
Gru finds unexpected joy when he adopts three orphaned girls. They change his life and slowly become his family.
The movie is full of humor and heart, appealing to kids and adults. The creative animation and engaging storyline keep viewers interested.
With a blend of laughter and touching moments, Despicable Me has spawned multiple sequels. It has a prominent presence at Universal Studios with its own ride.
7) The Bourne Identity
“The Bourne Identity” is one of those films that grabbed everyone’s attention with its gripping plot and intense action sequences. Released in 2002, this movie laid the groundwork for an exciting spy series.
Matt Damon stars as Jason Bourne, a man with amnesia on a quest to discover his true identity. As he pieces together his past, he uncovers some explosive secrets.
The film is based on a novel by Robert Ludlum and directed by Doug Liman. Damon’s performance, along with the film’s fast-paced action, received praise.
The movie introduces viewers to Bourne’s world of espionage, mystery, and danger. His journey takes him across Europe, dodging threats at every turn.
Franka Potente plays Marie, who becomes an unexpected ally to Bourne. Their dynamic adds depth to the high-stakes narrative.
“The Bourne Identity” set a new standard for action thrillers with its choreography and suspense. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent spy films and series.
If you’d like to take a peek at the action, check out the trailer below:
8) King Kong (2005)
In 2005, Universal Pictures brought King Kong back to life with an epic adventure movie directed by Peter Jackson. This film is a captivating reinterpretation of the classic 1933 story, set in the same time period.
Naomi Watts stars as Ann Darrow, an actress caught in the middle of a high-risk filmmaking endeavor. Jack Black plays Carl Denham, an ambitious filmmaker who dreams of a big break. Adrien Brody is cast as Jack Driscoll, providing strong support to the narrative.
The film features impressive special effects, which help bring the enormous ape and the dangerous island of Skull Island to life. Andy Serkis showcases his incredible talent through motion capture as the title character, King Kong.
This movie combines both adventure and action, taking viewers on a thrilling journey. The crew faces perilous challenges as they capture footage and uncover the mysteries hidden in the jungle. Despite the danger, an unexpected bond forms between Ann and King Kong.
Experience the towering heights of adventure and drama in “King Kong (2005)” with an iconic remake that stays true to its roots while introducing cutting-edge filmmaking techniques.
9) Mamma Mia!
“Mamma Mia!” is a feel-good musical that brings the songs of the famous band ABBA to the big screen.
The story revolves around Sophie, a young woman about to get married, who is trying to find out who her real father is. Her journey takes place on a charming Greek island.
The movie features a talented cast including Meryl Streep as Donna, Sophie’s free-spirited mother, and Amanda Seyfried as Sophie.
The ensemble cast also includes Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, and Stellan Skarsgård, who play the potential fathers.
Released in 2008, the film became a huge hit, with audiences loving its upbeat soundtracks and engaging storyline.
The catchy tunes and energetic dance scenes drew viewers worldwide, making “Mamma Mia!” a favorite among musical lovers.
In 2018, fans were excited once again when the sequel, “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,” hit theaters.
This time, the movie introduced new characters played by Lily James and the legendary Cher. Both films celebrate love, family, and friendship through joyful music and lively performances.
The colorful setting and timeless songs continue to capture the hearts of fans both old and new.
Embedded below is a trailer for “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” to give a taste of the film’s vibrant atmosphere.
10) The Mummy (1999)
“The Mummy” from 1999 is a thrilling adventure film that captivated audiences with its fun mix of action and humor.
Directed by Stephen Sommers, it stars Brendan Fraser as Rick O’Connell, the dashing adventurer. Rachel Weisz plays the intelligent and brave librarian, Evelyn Carnahan.
Set in 1926, the film takes viewers on an epic journey to Hamunaptra, the City of the Dead.
As treasure seekers, Rick and Evelyn accidentally wake a cursed mummy named Imhotep, played by Arnold Vosloo. Their adventure turns into a race to save the world from destruction.
The special effects were ahead of their time, making the reanimated mummy look pretty terrifying back then.
The film’s mix of action, comedy, and special effects turned it into a blockbuster hit, loved by audiences everywhere.
With an adventurous spirit, enticing storyline, and charismatic lead performances, “The Mummy” remains a favorite for action-adventure film enthusiasts.
Its popularity led to sequels and even a spin-off series.
Enjoy a glimpse of this thrilling classic by checking out the trailer on YouTube.
Universal Studios’ Cinematic Legacy
Universal Studios has a rich history, shaping the world of cinema with groundbreaking films. It played a significant role in modern filmmaking by introducing enduring monster classics and influencing various genres.
A Brief History of Universal Studios
Universal Studios, founded in 1912 by Carl Laemmle, quickly made a mark in early Hollywood. It became famous for horror films starring iconic monsters like Dracula and Frankenstein during the 1930s.
These films weren’t just popular; they laid the groundwork for future horror genres.
In the 1940s, Universal continued to innovate by adding new characters like The Wolf Man.
As time went on, the studio’s ventures expanded into comedy with films like Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein. Its influence grew, and it began to create movies across multiple genres, making Universal Studios an industry leader.
Influence on Modern Cinema
Universal Studios’ work in the horror genre made a huge impact on film. The techniques and styles developed in their classic monster movies are seen in many modern films.
These early movies showed how to use special effects effectively, even with the technology of their time.
Its creative legacy also spans other areas. For example, the success of their horror-comedy films paved the way for new films mixing these genres. Universal Studios’ willingness to experiment with storytelling and genre blending has inspired countless filmmakers today.
Behind the Scenes at Universal
Universal Studios has given us unforgettable films and has some of the best behind-the-scenes experiences. From iconic filming locations to legendary directors and producers, let’s take a closer look.
Iconic Filming Locations
Universal Studios Hollywood’s backlot is famous for its classic sets. Visitors can explore places where top movies and shows were filmed.
The backlot includes spaces like 13 city blocks designed with famous scenes in mind. This area brings to life memorable film sets, making you feel like you’re stepping into the movies.
It’s fascinating to see how different areas transform to become places from various films. The creativity involved in creating multi-use sets for different productions is impressive. This encourages a truly immersive experience for anyone visiting.
Famous Directors and Producers
Universal Studios has collaborated with many respected filmmakers. Steven Spielberg, known for his incredible storytelling, has played a significant role in consulting on set designs.
His influence has helped shape the creativity seen throughout the studio.
Several award-winning directors and producers actively work with Universal, bringing fresh stories and visuals to life. These partnerships have driven success for the studio’s films.
By leveraging these collaborations, Universal consistently delivers engaging films to audiences worldwide.
