History's Best Selling Products of 2022

1. The 355

   Released in 2022 by Simon Kinberg, Universal Pictures, Freckle Films, Genre Pictures, FilmNation Entertainment

   On January 7, 2022, Hollywood unveiled a significant entry in the spy genre with the U.S. theatrical premiere of "The 355." The film arrived with high expectations, boasting an A-list international ensemble cast featuring Jessica Chastain, Penélope Cruz, Fan Bingbing, Diane Kruger, and Lupita Nyong'o. Conceived and championed by Chastain herself, the movie was positioned as a female-led alternative to long-standing, male-dominated franchises like "James Bond" and "Mission: Impossible." Its release represented a deliberate effort to carve out new space in the action-thriller landscape, promising globe-trotting espionage and high-stakes action from a fresh, female-centric perspective.

2. The Battle at Lake Changjin II

   Released in 2022 by Chen Kaige, Tsui Hark, Dante Lam, Bona Film Group

   The Battle at Lake Changjin II, also known as Water Gate Bridge, stormed into Chinese cinemas on February 1, 2022, precisely timed for the lucrative Lunar New Year holiday. As the highly anticipated sequel to China's highest-grossing film of all time, its release was a cultural event, immediately setting the stage for another record-breaking box office run. This date marked its world theatrical premiere, unleashing a patriotic epic that continued the compelling saga of Chinese soldiers during the Korean War. The film swiftly dominated the holiday box office, confirming its status as a monumental cinematic achievement and a commercial juggernaut, cementing its place in contemporary Chinese film history.

3. Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra

   Released in 2022 by Samsung

   On February 9, 2022, Samsung hosted its Galaxy Unpacked event, a date that marked a pivotal strategy shift for its mobile division. The star of the show was the Galaxy S22 Ultra, which did more than just iterate on its predecessor. It signaled the official merging of two iconic Samsung lineages: the Galaxy S and the Galaxy Note. For the first time, Samsung's premier S-series device came with an integrated S Pen stylus, complete with a dedicated silo in the phone's body. This launch effectively made the S22 Ultra the spiritual successor to the Galaxy Note series, which had been absent in 2021, ending years of speculation and delighting a loyal fanbase of power users and productivity enthusiasts.

4. Horizon Forbidden West

   Released in 2022 by Guerrilla Games, Sony Interactive Entertainment

   Horizon Forbidden West launched on February 18, 2022, quickly cementing its place as one of the year's most anticipated and bestselling titles. Building upon the critical and commercial success of its predecessor, Horizon Zero Dawn, this sequel plunged players back into a breathtaking post-apocalyptic world teeming with majestic robotic creatures and lush, overgrown ruins. Its release was a major event for PlayStation enthusiasts, generating immense hype for its expanded open world, compelling narrative, and stunning visuals. The game wasn't just a hit with fans; it also garnered widespread critical acclaim, establishing itself as a significant cultural phenomenon in the gaming landscape of 2022 and beyond, demonstrating the continued power of rich, character-driven single-player experiences.

5. Elden Ring

   Released in 2022 by FromSoftware, Bandai Namco

   On February 25, 2022, the gaming world was reshaped with the worldwide release of Elden Ring. This date marked the culmination of years of fervent anticipation, fueled by the unprecedented collaboration between legendary game director Hidetaka Miyazaki and acclaimed fantasy author George R. R. Martin. For months, fans had dissected every frame of pre-release trailers, building a mountain of hype. On this day, players across the globe finally stepped into the Lands Between, a world shrouded in mystery and danger. The release wasn't just a launch; it was a cultural event, immediately dominating online discourse and setting a new standard for open-world action RPGs for years to come.

6. Everything Everywhere All at Once

   Released in 2022 by Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert, A24

   On March 11, 2022, the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival in Austin, Texas, hosted the world premiere of a film that would soon become a global phenomenon: 'Everything Everywhere All at Once.' Directed by the filmmaking duo known as the Daniels (Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert), this A24-produced movie arrived as an ambitious, genre-defying spectacle. The premiere marked the first time audiences experienced its chaotic, heartfelt, and utterly original blend of martial arts, science fiction, comedy, and family drama. Little did the initial audience know they were witnessing the debut of a film that would not only capture the cultural zeitgeist but would also go on to make history at the Academy Awards, redefining what an independent film could achieve.

7. Impera

   Released in 2022 by Tobias Forge, Loma Vista Recordings

   On March 11, 2022, the Swedish rock band Ghost unleashed their fifth studio album, 'Impera,' upon the world. Released through Loma Vista Recordings, the album arrived amidst high anticipation from the band's ever-growing global fanbase. The date marked a significant moment in modern rock and metal, launching an album that would not only dominate charts worldwide but also earn critical acclaim, including a Grammy Award. 'Impera' continued the band's elaborate storytelling, this time exploring themes of the rise and fall of empires, all packaged within their signature blend of arena rock bombast, heavy metal riffs, and irresistibly catchy melodies, solidifying their status as one of the 21st century's most important rock acts.

8. Lessons in Chemistry (novel)

   Released in 2022 by Bonnie Garmus, Doubleday

   Bonnie Garmus's debut novel, 'Lessons in Chemistry,' launched to critical acclaim and phenomenal reader enthusiasm, quickly becoming a global sensation. While originally published in early 2022, its momentum surged throughout 2022, cementing its status as a pervasive cultural phenomenon and a fixture on bestseller lists worldwide. The book captivated audiences with its unique blend of wit, poignant social commentary, and an unforgettable protagonist, resonating deeply with a readership eager for stories of resilience and rebellion against outdated societal norms. Its widespread popularity wasn't just about sales; it sparked conversations, inspired book clubs, and solidified its place as one of the most talked-about novels of the modern era.

9. Sonic the Hedgehog 2

   Released in 2022 by Jeff Fowler, Paramount Pictures, Sega Sammy Group

   On April 8, 2022, "Sonic the Hedgehog 2" raced into theaters worldwide, building on the surprising success of its 2020 predecessor. The release was significant not only for fans of the iconic Sega video game character but also for the film industry. It served as a powerful testament to the box office viability of family-friendly blockbusters in the post-pandemic theatrical landscape. Furthermore, it demonstrated that Hollywood had finally begun to crack the code of successful video game adaptations, a genre historically riddled with critical and commercial failures. The film's debut was a major event, promising more action, more beloved characters, and a significant expansion of the cinematic universe established in the first movie.

10. The Bad Guys

    Released in 2022 by Pierre Perifel, DreamWorks Animation, Universal Pictures

    Premiering in the United States on April 22, 2022, "The Bad Guys" burst onto the cinematic scene as a fresh, stylish, and action-packed animated feature from DreamWorks Animation. At a time when family entertainment was dominated by established franchises, this new intellectual property, based on a popular book series, offered a vibrant alternative. The film debuted at number one at the North American box office, exceeding expectations and demonstrating a strong public appetite for original animated stories with a unique visual flair. Its release marked the successful launch of a potential new flagship series for the studio, filled with humor, heart, and heist-movie cool.

11. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

    Released in 2022 by Sam Raimi, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

    Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness burst onto the global cinematic stage on May 4, 2022, ushering audiences into a thrilling, albeit dark, new chapter of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This highly anticipated sequel marked a significant milestone, not only as a box office juggernaut but also for its bold embrace of horror elements rarely seen in mainstream superhero films. Its premiere was a grand event, drawing immense excitement for its promise of multiversal chaos and the return of beloved characters in unprecedented scenarios, setting the stage for one of the year's most talked-about releases and solidifying its place as a pivotal entry in the ongoing Multiverse Saga.

12. Jurassic World Dominion

    Released in 2022 by Colin Trevorrow, Universal Pictures

    May 23, 2022, marked the grand premiere of 'Jurassic World Dominion' in Mexico City, setting the stage for the epic conclusion to the entire Jurassic saga that began nearly three decades prior. This date symbolized the highly anticipated global launch for fans eager to witness the culmination of both the 'Jurassic Park' and 'Jurassic World' storylines. The film quickly roared its way to box office dominance, ultimately crossing the coveted billion-dollar mark worldwide, cementing its status as one of the highest-grossing films of 2022. Its debut was not merely a film release; it was a cinematic event, promising to bring closure to a beloved franchise and unite generations of characters and audiences.

13. Minions: The Rise of Gru

    Released in 2022 by Kyle Balda, Brad Ableson, Jonathan del Val, Universal Pictures

    The summer of 2022 burst into full swing with the highly anticipated release of 'Minions: The Rise of Gru' on July 1st. This date marked the North American theatrical debut of the animated prequel, which quickly became a box office titan and a cultural phenomenon. Delayed for two years due to the global pandemic, the film arrived with immense fanfare, captivating audiences of all ages and signaling a vibrant return to cinemas. Its launch was particularly special, not only breaking records but also igniting the viral 'Gentleminions' trend, demonstrating the enduring appeal and significant commercial power of the lovable yellow creatures and their aspiring supervillain leader.

14. Thor: Love and Thunder

    Released in 2022 by Taika Waititi, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

    July 6, 2022, marked the exciting global debut of 'Thor: Love and Thunder,' a highly anticipated addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This date signified the start of its theatrical run in several international markets, setting the stage for its wider North American release two days later. As the fourth solo outing for Chris Hemsworth's God of Thunder, expectations were sky-high for director Taika Waititi's follow-up to the critically acclaimed 'Thor: Ragnarok.' The film quickly made its presence felt at the box office, generating significant buzz and contributing substantially to Marvel's impressive financial records for the year, solidifying its place as a major summer blockbuster.

15. It Starts with Us

    Released in 2022 by Colleen Hoover, Atria Books

    “It Starts with Us,” the highly anticipated sequel to Colleen Hoover's global phenomenon “It Ends with Us,” burst onto the literary scene in October 2022, immediately captivating millions of readers worldwide. Its launch was not just a book release; it was a cultural event, fueled by an unprecedented wave of TikTok virality that had already propelled its predecessor to stratospheric heights. Fans had clamored for years to know what happened next to Lily Bloom, and Hoover delivered, transforming the book into an instant bestseller and a defining moment in the year's publishing landscape. This novel cemented Hoover's status as a dominant force, illustrating the immense power of social media in shaping modern literary success and demonstrating how a well-loved story can transcend traditional marketing to become a genuine cultural sensation.

16. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Diper Överlöde

    Released in 2022 by Jeff Kinney, Amulet Books

    When 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Diper Överlöde' launched in October 2022, it was met with immense anticipation, cementing its place as the seventeenth installment in Jeff Kinney's wildly popular series. This release wasn't just another book; it was a cultural event for millions of young readers worldwide, eager to delve back into the hilarious misadventures of Greg Heffley. Its immediate ascendancy to bestseller lists reaffirmed the franchise's enduring appeal, demonstrating how Kinney's unique blend of humor, relatable middle-school angst, and distinctive doodle-filled format continues to captivate new generations while retaining its established fanbase. The book quickly became a holiday season staple, dominating shelves and wish lists alike.

17. God of War Ragnarök

    Released in 2022 by Santa Monica Studio, Sony Interactive Entertainment

    God of War Ragnarök burst onto the gaming scene on November 9, 2022, immediately establishing itself as a colossal cultural phenomenon and a critical darling. As the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 reboot, expectations were sky-high, and Santa Monica Studio not only met them but arguably exceeded them. Its launch was a global event, dominating social media, streaming platforms, and gaming discussions for weeks. The game quickly became a must-play title, drawing in both long-time fans of the God of War series and newcomers eager to experience its epic narrative and stunning presentation. Its widespread acclaim and commercial success solidified its position as one of the definitive entertainment experiences of 2022, truly captivating the collective imagination of the gaming community.

18. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

    Released in 2022 by Ryan Coogler, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

    The launch of 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever' on November 11, 2022, marked a poignant and significant moment for Marvel Studios and global audiences. This date heralded the worldwide theatrical debut of a highly anticipated sequel, following the immense cultural and commercial success of its predecessor and the tragic passing of beloved star Chadwick Boseman. Despite immense challenges, the film soared at the global box office, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year and a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Black Panther. Its premiere was more than just a movie release; it was a collective experience of mourning, remembrance, and the passing of a torch, resonating deeply with fans around the world.

19. Pokémon Scarlet / Violet

    Released in 2022 by Game Freak, Nintendo, The Pokémon Company

    November 18, 2022, marked a monumental day for Pokémon fans, as 'Pokémon Scarlet' and 'Pokémon Violet' launched worldwide on the Nintendo Switch. This date represented the dawn of the ninth generation of Pokémon, but more importantly, it fulfilled a long-held dream: the series' first truly open-world mainline entry. The launch was met with immense anticipation, as players eagerly awaited the chance to explore the expansive, Iberian Peninsula-inspired Paldea region without boundaries. For millions, this day was the beginning of an unprecedented journey, promising a new level of freedom and discovery in a franchise that had captivated audiences for over 25 years.

20. Avatar: The Way of Water

    Released in 2022 by James Cameron, 20th Century Studios

    December 6, 2022, marked the grand global premiere of James Cameron's monumental sequel, "Avatar: The Way of Water," held at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London. This date wasn't just a cinematic event; it was the long-anticipated return to Pandora, fourteen years after the original film captivated the world. The film swiftly transcended expectations, not only garnering critical acclaim for its visual spectacle and immersive storytelling but also dominating the global box office. Its launch heralded a new era for 3D cinema and demonstrated the enduring power of Cameron's vision, making this premiere date a significant milestone in modern cinematic history, setting the stage for one of the highest-grossing films of all time.

21. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish

    Released in 2022 by Joel Crawford, Universal Pictures

    Puss in Boots: The Last Wish made a spectacular splash with its North American wide theatrical release on December 21, 2022. This date marked the beginning of an unexpected box office triumph and a critical darling, re-energizing the beloved Shrek universe. Far from being just another animated sequel, the film captivated audiences and critics alike with its stunning visual style and surprisingly mature themes, quickly establishing itself as a standout amidst a crowded holiday release schedule. Its launch proved that innovative storytelling and artistic ambition could still yield massive commercial and cultural success, setting the stage for its eventual half-billion-dollar global haul.

22. A Man Called Otto

    Released in 2022 by Marc Forster, Columbia Pictures, SF Studios

    The premiere of "A Man Called Otto" on December 30, 2022, was a carefully planned strategic move. By opening in a limited number of theaters in Los Angeles and New York City on this date, the film officially qualified for consideration in the 95th Academy Awards season. This 'platform release' strategy is common for prestige pictures, allowing a film to generate critical buzz and awards momentum during the competitive holiday season before expanding to a wider audience in the new year. For this Tom Hanks-led comedy-drama, the late-December debut established it as a serious contender and a heartfelt alternative to the season's blockbuster fare.

23. The Housemaid

    Released in 2022 by Freida McFadden, Bookouture

    In 2022, Freida McFadden's 'The Housemaid' stormed the literary scene, cementing its status as a thrilling cultural phenomenon. Though its initial buzz began earlier, 2024 saw the psychological thriller reach new heights of popularity, captivating readers worldwide and dominating bestseller lists. Its compelling narrative, filled with suspense and unexpected turns, quickly made it a cornerstone of contemporary genre fiction, a book discussed avidly on social media platforms like TikTok, turning it into a must-read for anyone seeking a gripping, unputdownable story. This surge in attention solidified its place as a standout novel of the year, demonstrating McFadden's masterful storytelling.

24. Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology

    Released in 2022 by Chris Miller, Scribner

    Published in 2022, "Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology" by historian Chris Miller quickly became the definitive account of the global semiconductor industry. Miller's book arrived at a critical juncture of global supply chain disruptions, escalating U.S.-China trade tensions, and massive legislative actions like the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act. It reframes modern history around the tiny silicon chips that power everything from smartphones to advanced military hardware, arguing that control over semiconductor design and manufacturing is the ultimate lever of geopolitical power. The book's significance lies in its lucid explanation of how a highly concentrated, vulnerable supply chain became the central battleground for global hegemony in the 21st century.

25. Verity

    Released in 2022 by Colleen Hoover, Grand Central Publishing

    Originally self-published in 2018, Colleen Hoover's 'Verity' experienced an explosive resurgence in 2022, transforming from a cult favorite into a mainstream publishing sensation. Its re-release by Grand Central Publishing that year, amplified by fervent discussions on platforms like TikTok's #BookTok, propelled it to the top of bestseller lists globally. This psychological thriller, a notable departure from Hoover's typical romance novels, captured the cultural zeitgeist with its dark themes, intricate plot, and morally ambiguous characters, becoming an inescapable fixture in literary conversations and a prime example of how social media can ignite a book's popularity years after its initial debut. Its intense grip on readers cemented its status as a bonafide cultural phenomenon.