Resume Tips for Creative Jobs: How to Stand Out in a Competitive Market

Jess Focht is a writer and content strategist with 6+ years of experience in media, publishing, and brand storytelling. She has contributed to Insider, Grammarly, and The Creative Independent.

2 min read • Originally published January 24, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Jess Focht

@jessfocht

Jess Focht is a writer and content strategist with 6+ years of experience in media, publishing, and brand storytelling. She has contributed to Insider, Grammarly, and The Creative Independent.

2 min read • Originally published January 24, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

You may look at your resume as one—sometimes two—pieces of paper. But really, it’s much more than that. It’s your first chance to make a first, and hopefully lasting impression on HR professionals and hiring managers for the job you’re applying to. There’s limited space on a resume, and this doesn’t always have to be a negative thing. It can be your chance to utilize the space as best as you can. This is true, especially, for creative jobs.

Depending on the position and level, hiring managers sometimes expect a full portfolio that will enhance your application. But that doesn’t mean you can’t sell them immediately with your resume. If you’re in search of a creative job, here are some ways you can have your resume stand out.

Use a creative template

Most of us have seen the basic Microsoft Word resume templates. Think twice before creating your resume in such word processors. Why? The answer is simple: most creative jobs require creative resumes.

Yes, hiring managers will want to see your creative work beyond your resume, but you still should think about every angle you can stand out as a candidate. Look into programs such as Canva and Adobe to ensure your creativity sparks off the page.

Communicate your voice & style

Your resume is a way to not only show your creativity, but it is a chance to immediately communicate your voice, style, and personality. What sets you apart from other creative candidates? Figure the answer to that question out—and then portray it on your resume. Sometimes your lists of accomplishments, previous jobs, and experience can’t change, but they way you creatively communicate them can.

Lean into your creative freedom and have fun designing your resume; odds are that it will shine through in a positive way as employers review your application.

Create different resume versions

So you’ve tailored your resume to communicate your voice and apply for your dream creative job. What’s next is making sure you have different versions of the document tailored to the specific jobs you’re applying for, because you may need to change the wording and/or design depending on it. Having a few versions on hand is a good idea for this reason.

Ultimately, applying to creative jobs can be more complicated than a one-click apply, but your dream role is worth the work you’ll pour into an inventive resume.

Topics:

Climb the Ladder, Skills & Expertise

Climb the Ladder

Creative Job Security in the Age of AI Art: What You Need to Know

By Miles Oliver

Miles is an independent writer with a background in business and passion for tech, design, and news. When he is not writing, he is most likely mountain biking or kicking back with a cup of tea.

4 min read • Originally published February 1, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Miles Oliver

Miles is an independent writer with a background in business and passion for tech, design, and news. When he is not writing, he is most likely mountain biking or kicking back with a cup of tea.

4 min read • Originally published February 1, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

While AI art isn’t necessarily new, it’s seen a recent rise in popularity thanks to apps like Dream and Lensa. These apps have become popular because they’re easy to use and affordable. Plus, they are the only ways AI art is utilized. Everyone from book authors to business owners are recognizing the benefits. They can type what they’re looking for into an AI art generator and get a completely original piece of artwork to fit their needs.

But, not everyone is thrilled about the popularity of AI art. One of the main controversies surrounding it is that it might, eventually, become sophisticated enough to replace actual artists.

If you’re in the creative industry, you might be wondering how AI art could eventually impact your career. Thankfully, there are ways to maintain job security in a world where AI can create paintings, scripts, and more. Let’s cover some helpful tips that can offer you peace of mind as you pursue a creative career in this tech-savvy world.

Understanding How AI Works

If you truly want to maintain creative job security in the age of AI art, you have to understand how AI works – including some of its benefits. You might run into artificial intelligence applications more than you realize in your daily life. If you’ve ever talked to a chatbot on a website or used a rideshare app, you’ve encountered AI. Nearly every industry is utilizing AI in some way, from healthcare to marketing and manufacturing.

There’s no denying that certain aspects of AI could eventually “take over” tasks that are done solely by humans today. On one hand, that reduces the risk of human error. On the other hand, it could leave millions of people without jobs.

Howevre, AI is only as good as its ability to learn. Without humans to “teach” it, it will never grow, advance, or learn the right patterns to do things correctly. In the creative world, the more you understand AI and its limits, the easier it will be for you to maintain job security. First, recognize that AI has certain requirements to function properly, including:

A high-bandwidth network
Computing capacity
Data storage
Strong security

Simply put, network designers have a lot to consider when they’re creating artificial intelligence programs. So, you can rest assured that AI isn’t going to completely take over the creative industry any time soon. It has a long way to go to be able to capture the characteristics of human creativity.

It’s also important to understand how AI can actually help creatives. It can take care of some of the “tedious” tasks and patterns that can actually hinder creativity. For example, AI can generate websites in minutes, while it might take humans several weeks. You can provide the data and designs and let tech do the work for you, so you can stay in the creative driver’s seat while it does more of the “mundane” work.

Furthering Your Education

One of the best ways to protect yourself from an AI takeover is to keep learning. Some people might feel reluctant to go back to school as an adult. But, furthering your education is a great way to boost your resume and become more appealing to companies and clients alike.

One of the interesting things about many creative careers is that they constantly evolve. Whether you’re a writer, a designer, or a creative director, there are things you need to know today that weren’t relevant ten years ago, and things that will be important in five years that you’re not yet doing today. AI is so effective and impressive because it learns at a rapid pace and understands how to use patterns to create something new.

While you might not be able to retain information as quickly as a machine, you can stay competitive within the industry by keeping up your education and becoming a lifelong learner.

Humanize Your Art

Whether you’re a painter, a graphic designer, an author, or a scriptwriter, there’s one thing you’ll always have that AI can never compete with – the human touch. It’s ironic that we’re living in a world filled with technology, and people are craving human relationships more than ever. Consumers want it from brands, businesses want it from their employees, and the average person wants it from their entertainment.

While AI is more than a trend, it will never be able to understand emotion – the very crux of creativity. If you’re a writer, for example, you’ll never have to worry about AI experiencing things like:

Excitement
Jealousy
Anger
Depression

However, without those emotions (and so many more), you’re not going to have a very interesting story.

If you’re a painter, there’s no denying that AI can create beautiful and unique works of art, but nothing can replace the raw emotion and meaning behind a piece created by a person.

So, while the ethical debate surrounding AI art is likely to continue, don’t worry too much about your job security in the creative industry. Keep these suggestions in mind, dedicate yourself to a life of learning, and continue to foster your passion for what you love, recognizing that your human emotions are exactly what set you apart from AI technology.

Topics:

Climb the Ladder, Skills & Expertise

Showcase

Are Cover Letters Still Necessary? What Hiring Managers Really Think

By Andrei Kurtuy

Andrei Kurtuy is the co-founder and CCO at Novorésumé. He's a Resume, CV, and Cover Letter Writing Expert. He enjoys reading, writing, and learning about creating a bridge between recruiters and job seekers, as well as improving the job application process, trends, and technologies.

4 min read • Originally published February 21, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Andrei Kurtuy

4 min read • Originally published February 21, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

A lot is changing about the way we work and the way we apply for work in 2023. Remote work is becoming more popular, Applicant Tracking Systems are fundamentally changing the job application process, and AI is becoming an integral part of some jobs. So, if you’re looking for new opportunities this year, you might be second-guessing a lot of what you know about the job application process and asking yourself all kinds of questions, including “are cover letters still relevant in 2023?”

And rightfully so.

After all, there is a widespread belief that recruiters don’t even read cover letters. If that’s the case, why waste your time writing one, right?

Are cover letters relevant in 2023?

Many applicants think that submitting a cover letter when applying for jobs is not necessary and will likely go unnoticed by recruiters.

That’s because they view the cover letter as a summary of their resume, rather than as a complementary addition that can add value to their application.

This is reinforced by the fact that if you google “do recruiters read cover letters?” you’ll find plenty of sources claiming that cover letters are useless and that we should cut them out of the job application process entirely.

We think otherwise. Done right, cover letters can still be extremely useful in helping you land your next gig in 2023.

Here’s why:

Cover letters are still required by most employers

Most employers still require candidates to submit a cover letter when applying for jobs. While they may not have the time to read each and every cover letter they receive, they’ll definitely check out a cover letter if they’re on the fence about a candidate.

In such cases, a well-written cover letter can improve your chances of getting hired.

Not to mention, failing to submit a cover letter when it’s specifically requested in the job description will be considered a red flag and might get you disqualified.

Cover letters show dedication

When applying for jobs, most candidates submit a very generic cover letter with minimal personalization.

By writing a thoughtful and well-crafted cover letter, you demonstrate your commitment to the job and the company.

It shows that you are willing to go above and beyond the minimum requirements of the application process and that you have a genuine interest in the position.

Cover letters can set you apart from other applicants

Sometimes, recruiters have to choose who, among several candidates with the same level of professional experience, to invite for an interview.

In such a case, submitting a cover letter can help set you apart from other candidates.

A well-written cover letter can prove to the hiring manager that you’re a skilled candidate who has taken the time to research the company and the position and is genuinely interested in the role.

Your cover letter can highlight your unique skills, experience, and achievements, all of which are reasons for the hiring manager to pick you over other candidates.

Cover letters provide additional information about the candidate

A resume provides an overview of you as a candidate, but it doesn’t provide you with enough space to go into detail about certain key parts of your career.

This is where the cover letter comes in.

Whether you have a significant career gap in your resume, you’re going through a career change, or are looking for a relocation, you can use your cover letter to explain the “why-s” behind your decisions more comprehensively.

Moreover, a cover letter is your chance to discuss your professional achievements, talk about how you gained your skills, and even let the hiring manager know just how hiring you over other candidates can benefit the company.

In short, a well-written cover letter can provide a more comprehensive and personal view of you as a candidate and complement your resume in more ways than one!

5 tips for a well-written cover letter

The bottom line is this:

A cover letter is still an essential part of any job application in 2023 and you should include one with your resume.

So, as you can imagine, your cover letter should be on par with your resume. Before you start writing your cover letter, here are a few tips to make the process easier for you:

Keep it short. The optimal cover letter length is between 250-400 words long, so don’t overdo it with the writing.
Follow submission instructions. In the job description, look out for specifics on the cover letter format (Word or PDF), or on formatting rules, such as the fonts and margins.
Always proofread. If there’s one mistake you should avoid at all costs is submitting a cover letter with obvious grammar or spelling mistakes. Make sure to proofread your cover or run it through an app like Grammarly letter before submitting it.
Be specific. You want to be as specific as possible when you’re explaining your achievements and skills in your cover letter. Instead of just mentioning specific skills, for example, explain exactly how using them can help you excel at this position. Or, instead of just saying you love the company, mention exactly what it is you love about it.
Use a cover letter template. Choosing a cover letter template can save you the time and energy needed to format and personalize your cover letter. The result will look professional and modern at the same time.

Andrei Kurtuy is the co-founder and CCO at Novorésumé. He’s a Resume, CV, and Cover Letter Writing Expert. He enjoys reading, writing, and learning about creating a bridge between recruiters and job seekers, as well as improving the job application process, trends, and technologies.

Topics:

Climb the Ladder, Showcase, Skills & Expertise

Showcase

How to Build a Job Search Routine That Actually Gets Results

By Miles Oliver

Miles is an independent writer with a background in business and passion for tech, design, and news. When he is not writing, he is most likely mountain biking or kicking back with a cup of tea.

7 min read • Originally published March 3, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Miles Oliver

Miles is an independent writer with a background in business and passion for tech, design, and news. When he is not writing, he is most likely mountain biking or kicking back with a cup of tea.

7 min read • Originally published March 3, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

There are few greater blessings than the ability to earn a living doing what you love. For creative professionals, though, cultivating a lucrative and fulfilling career isn’t always easy. When building a creative career, you must strike the right balance between professionalism and inspiration. You have to find a way to approach your work as a job and self-expression. The good news, though, is that there are things you can do each day to help you find the delicate balance you need to thrive, both professionally and artistically. Here are some strategies you can use to build a daily routine that will help you prepare for your job search.

Creating the Perfect Physical Space

No matter your particular creative field, one of the first and most important things you can do as you prepare to launch your career is to create a physical space that promotes excellence. The right space can not only help you find the inspiration you need to be creatively productive each day, but it can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which is also essential for creators.

Indeed, there’s a strong and immediate link between your physical environment and your mental health, so it’s critical that you take care to create an ideal workspace. You will want to ensure, for example, that your space is inviting and well-appointed without being cluttered.

If your space is overflowing with stuff, or if it’s so poorly organized that you can’t find what you need when you need it, you’re going to be both stressed and unmotivated. You might find yourself making excuses to avoid spending time in your workspace, which is also likely to mean you’re finding excuses not to create.

On the other hand, if you have a workspace that is orderly and inviting, one that is a pleasure to spend time in, chances are you’ll want to be there as much as you can. And when you’re there, you’re more likely to be creating.

The key here is to cultivate a space that inspires you. To be sure, you will want to equip it with everything you need to do your creative work, ensuring that your materials are well-organized and easy to access when you need them.

But in addition to these more utilitarian considerations, you’ll also want to focus on the mental and spiritual aspects of the space. Create a dedicated work environment that makes you feel happy, safe, and inspired. Infuse it with objects that give you joy and comfort. Use a color palette that ignites your creativity. And outfit it with textures and lighting that set the perfect mood for your creative endeavors.

Building Self-care and Creative Rituals

The life of an artist is a life that is deeply rooted in newness, in innovation. But that doesn’t mean that rituals and routines don’t have their role. In fact, rituals can play a crucial role in the work of a creator, just as they often do in the lives of elite athletes.

From wearing a lucky sweatshirt when you’re engaged in a creative project to scenting the room with a favorite fragrance at the start of your workday, rituals can be highly effective for creatives. There are many possible explanations for this: for instance, rituals can provide a sense of calm, control, and confidence, all of which are essential for getting those creative juices flowing.

In addition, engaging in rituals supports mindfulness. As you engage in this ritualistic behavior, you focus your energy and attention on the minute details of the ritual, helping you get into the zone for focused creative work.

But rituals relating to your work aren’t the only ones that matter. It’s also critical to cultivate self-care rituals in order to help you keep both healthy and inspired. Maintaining healthy self-care practices, though, takes commitment as you become habituated to the practice.

That’s because true self-care is a holistic practice. It’s about optimizing wellness in your body, mind, and spirit alike. And that means cultivating a healthy lifestyle that includes proper nutrition and hydration, quality sleep, preventative medical care, and mental health support.

For creative professionals, one of the most important, but also one of the most easily overlooked, aspects of self-care is emotional and social support. Working as an artist can be quite isolating. You may find yourself so engulfed in a project, especially if you’re working on commission, that perhaps you go days or even weeks without seeing another person.

That isolation is both unhealthy and dangerous. It can contribute to mental and physical health challenges, as well as burnout, which may rob you of your creative spark as well. That’s why it’s vital to get out of your office or studio and seepeopleevery day. Take time to socialize with friends and family on a regular basis. Your health — and your work — will benefit.

Taking Inspiration From Other Creatives

As suggested above, the life of a creative professional can be quite isolating. Even when you are with friends and family, you may find yourself at a loss as to how to convey to them what your life and work are truly like.

But you’re by no means alone. And if you want to find solace as well as inspiration, then look to other creators you admire. Learning about their experiences and their processes can be as instructive and motivating as learning about their work. You may find, for instance, that your favorite artist’s daily routine was quite similar to your own.

Paying Attention to the Practical Aspects of Your Workflow

If you’re striving to build a successful career around your creative work, then you will also need to pay attention to the more practical aspects of the job. After all, your work as a creator is an art form, yes, but it’s also a business. And that means you have to treat it like a business from building your brand to soliciting new clients and commissions to growing existing relationships.

You will want, for example, to ensure that you routinely update your creative professional resume and work portfolio. Online portfolios and digital resumes are the perfect way to highlight your experience and showcase your best work.

As a creative professional, the burden of drumming up business probably rests with you alone. And that means that you will always need to be hustling in some way. So make time to do a good bit of networking both online and in person.

Attend festivals, conferences, exhibitions, or anything even tangentially related to your work. Ensure that you have plenty of business cards with your current information, as well as the web address of your online portfolio.

In addition to maintaining a robust presence at in-person events, you can also unleash the tremendous power of the digital domain to grow your business. Social media is a superb tool for promoting your work and engaging with existing and prospective clients. You can, for instance, maintain an active presence across multiple social media platforms, particularly those most popular with your target market.

This means not only being active on your own pages but also engaging frequently on other pages. You never know who you will meet or whose interest you will draw through your engagement. And there’s no shame in providing links to your pages, website, or online portfolio when you participate on another’s social media pages, provided this isn’t prohibited by the administrators.

Perhaps the most effective way to grow your business, though, is by subscribing to a range of credible job boards, especially those dedicated to creative work. Many of these job boards allow you to customize your search and to receive job alerts by email or text when a position is posted matching your criteria.

This way, you’re able to get your resume and portfolio in front of clients who are looking for someone just like you. Perhaps even more importantly, you are able to keep your finger on the pulse of the market, identifying trends that can help you stay relevant, in demand, and inspired.

The Takeaway

The creative life is, for many, a dream life. But building a career as a creative professional takes work. It requires you to balance the artistic with the pragmatic, the inspirational with the professional. However, by embracing the daily routines that contribute to success as a creative professional, you can truly take your first and most important steps toward a long and lucrative career.

Topics:

Climb the Ladder, Showcase, Skills & Expertise

Career Transition

Navigating the Media Ecosystem: 12 Dynamic Media Careers Worth Exploring

By Mediabistro Education

17 min read • Originally published March 26, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Mediabistro Education

17 min read • Originally published March 26, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

Introduction: Your Place in the Media Universe

The media sector is a multi-faceted arena teeming with many career opportunities. It’s a realm where creative ingenuity meets technical prowess, resulting in the production of impactful content. Whether you’re an artist at heart, a techie with an eye for detail, or a wordsmith looking to capture the zeitgeist, the media universe is vast enough to accommodate a range of talents and ambitions. This field doesn’t just offer jobs; it provides vocations, quests, and causes.

Whether your goal is to disseminate crucial news, entertain millions, influence public opinion, or perhaps even disrupt traditional media paradigms, there’s likely a career in media that aligns perfectly with your skill set and aspirations.

We had some fun with this article and renamed many media professions with slightly silly job titles – they are meant to help distill what the position does and help you grasp the deeper meaning behind the job!

What’s the Buzz in the Media Sector?

The media landscape is in constant flux, evolving and adapting rapidly in today’s ever-changing world and heading off accusations of being polarizing. Long-standing pillars like journalism and advertising intersect with emerging channels like social media, content platforms, and direct-to-consumer streaming services. New technology—such as virtual reality, blockchain, and artificial intelligence—is reshaping how we create, distribute, and consume content. This includes anything from interactive journalism pieces that place the reader in the heart of the story to algorithm-driven marketing campaigns designed to reach a hyper-targeted audience.

Yet, amidst all these changes, the core mission of the media remains steadfast: to create resonant content that informs, entertains, or persuades. This could mean producing investigative journalism pieces that provoke thought, advertising campaigns that drive consumer action, or multimedia stories that capture hearts and minds.

These expansions are driven by an unwavering essence at the core of all media endeavors—the endeavor to create content that strikes a chord with its intended audience. While the mediums may change, this central principle of media careers endures, offering a stable foundation upon which anyone entering the field can build their career.

This blend of old and new, timeless principles and cutting-edge technologies makes the media sector one of the most dynamic and exciting fields. Whether you are a seasoned veteran contemplating your next career move or a newcomer eager to make your mark, understanding the various roles and opportunities available can be the first step in your next fulfilling career adventure.

Learn more about the aspects of media jobs to see which resonates with your natural interests and abilities!

Your Career Map: 12 Key Media Roles and What They Entail

1. Reputation Engineer (Publicist)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Publicists act as gatekeepers between their clients and the public, shaping perception through strategic communications.
Crisis management is a critical skill. When unfavorable situations arise, quick and effective messaging can mitigate damage.
Publicists often juggle multiple clients, necessitating exceptional organizational and multitasking skills.

A Reputation Engineer, commonly known as a Publicist, is no longer just a behind-the-scenes operator sending press releases and arranging interviews. In today’s interconnected and rapidly changing media environment, they are strategic architects of a client’s public persona. Their expertise extends to shaping narratives, crisis management, and content creation. They often work closely with a multi-disciplinary team that includes social media managers, legal advisors, and marketing professionals to execute a cohesive brand strategy.

While traditional media relations remain a cornerstone, a modern publicist is proficient in digital platforms, utilizing SEO practices to optimize press coverage and employing social media channels to engage with the audience directly. They are often tasked with real-time analytics monitoring to gauge public sentiment and media impact, allowing dynamic strategy shifts. A Reputation Engineer serves as a guardian and strategist of a client’s public image, whether that client is an individual, a corporation, or even a nonprofit organization. With the convergence of various forms of media and an increasingly skeptical public, the role demands a unique blend of creativity, analytical thinking, and an intimate understanding of the ever-shifting media landscape.

2. Image Curator (Photographer)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Photographers don’t just click pictures; they tell stories through visuals.
Specializations abound, from photojournalism and event photography to commercial and fashion photography.
Mastery of editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom is often necessary for post-production modifications.

The role of an Image Curator, commonly known as a Photographer, goes beyond merely clicking a shutter button. Today’s photographers are visual storytellers and brand builders responsible for translating a concept or narrative into compelling imagery. Their work starts long before the photoshoot, during the conceptualization and planning stages. They scout locations, assess lighting conditions, and collaborate closely with art directors, designers, and even marketing teams to ensure that the visuals will serve the broader goals of a project or campaign. In the age of digital media, photographers also need a firm grasp of post-production software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, using these tools to enhance images or even create composite visuals that might be impractical to capture in a single shot.

Moreover, photographers are increasingly taking on roles traditionally in the domain of other professionals, such as video production and drone operation, making versatility a valued trait. Beyond the technical skills, an adept photographer possesses a keen eye for detail, artistic sensibility, and the interpersonal skills necessary to put subjects at ease. In a world increasingly driven by visual content, the Image Curator is pivotal in shaping public brand identity and influencing social change.

3. Broadcast Beacon (Television Anchor)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Anchors are responsible for accurately and articulately delivering news to the public as the face of a news channel.
Constant engagement with current affairs is crucial. Anchors often prepare their own scripts, sometimes under tight deadlines.
The role involves behind-the-scenes coordination with newsroom staff, ensuring factual consistency and smooth flow during live broadcasts.

In the ever-evolving media landscape, the role of a television news anchor has expanded far beyond the traditional duties of presenting news and reading from a teleprompter. Anchors today are multi-skilled professionals expected to bring journalistic integrity, a strong screen presence, and a depth of knowledge. They are often involved in the pre-production phase, which includes participating in editorial meetings to shape the day’s news agenda and suggest stories that reflect current events or community concerns.

Modern anchors also leverage social media platforms’ power to engage directly with viewers, offering additional commentary, behind-the-scenes looks, or addressing questions and concerns in real-time. The role may extend to field reporting, special series segments, and in-depth interviews, requiring a broad skill set ranging from live reporting insight to research and investigative skills. In a sense, anchors are becoming brand ambassadors for their respective news stations, as their credibility and relatability often influence viewer trust and viewership numbers. With various formats like live-streaming and 24-hour news channels, the demand for anchors adeptly navigating these multiple roles is higher than ever.

4. Visual Narrator (Video Editor)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Beyond just cutting and splicing, video editors play a pivotal role in storytelling through visual sequences.
They must handle various software, including Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro.
Collaboration with sound designers, colorists, and other specialists is often necessary to create a finished product.

A Visual Narrator, also known as a Video Editor, is not just a technician who cuts and splices footage, but a storyteller who shapes a video’s emotional and intellectual impact. The video editor role has evolved to be multifaceted, encompassing traditional editing and elements of sound design, color grading, and visual effects. The editor often collaborates directly with directors, producers, and composers to ensure the final product is cohesive and resonant. With the advent of technologies like 4K, 8K, and virtual reality, the complexity and required expertise in video editing have increased dramatically. Mastery of software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer is a given. Still, many editors are proficient in compositing software like Adobe After Effects and audio software like Adobe Audition.

Additionally, editors often work on tight deadlines in today’s fast-paced content cycle. They may be called upon to make last-minute changes to accommodate new information or feedback, requiring skill, adaptability, and grace under pressure. As platforms for video content proliferate, from social media snippets to feature-length films, the Visual Narrator plays a crucial role in ensuring that stories are told in the most engaging and impactful way possible.

5. Outreach Optimizer (Media Planner)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Media Planners need a thorough understanding of the client’s industry and the media landscape.
Advanced analytical tools are frequently used to gauge the effectiveness of media campaigns.
They are crucial in steering the client’s budget toward the most impactful media channels.

The Outreach Optimizer, known in traditional terms as a Media Planner, has evolved into a role far beyond selecting the right media outlets for advertisement placement. In an age where the consumer is bombarded by content across multiple platforms, this professional acts as a crucial linchpin in creating a holistic customer journey. Armed with data analytics and an understanding of consumer behavior, they strategize not only the ‘where’ but also the ‘when’ and ‘how’ of message delivery. Whether coordinating multi-channel campaigns that span social media, print, and out-of-home advertising or segmenting audiences for targeted messaging, the Outreach Optimizer works at the intersection of creativity and analytics.

They collaborate closely with brand strategists, creatives, and data scientists to construct a coherent and effective media plan. Tools like programmatic buying, retargeting strategies, and real-time bidding are part of their modern toolkit. With consumer attention becoming increasingly scarce, the role demands an acute understanding of metrics, from click-through rates to engagement scores, to ensure ROI-positive outcomes. As augmented reality and voice search trends emerge, the Outreach Optimizer is consistently on the front lines, navigating the ever-changing landscape to capture audience attention effectively.

6. Visual Architect (Graphic Designer)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Graphic designers often work with marketing teams to create visual assets that align with campaign goals.
Versatility is key, with the medium ranging from digital ads and website layouts to print brochures and merchandise.
Proficiency in design tools like Adobe Illustrator and InDesign is typically required.

Traditionally known as a Graphic Designer, the Visual Architect has transcended the realms of merely being a creator of logos or posters. In today’s interconnected world, their work is the visual cornerstone of a brand’s identity, existing across multiple platforms and media types, from mobile apps to billboards. The graphic design role is about solving problems through visual storytelling, employing a blend of artistic ability and strategic thinking. They must master multiple tools and languages such as Adobe Creative Suite, CSS, and HTML. Their work doesn’t end at aesthetic appeal; it extends to user experience and interface design, requiring a deep understanding of human psychology to create intuitive and engaging layouts. They often work with content creators, web developers, and marketing teams to bring a cohesive visual narrative to a brand’s messaging.

The Visual Architect also plays a significant role in content marketing, creating infographics, social media assets, and video graphics that enhance consumer engagement and comprehension. As new technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality enter mainstream use, these professionals are charged with integrating these elements into a broader visual strategy. They must keep pace with rapidly evolving design trends, software capabilities, and consumer preferences, making continuous learning and adaptation their constant companions.

7. Digital Evangelist (Digital Marketer)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Beyond SEO and social media management, Digital Marketers often delve into PPC advertising, email marketing, and AI-driven customer segmentation.
Continuous learning is crucial due to ever-changing algorithms and audience preferences.
Digital Marketers often employ A/B testing methods to refine their strategies continuously.

The Digital Evangelist, commonly called a Digital Marketer, is the vanguard of a brand’s online presence, leveraging many tools and platforms to connect with potential customers in the digital realm. Gone are the days when this role solely involved setting up a few PPC campaigns or sending out an email newsletter. Today’s Digital Evangelist must be a jack-of-all-trades, fluent in SEO, content marketing, social media management, and data analytics. They utilize deep insights from metrics and KPIs to tailor strategies beyond driving traffic, focusing on conversion optimization and customer retention. This role often requires a symbiotic relationship with other departments like sales, customer service, and IT to create a seamless online experience that reflects the brand’s values and meets business objectives.

With trends like AI-driven marketing automation, chatbots, and personalized user experiences shaping the digital landscape, the Digital Evangelist is tasked with staying ahead of the curve, constantly updating their skill set and toolkit. A keen understanding of consumer behavior online, such as the customer’s path to purchase, is critical. They must be adept at A/B testing and funnel optimization and must have the foresight to adapt strategies in real time to meet the ever-changing demands and trends of the digital space.

8. Community Maestro (Social Media Manager)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

It’s not just about posting updates. Social Media Managers often employ advanced analytics to understand engagement patterns.
They are responsible for reputation management on social platforms, including handling customer complaints or queries.
Content calendars are often used to maintain a consistent posting schedule.

The role of the Community Maestro, also known as a Social Media Manager, has evolved into a multifaceted position that extends beyond mere post-scheduling or follower counts. In today’s digital landscape, this individual is essentially the brand’s voice, crafting its personality and maintaining its reputation across social platforms. This role demands a deep understanding of analytics to drive strategic decisions, going beyond vanity metrics to focus on actionable insights like engagement rates, customer sentiment, and click-through ratios. As is crisis management, real-time communication with followers is essential; a single misstep can become a PR fiasco in today’s fast-paced social media environment.

The Community Maestro often collaborates closely with other departments—particularly customer service, PR, and marketing—to ensure brand consistency and to capitalize on cross-promotional opportunities. They are also usually involved in the creativity and execution of social media campaigns, whether for product launches or social causes, leveraging each platform’s unique features and audience behaviors for maximum impact. Content curation plays a big role, often involving a mix of video, text, and interactive elements to keep the community engaged. With emerging technologies like live streaming, chatbots, and augmented reality filters becoming increasingly integral to social media, the Community Maestro must be agile and proactive, constantly staying ahead of trends to keep the brand relevant and engaging.

9. Content Orchestrator (Content Strategist)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Content Strategists do more than align blog posts with business goals; they are often at the helm of a brand’s entire content ecosystem.
Skills in SEO, user experience (UX), and even basic coding can give content strategists a significant edge.
They often conduct extensive audience research to ensure that content reaches the most relevant demographics.

The role of a Content Orchestrator, better known as a Content Strategist, goes beyond just creating compelling content; it’s about weaving a cohesive narrative across multiple platforms and formats. Operating at the intersection of creativity, analytics, and technology, this role necessitates a multi-faceted skill set. Content strategists are responsible for understanding their audience’s behavior, needs, and pain points, usually through data analysis and customer research. Based on this understanding, they curate a content calendar, dictating what gets published, when, and where. But the job doesn’t end there. The Content Orchestrator also collaborates closely with various departments like marketing, sales, and customer service to align the company’s messaging and ensure that the content achieves its desired impact, be it increased engagement, lead generation, or customer retention.

Moreover, they are often responsible for measuring the ROI of their content strategies using metrics such as engagement rates, conversion rates, and customer lifetime value. The rise of AI and machine learning tools has equipped Content Strategists with predictive analytics, allowing them to anticipate market trends and consumer needs, thereby always staying one step ahead. Furthermore, they play an instrumental role in crisis management, brand positioning, and even mergers and acquisitions, as the content they produce or oversee serves as the public voice of the organization. This role has also grown to focus on ethical considerations like inclusivity and sustainability, as modern consumers demand that brands be socially responsible. Overall, the Content Orchestrator is much more than a planner; they are the puppeteers of a brand’s digital persona, pulling all the right strings to create a harmonious user experience.

10. Story Explorer (Journalist)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Journalists serve as the pillars of democratic societies, often risking personal safety for the truth.
Different beats like politics, technology, and healthcare require varying expertise and knowledge.
Digital journalism has introduced new skills, like multimedia reporting and data visualization.

The Story Explorer, commonly known as a Journalist, serves as a conduit for information, acting as investigator and storyteller. This role has dramatically evolved with the proliferation of digital media; journalists no longer solely write for print or broadcast but often create multimedia content that includes video, audio, and interactive elements. A journalist’s responsibilities range from local to global issues, requiring versatility and the ability to adapt to different topics and audiences quickly. The Story Explorer is expected to have a keen nose for news and an insatiable curiosity. Research skills are paramount, as is the ability to quickly synthesize complex information into easily digestible, yet comprehensive reports. In today’s world of ‘fake news’ and misinformation, a commitment to ethics and integrity is more critical than ever, making fact-checking and source verification crucial aspects of the job.

Moreover, they often work under tight deadlines, requiring exceptional time management skills. Social media has also become an indispensable tool for modern journalists, both as a source of information and as a platform for disseminating stories. Audience engagement is now a significant aspect of the role, requiring journalists to monitor and interact with their readership, understand analytics, and sometimes even serve as their own social media managers to build a personal brand that complements their primary work. With the rise of citizen journalism and user-generated content, professional journalists are increasingly tasked with curating and contextualizing information, serving as a filter to bring the most accurate and relevant stories to the public eye.

11. Narrative Captain (Film Director)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Film Directors are the creative spearheads of any film project, but their role also involves significant managerial tasks.
They liaise with producers on budget concerns, coordinate with casting directors, and provide feedback during the editing process.
A deep understanding of storytelling techniques, camera work, and even acting methods often sets apart great directors.

The Narrative Captain, or Film Director, is the fulcrum of any cinematic endeavor, orchestrating the elements that transform a script into a living, breathing story. This role is as much about leadership as it is about artistic vision, requiring the ability to manage a large and diverse crew while maintaining the integrity of the film’s core message. In the pre-production stage, the director is intimately involved in script development, casting, location scouting, and budget planning, ensuring that the foundational aspects of the film align with their creative vision. Once shooting begins, they guide the cast and crew through the meticulous details of each scene, from the nuance of an actor’s expression to the intricacy of a camera angle.

They make pivotal decisions in real-time, always balancing the need for artistic expression against time and budget constraints. In post-production, their role shifts to collaboration with editors, sound designers, and visual effects artists to refine the film into its final form. The director is often the spokesperson for the project, responsible for presenting it to investors, stakeholders, and eventually, the audience. With the advent of digital platforms and the increasing importance of global markets, the role has expanded to encompass a strong understanding of technology and cultural nuances. They must adapt their techniques for different formats, such as streaming services or interactive experiences, and consider how storytelling elements will resonate with international audiences. As a custodian of both artistic and emotional impact, the Narrative Captain bears the weight of the film’s success or failure, making it a role for those with both artistic aspirations and a robust sense of responsibility.

12. Aesthetic Director (Art Director)

Main Responsibilities and Insights:

Art Directors are not just about aesthetics; their choices can significantly influence a brand’s perception and bottom line.
They often have a hand in selecting other key creative team members, influencing the entire creative process.
Budget management and timeline adherence are often as crucial as creative vision.

The Aesthetic Director, or Art Director, serves as the keystone of the visual experience in any media or advertising campaign, setting the artistic tone and visual narrative. This is a role of leadership and vision, where one oversees a team of designers, illustrators, and other creative professionals to achieve a unified look and feel across all project components. Their duties extend from the conceptual phase, where they are integral in shaping the foundational ideas, to execution, where their keen eye for detail ensures every element meets the project’s high-quality standards. They often liaise between the creative team and the client or upper management, translating business objectives into innovative strategies.

With the rise of digital media, Art Directors increasingly engage with interactive design elements, ensuring a cohesive visual experience across both physical and digital platforms. They make data-driven decisions, employing A/B testing, heatmaps, and user feedback to refine designs. They also ensure brand consistency across various projects and often have a significant say in hiring decisions within the creative team. Ethics and sustainability have become growing considerations in this role, as consumers increasingly demand brand transparency and social responsibility. As a result, modern Art Directors need to be well-versed not just in creating appealing designs, but also in understanding broader cultural and social implications of their work. From print and broadcast to online and mobile interfaces, the Aesthetic Director crafts the visual language that helps sell a product or idea and build lasting emotional connections with the audience.

Mapping Your Journey in Media Careers

In the sprawling universe of media careers, each position is a singular star and a part of constellations—interconnected yet highly specialized. The industry offers an intriguing blend of creative and technical roles, each replete with unique challenges, opportunities, and rewards.

Whether you’re just embarking on a career in the media sector or pondering a strategic pivot, understanding the multifaceted nature of these media careers will guide your decision-making and empower you to carve out your own distinct pathway. Remember, your aptitude for adaptation could become your most vital asset in an industry defined by constant evolution and driven by technology.

So, as you explore these diverse media careers, equip yourself with the insights, skills, and courage to make your next professional leap. Your perfect role is out there, waiting for you to seize it!

Topics:

Career Transition

Showcase

7 Signs You’re Ready to Leave Your Job for Something Better

By Mike Monroe

Mike Monroe is the digital strategy manager at Vector Marketing, the domestic sales arm of Cutco Corp., an Olean, New York-based cutlery manufacturer.

4 min read • Originally published April 5, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Mike Monroe

Mike Monroe is the digital strategy manager at Vector Marketing, the domestic sales arm of Cutco Corp., an Olean, New York-based cutlery manufacturer.

4 min read • Originally published April 5, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

Coming out of our post-pandemic haze, people have been searching for meaning…and a new job. Having experienced remote work and forced separation from office life, many employees are now awakening to the state of their workplaces. They’re seeing, for the first time, how toxic their environments might be, and some have felt sudden bursts of clarity about what they do—and don’t—want for their long-term careers.

But for others, that clarity soon dissipates, only to be replaced by doubt. The job market can be incredibly overwhelming. What if you get rejected? What if you change your mind? Do you have the right training or skills?

Why the fear of the unknown holds us back from career moves

Why are so many of us struggling to make career moves right now? Simply put, change is everywhere. We feel an acute need to evolve to be ready for the next stage of our lives, yet fear holds us back.

This problem goes back to an old evolutionary function of the brain. In order to survive, it was wise for early humans to stay still. Avoiding predators, predicting the weather, and locating food were all vital activities that rewarded constancy rather than change. Our brains are hard-wired to protect us, which meant avoiding the unknown long ago in our evolutionary past.

Uncertainty itself can be uncomfortable. One study showed that when presented with an action that might or might not produce an electric shock, participants felt greater levels of discomfort when there was a 50 percent chance of a jolt than when they faced a 100 percent chance. That’s why it is common to see people staying in less-than-inspiring situations. We will continue to endure and suffer silently in the known versus pursuing the unknown.

A friend of mine recently transitioned out of the workforce into entrepreneurship and suffered a significant phase of doubt. No matter how exciting the potential new life was, the old life was a known quantity; he knew it would allow him to continue paying his mortgage and taking care of his family. Moreover, our jobs become so tied to our identities. When we decide to move on to new opportunities, we’re really saying goodbye to part of ourselves.

How to evaluate whether you’re ready for a career move

What you need is a system you can use to help you assess whether you’re ready for a career change. Luckily, there are a few questions we recommend asking that should give you more insight into whether your excitement trumps your fear:

1. Is the grass greener?

Roleplay the career move you’re thinking about. The grass over there might not be as green as it seems in your fantasies as you sit at your old desk answering emails. Remember, that patch of grass will have emails, too.

As you’re roleplaying, imagine the worst-case scenario as well. What could a bad day look like in this new career? If the answer horrifies you, it might be a sign that you should take some more time to consider your options.

2. Can you get the fulfillment you seek elsewhere?

You don’t necessarily need to make a career leap to find what you’re seeking. A greater sense of purpose? A creative atmosphere? A better social network? You might be able to scratch those itches by looking outside your career and making changes there instead.

The cliche rings true sometimes: We do not have to live to work. We can work to live. If you’re feeling uninspired, that’s okay. You can pursue other activities to help, from reading a good book to going to therapy to taking a trip.

3. Do you understand your nonnegotiables?

To assess a future opportunity accurately, you need to understand what elements of work are must-haves. This includes recognizing the good things that your current job is giving you.

When a new opportunity presents itself, it can sound terrific just because it’s new. Say the new job offers a spectacular perk, free gym membership, or loads of travel; make sure those shiny new offerings are actually checking important boxes for you.

4. Does a career change suit your long game?

A good friend of mine enjoyed a long career in the Navy, cooking for lieutenants and traveling the world. After 20 years, he’d had enough and transitioned from cooking to supply chain management. Even though that move seemed strange to other people, how he made the transition made perfect sense.

The soft skills and coolness under pressure he had learned in the Navy immediately got him noticed by organizations. He invested time driving to networking events and commuting to different cities, making his name known in this new field. The move worked for him because he could tap into all the skills he had learned in his career so far.

5. What’s your value?

Many of us undervalue ourselves and go into the job-seeking process with far more timidity than we need to based on our accomplishments and skills. We can devalue our résumés because we’re stay-at-home parents or because of that gap when we were sick.

Now’s the time to remember how valuable you are. Surround yourself with people who can remind you how great you are in your interview preparation.

If you have a trusted process for evaluating potential career moves and can use it to ask questions about your inner intentions and expectations, then you don’t need to be ruled by fear. You can let go and leap into the next challenge, despite your evolutionary self begging you to stay put.

Topics:

Be Inspired, Career Transition, Showcase

How to Pitch

How to Pitch The Cut: A Freelance Writer’s Guide

By Jess Focht

@jessfocht

Jess Focht is a writer and content strategist with 6+ years of experience in media, publishing, and brand storytelling. She has contributed to Insider, Grammarly, and The Creative Independent.

2 min read • Originally published April 26, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Jess Focht

@jessfocht

Jess Focht is a writer and content strategist with 6+ years of experience in media, publishing, and brand storytelling. She has contributed to Insider, Grammarly, and The Creative Independent.

2 min read • Originally published April 26, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

Background: The Cut is New York Magazine’s fashion and lifestyle site and the destination for women with sharp, stylish minds, covering culture, politics, fashion, and wellness. Its mission is to provide a creative space for new and exciting voices and opinions—to be informative, open-minded, and provide a space for conversation. The audience is about 66% female, and about 34% of site visitors are 18-34 years of age.

The stories are organized around four categories: Style, Self, Culture, and Power.

What to pitch: The Culture and Self sections are the most pitch friendly.

Culture pitches can be a mix of reported and personal essays that cover celebrities, TV, and books, as well as trend stories that are not focused on celebrities or entertainment. Self-pitches can cover wellness, health, food, science, and psychology.

Essays & Columns

The Cut is always looking for astute, moving essays that enhance our understanding of a particular subject, whether it’s a timely news story or a deeply felt personal experience.

Rate: $500 minimum for 1,000–1,500 words

Features

They also publish original, in-depth reporting on subjects our readers can’t stop talking about — and the ones they aren’t but need to know about.

Rate: $600 minimum for about 1,500–2,000 words

What not to pitch:The Style section and most celebrity profiles are handled in-house.

What publicists should pitch—and when: Send along info on newly launched businesses as well as excerpts from non-fiction books. Lead time: 1-2 months.

Percentage of freelance-written content: 20%

Percentage of freelance pitches accepted: less than 10%

Etiquette: Send pitches in the body of an email with no attachments. Pitches should be about 1-2 paragraphs in length—enough to “entice and show expertise” about the story.

Lead time: 1-2 months; shorter if the pitch is timely

Pay rate: Competitive

Rights purchased: All rights

Contact info:

Twitter handle: @TheCut | Facebook

Direct all pitches to:

cutsubmissions@nymag.com

Topics:

Go Freelance, How to Pitch

Showcase

Why Upskilling Is the Smartest Investment You Can Make as a Freelancer

By July Pearson

July Pearson is a creative and ambitious freelance designer with a passion for art, design, and a well-balanced lifestyle. With the joys of motherhood and an ever-evolving cycling hobby, July strives to maintain a healthy work-life balance while still being able to pursue her professional ambitions. Having found success in both areas, she lives each day full of enthusiasm and purpose. July has a special talent for designing unique visuals which has made her popular amongst her peers and clients alike.

3 min read • Originally published May 3, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By July Pearson

3 min read • Originally published May 3, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

As a freelancer, you’re your own boss. You have the freedom to choose your projects, clients, and work schedule. However, you are also responsible for your own success and growth. One way to stay competitive and improve your earning potential is to upskill. Upskilling simply means learning new skills or upgrading your existing ones to stay relevant in your field. Here are the benefits of upskilling as a freelancer and how it can help you thrive in the ever-changing landscape of the gig economy.

It helps you stay competitive

The digital world is constantly evolving, and new technologies emerge every day. Freelancers who fail to keep up with the latest trends and tools risk losing clients to those who can offer more value-added services (especially agencies who will be prioritizing training in the remote workspace). By upskilling, you can expand your knowledge and expertise and stand out from the competition. Consider taking online courses, attending workshops and conferences, or reading industry blogs to stay updated.

Upskilling should increase your earning potential

As you acquire new skills or certifications, you can command higher rates and attract higher-paying clients. Clients are willing to pay more for freelancers who can offer a specialized skill set that solves their unique problems. For instance, if you specialize in web design, learning to code can give you an edge over designers who only work with templates. Being multi-skilled can also lead to more project opportunities and referrals.

You’ll be able to diversify your services

Upskilling can help you expand your service offerings and tap into new niches. For example, if you are a graphic designer, learning to create animated videos can make you more appealing to clients who want to market their products or services through social media. By diversifying your skillset, you can create multiple income streams and increase your client base.

Upskilling will enhance your professional confidence

As freelancers, we often suffer from imposter syndrome – a feeling that we’re not qualified or skilled enough to fulfill our client’s expectations. However, as you invest in learning and mastering new skills, you gain confidence in your abilities and can deliver better work. Upskilling can also help you articulate your value proposition to clients and showcase your growth.

You’ll learn to adapt to changes better

The business landscape is constantly changing, and freelancers who are agile and adaptable can thrive. By upskilling, you can prepare yourself for new challenges and opportunities that come your way. For instance, as the pandemic transformed work environments, many freelancers had to adopt new technologies and communication tools to stay productive. Those who could adapt quickly were able to retain clients and even gain new ones.

Upskilling is not a luxury but a necessity for freelancers who want to stay competitive and relevant in their fields. In a world where everything changes so rapidly, being skilled and adaptable can give you the freedom and autonomy that you crave as a freelancer. Remember, learning is a lifelong process, and there are endless possibilities to explore. So, start today and unleash the power of upskilling.

Topics:

Business Basics, Go Freelance, Showcase

How to Pitch

How to Pitch Marie Claire: A Freelance Writer’s Guide

Unique service stories and “hot take” op-ed pitches just might score you a byline in this classic women’s title

By Jess Focht

@jessfocht

Jess Focht is a writer and content strategist with 6+ years of experience in media, publishing, and brand storytelling. She has contributed to Insider, Grammarly, and The Creative Independent.

2 min read • Originally published May 17, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Jess Focht

@jessfocht

Jess Focht is a writer and content strategist with 6+ years of experience in media, publishing, and brand storytelling. She has contributed to Insider, Grammarly, and The Creative Independent.

2 min read • Originally published May 17, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

Monthly Unique Visitors: 15M

Background: The digital counterpart to the print edition of Marie Claire magazine kicked off in 2009. It caters to women between the ages of 20-40 who are educated, career focused, care about politics and social justice issues, but are also “not above reading about the Kardashians or…Chrissy Teigen,” says Danielle McNally, executive editor. “We think of her as a really well-rounded woman who’s smart and funny, and wants to have a good time.”

The site’s mission is to inform and entertain that reader, and the publication sets itself apart from other women’s sites by providing accessible fashion and beauty coverage in addition to content that offers actionable steps to take when readers are fired up about a particular issue. “We really do think of ourselves as a women’s service magazine,” says McNally.

What to pitch: Freelancers are welcome to pitch to any section of the site—that includes fashion, culture, celebrity, beauty, politics, love & sex, career, health & fitness, food & cocktails, and travel. “We have such a slim staff that we definitely appreciate pitches from all across the board,” says McNally. Editors are interested in receiving pitches for personal essays and reported pieces, as well as unique approaches to service stories. “Hot take” op-eds about newsworthy events or trends are also welcome, in addition to profiles about interesting people, such as politicians, writers, artists, and executives. Word counts for all sections are roughly 1,000-3,500.

Editors are also interested in receiving photo essays and mini documentaries about relevant topics (just keep them to about 3-5 minutes.)

What not to pitch: Breaking news articles are handled in-house.

What publicists should pitch—and when: Editors are always looking for new products that are relevant to their audience, as well as pitches about new movies, books or women who could be the subject of a profile article.

Lead time: trend pieces can be turned around the same day; product and feature pitches can be submitted a few months out.

Percentage of freelance-written content: 40%

Percentage of freelance pitches accepted: 10-20%

Etiquette: An attention-grabbing headline in the subject of the email is the best way to get an editor’s attention. The pitch should be about 1-3 paragraphs, and feel free to include links to clips or any photos that would help illustrate the story. Please do not send full stories.

Lead time: Trend pieces can be turned around the same day; feature pitches can be submitted a few months out.

Pay rate: Essays start at $150; reported pieces start at $250.

Payment schedule: Upon publication

Kill fee: 25%

Rights purchased: All rights

Contact info:

MarieClaire.com
© Future US, Inc.

Full 7th Floor

130 West 42nd Street

New York, NY 10036

Twitter handle: @marieclaire | Facebook

Direct all pitches to:

danielle.mcnally@futurenet.com

Topics:

Go Freelance, How to Pitch

Entertainment

The #1 Summer Blockbuster the Year You Graduated High School

By Brianna Zigler

23 min read • Originally published May 31, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

By Brianna Zigler

23 min read • Originally published May 31, 2023 / Updated March 19, 2026

#1 summer movie the year you graduated high school

Summer is an exciting time in Hollywood, when big-budget movies with wide appeal are often released. It means school’s out, and film lovers can frequent their local theaters in droves. In 2024, they did just that—bringing in $3.6 billion at the box office between May 3 and Sept. 2, according to Box Office Mojo data. 2025 promises another summer of exciting blockbusters for moviegoers, from superhero pics like “Thunderbolts” (due out on May 2) to horror sequels like “28 Years Later” and “M3GAN 2.0” (both of which will premiere in June).

Movies have been a defining part of the summer experience for decades since Steven Spielberg pioneered the modern summer blockbuster in 1975. With his seminal summer horror film “Jaws,” Spielberg changed the filmmaking landscape. Hollywood had been in a transitional period following the studio system and Hollywood’s Golden Age. But, after “Jaws” and the introduction of the “Movie Brats,” a core group of emerging American directors including Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, George Lucas, Brian De Palma, and Francis Ford Coppola, the American film industry entered an exciting era defined by ambition, creativity, and soaring box office sales.

Do you remember the film that defined the last summer of your high school years? Stacker compiled Box Office Mojo data on summer movies from 1975 to 2024 and listed the #1 film at the box office for each summer, defined as the first Friday in May through Labor Day weekend.

Look back and see which iconic film took over the box office the summer you graduated!

1975: Jaws

– Summer domestic gross: $69,725,376
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $407,076,963
– Share of total gross: Data not available

A New England tourist town becomes tormented by the presence of a bloodthirsty shark. The sheriff wants the beaches closed, but the mayor fears the loss of revenue, so it’s up to an oceanographer and a local shark hunter to rid the town of the beast for good. “Jaws” had a notoriously troubled production, in part because it was the first major film to be shot on location on the ocean.

1976: The Omen

– Summer domestic gross: $60,922,980
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $336,307,698
– Share of total gross: Data not available

There’s something not quite right about Damien, adopted by American diplomat Robert Thorn and his wife, Katherine, after the stillborn death of their baby. A prescient warning from a priest and a series of deaths sends Robert down a rabbit hole to figure out whether he adopted the Antichrist. “The Omen” spawned a horror franchise that includes three sequels, a 2006 remake, and a 2024 prequel.

1977: Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope

– Summer domestic gross: $125,989,616
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $653,025,386
– Share of total gross: 50.5%

The first film released in George Lucas’ epic trilogy introduces us to the hero Luke Skywalker, who must team up with a Jedi Knight, his hairy sidekick, and two droids to save Princess Leia and the entire galaxy from the evil Darth Vader. Due to troubled production and budgetary issues, many who worked on the film—and the studio that backed it—feared it would be a flop.

1978: Grease

– Summer domestic gross: $159,978,870
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $770,695,753
– Share of total gross: 34.3%

Good girl Sandy Olsson has a romantic summer fling with greaser Danny Zuko after she transfers to America from Australia. And while opposites attract, the two high school kids’ dueling cliques would rather see the lovers torn apart. The popular musical starring Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta spawned a sequel, as well as a prequel series that launched on Paramount+ in 2023.

1979: The Amityville Horror

– Summer domestic gross: $86,432,000
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $373,943,405
– Share of total gross: 15.6%

Something horrible happened in the Amityville house, and now it’s coming for George Lutz and his entire family. It turns out the home was the site of a brutal massacre and the former home of a Satanist. The film’s score composed by Lalo Schifrin was nominated for both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award.

1980: Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back

– Summer domestic gross: $153,961,603
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $586,885,188
– Share of total gross: 22.7%

In this thrilling sequel to “A New Hope,” intrepid Jedi-in-training Luke Skywalker must journey to the planet Dagobah to learn the ways of the Force from Master Yoda. Meanwhile, the Force’s dark side pulls him into a climactic lightsaber battle with Darth Vader. For this second film in the original trilogy, Lucas handed the directing reins over to Irvin Kershner, who also directed the John Carpenter-penned “Eyes of Laura Mars” and “RoboCop 2.”

1981: Superman II

– Summer domestic gross: $108,185,706
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $373,829,816
– Share of total gross: 15.7%

While saving the world from a terrorist plot, Superman accidentally frees the Kryptonian villain General Zod and his henchmen—and they’re headed straight to Earth. Superman must rise to the occasion, even after deciding to hang up his cape in favor of a normal life. “Superman II” co-screenwriter Mario Puzo may be better known as the author and Academy Award-winning co-screenwriter of “The Godfather,” “The Godfather Part II,” and the film’s eponymous source novel.

1982: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

– Summer domestic gross: $238,646,109
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $776,774,537
– Share of total gross: 18.4%

Stranded on Earth, the gentle alien E.T. befriends a young boy and his siblings in another Steven Spielberg classic. But when E.T. falls ill and the government catches wind of his existence, it’s a race to get E.T. on the first spaceship back to his home planet. Many remember “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” as the breakout role for a very young Drew Barrymore.

1983: Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi

– Summer domestic gross: $231,117,020
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $728,853,976
– Share of total gross: 17.9%

The fate of the galaxy rests in the hands of Jedi Luke Skywalker, who must fight against the cruel Jabba the Hut and his own father, the evil Darth Vader. His friends in the Rebel Alliance, including Princess Leia and Han Solo, battle against the Galactic Empire on the forest planet of Endor. While Richard Marquand directed the film, Steven Spielberg, David Cronenberg, and David Lynch all turned down the job.

1984: Ghostbusters

– Summer domestic gross: $188,058,969
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $568,520,906
– Share of total gross: 13.2%

“Who you gonna call?” In this classic film, a group of fired Columbia University professors in New York City team up to fight a scourge more maddening than rats or cockroaches: supernatural forces. But when they accidentally come upon a portal to another dimension, the Ghostbusters are forced to save the entire city. The movie inspired four more films, including a 2016 reboot starring all women and the most recent hit, 2024’s “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.”

1985: Rambo: First Blood Part II

– Summer domestic gross: $145,393,330
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $424,424,210
– Share of total gross: 11.1%

This sequel to the iconic 1982 film sees John Rambo in jail when he’s offered a way out by his former boss. If he travels to Vietnam and finds American POWs, his criminal record will be cleared, but everything changes when the woman he loves dies at the hands of American forces.

1986: Top Gun

– Summer domestic gross: $129,766,727
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $371,895,337
– Share of total gross: 10.6%

Hotshot pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell is sent to the Fighter Weapons School, where his cocky attitude and recklessness create problems with the other students. As Maverick competes to be the best fighter pilot in his class, he also fights for the love of his instructor, Charlotte Blackwood. The film’s appeal is so long-lived that its 2022 sequel, “Top Gun: Maverick,” outperformed the original film at the box office.

1987: Beverly Hills Cop II

– Summer domestic gross: $153,665,036
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $424,878,414
– Share of total gross: 10.7%

Everyone’s favorite Detroit cop, Axel Foley, returns to L.A. in this hilarious sequel with a brand-new case to crack. Foley is tasked with pinning down a series of robberies dubbed the “alphabet crimes,” which leads him to an illegal weapons dealer. “Beverly Hills Cop II” received both Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations for the song “Shakedown.”

1988: Who Framed Roger Rabbit

– Summer domestic gross: $129,121,385
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $342,832,012
– Share of total gross: 8.7%

When a potential cheating scandal leaves one man dead, the finger of suspicion is pointed at the husband of the victim’s lover: star toon Roger Rabbit. Private investigator Eddie Valiant is tasked with bridging the worlds of toons and humans to find the man’s real killer and clear Roger’s name. “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” won four Academy Awards: Best Sound Effects Editing, Best Film Editing, Best Visual Effects, and a Special Achievement Award.

1989: Batman

– Summer domestic gross: $238,559,567
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $604,286,774
– Share of total gross: 13.0%

Tim Burton’s classic take on the Caped Crusader sees the city of Gotham besieged by a grinning madman known only as The Joker, who takes full control of Gotham’s criminal underworld. In this new evil, Batman finds his greatest opponent and must save the city while concealing his true identity and protecting the woman he loves. Before Michael Keaton was eventually cast as Batman, several actors were considered for the role, including Mel Gibson, Kevin Costner, and Harrison Ford.

1990: Ghost

– Summer domestic gross: $121,842,426
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $292,813,359
– Share of total gross: 6.9%

When a banker is unknowingly double-crossed by his corrupt friend and murdered over a dubious business deal, he becomes a spirit in between planes of existence. But, while he’s dead, he discovers what happened to him, and he seeks help from a psychic to get justice and protect the love of his life. Anyone who has seen the movie has never heard “Unchained Melody” the same way since. “Ghost” was a departure for director Jerry Zucker of the Zucker Brothers comedy directing duo, who, along with Jim Abrahams, was responsible for such classics as “Airplane!” and “Top Secret!”

1991: Terminator 2: Judgment Day

– Summer domestic gross: $183,122,792
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $422,311,813
– Share of total gross: 10.8%

Eleven years after the events of the first “Terminator” film, young John Connor becomes the target of a T-1000 robot that’s been sent from the future. But another robot from the future, a T-800, has been sent to protect him, and John, alongside the robot and his mother, must go on the run to save humanity from a robot uprising. “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” earned four wins at the 64th Academy Awards: Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Editing Editing, Best Sound, and Best Makeup.

1992: Batman Returns

– Summer domestic gross: $159,559,854
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $357,218,461
– Share of total gross: 9.3%

In this sequel to Tim Burton’s classic take on Batman, the Dark Knight returns as Gotham finds itself overtaken by a mutant, sewer-dwelling man known as The Penguin and his goons. The Penguin has teamed up with corrupt businessman Max Shreck to get rid of the Bat once and for all, accompanied by Shreck’s former assistant-turned-Catwoman, Selina Kyle.

Though “Batman Returns” was the #1 movie of the summer in 1992, it failed to bring in the same box office earnings as its predecessor; in total, it earned $162.9 million domestically compared to “Batman’s” $251.2 million. As a result, Burton was replaced with Joel Schumacher, who went on to direct the marginally more successful “Batman Forever” and the bomb that was “Batman & Robin.”

1993: Jurassic Park

– Summer domestic gross: $316,609,010
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $688,213,772
– Share of total gross: 15.2%

Billionaire John Hammond has cracked the code for bringing dinosaurs back to life and decides to create a new kind of zoo to show them off to paying customers. Disaster, of course, ensues. A paleontologist, a paleobotanist, and a mathematician must keep people safe in the facility after an accident forces Hammond to learn just what happens when you play God. “Jurassic Park” employed groundbreaking fusions of CGI and animatronics to bring prehistoric creatures to life and made millions in the process—it was the first film to gross $50 million in a single weekend when it debuted.

1994: The Lion King

– Summer domestic gross: $260,978,278
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $553,126,026
– Share of total gross: 12.1%

Young lion cub Simba is next in line for his father’s throne, but King Mufasa’s malicious brother, Scar, has other plans. After Scar lures Mufasa and Simba to a stampede of wildebeests, only Simba makes it out alive, and he eventually must journey home to take back his kingdom. Nathan Lane and Ernie Sabella were starring together in “Guys and Dolls” on Broadway and initially auditioned to voice Scar’s hyenas, but they had such good comedic chemistry it was decided they were better as the meerkat and warthog team of Timon and Pumbaa.

1995: Batman Forever

– Summer domestic gross: $181,180,518
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $373,417,327
– Share of total gross: 8.3%

In this second Batman sequel, Val Kilmer takes over for Michael Keaton in front of the camera and Joel Schumacher takes the reins from Tim Burton behind it. “Batman Forever” sees the titular superhero go up against two new villains with the help of his trusty new sidekick, Robin: The Riddler and Two-Face. “Batman Forever” boasts a star-studded cast, including Jim Carrey, Tommy Lee Jones, Nicole Kidman, and Drew Barrymore.

1996: Independence Day

– Summer domestic gross: $281,937,276
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $564,413,629
– Share of total gross: 12.4%

A group of disparate people seemingly connected by fate stand between Earth and total annihilation by an alien insurgence. With millions already killed and the rest of the world at stake, a counterattack is planned for the Fourth of July. In 2016, a sequel to “Independence Day” was released, titled “Independence Day: Resurgence,” but it only brought in a third of the original’s total domestic box office earnings. Director Roland Emmerich has said he would like to make a third “Independence Day” movie, but that’s still up in the air as of September 2024.

1997: Men in Black

– Summer domestic gross: $235,057,188
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $460,009,114
– Share of total gross: 10.1%

Another summer, another box office winner in which Will Smith takes on some aliens. In “Men in Black,” the eponymous shadowy government agency is responsible for maintaining checks and balances for aliens visiting Earth. NYPD officer James Darrell Edwards III (Smith) inadvertently becomes one such “man in black,” and is dubbed Agent J along with his partner Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones). J investigates a series of alien-related activities that uncover a plot by an intergalactic terrorist. The smash hit spawned two more sequels and a reboot, but none could match the box-office success of the original.

1998: Armageddon

– Summer domestic gross: $191,158,932
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $368,362,089
– Share of total gross: 7.0%

With a deadly asteroid on a crash course for Earth, NASA decides to employ a crew of oil drillers to travel to the asteroid’s surface and detonate a bomb. Meanwhile, one of the members, the arrogant A.J., attempts to win the approval of his superior, whose daughter A.J. is in love with. While it received mixed reviews, “Armageddon” was a box office winner and garnered four nominations at the 71st Academy Awards: Best Original Song, Best Sound, Best Sound Effects Editing, and Best Visual Effects.

1999: Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace

– Summer domestic gross: $421,381,756
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $794,453,839
– Share of total gross: 13.1%

In this first prequel film set before the events of the classic trilogy, Darth Vader’s origin story is revealed, starting with him as a young child named Anakin Skywalker, who has an intrinsically strong connection with the force. Anakin joins Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and Jedi apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi to protect Queen Amidala. George Lucas returned to the “Star Wars” director’s seat for this film for the first time in more than 20 years. Despite the lackluster reviews, the movie dominated the box office and has the fifth-highest earnings of any “Star Wars” film.

2000: Mission: Impossible II

– Summer domestic gross: $213,578,518
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $389,576,147
– Share of total gross: 7.0%

In the second installment of the popular franchise, IMF agent Ethan Hunt returns with his team to destroy a biochemical weapon that is in the wrong hands. But, a gang of international terrorists is also tracking down the deadly virus, led by a former IMF agent. It’s one of a handful of movie sequels on this list that outdid its predecessor at the box office.

2001: Shrek

– Summer domestic gross: $262,908,727
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $466,288,149
– Share of total gross: 8.0%

Territorial ogre Shrek lives peacefully in his swamp until a horde of fairytale creatures is banned from their kingdom by the evil Lord Farquaad. To regain his solitude, Shrek embarks upon a perilous journey with a talking donkey to rescue Princess Fiona, who is slated to be Farquaad’s bride. The film’s performance was in stark contrast to its rocky beginnings; one animator said that those who failed while working on another DreamWorks film, “The Prince of Egypt,” were sent to work on “Shrek” as punishment. Ironically, “Shrek” ended up earning a standing ovation at Cannes and $267.9 million at the domestic box office, compared to the $101.4 million “The Prince of Egypt” brought in.

2002: Spider-Man

– Summer domestic gross: $403,706,375
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $704,859,213
– Share of total gross: 10.9%

The plot of this Sam Raimi film is one any comic book fan is likely familiar with dorky high school teen Peter Parker is bitten by a genetically modified spider and becomes the web-slinging superhero of New York City. As Peter gets accustomed to his new crime-fighting life, he copes with the death of his beloved uncle, his crush on Mary Jane Watson, and a villainous madman known as the Green Goblin. The movie’s upside-down kiss between actors Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst as Spider-Man and Mary Jane became instantly iconic; but in a 2024 interview, Dunst said it was “actually kind of miserable” to film.

2003: Finding Nemo

– Summer domestic gross: $332,722,962
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $567,979,795
– Share of total gross: 8.8%

After the death of his wife, overly protective clownfish Marlin wants his only son, Nemo, to be as safe as possible. But, on Nemo’s first day of school, Marlin’s worst fears are realized: Nemo swims too close to a boat and is captured by a diver. Then, it’s up to Marlin to traverse the vast ocean to rescue his last living family member. In addition to its box office success, “Finding Nemo” made history as the first Pixar film to win Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.

2004: Shrek 2

– Summer domestic gross: $437,622,810
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $727,672,444
– Share of total gross: 11.3%

Everyone’s favorite grouchy ogre returns, and this time Shrek has to take on a challenge more harrowing than rescuing a princess: meeting her parents. In “Shrek 2,” Shrek has to win the good graces of Fiona’s royal family and circumvent the underhanded schemes of Fiona’s Fairy Godmother. Like “Mission Impossible: II” and “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” before it, “Shrek 2” is another sequel that outdid the original at the box office.

2005: Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith

– Summer domestic gross: $379,807,894
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $610,843,111
– Share of total gross: 10.8%

In this epic conclusion to George Lucas’ prequel trilogy, Anakin Skywalker slowly turns to the dark side before assuming the villainous role of Darth Vader. This culminates in a climactic lightsaber battle with Obi-Wan Kenobi, fomented by Anakin’s bond with the evil Emperor Palpatine. It’d be another 10 years before the “Star Wars” franchise would make its triumphant return to the box office.

2006: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest

– Summer domestic gross: $414,013,957
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $645,048,531
– Share of total gross: 11.0%

Though all five “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies were released in the summer, only one dominated the box office for the full season: “Dead Man’s Chest.” The third installment in the iconic adventures of Jack Sparrow sees the swashbuckler contend with the ghoulish, tentacled villain Davy Jones. Jones comes to Sparrow to collect a blood debt, so the pirate must figure out a way to escape the damnation of his very soul. At the 2007 Academy Awards, the film took home the Oscar for Best Visual Effects; it was also up for Best Art Direction, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing.

2007: Spider-Man 3

– Summer domestic gross: $336,530,303
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $509,909,157
– Share of total gross: 8.1%

In this conclusion to Sam Raimi’s “Spider-Man” trilogy, Peter Parker is faced with a trio of foes: Sandman, Venom, and his own best friend, Harry Osborn, who discovers Peter’s true identity and seeks revenge for the death of his father, the Green Goblin. All the while, Peter struggles to maintain his relationship with Mary Jane. Neither the third movie nor the second matched the success of “Spider-Man” at the box office, but it was still enough to dominate all other movies in the summer it was released.

2008: The Dark Knight

– Summer domestic gross: $504,798,337
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $736,447,551
– Share of total gross: 12.2%

Christopher Nolan’s lauded second installment in his “Batman” trilogy sees the Caped Crusader facing off against his greatest enemy: the twisted, maniacal Joker. Batman must find a way to put an end to the Joker’s madness while keeping himself from straying too far from heroism into vigilantism. Actor Heath Ledger delivered a stellar performance as Joker but died tragically six months before the film was released. He received a posthumous Academy Award for his portrayal in the Best Supporting Actor category.

2009: Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen

– Summer domestic gross: $400,641,549
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $586,673,709
– Share of total gross: 9.3%

Two years following the events of the first “Transformers” film, hero Sam Witwicky adjusts to his new life in college, while his Autobot friends attempt to adjust to life on Earth. But an ancient Decepticon has other plans that threaten the fate of the entire planet. To date, “Revenge of the Fallen” is the biggest domestic box office winner of the “Transformers” franchise—of course, that could change with the release of “Transformers One” on Sept. 20, 2024.

2010: Toy Story 3

– Summer domestic gross: $408,890,408
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $588,869,680
– Share of total gross: 9.7%

The first two movies in the “Toy Story” franchise were released around Thanksgiving, but the third movie debuted in the summertime, becoming king of the box office. In “Toy Story 3,” Andy is grown up and finally off to college, but sadly, his beloved toys don’t come with him. After being left behind, the toys end up at a daycare center full of rowdy children, and Woody must figure out a way to help his pals escape. The film features new additions including Michael Keaton, Ned Beatty, Whoopi Goldberg, Kristen Schaal, and Timothy Dalton.

2011: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

– Summer domestic gross: $375,552,093
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $524,503,835
– Share of total gross: 8.5%

Like “Toy Story,” the “Harry Potter” franchise’s release strategy had its films coming out either in the summer or on Thanksgiving weekend. But only one movie in the series can claim the title of summer box office winner: “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2.” The epic conclusion to the original Wizarding World saga sees Harry finally face off in a duel to the death with his nemesis from birth, Voldemort. But the Boy Who Lived needs all the help he can get from his wizard pals and professors at Hogwarts.

2012: The Avengers

– Summer domestic gross: $620,323,837
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $848,622,462
– Share of total gross: 14.4%

The evil and treacherous Loki gets his hands on the Tesseract, a device that will grant him unlimited power—and he will stop at nothing to use it to take over the world. Enter Nick Fury, the director of the special defense force S.H.I.E.L.D., who puts together a team of Earth’s mightiest heroes to stop Loki and obtain the Tesseract. Before directing “The Avengers,” writer and director Joss Whedon was perhaps best known for creating the popular TV series “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” Including “The Avengers” in 2012, Marvel won the summer box office for three straight years.

2013: Iron Man 3

– Summer domestic gross: $408,797,699
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $551,087,370
– Share of total gross: 8.6%

The final solo “Iron Man” movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe sees the titular metal-suited superhero, aka billionaire playboy Tony Stark, go up against a brand-new villain known as the Mandarin. But Stark must battle his inner demons along with his external ones to come out on top. The movie also prevailed at the box office, outperforming the original and second “Iron Man” movies.

2014: Guardians of the Galaxy

– Summer domestic gross: $281,204,119
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $373,156,797
– Share of total gross: 6.9%

On its surface, “Guardians of the Galaxy” seemed like a Marvel deep cut bound to flop. Its star, Chris Pratt, was best known for the NBC comedy “Parks and Recreation,” and his sidekicks included a smack-talking raccoon and a tree-like character who only says, “I am Groot.” But, something about this ragtag of intergalactic outlaws and its epic retro soundtrack worked, skyrocketing the movie to the top of the box office in the summer of 2014.

2015: Jurassic World

– Summer domestic gross: $647,374,160
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $857,975,627
– Share of total gross: 14.5%

Over two decades since the catastrophe on Isla Nublar, a new vision of the past has been resurrected in Jurassic World: a dual theme park and luxury resort that has once again brought dinosaurs hurtling into the future. But the sins of Jurassic Park’s past have not been reckoned with, and both the guests and the scientists at its helm quickly learn that bigger does not mean better. After the success of “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Jurassic World” cemented Chris Pratt’s position as a Hollywood heartthrob and box office beast. It also spawned two more sequels and will see a third debut in 2025.

2016: Finding Dory

– Summer domestic gross: $482,853,070
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $631,933,955
– Share of total gross: 10.8%

In this sequel to the beloved Pixar film, Marlin and his son Nemo set out to help their very forgetful friend Dory find her roots. All Dory remembers is that she was separated from her parents as a child, and soon the trio is embarking on an epic adventure. Albert Brooks and Ellen DeGeneres reprised their roles voicing Marlin and Dory, accompanied by new voice actors including Ed O’Neill, Ty Burrell, Diane Keaton, and Idris Elba. Dory’s story brought viewers to the theaters in droves, driving a total of $486.3 million at the domestic box office.

2017: Wonder Woman

– Summer domestic gross: $409,537,039
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $524,828,984
– Share of total gross: 10.7%

The origin story of this iconic superhero is traced from her childhood as the princess of the Amazons to helping the Americans win World War I. Wonder Woman—also known as Diana—leaves the island paradise she grew up on, bringing along dashing pilot Steve Trevor, hoping that she can use her mighty powers to end the global conflict. “Wonder Woman” enthralled not only superhero fans but earned acclaim for its feminist message. Yes, it broke the glass ceiling, but it also broke records. At the time, “Wonder Woman” was the biggest U.S. opening weekend for a woman director. But Patty Jenkins and “Wonder Woman” would soon be outdone by another pair of feminist icons.

2018: Incredibles 2

– Summer domestic gross: $602,579,381
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $753,764,172
– Share of total gross: 13.7%

The sequel to the Disney-Pixar classic finds the superhero Parr family matriarch—Helen, aka Elastigirl—enlisted to improve public perception of supers, forcing Mr. Incredible to become a stay-at-home dad. But soon, the whole family needs to band together to stop a sinister threat. In addition to the original voice cast, newcomers featured Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, and Catherine Keener.

2019: The Lion King

– Summer domestic gross: $523,578,926
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $643,160,503
– Share of total gross: 12.1%

Twenty-five years after the classic animated “Lion King” dominated the summer box office, this 2019 musical drama adaptation did the same. The latest version retreads the plot of the original 1994 film as we follow young lion Prince Simba, whose throne is usurped by his fratricidal uncle, Scar, forcing him to return to his animal kingdom and take back what’s rightfully his.

New voice actors for this updated “The Lion King” include Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé as Nala, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon, and Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar. Considering it’s the current highest-grossing animated movie of all time, it’s no surprise that another film in the series is in the works: a prequel called “Mufasa: The Lion King” is set to hit theaters in December 2024.

2020: Tenet

– Summer domestic gross: $19,192,876
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $23,293,981
– Share of total gross: 27.0%

This mind-bending thriller from Christopher Nolan follows a former CIA agent who learns that an attack from the future has a target set for the present day. Now, he must learn how to bend time to prevent World War III. “Tenet” was the first major film to be released in the months following the 2020 pandemic lockdowns. It’s the lowest earner on this list, but about $20 million was enough to dominate a summer with very little box-office competition.

2021: Black Widow

– Summer domestic gross: $182,690,466
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $211,745,666
– Share of total gross: 10.5%

In this prequel solo film for the since-deceased Avenger, the titular hero—aka Natasha Romanoff—must confront her demons as she is pursued by a villainous threat with a link to her past. While on the run, Natasha unlocks trauma and regret in her tattered history as a Russian spy.

Like “Tenet,” “Black Widow’s” box office story is also a product of the post-pandemic moviegoing experience. When Disney decided to release the movie in theaters and on Disney+ simultaneously, “Black Widow” actor Scarlett Johansson sued the studio, alleging that making the movie available on the streaming platform reduced her earnings potential, seeing as her salary was based in large part on “Black Widow’s” box-office numbers. They settled after just three months, but the terms were not disclosed.

2022: Top Gun: Maverick

– Summer domestic gross: $701,250,369
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $752,520,468
– Share of total gross: 20.7%

Just as stubborn and reckless as he was more than 35 years ago, “Top Gun: Maverick” sees Pete “Maverick” Mitchell continue to push his limits by dodging an advancement in rank as a test pilot. After yet another brash incident, Maverick is sent to train a new class of naval aviators for a special mission, including Rooster, the resentful son of his late best friend, Goose. Nominated for six Academy Awards (including Best Picture) in 2023, “Top Gun: Maverick” took home the honor for Best Sound. As of January 2024, a sequel is officially in the works, but it likely won’t hit theaters until 2025 or 2026.

2023: Barbie

– Summer domestic gross: $612,331,509
– Inflation-adjusted summer domestic gross: $631,221,946
– Share of total gross: 15.2%

The summer of 2023 belonged to two movies: the concurrently released “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.” But ultimately, in the “Barbenheimer” battle, director Greta Gerwig’s take on all things girlhood reigned supreme.

The live-action film centers on the iconic Mattel doll (played by Margot Robbie), whose picture-perfect matriarchal world is upended when she’s suddenly stricken with worries about her mortality, along with physical afflictions like flat feet, bad breath, and cellulite. To right these wrongs, Barbie—and a stowaway Ken (Ryan Gosling)—leave Barbieland and head to the real world to find the child playing with her who’s causing these issues.

From its opening weekend—when it bested the “Wonder Woman” record to become the biggest debut for a film directed by a woman—”Barbie” won hearts and smashed both the patriarchy and box-office records. With its $636.2 million total domestic earnings, “Barbie” was crowned the highest-grossing movie of 2023 in North America and is the highest-grossing comedy in Hollywood history by a mile.

Data reporting by Luke Hicks. Story editing by Jaimie Etkin. Copy editing by Robert Wickwire.

2024: Inside Out 2

– Summer domestic gross: $652,683,467
– Share of total gross: 23.6%

The long-awaited sequel to the 2015 movie “Inside Out” reunites the personified emotions that audiences came to know and love in the original—Joy, Disgust, Sadness, Anger, and Fear—but adds several new emotions to the mix. Anxiety, Envy, and Ennui compete with the core quintet for space as their host, Riley, enters her teenage years. Praised by critics and audiences alike, “Inside Out 2” became the highest-grossing animated movie of all time.

Additional writing by Cu Fleshman.

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