Sandra Bullock’s role in the 2013 sci-fi film Gravity not only became a career highlight but also brought her an extraordinary paycheck. With a worldwide box office collection of $723 million against a $100 million budget, the film was a critical and commercial success. Bullock, a well-paid actor throughout her career, earned a staggering $70 million from the role. Her compensation included an upfront salary of $20 million, along with a percentage of the film’s first-dollar gross and home video sales, estimated to be around $50 million.
With a net worth of approximately $250 million, Bullock’s earnings from “Gravity” further solidified her financial success. Meanwhile, on the other hand, Scarlett Johansson, known for her portrayal of Natasha Romanoff, aka Black Widow, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, experienced a significant salary increase over the course of her career. But unfortunately, it’s not comparable to Bullock’s pay in Gravity!
How much did Scarlett Johansson make in her two blockbusters Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame
Scarlett Johansson’s debut appearance in 2010’s Iron Man 2 earned her $400,000, but her role in The Avengers brought her a low seven-figure salary. As Johansson’s popularity and role in the franchise grew, so did her paycheck.
Reportedly, Johansson earned $20 million for Avengers: Age of Ultron and received an upfront payment of $15 million for Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. Considering bonuses and additional compensation, it is estimated that Johansson made around $35 million from the final Avengers installment.
While both actresses enjoyed substantial earnings, it is worth noting the differences in their career trajectories and the industries in which they worked. Sandra Bullock’s massive payday for Gravity reflects the film’s immense success and her established position in Hollywood. On the other hand, Scarlett Johansson’s compensation primarily stemmed from her involvement in the highly lucrative Marvel franchise.
Overall, both actresses have achieved impressive financial success through their acting careers, with Bullock’s massive paycheck from Gravity putting her in the spotlight, while Johansson’s earnings from the Marvel films have still solidified her position as one of the highest-paid actresses in the industry.
When the makers and Sandra Bullock thought that Gravity was going to bomb at the box office
Gravity, directed by Alfonso Cuarón in 2013, tells the story of a medical engineer stranded alone in space. However, the process of bringing this visually stunning film to life proved to be more challenging than Cuarón had anticipated. As someone not well-versed in technology, the director initially believed that the film could be completed within a year, viewing it as a small, intimate project with minimal visual effects. However, in reality, Gravity took four years to finish, and even upon completion, it seemed destined for failure rather than success.
Cuarón admitted that every day during production, he and his team doubted the film’s potential. It involved a process of trial and error, with moments of hope and numerous mistakes along the way. The sole test screening held months before the film’s completion was a disaster, further adding to their concerns.
Furthermore, Sandra Bullock shared the same feelings of uncertainty as her director. The concept of an avant-garde, existential film centered on loss and survival in space didn’t immediately resonate with audiences. When explaining the film’s premise, people would often respond with indifference, questioning its appeal.
However, fortunately, despite the initial doubts surrounding Gravity, the film went on to achieve critical acclaim and impressive box office success. Collecting $685 million during its theatrical run, Cuarón won the Academy Award for Best Director for the movie.
Source: Looper, The Guardian, ScreenRant
