What does the term "blockbuster" refer to in the film industry?

The term "blockbuster" refers to a film that achieves significant commercial success, typically characterized by high production budgets and substantial box office revenues. The concept originated in the 1950s when films began to draw large audiences and generate considerable profits, often supported by extensive marketing campaigns. A blockbuster is usually notable for its broad appeal, often targeting a wide demographic and leveraging popular stars, special effects, and action-packed storytelling to attract viewers.

The importance of this designation is evident in how blockbusters can shape the film industry, influencing trends, funding decisions, and marketing practices. They can also pave the way for franchise development and merchandise opportunities, resulting in substantial economic impacts on studios and the wider entertainment market.

The other options describe concepts that do not align with the definition of a blockbuster. Films that are considered failures in box office earnings have their own classification and simply do not achieve the commercial success defined by blockbuster criteria. Documentaries, while important in their own right, focus on socially relevant topics and generally attract different audiences than mainstream blockbusters. Lastly, low-budget films with independent distribution may involve creative storytelling and innovative filmmaking, but they typically do not reach the scale of commercial success associated with blockbuster hits.