Jack Black’s Overlooked Film Makes a Streaming Comeback: Grosses 3x Its Budget After 7 Years!

In 2018, Jack Black starred in the horror-comedy film The House with a Clock in Its Walls, which has recently gained popularity on HBO Max, despite its initial release seven years prior. The movie, which also features Cate Blanchett, was a financial success, earning $131.5 million and tripling its production budget. The plot revolves around a mysteriously enchanted house filled with magical items.

The narrative of The House with a Clock in Its Walls was first introduced by author John Bellairs in his 1973 novel. Later, Eric Kripke, known for creating Supernatural, adapted it into a screenplay for the film. After a stint on Netflix, the film has found renewed success as a streaming favorite on HBO Max since its release there in late June.

The House With A Clock In Its Walls Climbs Into HBO’s Global Top 10 Movies

Securing the Number 9 Spot

Shortly after its HBO Max debut, The House with a Clock in Its Walls claimed the ninth spot on HBO’s global movie chart on Monday, June 30, 2025, and by July 3, it maintained its top 10 position. It stands out as one of only two horror films in the top 10, alongside It Feeds, which is ranked second.

The film, originally overlooked as a typical Jack Black project from the last decade, has surprisingly become a standout among family-friendly horror comedies. Unusually for a film geared towards Halloween, it has captured significant attention at the start of summer.

The 4th of July holiday weekend is expected to bolster the film’s position on Max’s top 10 list. Family comedies often perform exceptionally well on streaming platforms during major U.S. holidays.

Insights on The House With A Clock In Its Walls’ Rise as a Global Streaming Hit

The Appeal of Jack Black’s Comedy in This Horror Film

The resurgence of The House with a Clock in Its Walls highlights the lasting appeal of family comedies led by Jack Black, who is celebrated for his roles in School of Rock and Kung Fu Panda. This success underscores that Jack Black’s comedic influence remains potent.

However, the 2018 film offers more than just humor. It delicately weaves in themes of coping with grief and loss from a young age, providing a deeper narrative that resonates with both children and the adults in their lives.

The House with a Clock in Its Walls is an excellent choice for families with children under 12. It balances humor, charm, and spookiness, while addressing serious topics with sensitivity and care.