The Top NC-17 Rated Films Of All Time

NC-17 films are not known for being box office blockbusters — but the upcoming "50 Shades of Grey" is reportedly "100% going there” and taking the rating rather than softening its erotic content.

What NC-17 films have had box office success? The nine movies below are filled with a range of colorful themes, scenes and characters, from the creative sex scenes in Ang Lee's "Lust, Caution" to Helen Mirren's colorful role as a cheating spouse in "The Cook, The Thief, His Wife and Her Lover." In the end, skin reigns king, connecting these less theater-friendly films with sensual scenes of passion, love and a few strategically placed sequins — at least in the case of Elizabeth Berkley's "Showgirls."

Take a quick walk down the steamy side of the theater and check out our slideshow of the top grossing NC-17 rated films of all time.