### Overview of National Film Industries and High-Grossing Films

The question of the highest-grossing film ever produced in a specific country can be intriguing as it provides insights not only into the tastes and preferences of the domestic movie audience but also into the capabilities and reach of the nation’s film industry. Taking the United States and South Korea as examples provides a clear depiction of how different markets and production scales influence the type of content that achieves commercial success. 

### The United States: *Avatar*

#### Industry Overview
The United States is home to Hollywood, universally recognized as the epicenter of the global film industry. This dominance is supported by advanced production facilities, massive budgets, and extensive global distribution networks. Historically, Hollywood has produced some of the highest-grossing films globally, thanks to its ability to appeal to a wide range of demographics and cultures.

#### Box Office Success
James Cameron’s *Avatar*, released in 2009, stands as a quintessential example of Hollywood’s blockbuster approach. With a groundbreaking use of 3D technology and visual effects, the film was marketed globally and received widespread critical acclaim. *Avatar* was particularly noted for its innovative technology and engaging narrative that resonated with a global audience, garnering it immense box office success.

#### Cultural and Economic Impact
The success of *Avatar* highlights the U.S. film industry's ability to leverage cutting-edge technology and substantial marketing strategies. The movie not only set box office records, surpassing $2.8 billion globally but also influenced many aspects of filmmaking from 3D technology to CGI in subsequent movies. It embodies the epic scale and spectacle that audiences have come to expect from major Hollywood productions.

### South Korea: *Extreme Job*

#### Industry Overview
The film industry in South Korea, while smaller in comparison to Hollywood, has seen remarkable growth over the past few decades and has made significant impacts both domestically and internationally. South Korean cinema is known for its diversity in genres, often blending elements in unique manners, and for its high production quality.

#### Box Office Success
*Extreme Job* (2019), a comedy directed by Lee Byeong-heon, exemplifies South Korea's film industry prowess. Unlike Hollywood’s reliance on visual spectacles and massive budgets, *Extreme Job* triumphed at the box office through strong storytelling, humor, and relatability. The film revolves around a team of narcotics detectives who go undercover in a fried chicken joint to bust a crime ring, leading to unexpected situational comedy. It quickly became the highest-grossing film in the history of South Korean cinema.

#### Cultural and Economic Impact
*Extreme Job*'s success underscored the potential of comedies in the South Korean market, a genre that resonates well due to its accessibility and connection with daily life. The movie not only appealed to local audiences but also saw success in various international markets, showcasing the global appeal of well-crafted humor. The film's success contributed significantly to the local economy, boosting not only the film industry but also ancillary industries such as food and merchandise.

### Conclusion

These two examples illustrate how different factors such as economic scales, market dynamics, cultural preferences, and industry capabilities can influence what becomes the highest-grossing film in a country. In the U.S., the emphasis is on high budget, technologically sophisticated productions that appeal globally like *Avatar*. In contrast, South Korea’s highest grosser, *Extreme Job*, leverages strong storytelling and cultural humor, illustrating the varied paths to achieving box office success in different national contexts. 

Both films, however, underscore the universal appeal of cinema and its power in shaping cultural and economic landscapes. The stories of *Avatar* and *Extreme Job* reflect broader national characteristics and contribute uniquely to the global tapestry of film history.