"Back to the Future Part II" was released by Universal Pictures on November 22, 1989. The film initially received mixed reviews from critics and grossed over $336 million worldwide in its initial run, making it the third-highest-grossing film of 1989. Reception of the film has improved with time, as the performances, story, direction, cinematography, musical score and predictions have been singled out for praise. Some critics have noted it as one of Zemeckis' best films, as well as one of the best sequels of all time.