With an initial worldwide gross of over $1.84 billion, Titanic was the first film to reach the billion-dollar mark. Upon its release on December 19, 1997, Titanic achieved significant critical and commercial success, and then received numerous accolades. It was praised for its visual effects, performances (particularly DiCaprio, Winslet, and Stuart), production values, Cameron's direction, musical score, cinematography, story, and emotional depth. It was nominated for 14 Academy Awards, and won 11, including the awards for Best Picture and Best Director.