The new Superman film, directed by James Gunn, is off to a strong start at the box office with a record-breaking $22.5 million in preview screenings. This impressive debut is expected to translate to a domestic opening in the range of $115 million to $130 million. While it may not break any major domestic records for Gunn, crossing $100 million would be a notable achievement, especially considering the current fatigue in the superhero genre.
Key Box Office Milestones:
- First Superhero Film to Cross $100 Million: Since Deadpool & Wolverine’s $211 million opening in summer 2024
- First DC Film to Cross $100 Million: In eight years, following Wonder Woman’s $103.3 million debut in 2017
- Third Movie of 2025: To launch north of $100 million, alongside A Minecraft Movie ($162.8 million) and Lilo & Stitch ($146 million)
The film’s success is significant for the reconfigured DC Studios, led by James Gunn and producer Peter Safran, marking a promising start for the new DC cinematic universe.
The movie marks the first DC film entry for Gunn since he took over the reins of Warner Bros’ superhero label with Safran in November 2022. Other upcoming DC Studios projects include HBO’s Green Lantern series Lanterns, and a Supergirl movie due out in 2026.
