James Gunn’s Superman movie has made a striking impact at the box office, signaling a promising start for the new DC Universe under his and Peter Safran’s leadership. The film, starring David Corenswet as Superman, has already shattered preview records and is on track for a strong opening weekend, igniting excitement among fans and industry watchers alike.
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Record-Breaking Previews and Opening Weekend Performance
On its preview day, Superman earned over $21 million across North America, including Amazon Prime early screenings. This figure not only sets a new record for a James Gunn-directed film but also marks the highest preview total of 2025, surpassing major releases like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Lilo & Stitch. The strong preview numbers have fueled projections of a $115 million to $120 million domestic opening weekend, with some estimates cautiously optimistic about even higher returns.
The film’s release in over 4,000 theaters nationwide has helped it soar past last weekend’s box office leader, Jurassic Park Rebirth, to claim the top spot in North America. While initial industry forecasts were more bullish—anticipating $130 million or more—the current projections reflect a healthy and solid debut for the superhero reboot.
Box Office Expectations and James Gunn’s Perspective
Despite the buzz, James Gunn has publicly downplayed the pressure of box office targets. He dismissed the widely circulated notion that Superman must gross $700 million globally to be deemed successful, calling it “complete and utter nonsense.” Gunn emphasized that while there is something riding on the film’s performance, the stakes are not as monumental as some speculate.
Financially, the movie’s production budget is estimated at around $225 million, with marketing costs likely adding another $150 to $200 million. This places the break-even point near $400 million worldwide. Industry analysts suggest a global box office haul of approximately $500 million would mark a solid success, positioning Superman between the worldwide grosses of previous franchise entries like Man of Steel and Superman Returns.
What This Means for the Future of the DC Universe
Superman is the inaugural film of the newly rebooted DC Universe (DCU), a cinematic universe crafted under the guidance of Gunn and Safran. Its performance is crucial not only for the character but also for setting the tone of the DCU’s future projects, including upcoming films like Supergirl and HBO’s Green Lantern series.
The overwhelmingly positive audience reception, reflected in a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score—the highest ever for a Superman film—signals strong fan approval and bodes well for the franchise’s longevity. The cast, featuring Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, has also been praised for bringing fresh energy to these iconic roles.
Key Points Summary
- Superman earned $21 million+ in previews, a record for James Gunn and 2025.
- Projected domestic opening weekend is $115M-$120M, topping recent box office leaders.
- James Gunn refutes the $700 million global success myth, suggesting $500 million is a realistic target.
- Production and marketing costs combined near $425 million, with a break-even around $400 million.
- The film’s success is pivotal for the new DC Universe’s future slate.
- Audience scores are exceptionally high, indicating strong fan support.
Looking Ahead
As Superman continues its theatrical run, its box office trajectory will be closely watched as a barometer for the new DCU’s potential. The film’s robust start and positive reception provide a strong foundation for James Gunn’s vision of a revitalized superhero universe. Fans and industry insiders alike can anticipate exciting developments as the DCU expands with fresh stories and characters.
Experience the new era of Superman and the DC Universe in theaters now. Don’t miss out on witnessing the beginning of this thrilling chapter.