James Gunn‘s latest film, Superman, has officially taken flight at the box office, generating significant buzz among fans and industry insiders alike. The highly anticipated superhero tentpole from DC Studios and Warner Bros. earned an impressive $22.5 million during its Thursday previews and other sneak showings across the North American box office. This remarkable figure marks the largest preview of the year to date, setting the stage for an exciting opening weekend.
Initial tracking indicates that Superman is poised to open with a staggering $130 million domestically. However, in a more cautious approach, DC Studios has opted to maintain a conservative forecast, projecting the film will earn over $100 million. The anticipation surrounding this film is palpable, even garnering attention from public figures such as President Donald Trump, who recently shared a meme featuring himself as the new Man of Steel on social media.
Gunn holds a unique position as both the writer-director of Superman and the co-head of DC Studios, giving him substantial influence over the film’s marketing and messaging. This dual role allows him to shape the narrative surrounding the film, which is crucial in the competitive landscape of superhero movies.
In addition to its domestic success, Superman is set to debut in 78 international markets, where it is also projected to open with over $100 million. This global appeal underscores the character's enduring popularity and the excitement surrounding the film's release.
Historically, Superman films have had varying degrees of success at the box office. Zack Snyder’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice holds the record for the highest domestic opening for a film featuring Clark Kent/Superman, launching with $166 million in 2016, not adjusted for inflation. The last standalone Superman film, Snyder's Man of Steel from 2013, debuted to $116 million, while Bryan Singer’s Superman Returns opened with over $84 million over a six-day period nearly two decades ago.
The star-studded cast of Superman includes David Corenswet in the titular role, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult portraying Lex Luthor. The ensemble also features Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, and Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific. This talented lineup adds further excitement to the film, making it a must-watch for superhero fans.
With James Gunn's Superman breaking records and generating immense anticipation, it is clear that the film is set to make a significant impact at the box office. As audiences eagerly await its full release, the combination of a strong marketing strategy, a talented cast, and the legacy of Superman ensures that this film will be a focal point in the superhero genre.
