James Gunn's 'Superman' Reboot Achieves $122 Million Opening Weekend
James Gunn's 'Superman' reboot topped the box office with a $122 million opening weekend in the U.S. and Canada, marking a significant franchise revival.
Overview
- James Gunn's 'Superman' reboot opened with $122 million in the U.S. and Canada, marking a strong start for DC Studios.
- The film is the first DC title to surpass $100 million in opening weekend since 'Wonder Woman' in 2017.
- Despite strong domestic performance, the film saw mixed results overseas, grossing $95 million across 78 international markets.
- 'Superman' achieved the third largest opening of 2025, indicating a positive trend for the franchise.
- Audiences rated the film with an 'A-' CinemaScore, reflecting a favorable reception and promising future for DC films.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the "Superman" opening as a significant milestone for DC Studios, emphasizing its box office success and potential for revitalization. They express cautious optimism, highlighting both the film's domestic performance and its historical context, while subtly acknowledging the challenges ahead for the franchise and its leadership.
"The numbers don’t lie: a lot of people went to go see Superman this weekend."
Gizmodo"James Gunn has scored big at the box office with Superman opening at $122M domestically and $217M globally, celebrating the film's success and the enthusiasm of fans."
Deadline"Superman is just the first step."
Deadline"The roughly on-target opening was the third largest of 2025, and the first DC title to surpass $100 million in its opening weekend since “Wonder Woman” in 2017."
NBC News"The roughly on-target opening was the third largest of 2025, and the first DC title to surpass $100 million in its opening weekend since “Wonder Woman” in 2017."
ABC NewsArticles (8)
Center (5)
FAQ
The production budget was reported as $363.8 million before tax incentives, but DC Studios and James Gunn have suggested a net production budget closer to $225 million after tax breaks.
Warner Bros. reportedly spent up to $200 million on worldwide marketing for the 'Superman' movie, which is about $50 million more than typical for a large summer blockbuster.
Audiences gave 'Superman' an 'A-' CinemaScore rating, indicating a generally favorable reception to the film.
The $122 million opening weekend marked the first DC title to surpass $100 million since 'Wonder Woman' in 2017 and was the third largest opening of 2025, signaling a strong revival for the franchise and DC Studios.
There was debate because official Ohio government filings listed the budget as $363.8 million, but James Gunn and DC Studios contended the figure was inflated and stated the net production budget after incentives was about $225 million. Some financiers suggested the higher figure might be more accurate.
History
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