James Gunn's Superman didn't just soar into theaters this weekend—it absolutely dominated, proving that hope isn't just Superman's symbol, it's exactly what Hollywood needed right now.

Box Office Triumph Signals DCU's Bright Future

The numbers speak volumes: $122 million domestically and $217 million globally in its opening weekend. This marks the third-biggest box office opening of 2025 and Warner Bros.' biggest superhero debut this year. More importantly, it signals that Gunn's vision for the DC Universe is resonating with audiences who've been craving authentic superhero storytelling.

"I'm incredibly grateful for your enthusiasm," Gunn celebrated on social media, and frankly, so are we. After years of divisive DC films, this feels like a genuine reset—one that honors Superman's legacy while charting an exciting new course.

Critics and Audiences Unite in Praise

With an 82% on Rotten Tomatoes and a stellar 95% audience score, Superman achieves something rare: critical and popular acclaim. The consensus? This film "triumphs in creating a vibrant new universe while keeping its hero's heartfelt essence at the forefront".

David Corenswet delivers a performance that perfectly balances vulnerability with strength. His most powerful moment comes when he declares to Lex Luthor: "I'm as human as anybody. They've always been wrong about me. I love. I get scared. But that is being human. And that's my greatest strength". It's a quote that redefines what makes Superman super—not his powers, but his heart.

Why This Superman Hits Different

Unlike previous iterations, Gunn's approach embraces Superman's inherent corniness—and that's precisely why it works. As NPR notes, this version is "sincere, inspiring and idealistic" in ways that make you want to cheer. The film draws inspiration from Grant Morrison's All-Star Superman, grounding cosmic concepts in deeply human emotions.

The movie's success isn't just about nostalgia—it's about hope. In Superman's mother's words: "Hope vitalizes our love", a theme that resonates throughout every frame.

The Bottom Line

With a $225 million budget already showing strong returns, Superman proves that audiences are hungry for heroes who inspire rather than brood. This isn't just a successful reboot—it's a cultural reset that reminds us why we fell in love with superheroes in the first place.

Superman is now playing in theaters nationwide.