James Gunn's Superman takes flight with a global box office opening of $217 million.

      James Gunn and DC Studios officially launched the new DC Universe this weekend with the premiere of Superman. Gunn's revamped cinematic universe has made a strong opening at the box office, with the David Corenswet-led superhero film debuting at $217 million worldwide.

      In North America, Superman topped the box office with a $122 million opening, marking the third-largest debut of the year, following A Minecraft Movie ($162 million) and Lilo & Stitch ($146 million). It also surpassed the $116 million opening weekend of Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel from 2013. The film's performance was on the higher end of pre-release tracking predictions, which varied significantly from $90 million to $135 million.

      However, the film did not achieve the same level of success internationally, as Universal’s Jurassic World Rebirth remained strong in several markets, leaving Superman in second place in countries like France, Germany, and Italy. Nonetheless, it secured an additional $95 million globally, with top markets including the UK ($9.8 million), Mexico ($8.8 million), China ($6.6 million), Brazil ($5.9 million), and Australia ($5.3 million).

      “I’m incredibly thankful for your enthusiasm and kind words over the past few days,” Gunn shared on Threads. “We’ve seen a lot of ‘Super’ in ‘Superman’ over the years, and I’m pleased to have created a film that emphasizes the ‘man’ aspect—a kind individual who always looks out for those in need. The powerful resonance this has for so many people worldwide is a hopeful testament to the kindness and quality of humanity. Thank you. ❤️”

      “Three years ago, I brought on James Gunn and Peter Safran to reimagine and unify the creative direction of DC under a single leadership team, infusing new life and excitement into this iconic storytelling franchise,” remarked Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav in a statement about Superman’s opening. “James and Peter’s dedication to honoring the legacy of the DC Universe while creating something new and captivating is truly inspiring.”

      “This weekend, we witnessed Superman soar as James Gunn’s passion and vision were brought to life on the big screen. Superman is merely the beginning,” Zaslav continued. “In the coming year, DC Studios will unveil the films Supergirl and Clayface in theaters, and the series Lanterns on HBO Max, all part of an ambitious 10-year plan. The DC vision is clear, the momentum is genuine, and I’m thrilled about what lies ahead.”

      Do you share David Zaslav’s excitement for the future of the DC Universe, following the foundation established by Superman? Share your thoughts on the film and the DCU's future prospects on our social channels @FlickeringMyth…

      Superman narrates the story of Superman’s struggle to balance his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent from Smallville, Kansas. He represents truth, justice, and the American way, driven by human kindness in a world that often views kindness as outdated.

      Written and directed by James Gunn, Superman features David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern/Guy Gardner, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher, María Gabriela De Faría as The Engineer, Sean Gunn as Maxwell Lord, Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr., Milly Alcock as Supergirl, Wendell Pierce as Perry White, Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard, Mikaela Hoover as Cat Grant, Christopher McDonald as Ron Troupe, Terence Rosemore as Otis, and Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell as Jonathan and Martha Kent.