The latest Superman picture has officially done what no other solo Superman film has achieved: it has overtaken “Man of Steel” to become the highest-grossing domestic Superman movie of all time.
Fueled by strong word-of-mouth, a vibrant ensemble cast, and Gunn’s distinct storytelling style, the film has resonated with both longtime fans and a new generation, pushing it to the top of the box office rankings. With David Corenswet donning the cape and Nicholas Hoult reimagining Lex Luthor for the modern era, the reboot has redefined what a Superman flick can be in the post-Snyder era.
But ‘Superman’ Faces a Tougher Challenge Overseas
While James Gunn’s “Superman” is soaring to new heights at the U.S. box office, its global performance tells a more measured story. The film has crossed $500 million worldwide after just 18 days in theaters, led by a stellar $292 million domestic run that has already surpassed the lifetime domestic total of “Man of Steel.” However, on the international front, this fresh take on the iconic hero is climbing at a slower pace.
Source: IMDb
So far, “Superman” has earned approximately $214.1 million from international markets—a respectable figure, but still trailing well behind the $379.1 million overseas total of “Man of Steel.” That gap, along with the global benchmark of $670 million set by Snyder’s film in 2013, makes clear that international audiences have yet to fully embrace the reboot. Whether it’s superhero fatigue, the absence of legacy casting, or differing regional tastes, the worldwide box office presents a tougher challenge for this new chapter in the DC Universe.
Still, the outlook isn’t without promise. With strong reviews, positive fan buzz, and continued summer playtime, “Superman” has room to grow, particularly in late-arriving markets and second-wave screenings. Gunn’s blend of idealism, moral conflict, and sharp character work may take longer to catch on abroad, but the foundation has been laid for long-term franchise growth.
Even if the film doesn’t surpass “Man of Steel” globally, its domestic success alone has already cemented it as a significant turning point for DC Studios. More importantly, “Superman” has managed to reintroduce the character with clarity, heart, and relevance—proving that even in a crowded superhero landscape, there’s still room for the original icon to shine.
