'Superman' becomes first superhero film of 2025 to cross $600m globally

James Gunn's Superman has become the first superhero film of 2025 to surpass the $600 million mark at the global box office, marking a major milestone for the newly launched DC Studios under Gunn and Peter Safran. The film hit the benchmark early Friday after closing Thursday with $599.6 million in worldwide earnings — $343.6 million from North America and $256 million from international markets.

Despite the achievement, Superman faces the challenges of an overall struggling superhero genre. While it holds the title of the year's top-grossing comic book adaptation, the genre continues to suffer from so-called "superhero fatigue," affecting audience enthusiasm and international performance.

With a production budget of at least $225 million, excluding marketing costs, Superman is the first title released under Gunn and Safran's leadership as they work to revitalize the DC brand following a string of underperforming titles including The Flash, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, Blue Beetle, and Shazam! Fury of the Gods. Gunn not only directed the film but also helped shape its narrative direction as part of the DC Universe overhaul.

Critically acclaimed and well-received by audiences, Superman has also outperformed Marvel Studios' 2025 releases. Titles like The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Thunderbolts, and Captain America: Brave New World have struggled to maintain momentum despite strong early reception.

Superman is the first DC title to cross $600 million since The Batman (2022) and the first within the DCEU to do so since Aquaman (2018). The film opened with over $100 million domestically — the first superhero film to do so since Deadpool & Wolverine in 2024.

Directed by Gunn, the film stars David Corenswet as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, among a broader ensemble cast. Despite foreign box office challenges, the film currently ranks as the sixth highest-grossing global release of 2025.

A Turning Point for DC Studios

The success of Superman is more than a financial victory; it is a symbolic win for DC Studios. Following years of inconsistent box office performance and divided critical reception, Gunn and Safran needed a strong opening chapter for their revamped cinematic universe. By passing $600 million so quickly, Superman proves that audiences are still willing to invest in superhero stories if those stories are compelling, fresh, and emotionally resonant.

The Power of Storytelling Over Spectacle

What sets Gunn’s Superman apart from previous installments is its emphasis on storytelling over spectacle. While the film delivers the expected action and grandeur associated with the character, critics have praised its emotional depth, character development, and grounded narrative choices. David Corenswet’s portrayal of Superman has been widely noted as a fresh yet faithful interpretation, breathing new life into the character while honoring his legacy.

Box Office Competition and Market Shifts

The box office landscape has been difficult for superhero films over the last several years. With audience tastes shifting and streaming services altering traditional viewing habits, studios face pressure to prove that large-scale comic book adaptations still have cultural pull. Superman’s ability to cross major benchmarks, despite these challenges, suggests that the genre is not fading but evolving. Gunn’s vision may serve as a blueprint for how superhero films can adapt to a changing industry.

Critical and Fan Reception

Another factor driving the film’s success is the overwhelmingly positive reception from both critics and fans. Early reviews highlighted the balance between classic Superman optimism and Gunn’s trademark sharp writing style. Fan reactions have been similarly strong, with many praising the chemistry between Corenswet and Brosnahan, as well as Nicholas Hoult’s chilling performance as Lex Luthor. Strong word-of-mouth has contributed to the film’s staying power at the box office.

The Road Ahead for DC

For Gunn and Safran, Superman is only the beginning. With several upcoming projects planned to expand the new DC Universe, the success of this film sets the tone for what lies ahead. Future releases will undoubtedly be measured against the financial and critical performance of Superman. The film’s ability to cross $600 million not only restores confidence in DC Studios but also signals that audiences are ready to embrace a new era of superhero storytelling under Gunn’s leadership.

Conclusion

In surpassing the $600 million milestone, Superman has done more than revive hope for DC Studios. It has proven that with the right creative direction, even a fatigued genre can rise again. James Gunn’s vision has given Superman his most powerful leap yet, and the industry will be watching closely to see how high the Man of Steel can continue to fly.