With DC Studios set to relaunch its cinematic universe, all eyes are on the first live-action film in James Gunn’s new DCU: ‘Superman’ (2025). The project is set to soar commercially. As the first installment in the "Gods and Monsters" chapter of the new DCU, early indicators point to a massive debut.

Industry experts forecast that ‘Superman’ will bring in $140 million to $185 million during its domestic opening weekend, with most figures pointed toward $175 million. Some earlier models had it peaking near $175 million, but more conservative estimates emerged following the announcement of an early screening event on July 8 via Amazon Prime and Fandango. That event alone is expected to contribute $22 million to the opening total.

According to Fandango, ‘Superman’ had the highest first-day ticket pre-sales of the year, surpassing Marvel’s ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps.’

For context, ‘The Fantastic Four’ is tracking for a $125–155 million domestic debut.

‘Superman’ will face moderate competition in its second weekend, with the releases of ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ (reboot) and Ari Aster’s ‘Eddington,’ but has a relatively clear runway on launch. The third weekend pivots the film into a decline in box office sales, with the release of ‘The Fantastic Four,’ with the DC film expected to make the bulk of its earnings within the first two weekends of release.

With a reported $225 million production budget and estimated $175 million+ in marketing costs, the break-even point is believed to be in the $500 million global range, and over $700 million to be a box office hit. Some insiders suggest WBD/DC Studios are expecting a minimum of $750 million worldwide.

Box office analysts note that reaching $700 million worldwide would be considered a solid success, while anything above $1 billion would classify the film as a blockbuster hit.

Trailer views and social media buzz indicate ‘Superman’ could exceed early expectations, possibly even challenging recent billion-dollar performers.

Overseas markets, particularly China, are seen as key to pushing the film beyond the $750 million threshold.

James Gunn has stated that ‘Superman’ will set the tone for a new era of DC storytelling — more hopeful, emotionally resonant, and character-driven.

The film's marketing campaign has leaned into that, highlighting lighter tones, the debut of Krypto the Superdog, and a brighter Man of Steel. Warner Bros. is positioning it as both a family-friendly tentpole and a legacy reboot.

Whether or not it becomes a billion-dollar juggernaut, ‘Superman’ is already shaping up to be a major theatrical event, exciting both fans and critics alike.

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