'Superman' Defies Backlash, Potentially Saving DC Films

"Superman" earned $22.5 million at U.S. and Canada theaters from Thursday previews, potentially marking a successful return for DC Studios after a series of box-office disappointments and critical failures.

The movie surpassed recent blockbusters like "Barbie" and "The Batman" in preview earnings, with projections indicating a strong opening weekend gross between $120 million and $150 million.

Receiving an 82% score on Rotten Tomatoes, "Superman" is the best-reviewed DC film since "The Suicide Squad" in 2021, offering hope for the studio after a string of underperforming releases.

The film is positioned as the inaugural installment in the DC Universe film franchise, aiming to revitalize the DC Extended Universe following a series of lackluster films released between 2013 and 2023.

Despite recent struggles, DC Studios is looking to turn the tide with "Superman" and future projects like "Supergirl" and "Clayface," as part of a long-term plan outlined by co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran.

While facing criticism from some right-wing voices for its portrayal of Superman as an immigrant, the film draws on the character's origins as a refugee from Krypton, a theme deeply rooted in the superhero's history.