Superman has recently overtaken a significant Marvel blockbuster, marking a key moment for the DC Universe’s growing success. Since its July 11, 2025 release, James Gunn‘s Superman has risen to become the highest-grossing Superman film domestically, surpassing Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy. This achievement highlights the strong foothold the character and the DC franchise have established within the North American box office despite challenges abroad.
Data from The Numbers reveals that Superman has earned $333.8 million in the domestic market, narrowly edging out Guardians of the Galaxy, which made $333.7 million. This milestone came just weeks before Superman’s digital release on August 15, indicating robust interest from moviegoers. While global box office numbers tell a more complex story, the domestic results suggest a promising trajectory for the DC Universe’s cinematic Chapter One and potential sequels centered on the iconic Man of Steel.
The Implications of Superman Surpassing Guardians of the Galaxy Domestically
The strong domestic box office performance of Superman underlines its ability to connect with the North American audience and signals a solid start for DC’s new cinematic chapter. However, international returns show a contrasting scenario. Guardians of the Galaxy still leads worldwide with $770.9 million, while Superman’s global total stands at $583.2 million. This gap illustrates the regional differences in audience response to the two properties.
The domestic success is particularly significant because Superman has traditionally been tied to themes deeply rooted in American culture, something director James Gunn touched upon when reflecting on the film’s performance. This cultural connection may explain its stronger reception in the U.S. and Canada compared to overseas markets, where the character’s appeal seems less pronounced. Despite the global gap, the domestic achievement is encouraging for DC as it plans future films within the same universe.
Comparing the Challenges and Successes of Two Franchise Launches
Guardians of the Galaxy was initially a surprising hit for Marvel, introducing a less well-known group of characters to a wide audience in 2014. The film’s success paved the way for two sequels, which further expanded its domestic earnings and secured its place as a cornerstone of the MCU. In many ways, the Guardians franchise set a high bar for superhero films launching new franchises.
Superman, starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, faces a different challenge. The character is among the most iconic superheroes globally but carries heavy expectations, especially as the flagship of DC’s reboot. James Gunn’s film explores Clark Kent’s struggle to balance his Kryptonian heritage with his human identity, set in Metropolis. This personal journey, wrapped in grand action and science fiction elements, aims to deepen the character’s connection to modern audiences while reestablishing him on the big screen.
Why This Milestone Matters for the Future of the DC Universe
The surpassed box office figures are not just numbers but a reflection of the franchise’s potential to thrive long-term, particularly in the competitive superhero genre. If Superman’s domestic success continues to build momentum, it bodes well for DCU’s upcoming projects, potentially encouraging more investment and ambitious storytelling from the studio.
James Gunn’s dual role as director and writer, supported by producers like Peter Safran and a cast including Rachel Brosnahan, provides confidence in the creative direction of the franchise. The success could also open doors for exploring new characters and expanding the universe in ways that resonate both with domestic and eventually international audiences.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Superman and the MCU Rivalry
While Guardians of the Galaxy maintains a global lead, Superman’s domestic victory suggests an evolving landscape where DC can compete more vigorously with Marvel Studios. Given that Guardians’ sequels have exceeded the original’s domestic numbers, Superman’s current achievement might only be the first step in a longer journey of growth and success.
The DC franchise’s ability to build on this momentum, notably by engaging in compelling character development and expansive narratives, will determine whether it can close the gap internationally. The digital release of Superman offers an opportunity to extend audience reach and lay groundwork for future box office successes. As both studios continue to introduce new films and characters, this dynamic competition promises more intense excitement and high stakes for superhero cinema fans worldwide.
