James Gunn’s latest film, Superman, has achieved remarkable success, surpassing the domestic box office total of his earlier hit, Guardians of the Galaxy. The Superman movie, released in 2025, has earned $333.7 million in North America alone, marking a new milestone for Gunn’s career and showcasing the film’s widespread appeal.
Comparing the Financial Triumphs of Superman and Guardians
Gunn’s breakthrough with Guardians of the Galaxy came despite his then-limited experience with big-budget productions. That Marvel film grossed $333.1 million domestically, helping launch a lucrative franchise. Now, over ten years later, Superman has exceeded that figure with $333.7 million, while also aiming for a worldwide total near $600 million ahead of its premium video-on-demand release scheduled for August 15.
Superman was produced for approximately $225 million and has already secured its place among the top 100 domestic box office hits of all time, ranking at number 86 according to Box Office Mojo. It currently holds the distinction of being the highest-grossing superhero movie in 2025.
Box Office Figures Highlight Superman’s Strong Market Performance
- Domestic Earnings – $333.7 million
- International Revenue – $249.4 million
- Total Worldwide Gross – $583.1 million
The film’s global and domestic returns have also surpassed other recent MonsterVerse entries, including Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, which earned $572 million worldwide and $196 million domestically, as well as Kong: Skull Island, with $568 million worldwide and $168 million domestically. While Superman is not anticipated to match Guardians of the Galaxy’s $770 million global total, this performance marks a major accomplishment for DC Studios following several years of mixed results.
Revitalizing DC’s Cinematic Universe and Future Prospects
Starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent, this Superman installment has rekindled enthusiasm for the iconic superhero and provided a promising launchpad for DC Universe’s new phase, titled Gods and Monsters. The film’s success positions it high on Warner Bros.’ all-time box office list and offers a solid foundation for DC’s upcoming projects.
James Gunn has already begun developing another story centered on the Super-Family, likely with Clark Kent playing a key role again, indicating potential for a sustained franchise. As Superman prepares for its video-on-demand release, it remains one of the year’s major cinematic triumphs, demonstrating Gunn’s continued ability to engage moviegoers.
