Superman, directed by James Gunn, launched on video-on-demand (VOD) on August 15, less than a month after its theatrical premiere. The film stars David Corenswet as a young Superman, alongside Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, Edi Gathegi, Nathan Fillion, Anthony Carrigan, and Isabela Merced. The story follows Superman navigating a global crisis and the enmity of Lex Luthor, played by Hoult.
The early streaming release is notable as the movie remains in theaters, where it has amassed $588.7 million worldwide, with $337.1 million from the domestic market and $251.7 million internationally. Its availability on VOD comes amidst strong box office performance and expands the film’s audience reach.
Impact of the Early Digital Release on Superman’s Performance
Superman’s move to digital platforms so soon creates an unusual dynamic, as it still ranks among the top ten films in theaters as of mid-August 2025. This shift was unplanned, and director James Gunn has expressed disappointment about the circumstances that led to the early release.
In an interview with Screen Rant’s Liam Crowley, Gunn stated,
“it’s very complicated, but the truth is it is because of Peacemaker.”
He had initially expected the new season of Peacemaker to release in a way that better coordinated with Superman’s rollout, saying,
“originally thought Peacemaker was going to be coming out next month.”
Because of scheduling changes outside his influence,
“things that are beyond [Gunn’s] control,”
Peacemaker’s release was moved to August. Gunn decided to make Superman accessible on streaming platforms early to ensure,
“everyone… who wanted to see Superman that wanted to, even those people who couldn’t get to a theater before Peacemaker.”
Continuing Appeal of Superman on Digital and in Theaters
Although a longer theatrical exclusivity period might have improved box office numbers, Superman’s streaming success highlights its strong ongoing appeal. The film remains in theaters, allowing viewers who prefer the big-screen experience to attend for some time yet.
James Gunn emphasizes that Superman is not the initial installment in the DC Universe (DCU) but serves as the first theatrical film and an entry point for new fans. He also notes its connection to the upcoming second season of Peacemaker, making its availability crucial for audience understanding.
By broadening access through streaming, more viewers can engage with the film, a fact supported by its top placement on VOD charts, where it currently leads on iTunes rentals during its debut weekend, followed by Jurassic World Rebirth and Thunderbolts.
