Superman Box Office Soars with $115M Opening

Warner Bros.' "Superman" has exceeded expectations, earning $55M on its first day, including $22.5M in previews, with a projected weekend total of $115M-$120M, thanks to its positive word of mouth and massive social media presence.

The film's success is a significant boost for Warner Bros., which has struggled in recent years, and is seen as a crucial step in reviving the DC Universe franchise. Director James Gunn's focus on human kindness has resonated with audiences, with 95% recommending the film on Rotten Tomatoes. The movie's star-studded cast, including David Corenswet as Superman/Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, has also contributed to its success.

The film's opening weekend is expected to be one of the highest of the year, with some projections reaching $140M-$150M. This is a significant milestone for the DC Universe franchise, which has been overshadowed by Disney's Marvel Cinematic Universe in recent years. Warner Bros. has invested heavily in the film, hoping it will help the franchise catch up with its rival.

Despite facing criticism, including a right-wing backlash to Gunn's comments on Superman's immigrant character, the film's early buzz has been positive. Gunn has shrugged off the criticism, stating that Superman is the "story of America" and that the film is needed now. The film's success will be crucial in determining the future of the DC Universe franchise.

As the superhero genre continues to evolve, the success of "Superman" will be closely watched by industry analysts and fans alike. With its positive word of mouth and massive social media presence, the film is poised to make a significant impact on the box office and the future of the DC Universe franchise.