James Gunn Says “Anti-American Sentiment” Is Hurting Superman At The Global Box Office

Director James Gunn shares insights on Superman’s box office journey and its pivotal role in the DCU reboot.

James Gunn, the creative force behind the new Superman film, recently opened up about its performance at the box office, highlighting a contrast between its domestic and international reception. While the movie is thriving in the U.S., its global performance is growing steadily, with strong weekday numbers signaling positive word-of-mouth.

“We’re doing fantastic domestically, and internationally, we’re seeing growth too, with solid weekday turnout,” Gunn shared. “The positive buzz is exactly what we aimed for.”

Certain markets, like Brazil and the UK, are embracing the Man of Steel with enthusiasm. However, Gunn noted that Superman isn’t as universally recognized as, say, Batman in some regions, which poses a challenge. Additionally, he pointed to a broader issue: a wave of anti-American sentiment globally, which may be impacting the film’s international draw.

This sentiment echoes concerns raised by industry leaders. Jackie Filla, president of the Hotel Association of Los Angeles, recently told the LA Times that global perceptions of U.S. policies—such as trade tariffs and border measures—are deterring international visitors. “The world sees us as disrupting not just our economy but theirs too,” Filla explained. “It makes people hesitant to engage with American products, including films.”

Despite these hurdles, Gunn remains optimistic. “It’s about letting the film find its audience,” he said. “For us, this is a win. The way people have embraced Superman worldwide is the foundation Peter Safran and I have been building for the DCU over the past three years. Seeing it take root so positively is incredibly rewarding.”

Debunking Box Office Myths

Rumors have swirled about the financial expectations for Superman, with some online chatter suggesting it needs to gross $700 million to be deemed a success. Gunn dismissed these claims in a recent GQ profile featuring Superman star David Corenswet. “That number is pure nonsense,” Gunn said. “There’s pressure, sure, but it’s not the make-or-break scenario people are hyping it up to be.”

Gunn emphasized that the film, while important, isn’t a “sink-or-swim” moment for Warner Bros. or the DC Universe (DCU). Still, its performance carries weight as the first chapter of the rebooted DCU, spearheaded by Gunn and co-CEO Peter Safran.

A New Dawn for the DCU

Superman isn’t just another superhero flick—it’s the launchpad for an ambitious slate of DCU projects. The film sets the stage for HBO Max’s Peacemaker Season 2, followed by 2026’s Supergirl, starring Milly Alcock, and Clayface, featuring Tom Rhys Harries. A lackluster performance could cast doubt on these upcoming projects, but Gunn’s confidence suggests the DCU is on solid ground.

While Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav is likely to provide a clearer picture during an upcoming financial call, the early signs are promising. Superman is resonating with audiences, and its success could pave the way for a bold new era of DC storytelling.

For now, Gunn and his team are focused on nurturing the seeds they’ve planted. “This is just the beginning,” he said, hinting at the expansive vision he and Safran have for the DCU. If Superman’s early reception is any indication, that vision is already taking flight.