Key Takeaways:
- James Gunn suggests global anti-U.S. sentiment is hurting Superman’s overseas box office.
- The film thrives domestically ($253M) but lags internationally ($173M), despite strong reviews.
- Gunn remains hopeful, citing improving numbers in markets like Brazil and the U.K.
Superman’s Global Struggle: James Gunn Points to Anti-U.S. Sentiment
James Gunn’s Superman reboot has soared in American theaters, but its international performance tells a different story. While the DC film has raked in a solid $253 million domestically, its global earnings—around $173 million—pale in comparison. Now, Gunn is weighing in on why the Man of Steel isn’t resonating overseas, and his theory ties back to politics.
In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, Gunn acknowledged that Superman simply isn’t as iconic as Batman in many countries. But he also pointed to a broader issue: a wave of anti-American sentiment that may be dampening enthusiasm for the film.
“We have a certain amount of anti-American sentiment around the world right now. It isn’t really helping us,” Gunn admitted.
The Trump Factor?
While Gunn didn’t directly name Donald Trump, the timing raises questions. Since the former president’s return to the White House, Pew Research reports a noticeable decline in global favorability toward the U.S., driven by controversial trade policies and diplomatic withdrawals. Could this political climate be affecting moviegoers’ willingness to embrace an all-American hero?
The film itself has been well-received critically, with standout performances from Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Yet, the absence of Henry Cavill—a fan-favorite Superman—may have also contributed to slower international adoption. Gunn’s gamble on newcomer David Corenswet was a bold move, but global audiences haven’t fully bought in.
Gunn Stays Optimistic
Despite the challenges, Gunn remains hopeful. The film is holding steady against competitors like Fantastic Four, and weekday numbers show promise. “Word of mouth is working,” he noted, highlighting stronger performances in markets like Brazil and the U.K.
For now, the question remains: Can Superman overcome real-world politics to become a true global hero? Gunn’s next moves—both in storytelling and franchise strategy—may hold the answer.
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