James Gunn blames anti-American sentiment for Superman's poor overseas performance
- James Gunn acknowledged that Superman performed better domestically than internationally.
- He stated that anti-American sentiment might affect how audiences perceive the film overseas.
- As a result, the film's international performance is significantly lagging behind its U.S. success.
In recent analysis, James Gunn, the director of Superman, attributed the film's underwhelming overseas performance to prevailing anti-American sentiment across the globe. The film debuted as the third-highest opening weekend in the U.S. for the year 2025, earning $125 million, while its international gross reached only about $95 million during the same weekend, as per Box Office Mojo. Gunn noted that the lack of familiarity with Superman in certain regions, compared to more popular heroes like Batman, likely contributed to the disappointing international sales. He acknowledged that Superman has lesser recognition in some markets, impacting audience appeal, and highlighted notable performances in Brazil and the UK, with rising attendance in other areas attributed to positive word of mouth. The context surrounding Superman's overseas performance has sparked discussions on the influence of political sentiments on global viewership. Gunn mentioned this factor while addressing concerns about potential backlash his film might face due to perceived political messages intertwined within its narrative. Prior to the release, Gunn's remarks on the film's thematic elements, especially those touching on immigration and kindness—the core attributes often related to American ideals—fell under scrutiny as he attempted to navigate the political landscape while promoting his work. Further complicating the narrative, critics pointed out the contrasting success of other American films like Jurassic World: Rebirth and Lilo & Stitch, both of which grossed substantial amounts overseas shortly before and after Superman's release. This comparison raised questions regarding storytelling effectiveness, with some observers arguing that Superman lacked the familiar essence associated with the character that audiences expect. Critics have expressed concerns over how the character was portrayed, arguing that different interpretations could alienate potential fans, especially those who might support the film's political undertones. The lack of successful overseas earnings raises concerns for the film's profitability, reflecting a complex interplay between storytelling, character representation, and cultural reception, ultimately challenging the saturation of political narratives in popular media. In summary, Gunn's reflections tap into a broader discourse on American cinematic themes and their resonance with international audiences. Balancing creative expression with audience expectations poses a challenge for filmmakers operating within a politically charged climate. As the industry shifts focus into the future, questions lingering around the model of superhero narratives, audience engagement, and cultural perceptions will undoubtedly influence upcoming releases and their market strategies.