James Gunn's Superman debuts this week on HBO Max

In the United States, the highly anticipated film directed by James Gunn, Superman, will be available for streaming on HBO Max starting Friday, September 16, 2025. This marks a significant event for fans of the DC cinematic universe, as the movie has garnered considerable attention for its controversial themes and choices in recasting the lead role. David Corenswet stars as Superman/Clark Kent, while Rachel Brosnahan and Nicholas Hoult take on the roles of Lois Lane and Lex Luthor, respectively. The film has been accessible on Video on Demand (VOD) for several weeks prior, but now its streaming debut offers an opportunity for a wider audience to engage with the film without any additional rental costs, aside from an HBO Max subscription. This release coincides with the film's premiere on the HBO cable channel the following day, adding to the excitement surrounding its reception by cinema-goers and streaming audiences alike. Criticism surrounding the film has been notable, particularly among fans who preferred the previous Superman portrayed by Henry Cavill, as well as those who hold a fondness for Zack Snyder’s vision of the character. While some critics have expressed disappointment with elements of the movie, others have embraced the new direction under Gunn's vision. The recasting of Superman has been seen as a bold move, leading to divided opinions on whether the film can successfully revive interest in the DC franchise. Gunn, known for his successful works such as Peacemaker and Guardians of the Galaxy, faces mixed expectations as fans approach the streaming release of this new rendition. Additionally, insiders have confirmed that a sequel to Superman, titled Man of Tomorrow, is slated to be released on July 9, 2027. This sequel aims to build on the foundation laid by the first film, though there are already apprehensions about the direction it might take, especially with Gunn at the helm once again. Despite the lukewarm responses, the continuation of the franchise suggests that there is still considerable investment in developing the DC cinematic universe, even as debates ignited by the latest film continue to unfold within fan communities and among movie critics. As the release date approaches, there is a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding both the film’s debut on streaming platforms and its subsequent television airing. This coupling of releases highlights the evolving landscape of film distribution, where traditional methods intersect with modern streaming experiences, and audiences are left to navigate the varying opinions on what constitutes excellence in superhero filmmaking today. The film's release is expected to stir renewed discussions and debates among fans, reflecting the ongoing evolution and challenges faced by major cinematic franchises in capturing audience loyalty and engagement in an increasingly competitive market.