Superman second weekend holds strong with 54 percent drop, eyes $400 million global milestone

DC Studios’ Superman continues to perform steadily at the box office, with a modest 54% drop in its second weekend. ComicBookMovie.com reports the reboot is on track to earn $57 million domestically this weekend, bringing its U.S. total to $235 million.

In comparison, 2013’s Man of Steel dropped 65% in its second weekend, grossing $41 million for a total of $210 million. While Superman isn’t dramatically ahead, it signals encouraging interest in the DC Universe’s relaunch.

Internationally, Superman has collected $142.8 million through Friday, lifting its worldwide total to $337.2 million. With momentum still building, the film is expected to surpass the $400 million mark globally by Sunday.

However, with The Fantastic Four: First Steps set to debut soon, Superman could face a tougher road ahead. Projections suggest the film might conclude its run between $550 million and $650 million — a range that may just allow it to break even, given its estimated $300 million production and marketing budget.

Director James Gunn has acknowledged the pressure on the film, but remains optimistic. “They hear these numbers that the movie’s only going to be successful if it makes $700 million or something and it’s just complete and utter nonsense,” he recently said. “It doesn’t need to be as big of a situation as people are saying.”

Despite its financial challenges, Superman has garnered critical praise. “Superman is an indescribable joy,” said ComicBookMovie.com. “A beautiful, moving thrill... David Corenswet is the perfect Man of Steel.”

The cast includes Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, Edi Gathegi, and others, under Gunn’s direction. With strong word-of-mouth and solid week-to-week performance, Superman remains a bright spot for the DCU.

Superman is currently playing in theaters worldwide.