Superman, the highly anticipated reboot of DC Comics’ beloved superhero, has taken flight at the Nigerian box office, grossing an impressive N133.7 million in its opening weekend. According to data obtained from FilmOne Entertainment and reported by Nairametrics, this debut marks the strongest opening in Nigeria so far this year, surpassing Captain America: Brave New World (N108.1 million).
The achievement is even more remarkable considering that many cinemas in Lagos—the country’s largest movie market, accounting for nearly half of national box office revenue—remained closed until late Saturday afternoon due to local elections.
A new era for Superman
Directed and written by James Gunn, Superman introduces audiences to a fresh take on Clark Kent. Set three years after Superman’s first appearance, the film explores Kent’s dual identity as a mild-mannered Metropolis reporter and the world’s most powerful protector. When his greatest nemesis, Lex Luthor, orchestrates a public smear campaign, Superman must prove his worth to a skeptical world while battling new and familiar threats.
The story, inspired by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely’s critically acclaimed All-Star Superman comic series, promises a more introspective and emotionally rich interpretation of the character.
The reboot stars David Corenswet as Superman/Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. The ensemble cast also features Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, alongside Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, and Isabela Merced.
Part of a larger DC reset
This film marks the first official entry in DC Studios’ newly minted DC Universe (DCU), specifically under “Chapter One: Gods and Monsters,” a storyline designed to reboot and unify DC’s film and television projects.
After the critical and commercial struggles of 2017’s Justice League, DC Studios underwent major restructuring. Gunn, known for revitalizing Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy and DC’s The Suicide Squad, was appointed co-CEO of DC Studios in 2022. His appointment signaled a creative shift toward character-driven narratives and a more coherent universe.
Originally envisioned as a sequel to 2013’s Man of Steel, the new film evolved into a full reboot after Gunn took over the project. The initial subtitle, Superman: Legacy, was dropped in favor of a simpler, more iconic title—Superman.
Global impact and Nigerian reception
Superman premiered globally at the iconic TCL Chinese Theater in Los Angeles on July 7 before landing in Nigerian cinemas on July 11. Globally, the film has already grossed over $220 million against its $225 million production budget and is on track to become one of the year’s major box office successes.
The film’s strong Nigerian debut highlights the country’s increasing influence in global box office dynamics. Despite periodic challenges—such as infrastructure issues and election-related disruptions—Nigeria has become a key market for Hollywood blockbusters, joining recent local successes like Avatar: The Way of Water and Jurassic World: Rebirth.
What this means for DC Studios
Gunn’s Superman isn’t just a box office success—it represents a fresh start for a franchise eager to reconnect with audiences. With its focus on character depth and moral complexity, the film sets the stage for future DCU entries, while solidifying Superman’s status as a timeless symbol of hope.
