Hold onto your capes, because James Gunn's "Superman" is making a spectacular debut at the box office! This highly-anticipated superhero film from DC Studios and Warner Bros. is projected to dominate Friday’s box office with a staggering $55 million haul, boosted by a record-setting $22.5 million from Thursday previews and exclusive IMAX previews earlier in the week.

Despite the hype, the film’s opening weekend predictions have been a rollercoaster ride. Initially, Hollywood insiders speculated it could open at around $130 million, while Warner Bros. took a more conservative stance, hinting at a $100 million debut.

Now, it seems the real figure will land between $115 million and $120 million – still a major achievement, especially considering the superhero genre's recent struggles. If walk-up ticket sales are as strong as anticipated, this could change in a heartbeat!

The buzz surrounding "Superman" is palpable, even catching the eye of former President Donald Trump, who humorously declared himself the new Man of Steel online. Though it may not set the domestic box office ablaze like some earlier films, this marks a compelling new chapter for Gunn and the revamped DC Studios, which he co-leads with Peter Safran.

If "Superman" crosses that crucial $100 million mark, it will be a monumental moment for the franchise. It's the first superhero film to achieve this since Marvel's "Deadpool & Wolverine" raked in $211 million in the summer of 2024 and marks the first time a DC film has crossed the threshold since 2017's "Wonder Woman," which debuted with $103.3 million.

Adding to the excitement, it's only the third film of 2025 to open over $100 million, following hits like "A Minecraft Movie" and "Lilo & Stitch." This weekend’s competition is fierce, with the likes of "Jurassic World Rebirth" still raking in cash and projected to earn $37 million in its second weekend.

Gunn, recognized for his previous work on Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy" franchise, is experiencing a career-best with the $22.5 million preview gross. His top domestic opening remains the second "Guardians" film at $146.5 million, a record likely not adjusted for inflation.

In a fascinating twist, Gunn wears two hats as both the writer-director of the film and the co-head of DC Studios, overseeing projects that will continue to reshape the superhero landscape, including the anticipated "Green Lantern" series and a "Supergirl" movie set for release in 2026.

The star-studded cast features David Corenswet as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, among others. Fans and newcomers alike are eager to see what this dynamic team has delivered.

With so much riding on "Superman," there's no doubt that audiences are ready to embrace it. Can it rise to the occasion and redefine the superhero genre for 2025? Only time will tell!