The resounding success of James Gunn’s Superman has increased viewership mᴀssively for a DC movie, making it at least twelve times as popular on streaming platforms. James Gunn’s Superman has more than exceeded expectations, with rapidly increasing box office numbers and raving reviews from critics and general audiences alike. Superman raises anticipation not only for the upcoming Peacemaker season 2 and Supergirl, but also for the rest of the franchise.

As reported by ᴅᴇᴀᴅline, streaming statistics for the 2024 documentary Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story increased 1,206% since the release of James Gunn’s Superman. Richard Donner’s Superman: The Movie, starring Christopher Reeve, also saw a 332% increase in views on streaming platforms. And even though John Cena’s Chris Smith only made a cameo in Superman, Peacemaker season 1’s views also went up 91% within a week.

What DC’s Streaming Success Means

The DCU Is Off To A Great Start

Superman‘s box office numbers and reviews are direct proof of its quality, but the fact that Superman‘s overwhelmingly positive reception also increased interest in other DC projects, even those not directly related to James Gunn’s flourishing franchise, is an even clearer sign that Superman is a hit with audiences. Despite the DCEU’s controversial ending and immediate reboot, the DCU is starting to recover goodwill right from the beginning.

Previously, movies like The Flash and Wonder Woman 1984 cast a shadow over their respective heroes. Despite being some of the most famous comic book characters of all time, interest in the Flash and Wonder Woman waned. Even though a character or a franchise’s brand can help leverage audience interest, quality is a top priority, and James Gunn’s Superman proves both quality and consistency is key to a franchise’s success.

Our Take On DC’s Streaming Success

DC Studios Needs To Build Upon Superman’s Resounding Success

Superman‘s effect on previous movies and shows’ streaming popularity shows the potential of a unified franchise. The DCU only includes two projects so far, but in the future, a consistent streak of critical and commercial hits can continue to improve the brand’s popularity as a whole. Despite their different tone and style, and despite the standalone nature of many of the franchise’s installments, each DCU success can influence the others positively.

The DCU doesn’t need to be as explicitly interconnected as the DCEU and the MCU. Some тιтles could be narratively detached from others and still exist within the DCU’s main continuity. Yet, audiences will certainly be interested in watching them and enjoying them on their own. Elseworlds projects like Matt Reeves’ The Batman franchise can also coexist with the DCU. Their box office success and overall positive reception can also be a good sign for the DC Universe.

Source: ᴅᴇᴀᴅline