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The long-standing rivalry between Marvel and DC has once again leapt off comic book pages and onto the silver screen, as "Fantastic Four: First Steps" and "Superman" go head-to-head in a box office clash fit for the superhero hall of fame. While both franchises boast legendary lineups, fans are passionately choosing sides—and the competition is anything but mild-mannered.
Marvel loyalists cheered the return of fan favorites like The Thing and his signature battle cry, while DC fans soared alongside Superman and his canine companion Krypto in a cinematic spectacle that blends hope with heroics. The duel has electrified audiences at San Diego Comic-Con, with cosplayers and casual viewers alike donning capes, claws, and comic references as they declared their allegiances.
And the numbers back up the hype. "Superman," which opened globally on July 11, has already grossed $173 million internationally and $264 million domestically, cementing its status as a blockbuster. The film marks a fresh start for DC Studios under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran, with sequels and spinoffs already planned, including a "Supergirl" film in 2026.
Not to be outdone, Marvel's "Fantastic Four"—starring Pedro Pascal—opened with a robust $24.4 million in Thursday previews alone, with projections placing its opening weekend between $115 million and $135 million. According to Boxoffice executive Daniel Loria, recent surges in ticket sales may even push those figures higher, as anticipation for Marvel's new take on the classic quartet continues to grow.
Despite the rivalry, filmmakers on both sides are calling for unity. Matt Shakman, director of "Fantastic Four," celebrated the dual premieres, saying there's room in the universe for both franchises. Even Gunn, who has directed for Marvel and now leads DC, said his love for both comic book giants runs deep.
In the end, fans might not have to choose at all—except whether to see both movies twice.
