‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Just Set a New Box Office Record, Beating ‘Superman’

“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is the latest superhero movie to hit theatres following the 2025 version of “Superman.” The new “Fantastic Four” movie has garnered strong movie reviews from critics and has now set a new box office record this year regarding Thursday night previews.

According to Variety, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” earned an impressive $24.4 million in previews for the night of July 24. This is now the highest opening of the year. Notably, the 2025 version of “Superman” previously came out on top with $22.5 million. 

‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Will Debut at Number One Thanks To Positive Movie Reviews

Of course, a movie doing well with Thursday night previews doesn’t always equate to success for the rest of the weekend. However, the new “Fantastic Four” movie is on pace to debut at number one. Naturally, this would put it ahead of “Superman” for the weekend, which is no shock as it’s a new movie.

Variety reports that “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” could earn between $100 and $110 million at the US box office for the weekend. However, there is a strong belief across the industry that the movie could earn even more than that in its initial weekend of release. 

Regarding overseas box office, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is expected to bring in $90 to $100 million. If true, this would result in a global box office between $190 and $210 million. For context, “Superman” made $125 domestically and $220 worldwide. In other words, the new “Fantastic Four” movie is unlikely to outperform “Superman” in terms of its opening weekend. 

People Are Enjoying the New Film

As mentioned, movie reviews for “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” are strong. It currently holds an 89 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on its critical reviews. Audiences have given it an impressive 92 percent score. 

One reviewer, Kyle Smith, said, “In getting back to basics, “First Steps” proves to be easily the best superhero movie of the year.” Another reviewer said, “The MCU has learned from its mistakes and made a blockbuster that lives in the moment, rather than being a trailer for the next instalment… the most thrilling superhero movie in a long time.”

For comparison, “Superman” currently sits at an 84 percent from critics. Audiences have given it a 92 percent. However, “Superman” has more reviews, which is one reason its critical score is a bit lower. Of course, both are certified fresh on the platform.

“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” stars Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach.