What Does ‘Spider-Man’ Success Mean for Superhero Fatigue?

In all box office history, only eight films have achieved over $100 million in their second weekend. "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" joins that exclusive club, with its $145 million domestic haul propelling it towards becoming the first movie ever to cross $1 billion at the domestic box office before inflation adjustment. If successful, this milestone would surpass the $936 million held by "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."

The film's five-year run between installments and positive reviews contributed to its massive success, drawing attention to both Sony and Marvel Studios. However, the question remains: what does this achievement signify for the superhero genre as a whole? Marvel has faced challenges since 2024's "Deadpool & Wolverine," and the underwhelming performance of 2025's "Thunderbolts" suggests that positive reviews alone are not enough to entice audiences.

Yet, "Brand New Day" has reignited excitement among Marvel fans, as enthusiasm for the upcoming "Avengers: Doomsday" suggests. Presales for the December release are robust, and Marvel's new Gen Z "X-Men" reboot has garnered significant internet buzz. As for 2028, the real test for Marvel will be when "Black Panther 3," "Ghost Rider," and potential "X-Men" releases hit theaters.

Disney aims for a stark contrast to the disappointing line-up of 2025's "Captain America: Brave New World," "Thunderbolts," and "Fantastic Four." Non-Marvel superhero franchises also face challenges. DC's "Supergirl" faltered just weeks before "Brand New Day" soared, and while DC's "Clayface" shows promise, it is unlikely to replicate "Spider-Man" numbers.

James Gunn and Peter Safran's DC reboot faces an uncertain future with the upcoming "Man of Tomorrow" sequel. Nevertheless, "Brand New Day" is expected to continue boosting box office numbers in the coming weeks.