James Gunn is feeling “incredibly grateful” for the initial box office success of Superman and the positive reception from audiences. The filmmaker and co-head of DC Studios took to Threads on Sunday to express his appreciation after the superhero blockbuster saw an estimated global debut of $217 million .

Superman hit the big screen on July 11 with all the power of a Kryptonian smashing through a Metropolis high-rise. The film is a reboot from director James Gunn, who directed the Guardians of the Galaxy series.

The influence of Donner’s film is clearly seen in Gunn’s new project, from the John Williams-inspired musical score to the lighthearted tone to the crystalline design of the Fortress of Solitude. This new movie had some big red shoes to fill after the example set by Superman: The Movie,

Superman” opened with $122 million in U.S. and Canada ticket sales over the weekend, according to studio estimates Sunday.

In a bid to kickoff a new era for DC Studios, James Gunn’s “Superman” opened with $122 million in U.S. and Canada ticket sales over the weekend, according to studio estimates Sunday.