The simple and accurate answer is that the general audience does not care much about Fantastic Four, and they have to fight an uphill battle for relevance. No amount of positive reviews or post-credit teases is enough to overcome that. Meanwhile, Superman is DC’s flagship hero and one of the most well-known and admired characters in general.

DC's "Superman" previously held the record for highest box office sales in Thursday night previews for 2025, with $22.5 million. Now, Marvel is reporting "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" sped past that figure, earning $24.4 million in Thursday previews.