Lanterns Is DC’s Comeback Story: How the HBO Max Hit Could Offset Supergirl’s Box Office Flop

Just when the DCU needed a win, Lanterns showed up. After Supergirl disappointed in theaters, the HBO Max series has become DC Studios’ biggest streaming debut yet. Here’s the full story, from the DC desk at Technosports.

Supergirl’s Stumble, Lanterns’ Surge

Supergirl arrived to weak reviews and became a major box office disappointment, reportedly barely passing $125 million. It followed the hit Superman, which made the dip feel sharper. Asked about the added pressure on Lanterns, showrunner Chris Mundy said every release carries pressure, and he gave it his best regardless. He added that on the business side, executives are probably more eager for Lanterns to succeed. That’s a candid admission, and it fits the situation.

Lanterns: The Numbers Tell the Story

That makes it the biggest debut ever for a DC Studios show, and it did so despite reported review-bombing. Critics have also been positive.

What’s Next for DC?

The next test is Clayface, a body-horror film reportedly made on a modest $40 million budget. Horror has been a hot genre, so even a Supergirl-sized gross could still earn a profit. It’s also expected to offer the DCU’s first real look at Gotham. If Clayface does well and Man of Tomorrow delivers in July 2027, confidence in DC’s long-term plan should grow.

Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav has said the company won’t change its long-term strategy, and rumors suggest Paramount plans to keep James Gunn and Peter Safran in charge. For more, browse our DCU coverage.

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