Warner Bros.’ “ Superman ” debuted atop the U.K. and Ireland box office with £6.9 million ($9.4 million), according to Comscore.

We’ve had a lot of ‘Super’ in Superman over the years, and I’m happy to have made a movie that focuses on the ‘man’ part of the equation – a kind person always looking out for those in need. That that resonates so powerfully with so many people across the world is in itself a hopeful testament to the kindness and quality of human beings.

"Superman" is well-liked and should play for weeks in the U.S., but DC's path back to tentpole powerhouse status will take time.