As if the summer wasn’t hot enough already, July brings a heated battle between two classic superheroes. James Gunn’s Superman: Legacy will be released July 11th, 2025. Just two weeks later, the MCU will release The Fantastic Four: First Steps. 

Both films have stellar casts, storylines, and directors. But which comic franchise will come out on top with the best box office numbers? Let’s review the buzz behind each super adaptation. Plus, we’ll show you how Streamline can catch you up on all things DC and MCU. 

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DCU’s Superman: Legacy

New Reboot, New Director

We know what you’re thinking: another Superman franchise? It wasn’t that long ago that Henry Cavill took on the coveted role of America’s original hero. Zak Snyder’s version of the DC universe earned mixed reviews, with many calling his adaptation too dark. 

This time around, James Gunn is at the helm. The visionary director earned acclaim for masterminding Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy franchise. Audiences raved about Gunn’s ability to mix humor, action, emotion, and dance-worthy music. If you watch any MCU movies post-GOTG, you’ll see his influence in a few other Marvel characters. 

A few years back, Gunn made a shocking transition from Marvel to DC by directing 2021’s The Suicide Squad. Warner Brothers Studios then hired him to be the co-head of DC Studios in 2022. This year’s Superman reboot is highly anticipated and will be a deciding factor in Gunn’s future with the DCU. 

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Who is the new Superman?

Curious who’s stepping into Clark Kent’s shoes? The iconic role of Superman is played by David Corenswet. You may recognize Corenswet from 2024’s Twisters or Netflix series like Hollywood or Lady in the Lake.

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Who else is in the cast of Superman: Legacy?

Alongside Corenswet is a star-studded cast of award-winning actors. Rachel Brosnahan takes on the role of Lois Lane, a perfect follow-up to her role as the spunky Ms. Maisel. The sinister Lex Luthor is played by Nicholas Hoult. 

Appearances from classic DC heroes are also expected in Gunn’s version of Superman. Nathan Fillion appears as Guy Gardner (AKA Green Lantern) with Isabela Merced playing Kendra Saunders (Hawkgirl). The film is also rumored to introduce Milly Alcock as Supergirl. 

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When does Superman come out? 

The new Superman film will debut in theaters on July 11th, 2025. Originally called Superman: Legacy when the projected was announced, the film is now simply titled Superman. 

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MCU’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Superman isn’t the only hero getting the reboot treatment this summer. Marvel Studios will also release a reboot of the Fantastic Four franchise with a stacked cast. The film is directed by Marvel veteran, Matt Shakman, who produced and directed WandaVision on Disney+. 

This is the third reboot of the Fantastic Four franchise over the past two decades. Fox released two films between 2005 and 2007 with a reboot in 2015. Soon after 2015’s version, the rights to the superhero family were sold to Disney. 

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Who’s in the Fantastic Four cast?

One of the draws to this marvel reboot is the acting roster. The Fantastic Four cast includes Pedro Pascal as Mr. Fantastic/Reed Richards and Vanessa Kirby as the Invisible Woman/Sue Storm. The Bear’s Ebon Moss-Bachrach plays The Thing/Ben Grimm with Stranger Things’ Joseph Quinn as Human Torch/Johnny Storm. 

Ozark’s Julia Garner will be playing the Silver Surfer. Robert Downey, Jr. is also suspected to make an appearance in the film, returning to the MCU as Dr. Doom. 

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When does Fantastic Four come out?

Marvel summer is already in full swing with Ironheart debuting on Disney+. Continue the superhero chaos and see The Fantastic Four: First Steps in theaters on July 25, 2025. 

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Marvel vs. DC: Who’s going to win at the box office?

Let’s talk numbers–because this summer’s superhero showdown isn’t just about storytelling. It’s also a high stakes face-off between two of the biggest players in Hollywood: Marvel Studios and DC Studios. 

So, who’s predicted to come out on top? Right now, DC is the underdog with the most to gain. Marvel currently holds the box office crown, but a Superman franchise done correctly could change everything for DC. Here are a few things to know about each film: 

• Superman is positioned to be a massive comeback for the DCU, especially with James Gunn directing. There’s a lot of pressure riding on Gunn and the cast. Will the classic American hero fall flat like previous reboots?
• The Fantastic Four: First Steps is in a similar spot, with previous reboots failing massively. But Marvel has a proven track record over the past few years of making hits. The Fantastic Four cast is enough to drive ticket sales, but will the new saga be well-reviewed?

Early predictions have Fantastic Four: First Steps edging out Superman in total box office earnings. Marvel is pulling for a wider international release that could beat out DC. But Superman could have a stronger opening weekend. Who do you predict to win the box office? 

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Why You Should Download Streamline for Superhero Summer

Okay, so you want to experience Superman and Fantastic Four in all their glory. But how can you fit two more movies in your summer watchlist? How do you know which films to prioritize? Enter Streamline: here’s why it’s your ultimate movie sidekick:

• Your Watchlist’s Personal Assistant: Instead of making lists in your notes app, add everything you want to watch to your Streamline queue. We’ll organize it for you and make a calendar-view of your watchlist. 
• Reminders & Notifications: Get notified when theater releases drop on streaming platforms. We’ll tell you where everything’s streaming and when new episodes drop. 
• AI-Driven Recommendations: Looking for more superhero streams? We’ll suggest a few new titles based on the TV shows and movies you already love. 
• Share What You Love: Streamline is your social TV guide, so share your most recent watch and what you loved (or hated) with our community. 

Whether you’re team Superman or rooting for the Fantastic Four, Streamline keeps you in the loop. Download the Streamline app today in the App Store or Google Play.