'Superman Returns' But Fans Don't

The much anticipated 'Superman Returns' opening was shorter than hoped and the numbers at the North American box office are less than stellar.  The 'Man of Steel' is back - but fans are not - at least at theaters.

'Superman Returns' (Image: Warner Brothers)

Fox News Roger Friedman details the 'Superman Returns' struggles:

The $300 million extravaganza has earned only $48 million since opening with sneak previews on Tuesday night.

What's even more alarming for Warner Bros is that the take for the last two days rather than increasing has dropped. This may mean that word of mouth is not positive.

The three full days of release are now $21 million, $11 million and $16 million.

At this rate "Superman Returns" will be lucky to clear $100 million by the end of the holiday weekend.

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I'm guessing that's not what Warner Bros. had in mind. 

If it is a $300 million extravaganza as Friedman suggests and coming up next week is the daunting Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, there could be trouble for Superman's numbers.

I opined earlier that the weekend numbers should be something to watch and hoped the 'Man of Steel' could pull it off.

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It looks like I'll be disappointed.  The film is an easy number one for the weekend - but far from a blockbuster.

--Cris Bergman