From Collider · Chris McPherson · · 3m
James Gunn's R-Rated 'Superman' Movie Finds New Home on Peacock
James Gunn's dark superhero horror 'Brightburn' officially launches on Peacock October 1, 2026.
In brief
James Gunn's dark superhero horror 'Brightburn' officially launches on Peacock October 1, 2026. James Gunn's 'Brightburn' movie, a horror-tinged take on Superman, begins streaming on Peacock in the U.S. on October 1, 2026. Originally reported by Collider.
Brightburn's Streaming Debut
James Gunn's horror-tinged superhero film Brightburn has officially landed on Peacock in the United States for streaming on October 1, 2026.
Brightburn's Origin Story
Brightburn reimagines Superman's origin as a violent, murderous child who grows up to become a predator in rural Kansas after his parents' infertility struggles.
Brandon Breyer's Transformation
Brandon Breyer, played by Jackson A. Dunn, begins acting on his violent urges as he nears puberty, turning from a bright, curious child into a vicious predator.
Key Cast Members
The film stars Jackson A. Dunn as Brandon Breyer, Matt Jones as Noah McNichol, Meredith Hagner as Merilee McNichol, Emmie Hunter as Caitlyn Connor, and Becky Wahlstrom as Erica Connor.
Critical Reception
Brightburn holds a 57% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes with an audience score of 67%, produced on a modest budget between $6 million and $12 million.
Box Office Performance
The film earned approximately $33 million worldwide, a profitable return for its modest production budget.
Streaming Release Details
Brightburn began streaming on Peacock in the United States on October 1, 2026, following its May 24, 2019 release date.
Production Background
Brightburn was developed by James Gunn years before he took on the Man of Steel for himself, reimagining Superman's origin as a horror story.
Taylor Sheridan Quiz
The article includes a quiz about Taylor Sheridan's universe, with options for Yellowstone, Landman, Tulsa King, and Mayor of Kingstown.
Critical Analysis
Critics were split on whether Brightburn's slasher approach to Superman's origin was enough to sustain a full feature film.
Box Office Comparison
Brightburn earned $33 million worldwide on a modest budget of $6-12 million, making it a profitable superhero horror hybrid.
Streaming Platform
Peacock, the streaming service, officially launched Brightburn in the United States on October 1, 2026, after its May 24, 2019 release.
Director and Writers
David Yarovesky directed Brightburn, with Mark Gunn and Brian Gunn writing the film.
Release Date
Brightburn premiered on May 24, 2019, and began streaming on Peacock in the United States on October 1, 2026.
Streaming Platform Details
Brightburn is available on Peacock in the United States for streaming starting October 1, 2026, with a runtime of 90 minutes.
What Happens Next
Brightburn's release on Peacock follows Gunn's upcoming DC Universe projects, positioning it as a dark alternative to his current superhero films.
The essence
James Gunn's 'Brightburn' movie, a horror-tinged take on Superman, begins streaming on Peacock in the U.S. on October 1, 2026.
