ICYMI: “Wonder Woman” Just Blew Past Sexist Expectations

“Wonder Woman” generated approximately $100.5 million at North American theatres this past weekend, according to comScore. The turnout was split almost equally between women and men, and the outcome was “Wonder Woman” becoming the biggest blockbuster directed by a woman. Hell, yes!

Feminists everywhere are rejoicing director Patty Jenkins and Gal Gadot’s opening weekend success because it took 75 years for “Wonder Woman” to make it to the big screen, despite her being the world’s most famous female superhero. The wait for Wonder Woman to get a seat at the superhero table (full of male superheroes) has been way too long, and it’s taken way too long for women directors to get the chance to make superhero films too. These things considered, women in film have just enjoyed a joyous weekend in Hollywood.

Female directors accounted for just 9 percent of the 250 top-grossing movies in North America in 2015 and only 7 percent in 2016. Jenkins, who previously directed 2003’s “Monster” starring Charlize Theron, now holds the record for biggest domestic opening for a female director.

“It shows that superhero movies aren’t just about men. They’re about women as well,” said Jeff Goldstein, distribution chief for Warner Bros. “All the noise about Patty Jenkins breaking the glass ceiling for directors, I think that added to it as well.”

“Wonder Woman” represents a turning point for Warner Bros. and DC Comics, which have together struggled in recent years to match the Marvel-Disney juggernaut. While “Wonder Woman” didn’t match the box-office might of “Batman v. Superman” (a $166 million opening) or “Suicide Squad” ($133.7 million), it was much better received than those roundly derided releases.

“This is a dramatic step in the right direction,” Goldstein said. “We’ve heard fans. We’ve heard critics. These properties are very complicated and beloved. To get it right, it takes a lot of work. I think on this movie, all of us got it right.”

“We’re all pretty giddy,” Mr. Goldstein said.