Spider-Man's Success Shows the Power of Human Stories

When Superheroes Become Human

At the Lumière Summit in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Tom Rothman took a well-deserved victory lap following the phenomenal success of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which has now become the highest-grossing film of 2026. But Rothman's celebration was more than just about box office numbers — it was about storytelling at its most honest and relatable.

"First of all, I can't be wrong all the time. It's against the law of averages,"

Rothman joked, but there was serious truth behind his humor. The success of Brand New Day, which has grossed an impressive $2.4 billion globally, speaks volumes about what audiences crave in today's cinematic landscape: a story that resonates with the heart, not just the eyes.

The Secret Ingredient

Rothman didn't mince words when explaining the film's massive appeal. He described Spider-Man: Brand New Day as a 'super-person' film rather than a typical superhero flick. The secret ingredient, he said, isn't all the flashy action and special effects — it's the emotional depth and human relatability that makes audiences connect.

"It's not so much a superhero film, but 'super-person' film," Rothman explained. "The reason that movie has resonated all around the world is because it's about a lonely guy… It's like yeah, it's about friendship. It's very human. It's very emotional."

This is exactly what makes Spider-Man: Brand New Day stand out in an era where audiences are often skeptical of the genre. The film doesn't just save the world — it helps us understand ourselves.

A Cultural Moment

Rothman's remarks came at a time when Hollywood is re-evaluating its approach to blockbuster films. He referenced the opening session of the Lumière Summit, where French President Emmanuel Macron and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung unveiled a $1.16 billion partnership in the entertainment industry. The event was punctuated by the presence of George Clooney, who, in Rothman's words, was the 'president of Hollywood.'

"This summer, movies were cool," Rothman observed. "They became cultural again… because they were culturally significant." It's a reminder that when stories are crafted with emotional truth and artistic integrity, they have the power to resonate beyond borders.

Outbid for a Horror Hit

But the conversation wasn't just about success — it was also about missed opportunities. Rothman mentioned how Sony Pictures was outbid by Universal for Obsession, a low-budget horror film that has made nearly $510 million at the box office. "I was outraged," he joked, adding, "but I would like to have that moment back. I congratulate the worthy opposition."

The film's success shows that there is still a hunger for quality storytelling, even in genres that are often dismissed as low-budget or niche. It's a powerful reminder that young audiences aren't disinterested in cinema — they're selective.

Universal Themes from Specific Stories

Speaking of global appeal, Rothman highlighted the importance of specificity in creating universally resonant content. "Specificity leads to universality," he said, drawing on his experience building Sony's international success.

His point is clear: when a story is grounded in a specific place or time, it often becomes more relatable to audiences across cultures. Consider Sony's Japanese anime business — a niche market that has thrived because the stories are deeply rooted in cultural specificity yet speak to universal experiences.

This philosophy isn't limited to animation; it extends to everything from Parasite to Everything Everywhere All at Once, films that have found global success by being both deeply personal and broadly human.

Stories as Cultural Heritage

Rothman concluded his remarks with a powerful note on the role of storytelling in culture. "Stories are the things that… become our cultural heritage," he said. This isn't just a statement about entertainment — it's a declaration of cinema's responsibility to reflect and shape the human experience.

As studios continue to chase box office numbers and franchises, Spider-Man: Brand New Day proves that audiences are still hungry for stories that touch the heart. It's not just a superhero film; it's a deeply emotional journey that reminds us of our shared humanity.