Superman's return to the big screen captured the imagination of American moviegoers, sending the superhero to the top of the box office charts with takings of $52m (£28m) over the weekend.

Superman Returns, starring Brandon Routh as the Lycra-clad saviour of the world, cost $250m and is the first Superman film since 1987. Over its opening five days it has attracted box office receipts of $84m - the highest ever for Warner Bros Pictures.

In the film, Superman struggles to rekindle his relationship with Lois Lane played by Kate Bosworth while fighting evil Lex Luther, played by Kevin Spacey.