While Warner Bros. proceeds confidently with its DC Universe — an interconnected franchise of superhero films and shows — its sister platform, HBO Max, is preparing to remove one of the most inventive spins on the Superman template. The movie in question will celebrate its 15th anniversary next year, although it’s unlikely that anyone will bring much attention to it considering its tainted legacy. The film’s director and writer didn’t get along, and they’ve both had their separate downfalls over the years. However, one of the three main stars of the movie recently won the Best Actor Oscar and has emerged as a bona fide star.
The movie was released in 2012, and much like its found-footage precursor Cloverfield, became a word-of-mouth hit. It was welcomed with positive reviews and audience support, going on to gross around $125 million worldwide against a reported budget of $25 million. Following the film’s success, both the director and writer were courted by studios and given the reins for larger projects. The movie we’re talking about, of course, is Chronicle — the found footage superhero film that flips the Superman origin story on its head. It follows three young boys who gain superpowers after being exposed to a meteor. While they initially have fun discovering their powers, the corruption begins to kick in not long afterward.
Here’s How Long You Have Left To Watch ‘Chronicle’ on HBO Max
Chronicle also addresses issues such as teen bullying and mass shootings in the U.S. Directed by Josh Trank and written by Max Landis, the film featured Dane DeHaan, Alex Russell, and Michael B. Jordan. Chronicle holds a “Certified Fresh” 85% score on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, where the critics’ consensus reads, “Chronicle transcends its found-footage gimmick with a smart script, fast-paced direction, and engaging performances from the young cast.” Trank went on to direct the ill-fated Fantastic Four reboot of 2015, which he disowned a day before its release following an arduous production. The movie failed both critically and commercially. It featured Jordan as the Human Torch, a role that was previously played by Chris Evans and subsequently played by Joseph Quinn in 2025’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Jordan starred in Sinners in 2025, eventually winning the Best Actor Oscar for his dual performance. Chronicle is streaming on HBO Max, but only until May 1. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
- Release Date
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February 3, 2012
- Runtime
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84 minutes
- Director
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Josh Trank
- Writers
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Max Landis, Josh Trank
- Producers
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Adam Schroeder

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