In an era where superhero films are weighed down by moral ambiguity and apocalyptic stakes, James Gunn’s “Superman” stands as a breath of fresh air—if not a full-blown gust. This newest take on the Man of Steel doesn’t attempt to redefine the character as much as it tries to restore him. Gunn has purposefully swerved away from the grim and brooding legacy of recent comic book cinema to bring audiences a version of Superman that feels familiar, hopeful, and even comforting. But does familiarity breed greatness, or does it merely hover over nostalgia?
A Superman in His Mid-Twenties
David Corenswet’s Superman is not a world-weary savior or a hardened moral philosopher. He’s a young, optimistic alien still exploring what it means to be Earth’s protector. Gone is the emotionally tormented Superman played by Henry Cavill; in his place is a lighter, more traditional version, one that echoes the early comic book incarnations of the character. Gunn makes no secret of his intent to bring Superman back to his comic book roots—right down to the return of the classic red trunks.
Set three years into Superman’s career, this is no origin story. Clark Kent is already balancing his dual identity as a mild-mannered journalist at The Daily Planet and the world’s most powerful superhero. But his biggest challenge comes in the form of Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult. This Luthor isn’t just a villain hellbent on destruction; he’s a xenophobic tech billionaire who sees Superman as an existential threat to human superiority.
A Visual Spectacle with Comic Book Energy
Visually, “Superman” is a stunner. Gunn leans into the comic book aesthetic with saturated colors, classic costume designs, and immersive action sequences. Watching Superman glide through the skies or shield innocents from destruction is a visual delight—particularly in IMAX. One scene where he slow-mo flies in to protect a young girl from an explosion is almost poetic in execution. The special effects are top-notch, the sound design precise, and the film’s action set pieces land with crisp impact.
However, these visuals don’t always carry the emotional weight they should. The emotional foundation of the film feels more like a sketch than a fully realized portrait. While the film is packed with action and humor, the deeper relationships—like Clark’s with Lois Lane, or Superman’s inner struggle—are hinted at rather than explored.
Not an Origin Story, But a Snapshot
Gunn’s storytelling approach is best described as a “day in the life” of Superman rather than a sweeping epic. It’s a brave choice, particularly for a film that aims to introduce a younger generation to the character while also resetting the DC Universe. In a time when most superhero films are two-and-a-half-hour battles of ideology, Gunn delivers a two-hour, ten-minute narrative that aims for charm over complexity.
This stripped-down approach offers simplicity and clarity, but it also risks glossing over richer story arcs. Characters often come and go without much development. For instance, Lex Luthor’s motivations, while intriguing, don’t get the screen time they deserve. Hoult gives a powerful, simmering performance—calculating, cold, and undeniably human. His Lex is not just envious of Superman’s powers; he genuinely fears what the alien represents. Yet the film rushes through the arc, missing the chance to turn their conflict into something truly memorable.
The Emotional Core That Could Have Been
Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is sharp, witty, and undeniably charismatic. Her chemistry with Corenswet is electric in the few scenes they share, making you wish for more interactions between them. Their romantic tension, tinged with professional rivalry, has the makings of a captivating subplot, but it often takes a back seat to the film’s lighter moments and rapid pacing.
Clark’s internal journey, too, remains somewhat shallow. He’s a symbol of unwavering optimism, which is refreshing, but also somewhat limiting. The character rarely questions his path, which makes for a clean narrative but not a particularly complex one. Superman trusts everyone. He believes in the good of mankind. That’s admirable, but when those ideals are challenged—especially by someone like Luthor—the film doesn’t linger long enough to examine how those beliefs hold up under pressure.
Humor, Cameos, and Clever Commentary
Despite its thematic simplicity, the film isn’t devoid of clever commentary. Gunn slips in a few satirical jabs—particularly at social media trolls who target Superman, calling him “Supershit” online. There’s also a delightful cameo by the Justice Gang, led by Nathan Fillion’s Green Lantern, who brings some of the film’s funniest moments. Krypto the Superdog, another unexpected but welcome addition, adds levity and heart.
Yet, this levity can sometimes undermine the film’s tone. The attempt to balance childlike optimism with poignant drama occasionally results in tonal inconsistency. There are moments where the film teeters on emotional depth but pulls back, opting instead for visual spectacle or quick laughs. This isn’t necessarily a flaw if viewed through the lens of classic comic book storytelling, but in a modern cinematic landscape hungry for depth and nuance, it feels like a missed opportunity.
Performances That Ground the Spectacle
Corenswet’s performance is earnest and refreshing. He doesn’t try to emulate the stoicism of previous Supermen. Instead, he brings youthful energy, vulnerability, and a dash of cocky charm. His Clark Kent is flirtatious and awkward in all the right ways, while his Superman is heroic without being self-important. He’s not trying to be everything to everyone; he’s simply trying to do the right thing.
Hoult’s Lex Luthor is perhaps the most grounded character in the film. Unlike previous portrayals that lean into caricature, Hoult brings subtlety and realism to the role. His hatred for Superman feels deeply personal and disturbingly rational. The character’s presence raises important questions about power, fear, and what it means to be human. But, again, the film rushes through these complexities, keeping Luthor’s development constrained.
Brosnahan, as Lois Lane, is a force. She’s sharp-tongued, relentless, and emotionally nuanced. In the rare moments the script allows, she humanizes Superman in ways no action scene ever could. She’s not just a love interest; she’s a reflection of what Superman strives to protect.
A Return to Hope, With Room to Grow
James Gunn set out to bring back the optimism that originally defined Superman. He succeeds in that mission, offering a Man of Steel who inspires rather than intimidates. His Superman isn’t a god among men but a hopeful figure navigating a complex world. However, in reestablishing that lightness, the film sacrifices emotional richness.
This new Superman is a welcome antidote to the darkness that has overshadowed recent DC films. But by avoiding risk, it also avoids the kind of emotional and narrative depth that made its predecessors—however controversial—so impactful. The film’s editing is choppy at times, scenes cut short before they can reach their emotional payoff. Characters appear, disappear, and are rarely given the time to resonate. This results in a story that entertains but doesn’t always move.
Despite these limitations, the film deserves recognition for what it accomplishes—a visual celebration of one of the most iconic superheroes ever created. It lays the groundwork for what could become a truly compelling franchise, should future installments delve deeper into the emotional and philosophical layers that were only lightly brushed here.
Superman’s legacy is one of resilience, hope, and moral clarity. Gunn has embraced these values with confidence, giving fans a version of the hero that feels both nostalgic and new. Even if the emotional stakes are mild, the heart is in the right place.
For a film designed to reset the DC cinematic universe, “Superman” is a safe but heartfelt start—soaring high in visual style, even if its emotional wings aren’t fully extended.
Learn More:
dekipnic
how welcituloticz discovered
lill94m-plor4d85
fintechzoom .com
