DAVID CORENSWET as Superman in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ “SUPERMAN,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. © 2025 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC. Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio.
Superman will not please everyone. The internet is already rumbling with negative opinions of the James Gunn adaptation. The film is overstuffed, Superman is too weak, and it’s too political, mingling with a thinly veiled contempt for the movie’s lighthearted qualities. Frankly, I can’t help feeling sorry for such folks. Their point of view didn’t allow them to experience a delightful adventure.
This rendition of Superman is a solid popcorn picture through and through. While it stylistically takes a whimsical tone close to the Silver Age, the film flies around very serious themes. Some of which do echo recent modern incarnations such as Brian Azzarello’s Lex Luthor: Man of Steel as well as All-Star Superman by Grant Morrison. Overall, this allows the movie to say some important points about heroism and humanity without sacrificing any elements which make the story fun.
Writer-director James Gunn dips into nostalgia in all the best ways. Instead of baiting viewers with sentimental triggers, things like the music composed by John Williams for Richard Donner’s 1978 adaptation flavor fresh moments of fabulous superhuman splendor. Such scenes aren’t meaningless nods back, but instances where Superman does the things that make him iconic.
This rendition of Superman is a solid popcorn picture through and through. While it stylistically takes a whimsical tone close to the Silver Age, the film flies around very serious themes. Some of which do echo recent modern incarnations such as Brian Azzarello’s Lex Luthor: Man of Steel as well as All-Star Superman by Grant Morrison. Overall, this allows the movie to say some important points about heroism and humanity without sacrificing any elements which make the story fun.
Writer-director James Gunn dips into nostalgia in all the best ways. Instead of baiting viewers with sentimental triggers, things like the music composed by John Williams for Richard Donner’s 1978 adaptation flavor fresh moments of fabulous superhuman splendor. Such scenes aren’t meaningless nods back, but instances where Superman does the things that make him iconic.
DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ “SUPERMAN,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. © 2025 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
The core aim is to deliver a comic book tale that seems ripped from the pages of DC. Along the way several topics touch on very real-life current events. At risk of speculating on the minds of others, people perturbed by such moments are oddly uncomfortable with Superman being kind to others, wanting to stop a war, and embracing his reality as an adopted son of Earth (or as some might say, an immigrant).
James Gunn doesn’t deliver a brooding man of steel uncertain if he should endeavor to make the world a better place. His depiction presents a young hero struggling to live up to the ideals in his own head. And one of the fascinating ways this comes across is the storytelling in action sequences.
These segments are frequently a glorious display of CGI combat. The spectacular battles are the stuff of modern myths while remaining pleasantly inspired by comic book visual styles. Better yet, Gunn manages to give everything a coherent view. There’s no way to miss the meatier moments. Yet, the most intriguing aspects are the way characters are conveyed during these encounters.
James Gunn doesn’t deliver a brooding man of steel uncertain if he should endeavor to make the world a better place. His depiction presents a young hero struggling to live up to the ideals in his own head. And one of the fascinating ways this comes across is the storytelling in action sequences.
These segments are frequently a glorious display of CGI combat. The spectacular battles are the stuff of modern myths while remaining pleasantly inspired by comic book visual styles. Better yet, Gunn manages to give everything a coherent view. There’s no way to miss the meatier moments. Yet, the most intriguing aspects are the way characters are conveyed during these encounters.
DAVID CORENSWET as Superman in “SUPERMAN,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. © 2024 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC. Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
Nathan Fillion’s fabulous portrayal aside, Guy Gardner’s flippant attitude easily comes across in what he manifests with his Green Lantern powers. So does the image of Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) as puppet master. Moreover, the exciting action seen throughout Superman isn’t merely a display of the man of steel’s might; it frequently shows him trying to minimize damage, save others from collateral chaos, and struggling not to take the easy route—just smash things out of existence.
Therein lies the subtle genius of this depiction. Superman here isn’t weak so much as restrained. Instead of an invincible being hammering problems out of existence one punch at a time, he’s trying to be strategic to avoid hurting anyone. As such, his abilities never come across as a power fantasy, the example he sets is not one of physical strength, rather strength of character. What’s more interesting is that his way doesn’t always work out for the best. The optimistic outlook of the character is aspirational even for him. That dose of uncertainty lends an odd bit of humanity which makes this version more relatable.
It's helped by fabulous instances sprinkled throughout the film. From a kind of mock interview with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) to a heart squeezing conversation with his father Pa Kent (Pruitt Taylor Vince), Superman shows people struggling to do their best in a world without the certainty of what to do. All the while, it provides a sense that some things demand a response regardless of the backlash. That’s because the world is a dark enough place already. Our escapism doesn’t need to point towards deeper darkness. It needs to indicate the light, little as it may seem to be there.
Therein lies the subtle genius of this depiction. Superman here isn’t weak so much as restrained. Instead of an invincible being hammering problems out of existence one punch at a time, he’s trying to be strategic to avoid hurting anyone. As such, his abilities never come across as a power fantasy, the example he sets is not one of physical strength, rather strength of character. What’s more interesting is that his way doesn’t always work out for the best. The optimistic outlook of the character is aspirational even for him. That dose of uncertainty lends an odd bit of humanity which makes this version more relatable.
It's helped by fabulous instances sprinkled throughout the film. From a kind of mock interview with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) to a heart squeezing conversation with his father Pa Kent (Pruitt Taylor Vince), Superman shows people struggling to do their best in a world without the certainty of what to do. All the while, it provides a sense that some things demand a response regardless of the backlash. That’s because the world is a dark enough place already. Our escapism doesn’t need to point towards deeper darkness. It needs to indicate the light, little as it may seem to be there.
(L to r) RACHEL BROSNAHAN as Lois Lane and DAVID CORENSWET as Superman in Warner Bros. Pictures’ “SUPERMAN,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio
Peppered throughout are a variety of easter eggs. Some go by in a blink like a certain highway exit sign, and others are there for the those who have delved deep into the DC archives. While there are treats for serious comic book fans, Superman does a great job of never alienating the audience. Anyone unfamiliar with an entity or offhand reference won’t feel lost. The main narrative is straightforward enough with plenty of concise smooth expositions to keep audiences on track. In fact, a certain lack of familiarity may allow some segments to hit harder, such as… well, let’s not risk spoilers even by implication.
Still, allegations of an overstuffed movie aren’t without a small degree of merit. The Daily Planet news team is composed of several characters, many of whom barely get more than three lines in the whole picture. That isn’t to say they don’t come across, but their inclusion does feel closer to fan service than plot necessity.
Still, allegations of an overstuffed movie aren’t without a small degree of merit. The Daily Planet news team is composed of several characters, many of whom barely get more than three lines in the whole picture. That isn’t to say they don’t come across, but their inclusion does feel closer to fan service than plot necessity.
(From L-R) NATHAN FILLION as Guy Gardner, ISABELA MERCED as Hawkgirl and EDI GATHEGI as Mr. Terrific in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ “SUPERMAN,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. © 2025 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
Although, saying that brings to light another excellent aspect of Superman. Comic book movies have largely gotten away from showing ordinary people. Citizens are, at best, simply screaming mobs fleeing whatever cataclysm ensues. There’s a touch of Sam Raimi’s Spider-man (2002) featuring glimpses of ordinary people going about their lives while the story unfolds around them.
Narratively, though, every player is a piece of the puzzle. Very few individuals are thrown in casually. Each serves a purpose pushing the plot forward or fleshing out a main character depending on their individual interactions. As such, the entire story is surprisingly tight. Not to risk spoilers, but things as simple as Krypto thinking its time to play fetch, comical in a throw away moment, have a deeper impact later on.
Comedy has long been a staple of the James Gunn comic book adaptation. His humor keeps the grim moments from gaining too much weight, while the lighthearted approach allows Superman to soar overall. Disarming jocularity then permits the man of steel to be remarkably vulnerable. Consequently, the movie remains fun throughout.
The cast, of course, helps bring together this amazing mix of the mirthful alongside the mythical. Nicholas Hoult (Nosferatu) solidly presents a Lex Luthor orchestrating a nefarious plot fit for a supervillain. Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) gives Lois Lane the right bit of bite alongside her own reluctant vulnerability. Anthony Carrigan (Barry) is stupendous the short time he’s on screen, a real testament to the sharpness of the script combined with a splendid performer. David Corenswet (Twisters) delivers a remarkably relatable Superman alongside the bearing of someone pensive struggling to raise the bar for everyone. He makes the moments when Clark Kent seems to be collapsing the most effective.
Narratively, though, every player is a piece of the puzzle. Very few individuals are thrown in casually. Each serves a purpose pushing the plot forward or fleshing out a main character depending on their individual interactions. As such, the entire story is surprisingly tight. Not to risk spoilers, but things as simple as Krypto thinking its time to play fetch, comical in a throw away moment, have a deeper impact later on.
Comedy has long been a staple of the James Gunn comic book adaptation. His humor keeps the grim moments from gaining too much weight, while the lighthearted approach allows Superman to soar overall. Disarming jocularity then permits the man of steel to be remarkably vulnerable. Consequently, the movie remains fun throughout.
The cast, of course, helps bring together this amazing mix of the mirthful alongside the mythical. Nicholas Hoult (Nosferatu) solidly presents a Lex Luthor orchestrating a nefarious plot fit for a supervillain. Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) gives Lois Lane the right bit of bite alongside her own reluctant vulnerability. Anthony Carrigan (Barry) is stupendous the short time he’s on screen, a real testament to the sharpness of the script combined with a splendid performer. David Corenswet (Twisters) delivers a remarkably relatable Superman alongside the bearing of someone pensive struggling to raise the bar for everyone. He makes the moments when Clark Kent seems to be collapsing the most effective.
DAVID CORENSWET as Superman in “SUPERMAN,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. © 2024 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC. Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures
And Krypto is the best. I cannot elaborate on why without spoiling the film in various ways. Suffice it to say, if anything happens to that dog down the line—so help me Rao—me and Mr. James Gunn are gonna have some words hand-delivered by chainsaw.
People will always find things to complain about. That isn’t to say everyone should love this movie. The plot rarely reiterates itself, which I find refreshing, but some folks get lost without it. Although Hollywood is to blame for spoonfeeding plot points repeatedly, it’s nice to see a movie where the audience is trusted to follow a narrative most children probably can.
Some have grumbled about Wendell Pierce (The Wire), an African American, being cast as Perry White. To them I say, it’s odd how I haven’t heard the same complaint about Otis, a loyal Luthor henchman played by Terence Rosemore (Outer Banks). Funny how a black man can take a traditionally white role when the part calls for subservience, but there are peeps a plenty when an African American becomes the boss.
People will always find things to complain about. That isn’t to say everyone should love this movie. The plot rarely reiterates itself, which I find refreshing, but some folks get lost without it. Although Hollywood is to blame for spoonfeeding plot points repeatedly, it’s nice to see a movie where the audience is trusted to follow a narrative most children probably can.
Some have grumbled about Wendell Pierce (The Wire), an African American, being cast as Perry White. To them I say, it’s odd how I haven’t heard the same complaint about Otis, a loyal Luthor henchman played by Terence Rosemore (Outer Banks). Funny how a black man can take a traditionally white role when the part calls for subservience, but there are peeps a plenty when an African American becomes the boss.
WENDELL PIERCE as Perry White in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ “SUPERMAN,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. © 2025 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC. Photo Credit: Photo by Jessica Miglio
Normally, I wouldn’t question the quality of other reviews. Any art is subject to personal perspective, and if people can make their case, a certain respect is due. However, from what I’ve read in an effort to see if, perhaps, I missed something I should really consider, so much of the negativity about this movie seems like a mix of right-wing outrage, comic book fatigue, and general contrarian rage bait.
For years, people have complained Superman is too powerful. Now, they dislike this movie because he isn’t powerful enough. The film has too many characters, though such a complaint rarely surfaces regarding The Guardians of the Galaxy franchise. And if you can follow those movies, the plot here isn’t any more complicated or convoluted. Still, in all fairness, Superman has always been divisive. He’s such a cultural icon whom people have expectations and dislikes which are deeply rooted. As such, I’d say your best bet for enjoying this movie is to go expecting nothing except popcorn fun.
James Gunn offers a delightful human interpretation of the last son of Krypton. The Silver Age tone helps blunt some of the serious themes, though they no less stab at the heart. This is a romantic appeal to optimism, a staple characteristic of the man of steel. Visually, from the color scheme to the special effects, this is everything one could want in a bright, vibrant blockbuster; the cinematography allows scenes to be colorful yet dirty. Meanwhile, an excellent cast anchors the film despite plenty of comic book outlandishness.
For years, people have complained Superman is too powerful. Now, they dislike this movie because he isn’t powerful enough. The film has too many characters, though such a complaint rarely surfaces regarding The Guardians of the Galaxy franchise. And if you can follow those movies, the plot here isn’t any more complicated or convoluted. Still, in all fairness, Superman has always been divisive. He’s such a cultural icon whom people have expectations and dislikes which are deeply rooted. As such, I’d say your best bet for enjoying this movie is to go expecting nothing except popcorn fun.
James Gunn offers a delightful human interpretation of the last son of Krypton. The Silver Age tone helps blunt some of the serious themes, though they no less stab at the heart. This is a romantic appeal to optimism, a staple characteristic of the man of steel. Visually, from the color scheme to the special effects, this is everything one could want in a bright, vibrant blockbuster; the cinematography allows scenes to be colorful yet dirty. Meanwhile, an excellent cast anchors the film despite plenty of comic book outlandishness.
(L to r) NICHOLAS HOULT as Lex Luthor and DAVID CORENSWET as Superman in Warner Bros. Pictures’ “SUPERMAN,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC. Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio
Superman is pure escapism. It offers a chance to believe in a better world. All the while, it does so wrapped up in a wild adventure fit for any comic book. I hope you have as much fun as I did watching this, but if not, sorry that fun is your kryptonite.
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