“Superman” is back … again. “Superman,” DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, soars into theaters worldwide, and our JP gives his take on the new Man of Steel starring David Corenswet in the dual role of Superman/Clark Kent.
“Superman”
Warner Bros. Pictures
- Directed by James Gunn
- Written by James Gunn
- Based on Characters from DC
- Produced by Peter Safran, James Gunn
- Starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced
Studio Synopsis:
When Superman is drawn into conflicts both abroad and at home, his actions to protect humankind are questioned, and his vulnerability allows tech billionaire and master deceiver Lex Luthor to leverage the opportunity to get Superman out of the way for good. Will the Daily Planet’s intrepid reporter Lois Lane, together with the aid of Metropolis’s other metahumans and Superman’s own four-legged companion, Krypto, be able to help Superman before Luthor can completely destroy him? The film follows Superman’s journey to reconcile his heritage as the Kryptonian Kal-El with his human upbringing as Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas, and his selfless determination to use his power for good as humanity’s protector. Guided by human kindness in a world that sees kindness as old-fashioned, he is the embodiment of truth, justice and a better tomorrow.
JP’s Take:
DC and James Gunn reintroduce the Man of Steel with a zingy, punk-ish, and zany vibe, while presenting “Superman” in a lively and optimistic light.
This new interpretation diverges from the previous moodier portrayals that have dominated the character’s recent cinematic history. Instead, audiences can expect a Superman who embodies hope, joy, and a sense of adventure, capturing the spirit of what makes the character so beloved. With a focus on humor and a more lighthearted narrative, this rendition aims to resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers alike and inviting everyone to experience the spry and uplifting Superman in a way that feels both refreshing and arresting.
The result you end up with is more of a compromise rather than a fully developed backstory. It feels like it sits in the middle ground, where the story presents Superman as the well-established fixture of Metropolis — grappling with some of the most searing challenges he faces as a hero — all while reflecting the nuances of our current political landscape with sharp insight. However, don’t anticipate the emotional intensity of “The Return of Superman” or the moodier tone of “Man of Steel.”
Instead, this iteration balances the weight of its themes with an approachable style, while giving the audience a purer perspective rather than just a somber one. This doesn’t necessarily mean that this version of the “red-blue blur” is a failure on a grand scale; rather, if you don’t already have a solid understanding of who Superman truly is, you might find yourself questioning his role and significance. That’s OK, as many of the characters within the film do as well. Gunn has crafted a version of Superman that emphasizes his humanity and allowing the character’s struggles and emotions to take center stage alongside his heroic feats.
It’s an approach that brings just a bit of depth to the iconic superhero: showcasing not just his superhuman abilities but also the vulnerabilities and moral dilemmas that come with being both a savior and a man. Although we see more of Superman than Clark Kent, Gunn still manages to bring out the duality of this iteration of “Superman,” allowing us viewers to relate to him on multiple levels. We’re right there alongside him as he navigates this ever more complex world around him. The visuals are crisp and well-executed, although a few of the battle scenes could have been trimmed for better pacing.
What Gunn is aiming to achieve here is to connect various entities into a unified universe, distinct from what DC originally imagined. It turns out to be more of an action/comedy than a weighty and lengthy diatribe. He brings the same wild, youthful, and fun atmosphere to this project as he did with his earlier DC film, “The Suicide Squad,” and the styling cues of the Jaume Collet-Serra-directed “Black Adam.”
I’m impressed by the cast, particularly David Corenswet, who infuses both of his roles with a lively and youthful energy. Rachel Brosnahan shines as the feisty and zestful Lois Lane, who struggles with relationships but is an ace reporter. Nicholas Hoult brings a kind of diabolism and charm to his portrayal of the Musk-like Lex Luthor. Frank Grillo returns as the respected General Rick Flag, while Edi Gathegi takes on the role of the clever and witty Michael Holt, also known as Mr. Terrific.
María Gabriela de Faría plays the ruthless metahuman Angela Spica, also known as The Engineer. Isabela Merced takes on the role of the rebellious Kendra Saunders, a.k.a. Hawkgirl, while Sara Sampaio portrays the fan-girl girlfriend Eve Teschmacher. Wendell Pierce steps in as the newspaper editor-in-chief, Perry White, presenting a more subdued version than we’ve seen before. Nathan Fillion embodies the dim-witted and arrogant Guy Gardner, a.k.a. Green Lantern. Skyler Gisondo shines as the energetic reporter Jimmy Olsen. Finally, Bradley Cooper and Angela Sarafyan show up as Kal-El / Clark Kent / Superman’s biological parents, Jor-El and Lara Lor-Van, respectively.
As much of a mixed bag as 2025’s “Superman” is, when all was said and done, I couldn’t help but enjoy the sum of its parts. It was gigglesome, exhausting, and action-packed for sure. I would sit through it again to connect with the character on a fresh adventure. And yes, after-credit scenes are a thing with DC, so stay tuned for that as well.
Official Site: Superman
