Superman

James Gunn has truly outdone himself with "Superman", marking a triumphant return to form where his unique directorial style is unleashed without reservation. It's clear that after his tenure at Marvel, Gunn has found a creative freedom that allows him to inject his signature flair into every frame. While certain recurring motifs remain – notably, his enduring fascination with incorporating animalistic characters, whether hero or villain – this film is distinctly a product of his unbridled imagination.

Speaking of signature flair, the shot techniques in "Superman" are quintessential Gunn. Expect the familiar, yet always impactful, use of slow-motion and dramatic close-ups. These aren't just stylistic choices; they're integral to how Gunn builds tension, emphasizes key moments, and highlights the raw emotion of his characters. As the co-head of DC Studios, he's clearly leaning into what he loves, and it pays off handsomely.

At the heart of this cinematic rebirth is David Corenswet's absolutely stunning portrayal of Kal-El/Clark Kent/Superman. Corenswet doesn't just wear the cape; he embodies the very essence of what makes Superman an enduring icon. He effortlessly captivates, appealing to the hearts of comic lovers by showcasing that Superman's true power lies not just in his abundant abilities, but in his profound humane personality. Corenswet truly earns the MVP title for his performance.

Then there's Lex Luthor, brought to life with a captivating blend of genius and unsettling madness. This iteration of Lex is terrifyingly selfish and manipulative, driven by an obsessive desire to dismantle Superman, even without the familiar purple and green attire. His ability to draw attention and support to himself is expertly depicted, making him a formidable and truly menacing antagonist.

Lois Lane is portrayed with refreshing strength and resilience. She is not a damsel in distress but a woman of tough characteristics and sharp intellect. Her unwavering trust in Clark, both as the hero and as her partner, forms a compelling sub-plot that explores the complexities of their relationship. The film honestly depicts the challenges of being in a relationship with someone possessing extraordinary powers, charting their ups and downs and delivering a nuanced, satisfying conclusion to their arc.

As for the supporting cast, they are all given their rightful portion in the narrative, contributing effectively to the broader universe. Mr. Terrific emerges as a clear second MVP after Superman, making a memorable impression with his intelligence and unique abilities. The inclusion of Green Lantern (Guy Gardner's iteration), while distinct, unfortunately leans into a more abrasive and less traditionally heroic portrayal, which might not appeal to all fans of the Corps. Regrettably, Hawkgirl and Metamorpho don't quite get the spotlight they deserve. Hawkgirl, in particular, feels underserved and could have greatly benefited from more screentime to showcase her capabilities and compelling backstory.

This film serves as a perfect opener for introducing the wider array of characters that will populate the new DC Universe. We have immense trust in James Gunn to continue steering this universe forward. This "Superman" movie isn't just a film; it's a powerful statement of intent, promising a thrilling and emotionally resonant future for DC.

Credits:

Directed by: James Gunn

Written by: James Gunn

Based on: Characters from DC

Produced by: Peter Safran and James Gunn

Starring: David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, and Isabela Merced.

Cinematography: Henry Braham

Edited by: William Hoy and Craig Alpert

Music by: John Murphy and David Fleming

Production companies: DC Studios, Troll Court Entertainment, and The Safran Company

Distributed by: Warner Bros. Pictures

Release date: July 11, 2025

Running time: 129 minutes