The release of Superman (2025), written and directed by James Gunn, marks a significant turning point in the landscape of superhero cinema and the broader DC Universe. As the inaugural chapter in Gunn’s new DCU—titled Gods and Monsters—the film bears the heavy responsibility of revitalizing one of pop culture’s most iconic heroes, while also laying the groundwork for a fresh cinematic universe. In many ways, Superman succeeds in this lofty ambition. It offers a vibrant, emotional, and character-driven take on the Man of Steel that captures the spirit of the character, while modernizing him for a new generation.
David Corenswet delivers a performance that is both reverent and refreshing as Clark Kent. His Superman is not a god above humanity, but rather a deeply human figure navigating the tension between his Kryptonian heritage and his Earthly upbringing. Corenswet channels the sincerity and moral clarity associated with Christopher Reeve's portrayal while adding a layer of emotional nuance. The result is a Superman who is hopeful without being naive—a man who stands for truth and justice in a world that often resists both.
Equally compelling is Rachel Brosnahan’s portrayal of Lois Lane. Sharp, independent, and relentlessly brave, Brosnahan’s Lois reclaims her role as more than just a love interest—she is a driving force in the narrative, a symbol of journalistic integrity and human resilience. The chemistry between Corenswet and Brosnahan grounds the film’s emotional core, offering a modern but earnest take on one of comics’ most enduring romances.
Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor introduces a more grounded, psychologically complex antagonist. Rather than leaning into cartoonish villainy or over-the-top schemes, Hoult’s Luthor is quietly menacing—a genius consumed by envy and fear of the alien who embodies everything he cannot control. His portrayal adds gravitas to the film and sets up a compelling moral opposition that goes beyond brute force.
James Gunn’s direction injects the film with a distinct tone that oscillates between heartfelt sincerity and quirky, self-aware humor. His signature style, familiar to fans of Guardians of the Galaxy, is evident in the film’s lighter moments—some involving Superman’s dog Krypto, who provides comic relief without derailing the story’s emotional stakes. The colorful visuals and optimistic tone distinguish Superman from the grittier superhero entries of the past decade, suggesting that hope, not cynicism, may be the path forward for the genre.
However, the film is not without its flaws. Gunn’s desire to establish a broader universe sometimes detracts from the narrative focus. The inclusion of numerous secondary characters—such as Hawkgirl, Mr. Terrific, and Green Lantern—while exciting for longtime fans, results in an occasionally cluttered storyline that risks overwhelming audiences unfamiliar with the lore. Some of the film’s thematic elements, including media manipulation, xenophobia, and moral relativism, are introduced but not explored in depth. As a result, the film occasionally sacrifices depth for pace.
Visually, Superman is a mixed bag. While the use of vibrant color and immersive flight sequences brings energy to the screen, some of the CGI-heavy action scenes feel generic and uninspired. The climactic battle, involving a dimensional tear threatening Earth, leans on spectacle over substance, echoing a formula that many superhero films have struggled to transcend.
Despite these shortcomings, Superman (2025) stands as a heartfelt and hopeful reimagining of a timeless character. It succeeds in returning Superman to his rightful place as a symbol of idealism and compassion in a complicated world. More importantly, it lays a promising foundation for a DC Universe that is willing to embrace wonder, complexity, and emotional sincerity. In an era where superhero fatigue is a real concern, James Gunn has managed to remind us why Superman still matters—and why he always will.
