I am very pleased with the result. The modern trend toward darkness and obsession with giving superheroes “realism” (a term that deserves some nuance) has led to films that took themselves too seriously, stripping them of their essence or presenting alternative versions that retained little of their comic book roots.
In contrast, this new Superman embraces his origins without reservation or pretense. With the virtues and flaws inherent to the genre, what we have here is practically a Superman comic book come to life on screen.
The plot begins with a few brief texts that quickly put us in context. Many characters appear without much introduction or explanation; they are there as if one had missed the initial issue.
Everything unfolds in a cartoonish way, like an exaggeration of our own world, with characters who don't have many layers, or could even be considered flat, but that doesn't mean they're poorly developed. In fact, they serve the needs of the film, and their apparent simplicity should not be confused with narrative poverty.
One of the possible drawbacks is that the general public might perceive this film as childish or occasionally confusing. From my perspective, I thoroughly enjoyed the authentic Superman, the one I know and whose adventures are present in my collection.
The difference with Henry Cavill's interpretation is remarkable: David Corenswet offers a much brighter, more naive, kind-hearted, and heroic Superman.
His character reflects the influence of good and loving parents who instilled values in him, even though he could have easily chosen to conquer the world.
This Superman strives to do good, concerned about everyone and everything around him, always maintaining hope and directing kind words even toward his enemies.
Lex Luthor, on the other hand, is evil incarnate in purely comic book terms: an effective and terrifying threat with no gray areas, motivated by a twisted logic that seeks to destroy the one he considers his archenemy.
Lois Lane has real chemistry with the protagonist and stands out as an independent character with a great personality.
The secondary heroes generate interest in learning more about them, especially Mr. Terrific, although Guy Gardner is also worth mentioning.
Superman's parents and the members of the Daily Planet may have limited screen time, but their characterizations are well done and contribute just enough to enrich the narrative.
However, what may seem like an eccentric detail to many ends up becoming one of the film's greatest successes: Krypto.
It is one of those elements that some would describe as ridiculous, but from the very first minute it sets the festive and light-hearted tone of the film.
More than two hours of pure Superman that, far from requiring too much reflection, invite you to pay attention to the enormous amount of information presented as you prepare to experience moments that are as crazy as they are endearing.
The key is to immerse yourself in this particular logic without questioning it too much; simply let yourself be carried away by a Superman we thought was forgotten and enjoy it like children full of hope for a better world, guided by one of the most iconic heroes.
