Flying through the clouds, James Gunn creates a completely new universe for the ‘Man of Steel.’ David Corenswet dons the red and blue suit for a superhero which returns to the big screen after five years flying away. Corenswet has previously been known for playing supporting character roles such as, the Projectionist in Pearl (2022) and Scott in Twisters (2024). Superman perhaps marks Corenswet’s big Hollywood break.
Director James Gunn brings a more fun and upbeat Superman that is very comic book-esque. This Superman is most likely the closest comic book adaptation on the live-screen for the Man of Tomorrow so far. It brings a new light-hearted Superman universe that kids will especially love. But this is not unusual for James Gunn, who often brings a light-hearted vibe to his films. Especially when we reminisce on Gunn’s vividly bold screenplays for the 2000s live-action Scooby-Doo films. And the playfully ironic Dawn of the Dead (2004) remake.
Superman & Other Superheroes
Gunn’s Superman introduces a series of Superhero additions in an iteration known as the ‘Justice Gang’. Such superheroes from Green Lantern to Hawkgirl, and Mister Terrific help Superman out as also seen in the trailer. Perhaps at times it feels a little overwhelming to keep up with so many heroic saves from all the help Superman endures.
Rather at times the film focuses more on their stories than Superman himself. There’s lots of different characters, heroes, and villains to keep up with. It’s busy, action-packed, and with plenty of chaotic ‘saving’ moments. But ultimately Krypto the dog really steals the show. He’s loyal, kind, and loveable towards Superman. And he’s there when he needs him most.
The DC Multiverse in Superman
Although the vibe here is very Marvel-like. We enter multi-dimensional universes and parallel dimensions, collectively known as the ‘DC Multiverse’ which is full of superheroes. As well as, metahumans with various different superpowers. Superman is no longer the strongest hero nor really the ‘Last Son of Krypton.’ It’s a story not solely focused on the Red-Blue Blur.
The strongest scenes are undeniably between Clark Kent and Lois Lane. There’s a special interview scene which gives strong nods to the infamous rooftop scene from the original 1978 classic, Superman. But hopefully in the next Superman instalment, there’s further exploration into Lois and Clark’s relationship. Afterall the story of Superman is really built on his relationships with those around him. Of course, we can’t forget the heartfelt cameo from the ultimate Superman, Christopher Reeve’s son, Will Reeves who stars as a TV reporter, much to the amusement of his usual day job.
Another strong relationship is between iconic comic book character, Jimmy Olsen, and Eve Teschmacher. Their relationship is built on his manipulation for a good news story and her genuine love for him. In the next Superman film, it would be interesting to explore their relationship further.
Meanwhile, Nicholas Hoult takes on a younger version of Lex. His villain power is in full force when he uses his wealth to conspire with the Government against Superman with his cynical outlook on life in Metropolis. This addition really shows just how far he will go to be fully evil. His length of evilness truly knows no bounds.
Superman’s Story
Yet plot-wise, Lex Luthor’s plan for world domination, believing “why the world doesn’t need Superman” turns into a story that would be perfectly suited to a different franchise of James Gunn’s in The Guardians of the Galaxy cinematic universe. The multi-dimensional vortex world suspends reality. Yet in the world of Superman usually the story is grounded in reality among the superhero escapades.
Despite being an alien from a distant planet, Superman’s human story is left quite unwritten in this new comic-book-to-screen rendition. It certainly changes up his origin story, particularly through his birth parents’ storyline and even updates his Fortress of Solitude with new AI-type robot workers to highlight this new modernised world that reflects our reality today.
Superman‘s Stellar Characters & Casting
In terms of casting, it’s pretty accurate for a film about the Man of Tomorrow. Jimmy Olsen – the bumbling photographer, Eve Teschmacher – a clumsy fashionista, Lois Lane – an intrusive and determined reporter, Clark Kent – a hard working yet frivolously buoyant journalist, and an arrogantly scheming Lex Luthor. From Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois and Skyler Gisondo’s Jimmy to Nicholas Hoult’s Lex, and Sara Sampaio’s Eve Teschmacher; the fantastic cast was largely underplayed and not fully utilised enough in the story to showcase their true potential.
The storyline certainly displays a modern Metropolis with Lex Luthor’s plan to take over the world and pitting earth against Superman. With even the set design of the Daily Planet giving huge nods to that of the brilliantly-shot, Bryan Singer-directed, Superman Returns (2006).
For a new-age of Superman comes a story not too near what we admire about the ‘Man of Steel.’ Taking a soft backseat to a film that’s not truly centered enough on him. With several other heroic characters surrounding him and interrupting his story. It’s a very sprightly modern take on Superman full of other superheroes and multi-dimensional portals and universes that feel a little too out-of-this-world… even for Superman.
Want to read more on the Man of Steel? Then check out our review on the phenomenal BAFTA-nominated Documentary, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story here.