Why Superman (2025) Both Soars and Stumbles
James Gunn’s highly anticipated “Superman” is finally here, and it’s a film that carries the weight of a universe on its shoulders. As the official start of the new DC Universe (DCU), there’s a lot riding on this movie. This Superman review will break down whether Gunn’s take on the Man of Steel is the triumphant flight we’ve been hoping for or if it gets tangled in its own cape.
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)
“Superman” picks up with Clark Kent (David Corenswet) already established as the Man of Steel for three years. He’s a beloved hero, but his world is thrown into chaos when he intervenes in an international conflict between the fictional nations of Boravia and Jarhanpur. This act of heroism draws the ire of the U.S. government and the obsessive attention of billionaire genius Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult). Luthor launches a devious smear campaign to turn public opinion against Superman, forcing Clark to confront what it truly means to be a symbol of hope in a world that increasingly views kindness as old-fashioned. The film smartly ditches the origin story, trusting the audience to know the basics, and instead dives right into a world where Superman is an established, albeit still learning, hero.
Performances & Characters
David Corenswet as Superman/Clark Kent
David Corenswet truly embodies the Man of Steel, delivering a star-making performance that is both charming and powerful. He perfectly captures the earnest, “aw, shucks” nature of a hero raised by kind farmers in Smallville, a quality that makes his portrayal feel both classic and refreshingly sincere. Corenswet’s Superman is not just a powerhouse; he’s driven by a deep-seated compassion, which makes his heroic acts feel earned and selfless. His chemistry with Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is electric, bringing a much-needed spark to their iconic romance.
Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane
Rachel Brosnahan is pitch-perfect as the intrepid Daily Planet reporter, Lois Lane. She brings a sharp, confident energy to the role, portraying Lois as a tenacious journalist who is always ten steps ahead. Brosnahan successfully sheds the “damsel in distress” trope, giving us a Lois who is fully capable and unwilling to compromise her journalistic integrity, even for the man she loves.
Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor is a scene-stealer. He delivers a chillingly calm and calculated performance, portraying Lex as a master puppeteer who orchestrates chaos from the shadows. This version of Lex is a tech mogul with political aspirations, making him a terrifyingly plausible villain for our times. Hoult’s portrayal is being hailed as one of the best and most comic-accurate live-action versions of the character to date.
Direction, Screenplay & Writing
James Gunn’s direction is a mix of his signature style—humor, heart, and a fantastic ensemble cast—with a tone that strives to be more optimistic and hopeful than recent DC adaptations. However, the film struggles with tonal consistency. The script, while filled with charming and heartfelt moments, often feels overstuffed with too many characters and plot points. At times, the humor feels out of place, undercutting the emotional weight of certain scenes. While the decision to skip the origin story is a good one, the film occasionally feels like it’s jumping onto a speeding train, which can be disorienting for the viewer.
Cinematography, Visuals & VFX
The film boasts a bright and vibrant aesthetic, a significant departure from the darker tones of the previous DC Extended Universe. Cinematographer Henry Braham uses RED Digital Cinema cameras and a distinctive Leica Tri-Elmar lens to create stunning, high-resolution imagery. The flying sequences are particularly impressive, with fluid and dynamic camera work that makes you believe a man can fly. The special effects are generally impressive, though some have noted inconsistencies in the CGI.
Music & Sound Design
The score, by John Murphy and David Fleming, incorporates a new version of John Williams’ iconic “Superman March,” a choice that effectively harkens back to the classic films while forging a new identity. The music successfully enhances the film's hopeful and heroic tone.
Themes & Message
At its core, “Superman” is about hope, kindness, and the inherent goodness of humanity. It explores what it means to be a hero in a cynical world and the importance of holding onto one's values in the face of adversity. The film also touches on timely themes of media manipulation and political polarization, although some critics have found this commentary to be a bit on the nose.
Comparison or Context
This Superman review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning that James Gunn’s film feels most akin to “Superman: The Animated Series” in its tone and approach. It successfully blends action, heart, and humor, much like the beloved 90s cartoon. It also stands in stark contrast to the darker, more brooding portrayal of the character in Zack Snyder’s films, offering a more optimistic and traditionally heroic take on the Man of Steel.
Verdict
“Superman” is a strong, if slightly flawed, start to the new DCU. It’s a film with a huge heart, anchored by fantastic performances from its lead actors. While it sometimes struggles under the weight of its own ambition, its message of hope and its classic-yet-fresh take on the Man of Steel make it a must-see for any superhero fan.
Rating: ★★★★☆
FAQs
Is Superman (2025) kid-friendly?
The film is rated PG-13 for intense comic-book violence, some suggestive dialogue, and profanity, so it may not be suitable for younger children.
Is there a post-credit scene?
Yes, “Superman” has two post-credit scenes—one mid-credits and one at the very end. The mid-credits scene is a brief, sweet moment with Superman and Krypto the Superdog, while the final scene features a humorous interaction between Superman and Mister Terrific. Milly Alcock also makes her debut as Supergirl in the film's final scene before the credits.
Is this a reboot?
Yes, “Superman” is a reboot and the official start of the new DC Universe, separate from the continuity of the previous DC Extended Universe films.
Conclusion
James Gunn has delivered a “Superman” that feels both nostalgic and modern, a film that celebrates the character's core values while launching him into a new cinematic universe. It’s a movie that will make you believe in a hero again. We highly recommend giving it a watch!
What are your thoughts on the new “Superman” movie? Let us know in the comments below!
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