A Vibrant and Lively Reboot
James Gunn has breathed new life into Superman, launching his take on the legendary hero with remarkable energy and clarity. The film bursts onto the screen from its very first moments, making it clear that this is not just another entry in a crowded superhero landscape. In an era where big-budget hero films often feel weighed down and formulaic, Gunn’s Superman stands out as a sharp, colourful, and refreshingly optimistic chapter.
Building the New DC Universe
Tasked with the ambitious job of kickstarting a fresh shared universe for DC, James Gunn approaches the project as both architect and director. Rather than dwelling on the gloom that has defined so many recent adaptations, Gunn leans into the fun and fantasy, inviting audiences into a world bursting with strange gods, quirky monsters, and bold colours. This Superman isn’t simply a reboot; it’s a statement of intent for the entire DC Universe. For viewers, Gunn seems to say that the future of superhero stories should be lively, imaginative, and above all, full of hope.
A Different Approach to the Superhero Formula
Where previous DC films, especially those helmed by Zack Snyder, have sometimes struggled under the weight of their own ambition, Gunn’s Superman manages to sidestep those pitfalls. There’s no attempt here to re-tell the tired origin story. Instead, audiences are dropped straight into a universe where monsters, gods, and extraordinary beings have long shared the planet with humanity. Superman has only recently emerged as the most powerful of these “meta-humans,” but Gunn wastes no time in showing how his presence disrupts the status quo, inviting new challenges both physical and philosophical.
Superman as a Beacon of Hope
This new take on Superman is a return to the core of the character – a symbol of light and hope in a world all too often marred by corruption and imperfection. David Corenswet’s portrayal of Clark Kent/Kal-El radiates both strength and kindness, capturing the essence of a hero guided by goodwill. Gunn’s vision makes it clear: Superman may be supremely powerful, but he is not infallible. The film explores the hero’s vulnerabilities, setbacks, and mistakes, allowing for a story that feels both classic and refreshingly human.
Complex Villains and Strong Supporting Cast
Every great hero needs a worthy adversary, and here, Nicholas Hoult delivers a standout performance as Lex Luthor. Driven by an obsession to destroy Superman, Luthor embodies the tension between humanity’s limitations and the unreachable perfection the Man of Steel represents. Gunn’s story also gives a crucial, if at times understated, role to Lois Lane. Rachel Brosnahan brings strength and wit to the iconic journalist, and though her screen time is somewhat limited, her scenes offer some of the film’s sharpest and most memorable dialogue.
Setting the Stage for the Future
Gunn’s Superman isn’t just a film; it’s a foundation. As DC aims to build its own cinematic universe to rival Marvel’s, this film avoids the missteps of rushed world-building and convoluted storylines. Each entry, starting with Superman, is designed to stand on its own, inviting both newcomers and longtime fans to enjoy the ride without needing to memorise a sprawling backstory.
