Superman is back — and this time, it’s under the ambitious and emotionally driven vision of James Gunn. With David Corenswet donning the iconic cape and Gunn steering the narrative, this latest iteration of the Man of Steel tries to blend raw vulnerability with soaring strength. It’s not just another superhero spectacle — this one attempts to dive deeper, explore what truly makes Superman Superman, and at the same time, set the tone for DC’s revamped cinematic universe.
The film begins with a wounded Clark Kent, a red-caped dog named Krypto, and a cold crystalline fortress. But what unfolds beyond that is a story filled with political tension, identity crises, and a villain plotting chaos in a sleek glass tower.
Superman Story
The story kicks off with a short but intriguing backstory on the rise of metahumans. Almost immediately, we see a bruised and battered Superman, rescued by none other than Krypto — his loyal super-dog. He’s taken to the Fortress of Solitude, a mystical refuge where machines try to heal him, and a broken hologram message from his Kryptonian parents plays, hinting at his roots but leaving both Clark and the audience slightly confused.
Soon, chaos erupts in Metropolis. A mystery figure with Superman-like powers attacks the city, and the blame is pinned on Superman himself, accused of interfering with military operations in the small, vulnerable country of Jarhanpur to prevent a looming war. But things are murky. Boravia, the supposed aggressor, denies sending this powerful figure. So, who’s really behind the destruction?
The answer? None other than Lex Luthor, controlling the strings from his shiny tower under the banner of LuthorCorp. His motives unfold slowly, cleverly planting seeds of distrust against Superman and painting him as the enemy.
Superman Review
James Gunn’s Superman tries to be more than just punch-and-fly sequences. Yes, there’s action. Yes, the scale is grand. But what Gunn brings here is a beating heart — the need for hope in a chaotic world. There’s a strong emotional current that flows throughout the film, especially with the companionship between Clark and Krypto and the grounding presence of his loved ones.
However, the first half does struggle a bit. The pacing is uneven, and several subplots are introduced early on without much clarity. That extended hologram scene? It feels like a riddle wrapped in CGI. As viewers, we’re left as clueless as Superman about the bigger picture — and that creates a bit of a disconnect.
But the film finds its rhythm in the second half. The storytelling becomes tighter, emotional arcs find their payoff, and the film’s larger message — peace, unity, and trust — lands with the impact it deserves.
Superman Performances
David Corenswet is absolutely convincing as the new Superman. He brings a perfect balance of calm confidence and emotional depth. He’s not trying to mimic past Supermen — he owns the role in his own right, and it works beautifully. His Superman feels approachable, not distant — a man burdened by responsibility, but never consumed by it.
Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane is sharp, witty, and grounded. She shares sincere chemistry with Corenswet, and her portrayal adds weight to the narrative. Lois isn’t just there to support Clark — she holds her own.
Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor is another highlight. Cold, manipulative, and smart — Hoult’s Lex adds a menacing edge to the story. His calculated madness adds real stakes, making him more than just a comic book villain.
Final Verdict
James Gunn’s Superman is not perfect, but it’s powerful where it counts. Despite a slightly jumbled first half, the film comes together with heart, purpose, and a message we need now more than ever. David Corenswet delivers a Superman that is strong yet vulnerable, distant yet deeply human.
This reboot isn’t just about redefining a superhero — it’s about redefining hope in a cynical world.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5)
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