Truth, Justice, and a Triumphant Return: ‘Superman’ Soars! - Review
Here we are. The official start of the new DC Universe (DCU). If I’m being honest, I cannot believe we are already at this point of the summer with movies. It does not feel that long ago that we got the first trailer for this film in mid-December 2024, leaving fans with anticipation for July 11. Well, that date is this Friday, and I can’t believe I’m saying it, but I have seen James Gunn’s Superman. Does it live up to all of the anticipation? Let’s dive in and find out!
In Superman, when Superman gets drawn into conflicts at home and abroad, his actions are questioned, giving tech billionaire Lex Luthor the opportunity to get the Man of Steel out of the way for good. Will intrepid reporter Lois Lane and Superman's four-legged companion, Krypto, be able to help him before it's too late?
Image courtesy of DC Studios (2025)
James Gunn’s Superman isn’t just a fresh start for the DC Universe; it’s a triumph that redefines what a modern superhero film can be. With heart, humor, and an unmistakable love for the source material, Gunn crafts a film that feels like a comic book brought to vivid life, panel by panel.
At the center of it all is David Corenswet, who steps into the cape with confidence, grace, and an emotional depth that instantly cements him as one of the definitive portrayals of the Man of Steel. His performance is layered- equal parts hopeful, grounded, and awe-inspiring- and he brings to the role the warmth and strength that fans have long hoped to see return to Superman. And for the first time in Superman film history, we have the opportunity to see Supes' K-9 companion, Krypto, who becomes an absolute show stealer.
Image courtesy of DC Studios (2025)
The supporting cast is equally strong. Rachel Brosnahan is perfect as Lois Lane, bringing intelligence, wit, and undeniable charm to the role. Even after one viewing, she might be my favorite portrayal of Lane ever put to screen — and I had a feeling that would be the case from the trailers alone. Seeing her fully inhabit the character only confirmed it. Another standout is Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, whose menacing presence simmers with quiet, calculated intensity. Gunn proves he’s not only skilled at writing compelling hero dialogue, but also sharp, layered villain dialogue. There’s real substance to this version of Luthor, and Hoult brings it to life in a way I found especially compelling. Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, and Edi Gathegi round out the Justice gang with more great performances — each one gets their own moment to shine. Gunn’s talent for making every character feel meaningful, no matter their screen time, is on full display here.
Each character, no matter how large or small their role, feels essential to the world being built here. Gunn’s ability to balance character moments with superhero spectacle is on full display, making even the quieter scenes resonate. Visually, Superman is stunning. From sweeping flight sequences to emotionally-charged confrontations, every frame pops with energy, intention, and feels like it was put to screen right out of a comic panel. Gunn’s direction captures the grandeur of Superman’s power while never losing sight of the humanity at the heart of the story. It’s thrilling without being chaotic, heartfelt without being saccharine. The overall tone of the film strikes the perfect balance between optimism and realism, a hopeful hero in a world that challenges him, but never dims his light. Gunn understands Superman not as a relic of the past, but as an enduring symbol of what we strive to be.
Image courtesy of DC Studios (2025)
If I had to nitpick a few elements, some of the CGI was noticeably inconsistent. I understand, it’s a Superman movie - there is going to be a ton of CGI work done to ensure the effects are brought to life. However, while many sequences are visually stunning and capture the grandeur you'd expect from a Superman film, there are moments — particularly in large-scale action or creature-heavy scenes — where the effects feel rushed or lack the polish seen in other parts of the film. Certain shots stand out as overly digital, pulling me out of the tone the movie otherwise nails so well. It's not enough to derail the experience, but in a film so visually ambitious, those less refined moments are more noticeable. That said, the strong production design and Gunn’s eye for composition still carry the visual storytelling overall. Also, they utilize very similar interior designs that they used for the Guardians of the Galaxy films on some of the ships, and one thing that did bother me in particular is how Lois was a passenger in one of them once, and then was flying the thing moments later. So yes, there is ridiculousness to the movie that I did not like, but at the end of the day, it’s fictional, and having some ridiculousness is okay.
In the end, this truly feels like the Superman movie longtime fans have been waiting for — and one that new audiences can embrace just as easily. It’s a film that understands the core of who Superman is: not just a symbol of strength, but a beacon of hope, compassion, and unwavering belief in humanity. Cheerful, lighthearted, and emotionally grounded, it reminds us why Superman has endured for generations — because his story, at its heart, is about what it means to be human. James Gunn approaches this mythology with clear reverence and fresh energy, breathing life into a character too often weighed down by the pressure of reinvention. With rich characters, thrilling spectacle, and a tone that strikes the perfect balance between modern relevance and timeless optimism, Superman sets a bold, confident tone for the future of DC. And if this is the new standard, the road ahead looks not just promising, it looks inspiring.
RATING:
4.5 OUT OF 5
