‘Superman’ is a triumphant start to the DCU | Movie review
“Superman” hits the mark. It’s wildly comic-book accurate, triumphant, and bold. The only way I know how to put it is, the 2025 “Superman” movie is the most “Superman,” “Superman” movie that any “Superman” movie could possibly be, and I loved it.
When I think of comic book heroes, the first two characters who immediately come to mind are Spider-Man and Superman. I’m sure I’m not the only one. These two icons aren’t just central figures in their respective universes; they stand for something. They are the embodiment of what it means to be a hero.
Spider-Man has been fortunate on screen, with three distinct interpretations that each brought something fresh to the table. Superman, on the other hand, hasn’t had the same luck. While no one can deny the legacy and brilliance of Christopher Reeve’s portrayal in the original films (1978-1983), everything that followed has struggled to live up to that standard. “Superman Returns” (2006) felt like a product of a time when Hollywood wasn’t quite sure how to approach superhero films, and “Man of Steel” (2013) found itself constantly overshadowed by comparisons to the MCU.
That’s why the release of 2025’s new “Superman” — marking the start of James Gunn’s new DC Universe — felt so important. It wasn’t just another reboot; it needed to mean something. It needed to remind audiences why Superman belonged at the heart of the superhero conversation. As a lifelong fan of the character, it was worth the wait.
“Superman” captures the essence of the character beautifully. From the jump, you can feel the constant pressure weighing on this version of Clark Kent (David Corenswet), and the unwavering need to do good. More so than in any previous iteration, we see him making real-time decisions, never compromising or sacrificing anyone or anything in the process. There’s one moment during a major fight where Clark pauses to move something out of harm’s way. Such a small detail made me want to jump and cheer. That instinct, the need and desire to save every living being, is such a fundamental part of who Superman is. It’s such a small moment, but it made me so happy.
Casting was the one thing I was genuinely worried about going into “Superman.” I didn’t know much about Corenswet or Rachel Brosnahan (Lois Lane), and I didn’t have a lot of confidence in Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. But those concerns quickly disappeared. Corenswet brings real personality to Clark Kent, something I don’t think we’ve ever truly seen in a Superman film before. His version of the character is as vibrant as the red trunks he wears.
Brosnahan, meanwhile, takes the trademark “Lois Lane confidence” and turns it up to 11. Her Lois isn’t defined by Clark or his story — she has her own purpose and presence that grounds the film. And Hoult? He brings a seething intensity to Lex Luthor. You can feel his hatred for Superman radiating off the screen. He’s fantastic.
That said, the one element I could see some audiences taking issue with in 2025’s “Superman” is the signature touch of director James Gunn. To be clear, I enjoy it. The “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy is something I hold incredibly close to my heart, and I really enjoyed “The Suicide Squad.” But even as a fan, I found myself cringing once or twice when a dramatic moment was interrupted by a joke or bit. I’ve always believed human interaction naturally lends itself to humor, even unintentionally. But in some scenes where the film clearly wants to hold a moment for emotional impact, that weight is undercut by a gag. It doesn’t happen every time, but it happens once or twice, and that’s enough to notice. Again, it didn’t ruin anything for me, but I could see how it might not land well with everyone.
“Superman” feels like a home run: it’s hopeful, it’s fun, and it’s the most comic-accurate version of a character that needs to be at the forefront of comic book movies. The movie is weird in the best way possible, and the world feels fully realized to the point at the end of the film, I was hoping it would’ve continued for another hour. I can’t wait to see it again on opening day to enjoy the crowd reactions.
SCORE: “Superman” (2025), 4.5/5
“Superman” is rated PG-13 and is in theaters July 11! There are TWO post-credit scenes.
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