Superman has been a cornerstone of superhero cinema for decades, but with Superman 2025, director James Gunn gives the iconic hero a much-needed reboot. This isn’t just another superhero movie. It’s a bold new chapter for the entire DC Universe, offering a refreshing blend of hope, humanity, and heroism. Let’s dive into the highlights and the few flaws of this thrilling new Superman adventure.
The Good: What Works
Superman 2025 doesn’t just reintroduce the iconic hero; it offers something fresh. It’s a film that respects the source material but also pushes Superman into a new era. From a dynamic lead performance to engaging world-building, several elements come together to make this film an enjoyable and meaningful experience.
David Corenswet as Superman
The most significant shift in Superman 2025 is David Corenswet’s portrayal of the Man of Steel. Corenswet steps into the iconic role with a performance that feels authentic and human. He doesn’t just play Clark Kent or Superman separately. Instead, he seamlessly blends the two personas into one compelling character. His Clark Kent isn’t just a bumbling disguise; he feels like a real person. The warmth and humility he exudes, especially in his quiet moments with Lois Lane or his mother, make him feel like the friendly farm boy from Kansas that we’ve always loved.
Corenswet’s Superman doesn’t need to say much. His actions and subtle expressions, such as a quiet smile or a brief pause, reveal his humanity. This is a Superman who isn’t afraid to show vulnerability, making him more relatable than ever before. Visually, the classic red, blue, and yellow suit looks just right, without feeling overly modern or exaggerated.
Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane
Rachel Brosnahan brings a fresh take to the character of Lois Lane, making her own. She is fearless, funny, and undeniably smart. From her first appearance, Brosnahan commands the screen without needing Superman to validate her. Her portrayal of Lois is empowering—she’s not the damsel in distress, but the one driving the narrative. The chemistry between Brosnahan and Corenswet is palpable, adding depth to their relationship without overblowing the melodrama.
Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor
The film also introduces a new Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult. Gone are the ridiculous wigs and grandiose schemes. This version of Luthor is a tech mogul and a Silicon Valley mastermind who utilizes PR strategies and AI algorithms to dismantle Superman, making him a more realistic and terrifying antagonist. Luthor’s villainy feels grounded in today’s world, making his motives and actions even more menacing.
Krypto Steals the Show
James Gunn somehow manages to make Krypto the Superdog one of the film’s standout characters. Krypto is no longer just a sidekick; he’s a loyal companion with real attitude. Whether he’s taking on alien tech or simply hanging out in the Fortress of Solitude, Krypto brings a new level of charm to the film. His presence is a delightful addition, making him a fan-favorite for both children and adults alike.
The Supporting Cast
The supporting characters in Superman 2025 also shine. The Daily Planet team, including Jimmy Olsen and Perry White, is well-cast, and even Cat Grant adds some nice flavor to the mix. One of the most exciting surprises is the appearance of the super robots in the Fortress of Solitude. These guardians are pulled straight from Silver Age comics but given a modern twist that adds a sense of eeriness and mystery to the otherwise iconic setting.
Mister Terrific also makes a notable appearance, adding a touch of fresh energy to the ensemble. His tech-savviness and cool confidence stand out, and it’s clear that Gunn has big plans for this character in future films.
Visuals and Tone
James Gunn’s direction brings a much-needed vibrancy to Metropolis. Gone is the dark and gritty aesthetic of previous Superman films. Instead, we get a bright, colorful Metropolis that feels alive and full of hope. The Fortress of Solitude is icy and majestic, and the action scenes are clear and engaging, making it easy to follow the action without the need for dark, blurry visuals. The film’s tone strikes a perfect balance between hope and humanity, making this Superman feel timeless and enduring.
The Bad: What Could Have Been Better
Overloaded Third Act
While the first two acts of Superman 2025 deliver a fresh and compelling story, the third act feels somewhat too cluttered. Superman faces multiple villains in quick succession, and the narrative starts to lose focus. The climax would have benefited from being a bit more streamlined. The constant shift between battles and threats makes it harder to keep track of the central conflict, and the showdown lacks the emotional impact it could have had.
Missed Opportunities with the Daily Planet
For a film that does such an excellent job with Clark Kent’s human side, the Daily Planet could have used more attention. We spend very little time inside the newsroom, and Clark’s interactions with his coworkers feel rushed. It’s a missed opportunity to explore Clark’s daily life as a journalist, which is where the human side of Superman truly shines. The film excels in portraying the superhero side of the character but overlooks the more mundane, yet equally important, Clark Kent persona.
Final Verdict
Superman 2025 marks a successful reboot for the Man of Steel, thanks to James Gunn’s vision. The film introduces a Superman who is both hopeful and human, making him more relatable than ever. David Corenswet’s performance is a standout, and the supporting cast, including Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor, elevate the film even further. While the third act could have been tighter and more time spent at the Daily Planet would have been beneficial, the film’s overall success is undeniable.
