James Gunn’s ‘Superman’ Movie Review

The world’s most iconic superhero is back, and this time with a new face behind the cape. David Corenswet stars as the newest Man of Steel in James Gunn’s bold new vision, Superman. This exciting, action-packed film completely immerses the audience into the life of Superman, taking them on a flight of battles, a double life, and a story of love, hope, and justice.

Plot

Thirty years ago, Kal-El was sent from the dying planet Krypton by his parents, carrying nothing but the hope of a better future and a destiny to become Earth’s greatest hero. He crash-lands in Smallville, Kansas, where he’s taken in by Martha and Jonathan Kent and given the name Clark Kent. As he grows up, Clark begins to discover his metahuman abilities. At age twenty-seven, he would then reveal himself to the world as Superman, instantly becoming Earth’s most powerful and iconic figure. Three years into his heroic journey, he stops an invasion in the war-torn country of Boravia. But what should have been celebrated as a selfless act is quickly twisted. Billionaire Lex Luthor, a powerful figure with close ties to the U.S. government, manipulates the narrative and publicly suggests that Superman may pose a threat to humanity. The film opens with Superman facing his first real defeat at the hands of Ultraman, one of Luthor’s dangerous henchmen. Just as things take a turn for the worse, he’s saved by his loyal super-dog, Krypto. Wounded and shaken, Superman steps back from the spotlight, returning to his life as Clark Kent and resuming his work at the Daily Planet. Meanwhile, Lex Luthor and his team infiltrate the Fortress of Solitude, where they uncover the rest of a long-damaged Kryptonian message that originally accompanied Kal-El’s journey to Earth. Luthor leaks the distorted message to the public, shifting global perception and painting the Man of Steel in a whole new, and dangerous light.

Comparison to Previous Superman Films

If you haven’t seen James Gunn’s Superman, be warned, major spoilers ahead! This adaptation stays true to much of Superman’s classic origin story but introduces a few key changes that set it apart from previous films. Rather than retelling how Kal-El becomes Clark Kent, the film opens with a brief series of title cards that summarize his backstory. By the time the story begins, the world already knows Superman, and Clark is firmly established as a journalist at the Daily Planet. He’s also three months into a relationship with Lois Lane, played by the talented Rachel Brosnahan. In this adaptation, Superman doesn’t fight his battles alone. He’s accompanied by the Justice Gang: Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, and Mr. Terrific, who play a major role in helping him navigate some of his toughest challenges. Alongside them is Krypto, Superman’s loyal super-dog, who not only serves as his best friend but also proves to be a powerful ally in battle, showing time and again that he’s far more than just a pet. The most dramatic change in this film comes from the revelation about Superman’s origin. Jor-El and Lara didn’t just send their son to Earth to survive; they sent him to rule all humanity. Superman had only ever heard the first half of their message, the part explaining where he came from and what he was capable of. But when Lex Luthor’s henchwoman, The Engineer, uncovers the rest and broadcasts it to the world, everything changes. The truth shakes both Superman and the world to their core as the hero disagrees with his late parents’ message. When compared to legends like Christopher Reeve, Brandon Routh, and Henry Cavill, David Corenswet fully embraces the character and makes it his own. He embodies Superman so naturally that when he switches between Clark Kent and the Man of Steel, it feels like you’re watching two completely different people. Corenswet doesn’t just play Superman, he is Superman. He delivers an outstanding performance from start to finish, leaving audiences waiting for the next film.

Personal Insights

From my earliest memories, I’ve always been a huge fan of Superman. My parents and I could probably recite all of Superman Returns from how many times I watched it as a kid. As a longtime fan of the hero, I have major respect for everyone who’s stepped into the role and done it justice. Brandon Routh was the Superman I grew up watching, and when Henry Cavill took over the cape, I admired his performance, and still do to this day. After watching this new film, I can honestly say I truly enjoyed it. David Corenswet’s Superman brings a unique energy and set of characteristics that I wholeheartedly admire. I especially loved how his version has a sense of humor and feels lively and charismatic, reminding me in many ways of Christopher Reeve’s iconic take. I also appreciated the battle sequences and how we get to see Superman rebuild and regain his strength after defeat. James Gunn’s direction and Henry Braham’s camera skills were outstanding. I loved the camera work and how it followed Superman’s every move as he flew through the city; it added an immersive, cinematic energy that really stood out. This film is outstanding, and I truly enjoyed the story and message that came along with it.

Final Thoughts

Whether you grew up with the classics or are just stepping into the world of Superman, this film is a must-see and a worthy addition to the legacy. Watch as this iconic hero fights his way to victory while sticking to his core values and standing up for the world he loves. James Gunn’s Superman is now playing in theaters everywhere, making it the ultimate summer movie experience. Don’t miss your chance to witness this story unfold on the big screen and to see David Corenswet fully embody the role of the Man of Steel.