Superman Review: James Gunn Delivers The Hero We Deserve

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Some individuals might argue that superhero movies should avoid political themes. However, it’s important to note that political aspects have always been inherent to this genre’s inception. For instance, Superman embodies the immigrant experience, Wonder Woman was created as a symbol of feminism, the X-Men represent oppressed groups, and the title “Captain America” itself suggests a particular political stance. Those who argue against this often resort to nonsensical explanations about what constitutes politics according to their definition, or they feign ignorance in order to maintain their outrage.

James Gunn clearly identifies these individuals, and his “Superman” film isn’t shy about expressing this: the straightforward ones are awkward geeks with questionable hairstyles, while the deceitful ones are loud keyboard-pounding primates. Yet, his Superman (David Corenswet) will rescue them all regardless, as that’s just who he is.

It’s not surprising that James Gunn’s “Superman” carries a strong political tone given his past works for DC. These include a film mocking American imperialism (“The Suicide Squad”), a series where a villain seeks redemption by killing his Klansman father (“Peacemaker”), and an animated series glorifying the defeat of Nazi MRAs (“Creature Commandos”). The straightforward values in “Superman” — such as immigrants are people, it’s wrong to detain individuals without trial, wars of conquest are bad, and tech companies may not always have your best interests at heart — might be expected to be non-controversial. However, considering the current state of the world, they unfortunately are. As an introduction to the revamped DC Universe, “Superman” offers entertaining blockbuster action. Yet, amidst all its comedic overtones, it could potentially encourage people to effect change in our very own universe.

An introduction to the new Superman

Skipping over his familiar backstory, let’s dive into “Superman,” where we find ourselves in a world of deities and beasts. Thirty years ago, Clark Kent arrived on Earth and has been functioning as Superman for three years now. This time, he chooses to aid Jarhanpur, a nation under threat from Boravia – an old friend and ally of the U.S., yet questionably engaging in shady business with Lex Luthor (played by Nicholas Hoult). As the movie unfolds, Superman experiences his first defeat.

If you’ve caught a glimpse of the “Superman” preview, you’ve witnessed the opening scene, where Krypto, Superman’s canine companion, pulls him to the Fortress of Solitude for healing. Krypto is an exceptional dog – even though the film’s CGI may be uneven in other parts, Krypto always appears flawless – ideal for setting the stage for the required suspension of disbelief to appreciate this Silver Age-inspired Superman adaptation. James Gunn introduces the DC Universe much like how children have been acquainted with comics since 1938: plunging viewers straight into a narrative where countless bizarre events have transpired, and countless more are yet to unfold. The humorous elements are amusing but not necessarily intended as jokes. There are a few knowing nods to genre conventions (such as the robots in the Fortress of Solitude making light-hearted remarks about their supposed lack of feelings) and witty comments reminiscent of Marvel’s banter (most notably regarding the Justice Gang, a corporate superhero team that seems like Gunn’s critique of his former employers’ superhero universe). This movie maintains the absurdity of comics by predominantly treating it with sincerity.

In a rapid, action-packed manner, navigating multiple conflicts with an expansive ensemble cast, “Superman” is reminiscent of an extended live-action Saturday morning cartoon, but it’s a smart and edgy take on the classic format. It’s not quite like “Super Friends,” but it does pay homage to it, and while it’s suitable for children, certain scenes approach the mature content level of Adult Swim. The series can be considered mature in that the character development of Jimmy Olsen (Skyler Gisondo) leans towards adult themes, and Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) engages Superman in a profound discussion about journalistic integrity and civic responsibility, which is as captivating as any action sequence.

Overstuffed, but still delightful

If the movie “Superman” has one major weakness, it’s that it’s overly busy and can’t deliver on all its goals with the perfection it aspires to. The film attempts to focus on Superman’s emotional journey, particularly his relationship with two sets of parents (portrayed by Bradley Cooper and Angela Sarafyan as his Kryptonian parents, and Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell as his Earth parents), but this emotional core feels somewhat underdeveloped compared to the rest of the film. This emotional arc did stir some feelings within me, but it didn’t resonate as deeply as, for example, the similar ending in James Gunn’s “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.” Some jokes fell flat, and I found the “hypno-glasses” plot device unsatisfying, as human psychology would provide a more plausible explanation for people not recognizing Clark as Superman (even celebrities can lose look-alike contests!).

Despite being packed with charm and noble traits, this character is worth adoring in abundance. While connected to “Peacemaker” and the upcoming “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow,” the world-building primarily serves to introduce a host of delightful characters that leave you eager for more of each one. Mr. Terrific (played by Edi Gathegi) could be my new favorite, embodying an autistic-inspired superhero who showcases the film’s signature Gunn-style fight scene and serves as a powerful contrast as the virtuous tech genius against Luthor’s malevolent tech genius. Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan), this film’s most peculiar metahuman, is another noteworthy minor character with an impressive presence.

As a fervent admirer, I must say, the trio of leads truly shine! David Corenswet breathes life into Superman like no other, offering a more fallible Superman than Christopher Reeve’s yet a more relatable one than Henry Cavill’s. Rachel Brosnahan, with her air of steel-bound confidence and piercing intelligence, embodies Lois Lane to perfection. And Nicholas Hoult, oh what a chilling portrayal he gives as Lex Luthor! He skillfully blends the most despicable traits from real-world villains into one captivating portrayal of ambition turned malevolent.

Now, if the film’s championing of journalism and its role in Luthor’s downfall seems a tad far-fetched—after all, it’s not every day we encounter a guy who can generate helium with his bare hands—just remember: this is a work of fantasy. It’s a chance to escape reality and let our imaginations soar. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride! It’s fun to dream.

“Superman” opens in theaters on July 11.

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2025-07-09 00:30