Rated: M
My Rating: 7.5/10
James Gunn's Superman (2025) marks a vibrant and heartfelt reimagining of the Man of Steel, steering the DC Universe into a new era. Infused with camp, humour, and a deep sense of hope, the film pays homage to the Silver Age of comics while introducing a fresh narrative that resonates with contemporary audiences.
Set three years after Superman's public debut, the film explores a world where metahumans are an established reality. Superman, portrayed by David Corenswet, faces his most formidable challenge yet when Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) enlists the Engineer and Ultraman to undermine and potentially destroy him. The narrative delves into themes of identity, responsibility, and the moral complexities of heroism in a modern society.
Corenswet delivers a compelling performance, capturing the duality of Clark Kent and Superman with nuance. His portrayal brings a sense of earnestness and relatability, distinguishing this iteration from previous, more stoic versions. The film's tone, described as "very DC Silver Age," embraces a lighter, more optimistic approach, contrasting sharply with the darker tones of earlier adaptations.
Rachel Brosnahan's Lois Lane is a standout, portraying a fierce, intelligent journalist who challenges both Superman and the audience's expectations. Her dynamic with Corenswet adds depth to the narrative, grounding the fantastical elements in genuine emotion.
Nicholas Hoult's Lex Luthor is a revelation. His portrayal exudes menace and intellect, making Luthor a formidable antagonist whose motivations are as compelling as they are sinister. Hoult's performance really made me hate the character for the first time in any Superman IP.
Skyler Gisondo provides much-needed levity as Jimmy Olsen. His comedic timing and affable demeanour offer a delightful counterbalance to the film's more intense moments.
One of the boldest swings Superman (2025) takes is the introduction of the Justice Gang, a group of powered individuals already active in the world when the film begins. Far from being tacked on, these characters add surprising texture to the film’s world-building and feel like a promise of what the new DCU has in store. Their dynamic presence complements Superman’s personal journey, offering alternative views on heroism, power, and responsibility.
Nathan Fillion brings his signature charm and comedic timing to the role of Guy Gardner, a Green Lantern unlike any we’ve seen on screen before. Brash, cocky, and unapologetically confrontational, Gardner is an acquired taste—but Fillion makes him incredibly watchable. His interactions with both the Justice Gang and Superman add levity, but also spark tension, making for some of the film’s most entertaining character beats.
Isabela Merced is fierce and magnetic as Hawkgirl, giving the team a grounded sense of strength and history. Her gruff, no-nonsense exterior hides layers of pain and reincarnated wisdom, and her combat prowess makes her a visual standout in every action scene. Despite limited screen time compared to the leads, Merced’s Hawkgirl feels like a fully realised presence in the DCU already.
Edi Gathegi’s performance as Mr. Terrific brings a cool, cerebral intensity to the ensemble. As the intellectual anchor of the group, Terrific’s strategic mind is key in balancing the brashness of characters like Guy Gardner. Gathegi plays him with restraint and precision, a refreshing take that avoids the tired “genius with an ego” trope. His presence suggests a broader scientific and technological network at play behind the scenes in Gunn’s DCU.
What makes the Justice Gang work so well is that each member brings a distinct personality and skillset, and none of them feel like filler. They’re not just there to tease future spin-offs, they serve the story, challenge Superman, and help establish a larger world beyond the immediate conflict. Their inclusion could have easily felt like a gimmick, but Gunn integrates them cleverly into the core of the film’s themes.
Visually, Superman boasts impressive CGI and dynamic action sequences. Look I’ll be honest the film is great but it’s also not perfect. Some of the CGI and lighting can (I use this lightly) be distracting at times and can feel a little “cartoonish” These elements may distract some viewers but are unlikely to detract significantly from the overall experience.
Superman (2025) successfully reinvigorates the iconic hero for a new generation. While its campy tone and stylistic choices may not appeal to all, the film's heart, humour, and standout performances make it a worthy addition to the superhero genre. Corenswet's portrayal cements Superman's place as a beacon of hope, and Gunn's vision offers a refreshing departure from the genre's darker trends.
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In Cinemas July 10th 2025