Never have I thought I would rate a superhero movie as highly as I do Superman.
I hate propping up a singular person for works that were the result of collective blood, sweat and tears. But James Gunn and his team brought a vision previously thought impossible for DC Studio. They brought the hope and morality themes from the opposing and more commercially-successful Marvel Superhero Universe: from a more saturated colour-grading of the film, Marvel-style type of comedy, and pacing. These features of Superman definitely established a fresh new direction for the movie franchise, but most of all, it is a brave film to release now.
The story of Superman today is how he battled against Lex Luthor, his corporation and one of US’s closest colonialist powers, Boravia. They’re all stand-ins for the current fascistic and technocratic political powers in the US, Israel’s colonialist greed against Palestine and the wider middle east. Despite the overwhelming, universe-shattering doom that loomed over Metropolis and Jarhanpur, Superman saves the day and inspires humanity again.
Superman or Kal-El, is portrayed by David Corenswet, who embodied the hope and goodness that DC wanted to inspire. To me, a good actor means that I won’t find the character they’re acting out as jarring in the story. After seeing this movie, I felt some ineffable sureness that Superman does exist. I mean, the way the story and character was written was very awe-inspiring and helped me process my own feelings in reality. I enjoyed how Superman was relatable emotionally – he couldn’t understand why society is putting semantics and bureaucracy ahead of the Jarhanpurans. A common feeling in 2025.
I felt Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane came across as a strong character, using acting in an icy demeanor to emphasise her logical nature. As a journalist, Lois Lane needs to investigate and verify according to societal frameworks and law and she served as a good neoliberal soundboard to Superman. It was funny that Gunn made the choice to physically separate the Daily Planet crew – metaphorically putting mainstream media on a pedestal – to show they can be objective and retain authenticity. The same media in reality has continued to prop up pro-Israel positions and fuel racist and Islamaphobia amongst.
The exaggeration that Nicholas Hoult brought to Lex Luthor was easily inspired and yet so adaptable to our world leaders. Huh, I wonder what traits they have in common. His acting was focused and I appreciated the choice to have a large amount of minions around him to show that it’s not a single evil person responsible for sinister and morally apprehensible acts. The phrase the banality of evil comes to mind (aka. “we were just following orders”); warning against complicity just to protect yourself, as eventually you become a victim too.
Between the main characters, the movie adequately communicates more empathy and action is needed to stand up to evil backed by capitalist and imperialist leaders. The story didn’t really mention the state of America. I thought the politicians played a limited role in the story, but also you can’t fit everything in. I hope it is explored in future films.Though I also think Gunn did push it as much as he could have given the political constraints within Hollywood (and conservative America).
I didn’t enjoy all of the Marvel elements that were brought over – like extended awkward moments and jokes. And the damn mid-credit and post-credit scenes. I hate them so much. Please stop using them.
Other highlights… obviously Krypto the dog! This was a very strategic decision – commercially and story-wise (for Gunn’s DC Universe). I also enjoyed seeing Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl; been a fan of hers since Last of Us. Looking forward to seeing more of Milly Alcock as Supergirl (young Rhaenyra, House of Dragon) as well.
Positive reception and support for this film has grown exponentially after opening weekend. It’s immensely popular because of the relatability – I know I hammered this point super hard – but it HAS generated extremely high social feedback and the box office results have rocketed. It feels cringe to say but I thought this movie is very artful. Not that it’s the best film ever made, but it was a great way to make commentary as a reaction to the current phase of the world; a captivating expression based on the time of its inception.
To sum up, I think Superman the movie empowers people by appealing to the better natures of humanity, which is impactful in a terrifying, sorrowful time in human history. Though it is hard to think about what will happen day to day, it gave me a nice day to remember.
Who should watch it: Everyone.
Who shouldn’t watch it: N/A
Outer Layer 