Why James Gunn's 'Superman' Soars

Move over, every other superhero movie this year—there’s a new hero in town, and he’s wearing a familiar red cape. Superman, the highly anticipated film from writer-director James Gunn, has finally flown into theaters and onto streaming, and it’s the breath of fresh air the genre desperately needed. Starring the perfectly cast David Corenswet as the titular hero and Rachel Brosnahan as the fiercely intelligent Lois Lane, this isn’t just another origin story. Instead, Gunn gives us a Superman who is already three years into his career, trying to balance his Kryptonian heritage with his small-town Kansas upbringing in a world that often sees his kindness as old-fashioned . Premiering in theaters on July 11, 2025, and now available to stream, the film has captivated audiences with its perfect blend of epic action, humor, and, most importantly, heart . Let’s dive into what makes this movie a must-watch.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here’s your quick guide to everything you need to know about the film.

Title: Superman (also known initially as Superman: Legacy)
Genre: Superhero, Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi, Fantasy
Director: James Gunn
Main Cast:
- David Corenswet as Clark Kent / Superman
- Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane
- Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
- With Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl .
Release Info: The film had its premiere on July 7, 2025, and was released wide in the United States on July 11, 2025. It became available for streaming on August 15, 2025 .
Brief Synopsis: The film follows a more established Superman as he faces unintended consequences after intervening in an international conflict orchestrated by the brilliant and bitter billionaire Lex Luthor. When Luthor uncovers a hidden message from Superman's Kryptonian parents that turns public opinion against him, Clark Kent must reconcile his heritage with his human upbringing to prove who he truly is .

What Makes This Superman So Super? The Selling Points

This isn't the brooding, conflicted hero we've seen in recent years. Gunn’s Superman is a return to the character's core ideals—truth, justice, and a deep-seated belief in goodness. But that doesn't mean the film is without its stakes or surprises. Here’s what sets it apart.

A Superman with a Beating Heart: The greatest achievement of this film is its soul. David Corenswet embodies both the god-like power of Superman and the gentle, sometimes uncertain humanity of Clark Kent. Gunn and Corenswet have crafted a character who is genuinely kind, and the movie argues that this kindness is his greatest strength, not a weakness . The scenes with his adoptive parents, Jonathan and Martha Kent, ground the story in a powerful emotional reality.
Lois Lane is the Co-Hero, Not the Damsel: Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is an absolute revelation. She is not a character waiting to be rescued. In a brilliant break from tradition, this Lois Lane is the one who actively saves Superman, both physically and emotionally . She’s a dogged reporter who isn’t afraid to challenge Superman in an interview, creating genuine tension in their relationship. Their chemistry is palpable, making their romance feel earned and deeply satisfying . For more character deep-dives like this, check out this analysis on Cinewatched.

A Bold New Twist on the Origin: James Gunn introduces a major change to Superman's mythology that becomes the central conflict of the film. The message from his birth parents, Jor-El and Lara, isn't just a benevolent "be a hero to humanity" speech. A restored, second half reveals they intended for him to rule Earth and continue the Kryptonian race . This creates an incredible internal struggle for Clark, forcing him to actively choose his path and define his own identity. Gunn has stated this is a permanent change for the DCU, adding a fascinating layer of complexity to the character's future .
A Lived-In World and a Scene-Stealing Dog: The film wisely introduces us to a world where metahumans already exist, thanks to the early appearance of the "Justice Gang" (Mister Terrific, Hawkgirl, and Green Lantern). This immediately makes the universe feel bigger and more alive. And let's not forget the best supporting character: Krypto the Superdog! The super-powered canine is a delightful addition, providing both heart and hilarious moments .

The Verdict: Does It Stick the Landing?

The critical and audience consensus is a resounding "yes!" The film has been praised for being fun, colorful, and earnest, with particular acclaim going to the lead performances . While the plot is packed with characters and ideas, James Gunn manages to keep the focus firmly on Clark Kent's emotional journey. The climax, which involves a dimensional rift threatening to tear Metropolis in half, is visually spectacular, but the real payoff is character-driven, culminating in a well-earned and joyous conclusion .

Conclusion

Superman (2025) is more than just a successful reboot; it's a triumphant statement of purpose for the new DC Universe. By focusing on hope, heart, and heroism in its truest form, James Gunn has delivered a film that feels both classic and excitingly new. David Corenswet soars as the Man of Steel, Rachel Brosnahan redefines Lois Lane for a new generation, and the film’s bold narrative choices promise an exciting future. It’s a must-see for long-time fans and a perfect entry point for newcomers. This is the Superman movie we've been waiting for.

Have you seen Superman yet? What did you think of James Gunn's fresh take? Share your thoughts and find more in-depth movie reviews at Cinewatched!

References

Why James Gunn's 'Superman' Soars

Why James Gunn's 'Superman' Soars

What Makes This Superman So Super? The Selling Points

The Verdict: Does It Stick the Landing?

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