SUPERMAN: A Vibrant New Era for DC’s Iconic Hero

When Superman’s arch-nemesis, Lex Luthor, twists the hero’s ancestry to make the world turn against him, the alien from Planet Krypton will have to fight against fear and hatred to uphold his honor and save those in peril. Written and directed by James Gunn, Superman is a vibrant and energetic spectacle fitting for one of the greatest superheroes of all time. And above all, a delightful introduction to a new era of the DC Universe.

Superman drops us straight amid an existing battle, as the cape-wearing hero is a few years in on being a public figure. Gunn isn’t looking to exhaust another origin story, as he stated in a recent article with The Times. While you may need to be familiar with some of the basic lore before going in, it’s such a refreshing way to get introduced to this new world of Superman by skipping the drawn-out introductions and redundant establishments. Which I’m sure is a relief for audiences who don’t need to see a third iteration in 20 years.

We pick up with Superman (David Corenswet), still leading that double life as Clark Kent at the Daily Planet, and in a new, yet secretive relationship with his colleague Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan). And he’s already deep into a nasty rivalry with LuthorCorp CEO, Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), whose envy has sent him down a destructive path.

The film itself is a visual feast. It bathes itself in the yellow sun, trading in a moody aesthetic for vibrancy, feeling like a classic comic book come to life. Further bringing spirit to the screen is spectacular costuming, done by Judianna Makovsky, who has had her fair share of superhero films, bringing back those classic saturated tones of the iconic blue and red suit.

And while those visual elements look the part and delight the eyes, the biggest test is whether the cast can capture that spark of such beloved characters. And by no surprise, they do.

The casting is absolute perfection in this. Corenswet was destined to play Superman. He’s endearing and charming, evoking every sense of the character. He’s brawny yet maintains a vulnerability. He often reminded me of Brendan Fraser with that sense of gentle, commanding energy. There’s also amazing chemistry between him and Brosnahan. She’s an excellent embodiment of her character, confident and self-sufficient. Both challenging yet complementing each other, and just oozing magnetism.

And on the less pleasant acquaintance side, there’s Lex, played charismatically by Hoult. He’s a solid villain. Though he seemed rigid at the beginning, he settles into his evilness well and truly commands attention by his superb final monologue. Although I do think more backstory between the two’s rivalry could have been showcased in some way further.

Their feud is what catapults some of the film’s darkest themes. I’d be remiss not to mention how its messaging ties into current events, especially hostility towards immigrants or those who are “othered”. It’s interesting to see some of the upset about this, as Superman has always been this from his inception. That sense of fear is explored without impacting Clark’s belief in hope and being a good person. And I commend Gunn for committing to and thoughtfully upholding that part of the story, which is as important as ever, and ensuring it isn’t lost amongst the big battles.

And with that, I think Gunn also manages to bring a bit of levity when necessary. As a writer, he has a somewhat signature wit in his work. He brings that playfulness to Superman but stays within a well-balanced tone for the film. It’s slightly drier than a Guardians of the Galaxy, even sardonic at times.

Altogether, it feels like a reinvigoration of the superhero. It feels made with a deep-rooted love for the source material and an attention to detail. And even as someone not heavily knowledgeable about every facet of Superman. I could still feel the passion.

Seeing Will Reeve, the son of beloved Superman actor Christopher Reeve, makes a small appearance as a reporter. To the marvelous cinematic score, an updated version of John Williams‘s theme from the 1978 film. Even the Cincinnati Museum Center gets its epic moment as the Hall of Justice, as it was the original inspiration for the comics. And as a former Cincinnatian, it was exciting to see the building have its moment.

Superman is the epitome of a classic superhero adventure. It’s not to say I’ve never enjoyed the previous franchises, but there’s a sense of new electricity reverberating through this film. Gunn’s appreciation for fandoms shows, and his passion extends to every member of the cast. It’s an excellent summertime blockbuster event with an uplifting message of hope. And it makes me all the more excited for what’s to come in the DCU.

Superman is in theaters July 11