A New Beginning for Superman
Superman is more than just a film; it’s a declaration of intent for the entire franchise. The pressure on this movie is immense, and it’s hard not to feel that weight as audiences settle into their seats. The expectations are so high that even the most casual viewer might find themselves holding their breath, wondering if this film can live up to the legacy of one of pop culture’s most iconic heroes.
At its core, Superman has a mission: to rescue the comic book genre from a string of box office disappointments. It must honor one of the greatest characters in pop culture and offer DC a fresh start. This task falls into the capable hands of director James Gunn, known for his work on the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy and 2021’s The Suicide Squad. His vision brings a new energy to the DC universe, one that feels both innovative and respectful of the character’s origins.
Gunn also needs to address the lingering feelings of discontent among fans who believe that the previous guardian of Superman, Zack Snyder, was wronged by unseen forces. While this is a complex issue, the film itself doesn’t dwell on it. Instead, it focuses on what matters most: the story of Superman and the world he inhabits.
The film is dense and busy, but every element is carefully balanced. Superman (David Corenswet) is already well-established in this world, effortlessly saving lives while maintaining his secret identity as Clark Kent, a journalist for the Daily Planet. He is in a relationship with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), who knows the truth about his extraterrestrial origins. Their dynamic adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the challenges of balancing personal life with the responsibilities of being a hero.
Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), Superman’s arch-nemesis, is already plotting in the shadows, setting the stage for future conflicts. The film also introduces other characters like Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion), Mister Terrific (Edi Gathegi), and Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), who have already established themselves as corporate-sponsored heroes. This approach allows the story to focus on the central trio without getting bogged down in origin tales.
Superman’s journey includes a recent victory against a US-backed imperialist power, Boravia, in the country of Jarhanpur. His success comes at a cost, as his actions challenge the status quo and spark controversy. The internet turns on him, with his alien heritage used as a source of fear and suspicion. This narrative thread highlights the film’s exploration of societal values and the complexities of heroism in a world driven by vested interests.
Gunn’s script uses the genre as a platform for ideological debate. The film presents a Metropolis where collective values can be tested and questioned. The performances of the central trio bring a new emotional clarity to the roles, distinct from their predecessors but still rooted in the spirit of the original 1978 film.
Superman pays homage to John Williams’s iconic 1978 theme while maintaining a distinctly James Gunn style. The film balances humor, action, and heart, with Krypto, the superpowered dog, adding a lighthearted touch. The cinematography remains fluid, and the storytelling is both engaging and thought-provoking.
With a runtime of 130 minutes, the film offers a compelling blend of action, drama, and social commentary. Directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, and Isabela Merced, Superman is a bold statement for the future of the franchise.
‘Superman’ is in cinemas from 11 July.
