DC’s ‘Superman’ soars into theaters 

Comic fans had a ball this summer when the newest Superman film arrived in theaters on July 11, 2025. Many were excited to see Clark Kent back in the red trunks after so many years, thanks to director James Gunn, who carefully planned and executed his sophomore project for D.C. studios. The film had high expectations after its announcement, and the excitement only heightened when pictures of the new suit on David Corenswet, who plays Superman, were leaked online.

Everything about this movie differs considerably from what D.C. fans have gotten used to since Zack Snyder’s cinematic universe, or the “Snyderverse”, dominated the studio for seven years. The movie’s energy, saturation, and overall message contrast sharply with movies like Man of Steel (2013) and Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2017). This change sparked debate among fans about the movie’s tone and costuming. Most Snyderverse fans agree that the film is childish, and the new costume is too soft and unintimidating. Meanwhile, fans of Gunn believe that Zack Snyder completely mischaracterized Superman and that he was never supposed to be intimidating. Either way, the two fan bases agree to disagree.

When asked about how the new Superman compares to those of the past, DBHS Sophomore, Layla Pierrette, says, “I think he [James Gunn’s Superman] is a lot nicer and he gives people a better sense of hope.” Pierrette also stated that she was happy to see Superman portrayed this way.

The movie’s plot follows Superman as he attempts to stop the nation of Bovaria’s invasion of the country of Jarhanpur while also dealing with his tarnished reputation after the public discovers the real reason he came to Earth. Both events are also suspiciously tied to his nemesis, Lex Luthor. To defeat Luthor, Superman gets help from his friends in the “Justice Gang” and the employees of the “Daily Planet,” the journal Clark Kent writes for. The movie also explores the dynamic between Clark and Lois Lane, their disagreements over moral dilemmas, and Clark’s perspective on his own humanity.

Kindness is one of the movie’s themes. Throughout the story, Superman’s goal is to protect those around him, no matter what they think of him. Superman claims seeing beauty in everyone is “the real punk rock”. He never stops believing in people; he never gives up, he makes mistakes, and he feels, because being human is his biggest strength.

This film successfully served as an introduction to a whole new world of upcoming D.C. movies. David Corenswet is confirmed to return as Superman in future films, possibly in Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, set to release on June 26, 2026. Superman is nowhere near the last of James Gunn’s D.C. films, and because of all its positive reactions, it’s safe to say the universe is in good hands.

Written by Sabrina Alves | Graphic Designed by Sabrina Alves

Published September 4, 2025 | ePathfinder | Entertainment