Superman (2025)

I once mentioned that nobody played Superman better than Christopher Reeve and I don’t know if anyone ever will. I thought Henry Cavill did alright with the role in Man of Steel even though, and I’m sure I’m gonna get hate for this, I never cared for that movie. Sorry to disappoint some people but I’ve never been a fan of Zack Snyder. I think his visual style is interesting but I’ve just never taken a huge amount of interest in his work or what he’s done with DC. In fact, Man of Steel is the only movie with Henry Cavill as the character that I’ve seen. And even when I was 16-years old, I never jumped on the Snyder train like so many others did. I don’t think my own crazy obsessions run deeper than Snyder fans. I wasn’t sure where the future of DC was heading but that changed pretty fast when I went and saw James Gunn’s Superman. I know I said that nobody could play the character better than Christopher Reeve but I think that David Corenswet actually comes as a close second. He brings the character’s optimism and genuine love for helping others that I haven’t seen since the original. I have more to add to this heroic journey, so let’s jump right in.

     If you don’t already know, the movie skips the origin story and jumps right into Superman’s third year as a hero. At this point, things take a turn when a foreign rescue mission sparks global controversy and Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) tries to ruin Superman’s public image. I feel like I could mention more about the plot but I think it’s better to just see the movie for yourself, as I’m sure you’ll be able to pick up on things pretty easily. If there’s one thing a simple-minded sucker like myself enjoys, it’s a story that’s easy to follow. I think James Gunn has proven that he can handle anything in terms of comic book films and shows. He’s already proven that with the Guardians of the Galaxy films, The Suicide Squad, Peacemaker, and Creature Commandos. I didn’t know how to feel with him at the helm but the guy doesn’t usually disappoint me and he didn’t do that here either. There’s so much to enjoy about this movie, especially with a cast that includes Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, and so many other recognizable faces and voices. Another thing I liked, without spoiling too much, is that Superman isn’t totally god-like. He can actually get hurt and have vulnerabilities. I know a lot of people don’t like it that way but here’s my question: what the hell is so interesting about a guy that’s totally invincible? I feel like with this version, it kept me more engaged and it makes the character more relatable. Not only that, it allows for more dramatic tension and character development. However, I will admit that there was something about the movie I felt like I had seen before but I wouldn’t consider that much of a problem. I had a fun movie experience and that’s all that matters.

     This was a total blast for anyone who loves comic book films. As I could tell, James Gunn clearly understood the assignment here and he accomplished it successfully. Overall, I would have to give this movie a 9 out of 10. So, unless you’re a Snyder cultist who’s still in denial or you’re even more particular than I am, then I probably wouldn’t recommend this movie. But if you’re looking for a satisfying comic book adventure, then definitely go check this film out on the biggest screen while it’s still in the theaters. The original superhero still soars.