Utilising the inaugural superhero, James Gunn joyously hurdles toward impending perfection within his new DCU.
Invulnerable, insurmountable, ideal. Superlatives used to slight/adorn the Man of Steel in equal measure. Yet, Superman (2025) strips the 'Man of Tomorrow' of false pretences, lazy narratives and unjustified mockery by turning into the skid, depicting a man with relatable problems, pain and physical limits. Whether that be a round with the Hammer of Bravia or a battle of words with the expertly portrayed Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan).
Gunn, utilising one of the best conversational dialogue scenes beamed onto the silver screen, manages to tackle complex political dilemmas, existential crisis and ultimate purpose with ease, forcing 'Big Blue' to balance saving the world from rampant Kaiju, universe threatening blackholes and international conflict with public perception.
Amidst epic cinematography and heroic junctures, unlike previous iterations of the character, the moments of connection, friendship and hope generate goosebumps. Finally, seeing the 'Metropolis Marvel' save pedestrians, pets and even a SQUIRREL! All while attempting to wrangle a very ill-mannered pup in Krypto, which will have you grinning from ear to ear.
As we are introduced to the realm at large, in which meta-humans have been roaming for over 300 years, the pantomime nature of the world, created via saturated colour grading, fluid camerawork and a punk rock score, begins to seep into your eyes, mind and soul fabricating a platform for larger than life villains and extraordinarily bombastic heroes to flourish.
A victim of its own success, reaching incredible heights, Superman (2025), unlike the Last Son of Krypton, isn’t bulletproof. I found myself wanting more, needing more, maybe expecting more, as it felt like an overcorrection. Allowing Clark, Lois, Lex, Guy Gardner and Mr. Terrific to have ALL the memorable, kick-ass moments of the movie, relegating Kal-El below his peers. Even amidst bouts of heroism and rapturous actualisation, he is, at times, straddled by unironically flamboyant dialogue, poor combat skills and an air of incompetence, not inexperience.
Is it the best depiction of the comic book Superman to date? Yes.
Is it a great superhero movie? Heck Yeah!
Are the supporting cast incredible? You betcha!
Should you be booking tickets immediately and more than once? Please!
Has James Gun created the greatest Superman movie? Not yet…
Reading Recommendations :
Superman : Birthright - A take not too dissimilar from that provided by James Gunn, as Superman and the world have to come to terms with his Kyptonian nature and purpose.
All-Star Superman (2006) – Grant Morrison and Frank Quietly’s Superman run is the definitive collection for all Superman lovers. It is full of hope, love and ultimate sacrifice, as all Superman stories should be.
