Superman is not only the first, but also the pinnacle of all superheroes. Everything we associate with the all-powerful and heroic figure is, in some way, defined by the Son of Krypton. The superhero genre will forever be indebted to Richard Donner’s 1978 film. Superman paved the way for what would become decades of comic book franchises. Now it’s James Gunn’s turn to relaunch the character with Superman (2025). For DC Studios, this film is positioned as the cornerstone of its new cinematic universe.

In what is now considered his classic era, the character was portrayed by Christopher Reeve in four films between 1978 and 1987. Then came Brandon Routh in Superman Returns (2006), marking a nearly 20-year gap between movies. The character then entered the DC cinematic universe, where director Zack Snyder introduced Henry Cavill as Superman, appearing in three films. Over nearly 50 years on the big screen, Superman has undergone changes that range from subtle to drastic in his cinematic portrayals. At times, the character was stripped of his core essence in favor of a darker tone, trying to bring Jerry Siegel’s hero closer to a more adult audience.

The Last Son of Krypton

Superman (2025) restores the radiant tone of the Man of Steel, a tone that inspires hope, elevates him with a touch of mysticism, yet grounds him with unshakable humanity. It makes him vulnerable, not physically, but emotionally. James Gunn’s script is largely inspired by the comic All-Star Superman (2005–2008), from which he draws the tone to build a Superman who is a beacon of justice and deeply connected to humanity. Gunn doesn’t lift specific lines from All-Star Superman; instead, he leans into adapting the spirit of what many consider the definitive representation of Superman in comic books.

If there’s one character who needs no introduction, it’s Superman. This is not an origin story meant to set the stage for the audience; this is the tale of a legend whose story is already known to all. David Corenswet dons the original suit, red trunks over the blue bodysuit, and red boots—honoring the classic style with a timeless aesthetic. Gunn even dares to include Krypto, Superman’s canine companion. In the 1950s and ’60s, Krypto was a key part of the comics, bringing a whimsical and childlike tone. In this Superman, his inclusion works as an excellent comedic escape, blending smoothly with the tone of the story. Corenswet rises to the challenge as the Last Son of Krypton—his presence is both commanding and gentle. He has the charisma to embody Superman, representing absolute strength but also boundless compassion.

The Man of Steel

On the villain’s side, we have Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Hoult brings a manic tone infused with the flair of a criminal mastermind. This Lex Luthor becomes the perfect antagonist for Gunn’s Superman. Superman (2025) introduces secondary characters that serve as building blocks for the future of DC’s new universe, while helping the film maintain a light-hearted tone that reminds us we’re watching a fantasy. Mr. Terrific, Hawkgirl, and Guy Gardner (Green Lantern) support Superman and even give us a brief glimpse of the Hall of Justice—just as we remember it from the animated series—sparking a touch of nostalgia. Another wink from Gunn comes with the inclusion of Metamorpho in a small but decisive role.

Superman stops a war, battles a gigantic monster, saves a helpless girl, a lost dog, and even a poor squirrel in distress. And of course, he saves the entire world from total destruction. Because that’s who Superman is: the hero who always puts the greater good first, the zenith of moral values, a beacon in the darkness, a god among men. That’s the Superman James Gunn brings to the screen—a luminous film, relaxed in tone, moving at an agile rhythm thanks to editing that makes us feel like we’re flipping through the vibrant, heartfelt pages of a comic book.

In times when cynicism and darkness dominate many superhero stories, James Gunn chooses to bring back the bright and noble figure of Superman. It’s not about reinventing him, but about reminding us why we need him. In every act of kindness, in every majestic flight through the skies, we see the reflection of eternal hope and the powerful truth that, even with unlimited power, the most valuable thing will always be the human spirit.