Movie Review: 'Superman'

James Gunn's 'Superman' is a brilliant introduction to the DCU, delivering epic action sequences, an unforgettable story, and stellar lead performances.

David Corenswet as Superman in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Superman', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.

'Superman' receives 9 out of 10 stars.

Coming to theaters on July 11th, 'Superman' is the first official installment in the DCU, helmed by Co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran. Written and directed by Gunn, the film stars David Corenswet as Clark Kent, also known as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luther.

Initial Thoughts

David Corenswet as Superman in Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Superman', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.

There has been a lot of internet chatter about comic book movie fatigue, but DC Studios is hoping to fix that with reboot of their universe. The DCU is kicking off with one of the most well-known and beloved characters, Superman, which is a brilliant move.

That said, it is hard not to be concerned that perhaps James Gunn was wearing too many hats in the making of 'Superman'. Despite the massive pressure it must have been, it is completely understandable why he would want to write and direct the first DCU film: 'Superman' is going to set the tone for the future and DC Studios needs it to succeed. It would be difficult to hand over the reins and trust someone else to do it.

Well, DC fans everywhere can finally breathe because 'Superman' is a fantastic movie, boasting incredible lead performances, epic action sequences, and a story that will leave audiences feeling all the feels. Plus, stick around for that end-credit scene.

Script and Direction

(L to R) Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, David Corenswet as Superman and Director James Gunn in Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Superman', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

One of the main reasons that 'Superman' works so well is the reason Tom Holland's 'Spider-Man: Homecoming' did: It is not an origin story. Everyone knows how Superman came to Earth, and while this is, of course, addressed in the film, it is not the main focus. We hear about Kal-El's parents and how they sent him away from a dying planet, and yes, they do have a key involvement in the plot, but we are not forced to sit through another coming of age story abotu a young Clark Kent.

When 'Superman' starts, Kent has already been publicly saving the world as Superman for three years. This is all established via a few words on the screen at the very beginning of the movie. He has been dating Lois Lane, who knows his true identity, for three months. The best part is, it doesn't feel like we are being dropped into the middle of a story. Everything needed to establish the world and the characters are there, and we can now get into the good stuff, Superman's struggle with simply wanting to do the right thing.

(L to R) Director James Gunn GUNN and David Corenswet on the set of DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Superman', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Photo by Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

James Gunn knows how to handle an ensemble cast. He has proven this time and time again. He is a brilliant writer, which is evident in the script. The way the characters banter with one another helps to make us feel as if we are in an already established world. They know each other, they have history, all of which adds a believability to the story being told.

The story itself is relatable and strangely relevant in today's climate. It is slightly political, but never polarizing, as it mostly debates if Superman has the right to protect the people of Earth and dives into what his motives are. Lex Luther hates him and wants to take him down by whatever means necessary. While they meet for the first time in the film, thanks to the writing, this is another believable relationship.

The set pieces are massive and detailed, which makes sense given the reported $225 million budget. These, coupled with James Gunn's knowledge of DC Comics and the world his movie is in, makes for some truly unforgettable moments.

Cast and Performances

(L to R) Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and David Corenswet as Superman in Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Superman', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jessica Miglio. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

David Corenswet was born to play Superman, there is no doubt about that. He does such a great job of capturing the struggle and the frustration when he needs to, but also the humanity and strength as well. This version of Clark Kent is one of the best and is sure to go down in history as a fantastic casting choice.

At the same time, Rachel Brosnahan brings something to Lois Lane that is real, raw, and very likable. She is a tough cookie, and a journalist before anything else, but is her relationship with Clark that will warm the hearts of viewers. Chemistry practically oozes through the screen whenever Lois and Clark are together, whether they are arguing or having deep, meaningful conversations. It has been a long time since two actors have brought something like this to the big screen and it is truly a joy to watch.

Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Superman', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.

It should come as no surprise that Nicholas Hoult nails his role as Lex Luther. he does so much of his acting with his eyes, especially in the third act. This character is so consumed with hatred and envy that his blood is practically boiling at all times. Even during the scenes where Lex Luther has the upper hand, Hoult allows that to come through in his performance.

One of Superman's most prominent villains, it makes sense that Lex is the featured bad guy in the first DCU film. Nicholas Hoult and David Corenswet are clearly having a lot of fun together in this movie, but not in a goofy or comedic way. When the two come face-to-face, it is impossible not to get chills.

(L to R) Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl and Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Superman', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Ent. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.

As for the Justice Gang, as they call themselves, Nathan Fillion (Guy Gardener), Isabela Mercad (Hawkgirl), and Edi Gathegi (Mister Terrific), they bring just the right amount of comedic relief needed to keep the story fun. Mister Terrific is the clear standout of the group, so much so that fans will be begging for him to get a solo movie after 'Superman'.

Yes, there are a lot of characters in 'Superman', but they all have a role to play in the story and they all do a wonderful job at it. No one feels shoehorned in or like they do not belong. This an already established world with established characters that we are watching, and each person makes sense to be there.

Mid-Credit and End-Credit Scenes

(L to R) David Corenswet and Krypto in 'Superman.' Photo: James Gunn's Instagram account.

'Superman' features a quick mid-credit scene and an end-credit scene. While neither of these sets up for the future of the DCU, or offers anything extremely important, they are worth sticking around for. The mid-credit scene is brief, but sweet. Definitely an "awww" moment. As for the end-credit sequence, it is absolutely hilarious.

Final Thoughts

(L to R) Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ 'Superman', a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2025 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. TM & © DC.

'Superman' gives fans exactly what they are looking for in the first DCU movie. There are incredible action sequences that showcase just how powerful this hero is. At the same time, we get a glimpse into his human side, realizing how similar he is to us despite technically being an alien.

The acting is top-notch with every actor knowing exactly what their character brings to the story. James Gunn proves, once again, that he knows how to write and direct an ensemble cast and that he knows how to adapt a comic book story for the screen.

Krpto may not be the best boy, but he is a fun addition to 'Superman'. He is not overly silly and he is important to the story being told. While the mid-credit and end-credit scenes are just for fun, the end of the movie does offer a glimpse into what is coming next. Superman fans, get ready to kick your feet and giggle as you fall in love with this character all over again.

What is the plot of 'Superman'?

In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.