July 11, 2025: Superman 2025 Review – James Gunn’s film “Superman,” which starred David Corenswet, Nicholas Hoult, Rachel Brosnahan, Maria Gabriela de Faria, and Edi Gathegi, was released in theaters on July 11.
A hopeful start
The most striking aspect of James Gunn’s Superman portrayal is how fearlessly he embraces tenderness. This movie is aware of its past, respects its legacy, and yet dares to do something new. It’s not another grim, gloomy reboot, nor is it an origin story.
The movie begins with a succinct, witty synopsis that provides all the information we require: Three decades ago, Kansas farmers adopted a baby from another planet; three years ago, he became Superman; three weeks ago, he put an end to a war; three minutes ago, he lost a battle for the first time; and three centuries ago, metahumans first appeared on Earth.
That introduction establishes the mood in addition to filling in the blanks. It is mystical but human, optimistic yet realistic. You can see right away that Superman isn’t the same Man of Steel you’ve known when you find him in the Arctic, battered and damaged. In both a literal and emotional sense, Gunn has brought the hero to Earth.
He even goes through a phase where he wonders where he fits in the world, particularly after being imprisoned and emerging from it emotionally and physically restored.
Redefining the Steel Man
The film feels so unique because of this sensitivity. It’s obvious that Gunn wants to change the perception of Superman for a new generation by making him less divine and more human. And it’s effective. The tone changes as soon as he takes the first blow. Here, Superman isn’t perfect. Only three years into his hero journey, he is new to the cape and still learning the ropes.
What David Corenswet does so brilliantly in the part is convey that ambiguity and earnestness. His Superman is strong but inquisitive, endearing but uncertain. His portrayal has a boyish edge that heightens the impact of his strong moments.
In his role as Luthor, Nicholas Hoult is calmly and strategically frightening. He’s cutting through the landscape with icy accuracy, not devouring it. His hatred of Superman seems to be based on ideology rather than pure villainy, which elevates their fight above simple combat to a philosophical and emotional one.
Action, allies, and heartbeats
Without overcrowding the stage, the supporting cast adds flavor. A few of Mister Terrific’s scenes stand out, particularly the one in which he clinically destroys metahumans. Hawkgirl and Green Lantern offer comic book excitement, but they never take over the focus.
Two set pieces that truly stand out are a Mister Terrific vs. Metahuman fight and a metropolis on the verge of catastrophe. The action is tight and expertly performed. The tone is balanced—serious without being gloomy, lighthearted without being childish—the effects are flawless, and the tempo is precise.
Though imperfect, it offers hope.
Although it isn’t the most spectacular superhero movie, it is undoubtedly unique and has a heart. Instead of being a reinvention, “Superman” is a course correction. It attempts to create something sincere and fresh while acknowledging past mistakes.