Everyone knows Superman’s story — or at least thinks they do: The baby from Krypton, the Kansas farm, the secret identity, the cape. But what James Gunn’s “Superman” does so well is remind us why this story still matters, and why we still need it.
Gunn, now co-head of DC Studios, takes the character back to his roots while making him feel urgent and relevant.
The film is packed with big, crowd-pleasing moments, but also small ones — a rescued dog, a saved squirrel — that show the Man of Steel’s heart. David Corenswet’s Superman is earnest, awkward, and deeply kind. He’s the kind of hero who inspires people to stand up for each other, not just wait for him to save the day.
What’s remarkable about this reboot is how it honors Superman’s origins. Created in the 1930s by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, two Jewish comic book creators who saw the world growing darker and more dangerous, Superman was always more than just a strongman in tights. He was a champion for the vulnerable; a symbol of hope against corruption, cruelty, and despair.
Gunn’s film doesn’t forget that. In fact, it leans into it.
Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) isn’t just a mad scientist in this film — he’s a master manipulator, spreading lies on TV that the public swallows whole. The villains aren’t just superpowered thugs; they’re also the forces of misinformation, fear, and authoritarianism.
Gunn draws clear parallels to our world, but never lets the film become a lecture. Instead, he keeps the focus on Superman’s compassion, courage, and refusal to give up on us, even when we disappoint him.
Wendell Pierce as Perry White in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Superman,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. (Jessica Miglio photo) 
David Corenswet as Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Superman,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures) 
Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific in DC Studios’ and Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Superman,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. (Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures)
The introduction of the Justice Gang — Green Lantern, Metamorpho, Mister Terrific, and Hawkgirl — promises an exciting future for the DC universe without overwhelming the story at hand.
The supporting cast is terrific. Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is sharp, unflappable, and doesn’t need saving. The Daily Planet newsroom feels alive and believable, with Wendell Pierce’s Perry White and Skyler Gisondo’s Jimmy Olsen adding warmth and humor.
The film’s commitment to diversity shines through and is one of the film’s clear strengths, especially in Pierce’s authoritative Perry White and Edi Gathegi’s compelling Michael Holt, aka Mister Terrific, a key member of the Justice Gang. Alongside them, Tinashe Kajese, Mary Chatmon, and Savannah Lumar contribute to a richly inclusive cast that reflects a modern, vibrant Metropolis.
Gathegi brings gravitas and intelligence to Holt, a metahuman superhero and core member of the Justice Gang. Pierce anchors the newsroom scenes with authority and warmth as White, editor-in-chief of The Daily Planet. Tinashe Kajese adds to the authenticity of the newsroom as Flo Crawley.
Supporting performances by Mary Chatmon (Loretto Bell) and Savannah Lumar (Young Girl) further enhance the film’s inclusivity.
These casting choices not only honor Superman’s legacy as a symbol for all people, but also reflect the world we live in today, making the story feel immediate and relevant.
Visually, the film is bright and inviting, a welcome shift from the gloom that’s weighed down recent superhero films. Gunn balances action and spectacle with genuine warmth and wit.
Yes, the PG-13 rating is deserved — there’s some salty language, scary villains, and one truly shocking execution, but the tone is ultimately hopeful.
According to Variety, at the time of filing on July 14, 2025, “Superman” had already grossed an impressive $122 million domestically during its opening weekend, with an additional $95 million internationally, bringing its global total to $217 million. A strong opening, but the film reportedly cost $225 million to make, with roughly $100 million spent on promotion.
At its core, “Superman” is about the power of doing good, even when it’s hard. It’s about standing up to bullies, telling the truth, and believing in the best of people.
Gunn’s reboot is old-fashioned in the best possible way: It believes that heroism is for everyone, and hope is never out of style.
This is the “Superman” movie we needed — and maybe the one we deserve.