James Gunn’s Superman is not just a film—it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that the DC Universe is entering a new phase with heart, clarity, and purpose. Following years of cinematic inconsistency and fan division, Superman emerges as a triumphant reboot that both honours the legacy of the Man of Steel and carves out an exciting, fresh direction for the future.
Taking the reins as director and writer, James Gunn brings his signature blend of humour, emotional depth, and genre-savvy storytelling. But this is not Guardians of the Galaxy with a cape, although the visual aesthetic does reek of Guardians – in a good way. Gunn understands the cultural and symbolic weight of Superman, and he treats the character with the reverence he deserves, without falling into the trap of being too solemn or self-important. The film pulses with hope, optimism, and moral clarity, all grounded in the real-world challenges of a young Clark Kent coming to terms with his dual heritage and responsibilities.
At the centre of the film is David Corenswet, who delivers a sincere and captivating performance as Clark Kent/Superman. Corenswet manages the tricky balance of embodying the classic nobility of the character while adding new emotional dimensions. His Superman isn’t jaded or tortured, but he isn’t naive either. He wrestles with choices, with identity, and with the world’s expectations. It’s a portrayal that feels timeless yet unmistakably modern.
Opposite him, Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is sharp, fierce, and completely magnetic. She brings a journalistic edge and emotional intelligence that makes Lois more than just a love interest—she’s a force in her own right. The chemistry between Corenswet and Brosnahan is genuine, and it helps anchor the movie’s emotional core. Add to that strong supporting turns from Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, and you have a dynamic ensemble that hints at a richly interconnected DC world.
Of course, a movie this high-profile was always going to stir up passionate responses. Since its announcement, the film has faced intense scrutiny, especially from factions of the fanbase still loyal to Zack Snyder’s vision. But while the backlash was loud, Gunn didn’t flinch. He stayed committed to his vision, which ultimately paid off. What sets this Superman apart is not just his power, but his empathy. This is a Superman who listens before he punches, who saves those around him, even when the world doubts his calling, and who leads by example rather than domination.
Gunn’s direction also signals a broader tonal shift for DC Studios. Where past entries often leaned into grimness or disconnected spectacle, Superman is cohesive, character-driven, and emotionally resonant. It strikes a thoughtful balance between grounded storytelling and comic book grandeur. Visually, the film is stunning without being overbearing, and the score is uplifting, heroic, and at times haunting, beautifully complements the emotional beats. Overall, it truly is a mashup of the original Superman movie and Guardians of the Galaxy in its presentation. Humourous, campy, yet passionate and bold. Gunns’ style is all over this, and it’s glorious.
There’s also a strong sense of world-building here, but it never overwhelms the story. Instead of teasing future films with post-credit bait, Gunn weaves subtle connections into the narrative that reward attentive viewers without alienating newcomers. It feels like the start of something that has been carefully considered, not hastily assembled.
In many ways, Superman is the film that DC desperately needed—and one that audiences didn’t know they were missing. It reminds us why Superman has endured for over 85 years: because he represents the best of us. In an age where cynicism often prevails, Gunn dares to present a hero who believes in kindness, in truth, and in the possibility of a better tomorrow. For those out there calling it ‘woke’ – damn right it is, and that is a good thing.
The production also gives us a hilarious yet disturbing introduction to Supergirl – go and see the movie in theatres to see what I mean.
As credits roll, there’s a renewed sense of hope. Not just within the world of the film, but in the real world too. James Gunn has crafted a Superman for this generation: grounded yet aspirational, complex yet unwavering. And if this film is any indication of where the DC Universe is heading, fans have every reason to believe that the best is yet to come.
Stick around for the entire credits, as there are a couple of fun moments that most people in the screening I attended missed out on.
Rob is the founder of GTG. Launching the GTG-Sydney brand in 1995, it has gone from a VHS tourist guide for Sydney to a global phenomenon, partnering with Pride events and special events and charities all over the world, raising millions of dollars for the LGBTQIA+ communities and showcasing our big gay world to anyone who wants to join in the fun.
Rob is a trained marketer and journalist. An Emmy award winner, a NIDA-trained TV Presenter who has been on digital channels, cable and terrestrial broadcast television globally as a presenter, producer and creative.
He is currently editor-in-chief and producer of GTG and the co-host of The Unfashionably Late Podcast.