The new “Superman”, stars David Corenswet as ‘Clark Kent’, AKA Superman. He’s seeking answers about his alien heritage within his adoptive human family. The film is based on the DC Universe comics and also stars Rachael Brosnahan as Lois Lane, a reporter for the Daily Planet newspaper where Clark Kent works. Lois is also the love interest of Clark Kent/Superman. I’m happy to say this is one of the best Superman films I’ve seen yet!
Writer and Director James Gunn’s Superman film not only entertains, but it also serves as a powerful reminder that we should all be about hope, kindness, and empathy. He frames Superman as an immigrant who embodies these ideals. This portrayal of Superman as a symbol of these virtues is not only inspiring but also a refreshing take on the character. New to the series is Krypto the Super Dog, who possesses the same superpowers as Superman, and yes, he has a great-looking cape. He’s not a specific breed, but rather a terrier mutt with a possible Schnauzer mix. As you’ll also see, he is a little unruly, as he isn’t very well-trained and likes to tear things up. Director James Gunn says Krypto is modeled after his own dog, Ozu, who is a terrier mix.
At times, we actually view Clark Kent traveling to his family’s farm seeking advice from Pa Kent, in Smallville, Kansas. He tells him that it’s not his powers that make him special, it’s the choices and actions that make him who he is. This theme rings loud and clear throughout the film. An interesting aspect is the fact that director Gunn looks at Superman’s human side. Superman’s actually says, “I’m as human as anyone. I love, I get scared. I wake up every morning and, despite not knowing what to do, I put one foot in front of the other and I try to make the best choices I can. I screw up all the time, but that is being human. And that’s my greatest strength.” His character as a human is actually very relatable, although when he becomes Superman, he becomes an entirely different person.
Another aspect we haven’t seen much of in past Superman movies or the TV series is Superman being physically hurt and actually in pain. The film starts by showing his bruised, bloody, battered body. The majority of the film shows him at work protecting people against the evil billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult). Who is the one responsible for him getting beaten up, lasered, imprisoned, and kryptonite-poisoned—yikes, what a new storyline! Luthor’s goal is the annihilation of Superman, as he’s obsessed with bringing his power to an end. Parents beware as the film is rated PG-13 and not suitable for younger children, as I will never condom torture for children to view.
Yes, I’m hands-up on this Superman film as I loved the romantic scenes between him and Lois Lane. This human side of Superman is something we can all connect with, making the film even more engaging. These moments of love and connection between the two characters add a beautiful layer to the film, making it even more captivating. As I mentioned, the new addition of ‘Super Dog’ steals the show.
- David Corenswet as Superman/Kal-El/Clark Kent
- Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
- Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane
- Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern
- Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific
- Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl
- María Gabriela de Faría as Angela Spica aka The Engineer
- Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho
- Frank Grillo plays Rick Flag Sr
- Wendell Pierce as Perry White
- Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen
- Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard
- Mikaela Hoover as Cat Grant
- Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher
- Neva Howell as Martha Kent
- Pruitt Taylor Vince as Pa Kent
- Bradley Cooper as Jor-El
- Angela Sarafyan as Lara Lor-Van
- Zlatko Burić as Vasil Ghurkos
- Terence Rosemore as Otis Berg
- Stephen Blackehart as Sydney Happersen
- Sean Gunn as Maxwell Lord (cameo)
Director: James Gunn
Writer: James Gunn
Cinematography: Henry Braham
Edited by: William Hoy and Craig Albert
Sarah Knight Adamson© July 19, 2025