Superman is here, and this time with a new suit, a fresh face and a film that might just top his previous versions.
Director James Gunn’s “Superman” released in theaters July 11. Viewers and critics alike responded with enthusiasm. The film holds a 92% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, while critics gave it an 83% rating.
Its rare alignment of high scores suggests Gunn’s reboot isn't another seat filler. It’s a genuine crowd-pleaser filled with heart and humor, with enough realism to feel grounded.
Superman is played by 32-year-old David Corenswet, who embodies the role of the hero like no other. His version of Earth’s defender isn’t perfect. He isn’t a perfect boyfriend. He isn’t a perfect man or alien. And he isn’t a perfect hero.
But that’s what makes Corenswet’s Superman resonate with audiences. His flaws and naivete make him relatable and honest. He’s more than the bulletproof icon portrayed in past productions. He’s also Clark Kent, who’s still learning how to carry the weight of the world, literally and emotionally.
His relationship with Lois Lane, played by Rachel Brosnahan, highlights the ups and downs of a romantic partnership. The two characters tease and bicker over their differing opinions on journalistic ethics, trust and the dangers of secrecy.
Their dynamic feels natural but new. They haven’t made their relationship official, so you can feel the pressure as they juggle work and their feelings in a world full of metahumans and villains.
When the movie begins, the audience is immediately paying attention. Superman just lost his first fight and was dragged back to the Fortress of Solitude by superpowered dog Krypto.
Superman was beaten by the “Hammer of Boravia,” a metahuman named Ultraman, who is secretly controlled by Lex Luthor, his archnenemy. This personal attack ties into the larger conflict at the film’s climax.
Superman is caught in the crossfire after stepping into a war between two fictional countries, Jarhanpur and Boravia. The film offers a not-so-subtle nod to real-world politics, highlighting the controversy of global powers choosing to intervene in foreign conflicts.
The movie tells the audience that protecting innocent lives is the most important goal.
Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, is convincingly unlikable. He brings the insecure genius, who’s fueled by his jealousy of Superman, to life. Hoult’s Luthor is cunning and ruthless enough to be threatening without feeling one-dimensional. Grounded by his resentment and hunger for control, he’s a compelling villain.
Despite its emotional depth and political undertones, “Superman” knows when to have fun. James Gunn leans into his signature style of blending humor and action. One of the most entertaining parts was Nathan Fillion’s performance as Guy Gardner, the cocky Green Lantern with a laughably bad haircut.
His punchy one-liners and horrible attitude make him an irreplaceable part of the “Justice Gang,” which consists of himself, Hawkgirl and Mister Terrific. The trio offers a welcome contrast to Superman’s earnestness, acting more grounded, scrappy and divided.
One of the film’s most powerful themes is Superman’s struggle with identity and trust. The public quickly turns against him after a recovered message from his parents urged him to conquer Earth and rebuild the Kryptonian race. The world questions whether Superman is truly the symbol of hope he claims to be or if he’s plotting world domination.
It’s a rare moment where the character’s morality is genuinely tested, not by a villain’s strength, but by the weight of his origin and purpose.
However, Superman finds guidance in his adoptive parents and moves forward. He promises to protect the people on Earth and inspires the Justice Gang to take action against the Boravian threat to Jarhanpur.
Ultimately, “Superman” is a solid superhero reboot that balances action, humor and emotion. It offers a fresh take on a classic hero while staying true to what makes Superman lovable.
With strong performances and a thoughtful story, the film reminds audiences why Superman is a lasting symbol of hope and resilience.
Contact Isis Snow at isnow@alligator.org. Follow her on X @snow_isisUF.
Isis Snow is a junior sports journalism student and a general assignment reporter for The Avenue. She enjoys reading and working out whenever she has the opportunity.
