Superman (2025) [Film Review]: A Bold, Colorful Reboot Soars with Heart and Humor

James Gunn’s Superman skips the origin story and opens during Clark Kent’s third year as the Man of Steel. Already idolized for ending a foreign war, Superman now faces an unexpected crisis: an ethical backlash in media and politics after acting without official sanction. Meanwhile, tech billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) covertly schemes to turn public opinion against him. The setup is a politically charged, in-media-res scenario that thrusts the hero straight into conflict.

Cast and Characters

David Corenswet stars as Clark/Superman, bringing a sincere, somewhat world-weary take to the role. Rachel Brosnahan plays Lois Lane, a tenacious reporter who interrogates Superman in one of the film’s sharper scenes. Nicholas Hoult portrays Lex Luthor as a charismatic yet obsessive villain. The supporting cast includes Edi Gathegi’s scene-stealing Mister Terrific and Nathan Fillion’s Green Lantern (Guy Gardner). The ensemble also features familiar DC heroes like Hawkgirl and others from Gunn’s broader universe.

Style and Tone

James Gunn’s take on Superman delivers a lively, fast-moving spectacle that captures the spirit of a comic book in motion. The film mixes screwball-comedy moments with blockbuster action sequences. This leads to energetic, dialogue-driven scenes (for example, a witty exchange between Superman and Lois) but also an overload of set pieces. The visual spectacle (giant monsters, powered villains, a super-dog Krypto) is impressive at times, even if the constant barrage of CGI can feel derivative.

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Highlights

●Heart and Humor: Despite the chaos, the film has warm moments. Scenes with Superman and his adoptive parents (Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell) are touching and authentic. Gunn’s humor—while divisive—adds levity, and audiences may appreciate the fun tone. Superman’s fundamental nobility (even rescuing a squirrel in combat) stands out.

●Villains and Support: Nicholas Hoult’s Luthor is a highlight; he brings wit and menace to the role. The Justice Gang (especially Mister Terrific and Guy Gardner) adds energy and banter. These performances keep the film engaging and occasionally scene-stealing.

●Spectacle: The movie delivers ambitious action beats and comic-book authenticity. Many viewers have enjoyed the scale of city-wide battles and classic Superman elements (like nods to John Williams’s theme), finding it exactly the colorful heroism the franchise needed.

Critiques

●Overstuffed Narrative: The plot crams in many elements at once. Critics note that a host of new characters are introduced quickly, and the Clark–Lois relationship feels underdeveloped. The film races from one crisis to another, which can make it feel cluttered.

●Tone and Effects: Gunn’s heavy use of comedy doesn’t always land; some jokes and cameos feel out of place. Similarly, some CGI effects (especially in flying and large fights) look less polished than expected. The mix of high stakes and casual humor can be jarring.

●Character Depth: Corenswet’s Superman is earnest, but some reviewers feel he lacks the emotional impact of past portrayals. The movie prioritizes fun and action, so Superman remains more charming than deeply complex.

Conclusion

Superman (2025) offers a fresh and energetic reimagining of the iconic hero, infused with Gunn’s trademark blend of wit and emotion. Its new cast delivers entertaining performances, and the film reclaims a sense of hope and fun for the character. However, the packed plot and frenetic tone won’t please everyone. Fans seeking a straightforward comic-book spectacle will likely enjoy it, while those wanting a more serious take may find it lacking. Overall, this Superman may not replace the classic Christopher Reeve films, but it puts the hero back on the map with a sense of hope and fun that audiences haven’t seen in years.

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Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 out of 5)