Superman 2025 Review: A Bold, Hopeful Start for the New DCU
The New DCU Begins
James Gunn’s Superman is officially the first major film to kick off the new DC Universe. After Creature Commandos teased what’s to come, this film delivers our first real look into the tone, characters, and emotional undercurrent of the DCU going forward. And it’s clear: this isn’t just about action—it’s about hope, heart, and legacy.
David Corenswet Is Superman
David Corenswet delivers the Superman we’ve always needed. His portrayal blends the charm and compassion of Christopher Reeve with modern emotional complexity. Gunn’s Superman is a beacon—soft-spoken but unbreakable, kind but powerful, driven not by vengeance or ego, but by the desire to do good.
This is a Superman who cares—and the world he lives in doesn’t always reward that. Corenswet carries the emotional burden of that contradiction beautifully. He’s not just saving people; he’s reminding us what goodness actually looks like.
Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane
Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is fierce, clever, and grounded. Fans of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel will appreciate the confidence and rhythm she brings to the role, but her take on Lois is its own thing: principled, sharp, and unafraid to challenge Superman.
Their dynamic is mature and already established when the movie begins. We see early tension in how Lois and Clark view truth and justice, especially as their relationship deepens. It's a refreshing, adult version of the iconic pairing—without losing the spark.
Lex Luthor, Reinvented
Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor is a dangerous blend of tech bro, narcissist, and mad scientist. Don’t let the awkward nerd energy fool you—this Lex is chilling. Whether he’s trapping innocents in a pocket dimension or weaponizing science, Hoult plays him with unsettling precision.
He’s not the suave businessman of past versions—he’s slimier, more ideological, and far more reckless. It’s an inspired choice, and it hints at a Lex who will only become more dangerous as the DCU expands.
Standouts and Surprises
- Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific: Funny, sharp, and scene-stealing. His performance could define the character going forward.
- Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner: Perfectly cast. Arrogant, snarky, and memorable.
- Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl: A warrior’s mindset. Bold contrast to Superman’s compassion.
- Anthony Carrigan’s Metamorpho: Brief appearance, but hints at deeper stories to come.
- Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen: Reimagined as a driven young reporter with real tenacity.
- Bradley Cooper as Jor-El: A surprise, but well-played emotional presence.
The Film’s Message: Kindness in a Harsh World
The emotional core of Superman (2025) isn’t just truth and justice—it’s empathy. In a cynical world, the film dares to say it’s good to be good. That kindness isn’t weakness. That trying to do the right thing, even when it’s hard, is heroic.
“Even when the world tells you you’re soft for being kind, do it anyway.”
Clark’s internal conflict, the doubts planted by a harsh world, and his decision to stay on the path of hope—all of it reinforces why Superman still matters.
Final Thoughts: A Superman for Now
This movie made me tear up more than once. As someone who’s long preferred Batman, I left the theater thinking: maybe I’m a Superman fan after all.
Superman (2025) is a five-out-of-five. Bold, emotional, and necessary. It gives us a Superman we can believe in—and one we need right now.
I’m thrilled to see where James Gunn and Peter Safran take this universe next—*Lanterns*, *Supergirl*, *Peacemaker Season 2*, and beyond.
Let’s Talk DCU: What Did You Think?
What moments hit hardest for you? Did the new Lex surprise you? Are you excited for Supergirl, Lanterns, or Peacemaker Season 2? Let’s talk in the comments.
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