Movie Review: Superman (2025)

A Hero Reborn with Heart and Hope

As a lifelong fan of comic books, Superman (2025) feels like a long-awaited breath of fresh air—not just for the Man of Steel, but for the entire DC cinematic universe. Directed by James Gunn, this film marks a tonal shift from the darker, more brooding portrayals of recent years, ushering in a more optimistic, character-driven Superman that both newcomers and longtime fans can appreciate.

At the heart of this revival is David Corenswet, whose dual portrayal of Clark Kent and Superman strikes an impressive balance between charm, sincerity, and relatability. His Clark is earnest and awkward in all the right ways, while his Superman exudes warmth, strength, and an unwavering moral compass. Corenswet brings back the humanity in Superman—something that had been somewhat sidelined in previous iterations—and it’s a welcome change.

Gunn’s storytelling style is immediately apparent. Rather than immersing the audience in extensive Kryptonian lore or CGI-heavy flashbacks, the narrative keeps its focus grounded on Earth—on how Superman connects with humanity, how he sees the world, and how he’s shaped by the people who raised him. The emphasis on parental influence—both from Jonathan and Martha Kent, and the lingering legacy of Jor-El—adds depth to the character and underscores his values of compassion and justice.

One of the film’s surprising strengths lies in how it incorporates other DC heroes like Guy Gardner, Hawkgirl, and others without letting them overshadow Superman. They complement rather than clutter, serving to illustrate Superman’s unique role as a leader and moral compass in a world of metahumans. Gunn handles this balance deftly, using witty and sincere dialogue to give each character space without stealing focus.

A standout performance comes from Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. His version blends the classic cunning and capitalist greed of Gene Hackman’s Lex with a more intense, calculated menace reminiscent of Kevin Spacey’s portrayal—yet Hoult avoids feeling like a copy of either. This Lex is a brilliant manipulator with real presence, and even the two supporting villains serve their roles without overwhelming the narrative.

The Daily Planet ensemble also deserves praise. Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen feel straight out of the comics, providing heart, humor, and journalistic grit. Even Eve Tessmacher receives a modern update, with her role expanded and thoughtfully integrated into the plot. These characters help ground Superman’s story in his relationships and daily life, making him feel more like “one of us” than ever before.

Visually, the action sequences deliver everything you’d expect from a superhero blockbuster—high-flying battles, crumbling buildings, and heroic rescues—but they never lose sight of the central theme: Superman is here to protect, not just to punch. The stakes feel high, but the film wisely prioritizes emotional impact over sheer destruction. Political undertones are present but subtle, reinforcing Superman’s respect for all people and his place as a global (not just American) protector.

In many ways, Superman (2025) isn’t just a superhero movie—it’s a mission statement for the new DCU. It recaptures the core ideals that made Superman iconic in the first place: hope, kindness, responsibility, and the belief that one person can make a difference. It’s also a perfect entry point for new audiences—especially younger viewers. My 8-year-old was captivated from start to finish, and that says a lot about its accessibility and universal appeal.

Verdict: 4.5/5

Superman (2025) is a triumphant return to form. By placing the heart of the character front and center, James Gunn and David Corenswet have laid the foundation for a hopeful, emotionally rich DC Universe. It’s not just a good Superman movie—it’s a great superhero movie, period.