Superman is the first film in the new DC Universe film franchise, directed by James Gunn. It is produced by Gunn and co-CEO of DC Studios, Peter Safran. This sets off the “Chapter One: Gods And Monsters” portion of the franchise.
After Superman (David Corenswet) intervenes in an international incident, Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) uses this to turn public opinion against the Man of Steel. Distracting him with a kaiju, Lex breaks into the Fortress of Solitude, hijacks a message from Superman’s Kryptonian parents, and kidnaps his pet Krypto.
As the public continues to turn against Superman, his relationship with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) becomes strained. After Luther leaks the message from Krypton ordering Kal-El to conquer the Earth, Superman turns himself over to the government and mysteriously vanishes. Lois asks the Justice Gang, Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion), Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi), and Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced) to intervene, leaving Metropolis vulnerable to Luthor.
There has been a lot of back and forth about this film. To be frank, it does not take a lot of risks and as such, there will be a segment of the audience and the fandom who will not enjoy it. That is okay. Is the movie perfect? Hardly. However, I am with those who did enjoy it.
Gunn, for all of his faults, seems to know what fans want. While he did a better job of presenting it with his Marvel projects, he is trying with the Man of Steel. For example, adopting the 90s logo of DC Comics for DC Studios was a wise choice. Seeing it on the screen as the film opens gives you a strong sense of nostalgia.
He presents us with a Superman who is reminiscent of his Boy Scout era. He is humble, kind, caring, and optimistic, even in the face of constant criticism that is coming his way. He does get frustrated, angry, and shows some emotion, but it is never out of place. You feel for him as he tries to navigate what is going on around him.
Corenswet did an excellent job as Superman and as Clark Kent. While the latter had a smaller role, he presents both personas well. I cannot say he is my favorite person to wear the cape, but I cannot complain about him. Brosnahan was alright as Lane. I would have preferred someone with a bit more gravitas, but she did okay.
Hoult was also competent as Lex Luthor. He went for a more mad scientist vibe compared to previous incarnations and he wore it well. The rest of the cast also did a good job. Fillion is always a treat, but I would have preferred if he had played Hal Jordan instead of Guy Gardener, but I was just glad to see him.
As I stated, the movie is not perfect. The plot is a bit thin and it is fast paced, keeping it from taking risks with the narrative. It also relies on modern contrivances more than it is needs, but it does not veer into woke and does not replace Superman’s iconic “truth, justice, and the American way,” as previously feared. It is absent, but not replaced.
I have to be honest, I enjoyed it. I even teared up in one scene. It is not the launch of the universe that Iron Man was to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but it is a good omen for the new DC Universe. Hopefully, it will stay that way. One thing is for sure, Warner Bros. is going to sell a lot of Krypto the Super Dog toys.
Bottom line, Superman has a thin plot and avoids taking risks. However, the talented cast and return to form make it an enjoyable cinematic experience.
PARENTAL CONCERNS: Some bloody violence, Foul language, Suggestive themes, Rude humor, Frightening images
FAVORITE QUOTE: They chose him! They can die!
Check out the trailer below:
Special thanks to subscriber Lou Aguilar, whose subscription made this review possible.
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