He’s tangled with power-hungry megalomaniacs, disgruntled Kryptonians, and even an unflattering beard, but Superman’s latest challenge may well be his greatest yet. In James Gunn’s new film, the Man of Steel faces a crisis of public confidence as arch-enemy Lex Luthor orchestrates a global conflict. This cinematic endeavor, starring David Corenswet, Nicholas Hoult, and Rachel Brosnahan, is now showing in cinemas, promising a mix of action and hope.
Can Superman restore the luster to Warner Bros.’ comic-book arm, DC Studios, after a decade of failed attempts to establish a cohesive cinematic universe? This question looms large as director James Gunn, known for his success with Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy,” plunges audiences into the heart of the action, bypassing the traditional origin story.
Superman’s New Challenge
The film opens with Superman, portrayed by David Corenswet, crashing into the snow near his crystalline fortress after suffering a defeat at the hands of the Hammer of Boravia. Fortunately, his loyal canine companion, Krypto, is there to revive him, though the world remains in turmoil. Boravia, a fictional Eastern European nation, is at war with its neighbor Jarhanpur, led by the tyrant Ghurkos, with Lex Luthor secretly pulling the strings.
Nicholas Hoult’s portrayal of Lex Luthor as a petulant tech mogul adds a modern twist to the villain, as he manipulates the US defense force while spreading misinformation about Superman. This narrative setup mirrors real-world geopolitical tensions, offering a thinly veiled commentary on global conflicts.
A Complex Narrative
The film’s narrative is ambitious, juggling multiple characters and plotlines. Gunn’s approach feels like flipping through a comic strip, with a plethora of metahumans, shapeshifters, and aliens. This chaotic energy is a departure from the more stoic portrayals of Superman in the past, such as Christopher Reeve’s classic incarnation or Zack Snyder’s somber interpretation.
Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is no “damsel in distress,” adding depth to her character. The film also introduces a new team of heroes, including Mister Terrific, Hawkgirl, and Green Lantern, who join Superman in battling a kaiju-like monster in a scene reminiscent of Japanese TV series.
The Gunn Effect
James Gunn’s influence is evident throughout the film, with his signature blend of humor, action, and sincerity. However, this formula doesn’t always translate seamlessly to the Superman franchise. The film’s attempt to position Superman as a global symbol of hope is ambitious but complicated by the character’s American roots and the substantial corporate investment behind the project.
David Corenswet’s portrayal of Clark Kent is charming, yet he lacks the magnetic presence traditionally associated with Superman. Gunn’s vision of Superman as a punk rock hero, albeit with emo undertones, adds a unique twist, but the film struggles to find its rhythm amidst the competing narratives.
Future Implications
Despite its flaws, Gunn’s Superman offers a fresh take on the iconic character, clearing the low bar set by recent comic-book adaptations. As audiences digest this new iteration, the film’s success could determine the future direction of the DC cinematic universe.
James Gunn has stated that his Superman is “mostly a story that says basic human kindness is a value and is something we have lost.” This sentiment resonates throughout the film, even as it grapples with the challenges of reimagining a beloved superhero for a modern audience.
As the credits roll, one thing is clear: the world is ready for new big-screen heroes, and Gunn’s Superman might just be the beginning of a new chapter for DC Studios.
