James Gunn’s Superman (2025) arrives burdened with high expectations: reviving DC’s cinematic universe after years of divided reception. Known for blending humor, emotion, and chaos in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy, Gunn seemed well-suited to steer Superman away from the heavy tone of Zack Snyder’s era. The result is mixed, a film that captures Superman’s hopeful spirit in moments but struggles with uneven storytelling and missed opportunities. It’s a likable, three-star effort that soars when embracing its comic-book heart yet stumbles when trading depth for surface-level humor.
A Visual Tribute to Comic Lore
Visually, the film often feels like panels lifted from classic comics. Sweeping camera work tracks Superman (David Corenswet) through dynamic action scenes whether flying above Metropolis or rescuing Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) against a sunlit skyline. Krypto, Superman’s loyal super-dog, brings energy and playful chaos that lights up the screen. The action sequences shine, pulling viewers into the rush of flight and impact.
Yet at times, the spectacle overshadows the story. Giant alien-dinosaur battles and sudden black holes, though visually dazzling, lack narrative grounding and can slow momentum, feeling more like effects-driven detours than story-driven peaks.
A Strong Cast Held Back by the Script
Casting choices elevate the film: Corenswet embodies Superman’s warmth and idealism, making every rescue, no matter how small, feel meaningful. Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is clever and confident, though she’s sometimes written into the background as merely supportive rather than as the fearless reporter known from the comics. Nicholas Hoult stands out as Lex Luthor, portraying him as a tech-driven villain whose envy and arrogance make him equal parts amusing and unsettling.
Supporting roles add color: Nathan Fillion’s brash Guy Gardner and Edi Gathegi’s composed Mister Terrific are memorable, though Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl and Wendell Pierce’s Perry White receive little development. The satirical Justice Gang adds humor, but its chaotic presence occasionally distracts from the main narrative. Ultimately, the film’s crowded cast means promising performances are left feeling incomplete.
A Story of Peaks and Pitfalls
Gunn’s storytelling leans into episodic, comic-style arcs that reward longtime fans but may confuse newcomers. Superman begins fully formed: protecting Metropolis, dating Lois, and countering Lex’s schemes, from smear campaigns to foreign conflicts. The quirky humor, like Krypto’s rescues or monkeys from a pocket universe, adds charm but also undercuts tension. Superman’s central creed, “I just want to save people”, captures his essence but leaves little space to question what that responsibility means in a complex world.
Narrative pacing is uneven. The first act, largely teased in trailers, feels rushed, while later storylines, including alien threats and nanobot attacks, are glossed over. Lex Luthor’s motivations, built on jealousy and desire for fame, lack the depth of past portrayals, and unresolved plot threads, like the unexplained black hole, leave the story feeling incomplete.
Strengths: Heart, Humor, and Nostalgia
When the film works, it reminds audiences why Superman remains iconic. Corenswet’s honest portrayal anchors the narrative, while striking visuals and dynamic set pieces bring comic book pages to life. Krypto’s playful heroics and Gunn’s affectionate references—from the classic “S” emblem to Metropolis’ warm color palette—show respect for the source material. Compared to Snyder’s somber approach, the movie’s lighter tone feels refreshing and hopeful.
Weaknesses: Shallow Themes and Overcrowding
Yet the film often settles for surface appeal over substance. Superman’s optimistic but slightly naive personality lacks the mythic weight of earlier versions. The large ensemble, paired with brisk pacing, means many characters, particularly Lois and Hawkgirl, feel underdeveloped. Overuse of comedic side gags and quirky elements, like robot helpers and monkey armies, can erode narrative stakes. For casual viewers, the film’s fragmented, comic-like storytelling might seem unfocused compared to Gunn’s more polished work for Marvel.
Final Verdict
Superman (2025) is an enjoyable but flawed reboot that offers enough action, heart, and nostalgia to keep DC’s cinematic hopes alive. Die-hard fans will appreciate its tribute to classic comics and energetic tone, while general audiences may wish for tighter pacing and richer storytelling. It isn’t the definitive Superman return DC might have hoped for, but it’s a hopeful, if imperfect, step forward. Come for Corenswet’s charm and Krypto’s mischief, but keep your expectations measured.
