"Superman" Review
A pop-punk Superman... with a dog!
SPOILER FREE
Going into the release of Superman, DC needed a win even more than the MCU has this year. The studio’s hiring of director James Gunn signaled a departure from the previous style and an investment in the future of their movies. Despite this, the trailers had many fans nervous about Gunn’s version of Superman. I have never been a big fan of Superman. So, I was patiently waiting and curious. However, Superman may have converted me to fandom,
Departing from previous iterations, the movie starts with minimal exposition. The movie assumes that its audience is familiar with the Superman origin story, and we start three years into Superman’s life as a superhero. That decision propels the movie forward, allowing it to make the most of its runtime. That runtime is comparatively shorter than other comic book movies, but it is used—mostly— very well. The only knock is a tendency toward humor in times when it is not necessary. However, this is easily forgiven.
The movie also starts with Superman’s first defeat. That decision creates an entirely different characterization of Superman (aka Clark Kent). He spends most of the movie in an identity crisis, putting the focus largely on Clark the man, as opposed to the hero. This characterization of Superman aligns well with the cultural moment. We are more hesitant about heroes and accustomed to antiheroes in this era, and a purely confident, good Superman would not have resonated with a modern audience. In an era when morality feels complex, we get a Superman who reflects those sentiments.
The other important characterization of Superman is the emphasis on his identity as an alien. Characters refer to him as a Kryptonian or alien, and Lex even condescendingly calls him a Martian. That characterization, combined with the movie’s reflection of modern day conflicts, changes the nature of this Superman. He has always been an alien, but Superman makes him a true immigrant, with all the speculation that comes with it. While movies don’t always need to reflect real world events, this emphasis grounds Superman in reality. The conclusion the movie reaches on this issue is a little convoluted and lacks nuance, but I did not expect Superman to solve the world’s problems. On the whole, it balances Superman’s tendency toward idealization and provides another way to connect with the audience.
The fresh take would not work without the stellar performance of David Corenswet. He has the solid presence and stony persona to pull off Superman’s more heroic moments, combined with a truly fiery emotional register and great comedic timing that match a more human Clark. Corenswet manages to make lines that could be corny fit within his character without losing his core strength. I have high hopes for the future of Corenswet as Superman.
Rachel Brosnahan also gives a fantastic performance as a less swooning, more cynical Lois Lane. Lois’s thoughts about Clark often reflect how the movie wants us to be thinking, but this never feels forced. Instead, Brosnahan is able to bring an appropriate skepticism with an ultimate love of Superman that the audience shares.
The third performance that makes or breaks the movie is Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Once again, Superman has a slightly more modern understanding of Lex. His character mirrors today’s tech billionaires with his arrogance and self-righteousness. This Lex believes his actions are always justified and carries that with him to the end. He also has the upper hand in many situations. While we know that the movie will end in Superman’s favor, there are many moments when it is hard to see how. Hoult’s Lex has more confidence at times than Corenswet’s Superman. Hoult also portrays Lex’s sheer rage with stunning accuracy. This Lex is not out for world dominance, but instead, just hates Superman to his core. That hatred means that his rage is always simmering just below the surface, and Hoult knows when to keep it there and when to let it out.
The performances in Superman were genuinely outstanding. I could go on and on, but rest assured, they were all fantastic.
The level of these performances makes it possible for a relatively complicated plot to feel within reach. The conflicts on Earth, as well as the more abstract ones, are woven together with emotional threads from each character. Superman is the hero, but he could not have done it without help from the entire team.
While the performances pull a lot of weight, the technical aspects of Superman guide it over the edge. The cinematography is spectacular and a cut above what we have come to expect from superhero movies. As emotionally resonant as the movie is, it is still filled with wonderful action sequences. The shots of characters flying through the sky look incredible, and the camera knows exactly where to be. It is always fixated on the action, moving with ease to follow it. The sequences look both natural and carefully curated.
The score also propels the movie forward and adds depth to its themes. The original John Williams theme was adapted by John Murphy, David Fleming, and Dave Fleming to bring Superman into the twenty-first century. They incorporate traditional orchestral moments but kick in with an electric guitar when necessary. Those choices blend well with the pop-punk needle drops throughout.
That musical choice is a perfect reflection of Superman and its themes. Clark is less refined, more unpredictable, and a little angsty. He might not know who he is yet. However, he cannot escape the goodness inside of him. The world is also questioning Superman’s character, but they too recognize his goodness. Superman is not about the perfect man, but rather an imperfect man who rises to heroism despite his many flaws. The music reflects his angst, indecision, and ultimately, his goodness.
Speaking of which, a review of Superman would not be complete without commenting on the antics of Clark’s dog Krypto. He humanizes Clark and pops up to be an adorable nuisance to Superman’s enemies. 10/10. Wonderful dog.
All of these elements work together to create a new vision of Superman, featuring compelling characters, genuine depth, and plenty of fun. If James Gunn can maintain this tone of Superman, then DC might have a bright future ahead. Regardless, this was a great summer movie that deserves its praise.
I recommend Superman to superhero fans of the past or present, those who love the impact of music on a film, and anyone looking for a fun, summer movie.