Superman Review
When Superman was announced to be helmed by James Gunn following DC Studios’ creative rehaul, some had doubts. The Guardians of the Galaxy director was best known for handling “found family” superhero movies even with the recent Suicide Squad outing. So, given how Gunn was given the reins for a solo superhero movie, let alone for one of the greatest superheroes of all time, there were some reservations. However, Superman not only proves that bringing things back to a classic feeling works, but also cements Gunn’s mastery of the craft.
Unlike previous Superman films, Gunn’s latest outing sets a pre-established precedent for the Man of Steel. It doesn’t necessarily feel like an origin story as others have tried previously, most likely due to the fact that Clark Kent/Kal-El (David Corenswet) is pretty much integrated into the world already. He’s got his relationship with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), his Daily Planet job, and even his friendships with the Maxwell Lord-led Justice Gang. However, this is the first time that he and Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) are actually butting heads and for good reason too.
Having Superman’s background already developed means that there’s more time to focus on the pacing. While the overall narrative is focused on the ever-heated rivalry that Kal-El and Luthor develop through an international conflict, the film feels like multiple segments coming together. From Clark Kent having to fight Luthor’s giant kaiju to him willingly surrendering himself and being sent to Luthor’s pocket universe, each situation feels like its own Superman story. Yet, it all flows naturally, allowing each specific sequence to flesh out and create that agency for Clark, Lois, and their allies.
However, even with this in mind, there are only a handful of “Clois” scenes that are emotionally impactful. While these scenes are relegated to the first act, you simply can’t help but appreciate the sincerity of Clark’s motivations to protect because of his goodness. The “deep dive” interview Clark and Lois have, which was first teased, really captures what the mantle of Superman really means without feeling too abrasive. Overall, Corenswet and Brosnahan share this undeniable chemistry as the iconic duo, but I wish they could’ve shared more scenes!
Performance-wise, Corenswet puts on an all-time performance that’ll stick with Superman fans as the DCU continues. His take on Big Blue confidently stands out, worthy of being on that actors’ mantle with Christopher Reeves and Henry Cavill. There’s this tight line between this human realism and characteristically classic boldness that Corenswet walks on that simply makes his Kal-El work.
As for the other supers of Superman, it’s best to go in blind. Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion) is surprisingly funny as the brash Green Lantern, even executing a joke about his infamous bowl cut perfectly. Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced) is a great choice to play the Thanagarian since Maria Canals-Barrera from the Justice League animated show, though she’s only given a few lines. Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan) is also surprisingly charming as his role gradually changes from Lex’s forced lackey to the hero he’s meant to be.
The standout of them all is Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi), who is incredibly charismatic and captures that “smart, but not too serious” personality perfectly with his quips. Given how Gunn loves this character, I’d be happy to see Gathegi return as Mr. Terrific in the near future! Plus, Krypto’s shenanigans work in tandem with Mr. Terrific’s moments thanks to how Krypto actually is as a dog, solidifying the film’s comedic tone. Without giving too much away, there’s also a few more supers you’ve yet to see!
The humans of Superman are a fun bunch, even though they’re supporting on a minimal level. Particularly, with Jimmy Olsen (Skyler Gisondo), the film has him helping Lois Lane through this mysterious source. When the source gets revealed later on, you can’t just help that both of them will make it out of the chaos alive. However, whether you want them to be together or not is completely up to the viewer’s preference.
Furthermore, the action and cinematography of Superman feels amazing, capturing that awe while never being too stilted. It’s got a combination of practical set pieces (also Mr. Terrific again) and CGI moments, especially with the entire pocket universe sequence, that are seamlessly composed. In addition, it also confidently showcases how Clark actually uses his more unique powers, like his laser eyes and super breath, sparingly, adding that depth.
Although, there are a few shots, especially with some of the flying scenes, that may feel particularly awkward. Fortunately, the film makes up for this by having those cinematic shots of Kal-El that actually feel like they’re ripped out of a comic book. Props to Henry Braham and editors William Hoy and Craig Alpert for successfully making these shots have that grandeur!
Now, some viewers might feel hesitant to fully go into the whole “international politics” side of Superman due to some very timely events. It’s about as close to real life as you can get: the tyrannical leader of a funded country posing as an “ally”, but ready to invade an inferior one. Of course, it plays a role in Lex Luthor’s plans, but it doesn’t necessarily take up the bigger picture. Rather, it lingers in the background just long enough to have a lasting impact on Kal-El’s perception of himself. He believes he’s protecting this lesser country for the greater good and fortunately, this is satisfyingly resolved as to keep true to that idea.
On some other problems, some of the dialogue, especially with the Engineer (María Gabriela de Faría), feels too expository as seen in the opening. There’s also some dialogue that Kal-El has that might be too hero-like even for someone as optimistic as him. Yet, these are only minor problems and the rest of the film is generally an amazing watch.
Overall, Superman is one of, if not, the most incredible superhero film and cinematic experiences, with impeccable performance and inspired storytelling all wrapped up in the legitimate start to James Gunn’s DC Universe. It truly feels like the event of the summer that every other summer film has been teasing themselves to be. This movie is a testament to what Gunn and company will accomplish moving forward, and if there’s one thing that this film has made me feel, it’s hope.
Superman releases in theaters on July 11.
Rating: ★★★★½
_
Christopher Gallardo is a freelance entertainment writer and critic. While not running The Reel Roller, Chris can be found writing reviews and breakdowns on all things films and TV. Outside of entertainment writing, he’s currently taking classes for a Bachelor’s of Science with a minor in Digital Media & Journalism. Plus, he loves Percy Jackson, animated films and shows, and Fallout! Follow Christopher on Instagram & X.