Superman
Superman
Superman must reconcile his alien Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as reporter Clark Kent. As the embodiment of truth, justice and the human way he soon finds himself in a world that views these as old-fashioned.
Hipster ZOMBIE reviewedJuly 11, 2025
James Gunn’s Superman is the cinematic breath of fresh air we didn’t know we needed—but absolutely deserve. After years of brooding, god-complex alien angst, this new take rockets in with a vibrant pulse, undeniable charm, and—most importantly—heart. Gone are the self indulgent, deconstruction of the superhero era at DC Studios. Some might call this immature or say the story is like it was written by a kid with ADHD. But this is the life of Superman. Colorful, bright, sometimes scary, but always hopeful.
Let’s get this out of the way: Yes, some of the special effects are a little wonky. A few sequences feel like they could use one more render pass. Some of the cinematography will have your eyes rattling around in your head trying to keep up. But honestly? It doesn’t matter. What Superman may occasionally lack in polish, it more than makes up for in spirit, sincerity, and soul.
Gunn clearly gets the source material. The comic book roots are honored, not just in visual style but in tone—optimistic without being naive, nostalgic without being cheesy. It’s a love letter to Superman’s history, written in bright blue ink and sealed with a red cape. Longtime comic book fans will spot the deep cuts and Easter eggs sprinkled throughout, while newcomers (especially kids and families) will be swept up in the timeless charm of the story. The Hall of Justice looks like it came right out of the Super Friends cartoon and eagle eye moviegoers will spot the mural inside the building honoring the Justice Society. And the little throwaway line about Clark’s hypno-glasses, finally someone brought those into live-action!
The cast? Pitch perfect. The new Clark Kent played by David Corenswet is a revelation—awkward in glasses, commanding in a cape, and radiating genuine decency from frame one. Lois Lane played by Rachel Brosnahan is fearless and magnetic, bringing sharp wit and emotional grounding. And let’s talk about Krypto. This superdog steals scenes. Gunn wisely gives him both comedic beats and heroic moments, making Krypto a fan favorite destined for plushies and spinoffs. Some might say he is overused but I think he was used just enough without completely taking over the film. Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor is a driven and envious mad man that has a lot of potential moving forward in this new iteration of the DC Universe. The Justice Gang (yes they are really called that) led by Green Lantern Guy Gardner played by fan favorite Nathan Fillion is hilarious, but it’s Edi Gathegi’s Mr Terrific that has some of the most impressive moments in the film. Hawkgirl played by Isabela Merced doesn’t get too much time to shine but she brings a youthful spunky exuberance to the role.
The plot moves at breakneck speed, barely pausing for breath as it juggles alien invasions, Daily Planet drama, Justice Gang cameos, and Clark’s personal journey. At times, it’s dizzying—like being caught in a whirlwind of Saturday morning cartoons, silver age comics, and heartfelt monologues. But it works. There’s a warmth and sincerity baked into every chaotic beat that makes it all land.
Of course, this Superman is a noticeable pivot from the Snyderverse. Gone is the brooding, burdened demigod. In his place stands a hopeful, grounded hero who believes in the best of us. It’s a bit jarring at first—like stepping out of the shadow into the sun—but it’s also invigorating. This is the Superman this generation needs: bright, bold, and unafraid to smile. It’s established early on that this is still a young Superman trying to find his way but the world has been aware of meta humans or superheroes for over 300 years. It’s a quick revelation at the start of the film that let’s everyone know despite Clark being an alien he’s far from being the first Super person the world has been exposed to.
The thing that sets Superman apart from other jaded heroes is his what some would call nativity to believe in the goodness of his fellow man, even those trying to kill him. In a world of antiheroes, loud mouths, and self serving social media keyboard warriors, Superman just wants to do good, be kind, and help without craving spotlight or reward.
In a cinematic landscape crowded with antiheroes and grimdark reboots, James Gunn’s Superman flies higher by daring to believe. It’s a story for fans, families, and anyone who ever dreamed of a better tomorrow. And it reminds us that the ‘S’ on his chest doesn’t stand for Snyder… it stands for hope.