Following the major announcement of the newly rebooted DC Extended Universe (DCEU), made by the newly appointed co-chairman of DC Studios, James Gunn (“Guardians of the Galaxy”), fans were immediately eager to see who would be represented in its first blockbuster film. There was no better choice than to go with the poster child of superheroes himself.

It was not too long after this that it was revealed David Corenswet, who at the time was coming off a lead role in the 2024 action film Twisters, would don the red cape and tights. This decision was met with skepticism, as many fans were loyal to the previous portrayal in Man of Steel by Henry Cavill. There was immense pressure put on Corenswet to prove whether he was worthy to play the most popular superhero of all time.

It is safe to say that Corenswet not only met the bar, but he raised it to a new level. He perfectly balances the otherworldly strength he possesses with the human nature within him. In the final act, after being ridiculed throughout the film for not being from Earth, Corenswet delivers a heartfelt monologue explaining how he is as human as anyone.

Not only is the main protagonist executed flawlessly, but so are the side characters. Lois Lane, played by Rachel Brosnahan, is given much-needed depth instead of just being Clark Kent’s love interest. Nicholas Hoult transforms into the obsessive, egotistical psychopath Lex Luthor, who wants nothing more than to prove he is better than Superman. One of the standouts from the film is Mr. Terrific, played by Edi Gathegi, who goes from a relatively unknown character to having the best fight scene in the movie. That same scene also showcases one of Gunn’s best traits as a director: music selection.

Gunn is no stranger to using music to enhance scenes in his movies. One of the most notable parts of the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy is the iconic needle drops. There are many instances in this film that show off Gunn’s knack for music. As previously mentioned, Mr. Terrific’s fight scene contains the song “5 Years Time” by Noah and the Whale, which perfectly sets the tone.

This film can be seen as a love letter to DC’s most iconic hero. Superman is not just an alien from a different planet who happens to live on Earth—he grew up on a farm, raised by two loving parents who taught him right from wrong. He values the lives of everyone and uses his powers to help those in need. The film ends with Superman shedding off his past as an extraterrestrial and putting the memories of learning to be human in the forefront, all while The Teddybears’ song “Punkrocker” plays in the background.

The word one could use to describe this film is hopeful. The main theme centers around Superman being the one who gives hope not only to the civilians of Metropolis, but to the entire world.

This film also gives hope to fans who want to see their favorite DC heroes portrayed on the big screen. While there was a previous attempt to bring these characters to life in the DCEU, the execution was far too inconsistent. After the release of Superman, James Gunn has given fans something to look forward to in this new extended universe.