Superman (2025): Movie Review and Film Summary

Introduction: A Fresh Start for the Man of Steel

Superman (2025), written and directed by James Gunn, marks the launch of the new DC Universe (DCU) and serves as a reboot for the iconic superhero. Starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, the film blends epic action, humor, heart, and comic-book whimsy. Released by Warner Bros. Pictures on July 11, 2025 (after a premiere on July 7), it runs 129 minutes and is rated PG-13. The movie grossed over $618 million worldwide, becoming one of 2025's top earners. It earned an 83% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes (from over 500 reviews) and a strong 90% audience Popcornmeter, with praise for its earnest tone, vibrant energy, and Corenswet's performance—though some critics noted it felt overstuffed or tonally inconsistent.

Plot Summary: Balancing Heritage and Heroism

The film opens in a world where metahumans have existed for centuries, setting the stage for gods and monsters. Decades ago, Jor-El (Bradley Cooper) and Lara Lor-Van (Angela Sarafyan) sent their infant son Kal-El from dying Krypton to Earth, where he was adopted by Jonathan and Martha Kent (Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell) and raised as Clark Kent in Smallville.

Years later, Clark has been Superman for about three years, beloved in Metropolis but facing growing scrutiny. The story begins with Superman intervening in an international conflict involving the nation of Boravia, stopping an invasion of neighboring Jarhanpur. This draws the ire of tech billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), a manipulative Elon Musk-like figure who runs LuthorCorp and exploits fears for profit.

Superman suffers his first major defeat against a metahuman known as the "Hammer of Boravia," fleeing to his Fortress of Solitude in Antarctica with loyal super-dog Krypto. There, he heals with solar energy and receives messages from his Kryptonian parents—revealing complex truths about his origins, including a twist suggesting conquest intentions that he rejects.

Back in Metropolis, Clark works at the Daily Planet alongside Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), who already knows his secret identity, and photographer Jimmy Olsen (Skyler Gisondo). Lois and Clark investigate Luthor's schemes, which involve framing Superman and manipulating public opinion with doctored transmissions from Krypton to sow distrust.

As conflicts escalate—both personal and global—Superman teams up with allies, including emerging heroes like Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi), and Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion). He confronts Luthor's plot to eliminate him, grapples with his dual heritage, and reaffirms his commitment to truth, justice, and compassion. Krypto provides comic relief and heart throughout, while the narrative builds to high-stakes battles and emotional reconciliation.

Themes and Style: Hope, Kindness, and Comic-Book Joy

Gunn's Superman emphasizes hope, empathy, and the immigrant story at the character's core—Clark reconciling his alien roots with his human upbringing in a cynical world. It celebrates Superman as an idealistic, compassionate figure ("the new punk rock" of goodness) amid modern skepticism. The tone mixes earnest sincerity with Gunn's signature humor, quirky cameos, and colorful world-building, introducing a broader DCU filled with freaks, tyrants, and heroes.

Visually vibrant with epic action, practical effects blended with CGI, and a nostalgic nod to classic Superman (red trunks included), the film feels like a throwback to optimistic superhero tales while adding modern flair. The score enhances the sense of wonder, and scenes like Krypto's antics or heartfelt Fortress moments add levity and emotion.

Performances and Direction: Standouts in a New Era

David Corenswet delivers a charismatic, grounded Superman—earnest, vulnerable, and heroic—earning widespread acclaim as a fresh take on the icon. Rachel Brosnahan shines as a sharp, confident Lois Lane with strong chemistry alongside Corenswet. Nicholas Hoult's Lex Luthor is a chilling, charismatic villain—cunning and timely as a propaganda-spreading billionaire.

Supporting cast members like Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, and Skyler Gisondo add fun and depth to the ensemble. Gunn directs with energetic pacing, balancing spectacle, humor, and heart while laying DCU foundations.

Critical Reception and Lasting Impact

Reviews were largely positive, with critics calling it fun, colorful, and uplifting—often praising its sincerity and Corenswet's portrayal. Some found it scattershot, overstuffed with world-building, or tonally uneven, but audiences embraced its hopeful vibe and Krypto's scene-stealing charm. It stands as a promising DCU kickoff, evoking nostalgia while feeling fresh.

Conclusion: Soaring with Heart and Hope

Superman (2025) is a joyful, compassionate reboot that reminds us why the character endures: as a symbol of goodness in a complicated world. With strong performances, vibrant action, and genuine emotion, it's an entertaining launch for a new era—ideal for fans seeking optimism and spectacle.