Christopher Reeve will always be the OG, but this latest iteration of Superman is definitely well-suited to carry the mantle forward. David Corenswet’s name doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, but he’s got the acting chops, comedic timing, and physicality to embody the iconic dual role of mild-mannered reporter Clark Kent and Kryptonian Man of Steel ‘Superman’ (aka Kal-El). Director James Gunn (Guardians of the Galaxy) wrote the script, which offers a fresh, ultra-modern take on the Superman story and unites characters on the big screen in a way that resembles an Avengers flick. It’s got heart, humor, action, and a secret weapon in the form of a dog named Krypto. From the moment the mutt hits the screen, he truly steals the show– and not in the ways you might expect.
This version of Superman lays a solid foundation for a new franchise. Though it barely touches on the Clark Kent side of the character, his “Daily Planet” family is firmly in the mix, including Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen, and Perry White. The plot focuses primarily on Superman and his lethal battle with tech billionaire and master villain Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult). Luthor is determined to destroy Superman and has amassed a ruthless group of followers who buy into Luthor’s claims that Superman is out to rule the world and must be stopped. Information comes to light that threatens to bring Superman’s entire heritage and legacy into question, and he must defend his honor as purveyor of truth, justice, and the American/human way! To do so, he will need the help of his girlfriend Lois (Rachel Brosnahan) who can wield the power of the pen, and a quirky trio of Metropolis-based Metahumans with an array of skills that will also come in handy. Justice League wannabes, assemble!
Given how long it takes a film to get from script to screen, it’s rather eerie how timely this one feels. Lex and his young followers have an Elon-DOGEy quality about them; there’s a war going on between “Boravia” and “Jarhanpur” that could easily be Russia and Ukraine; Prisoner confinement is being “outsourced”; social media is pushing out false narratives; and the whole world seems in desperate need of hope and humanity.
Superman is an entertaining, feel-good film that provides a great escape and food for thought. There are easter egg homages to other superhero films, cameos that will make you do a double-take (Hey, Jor-El!), a Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion) bowl haircut that is worth the price of admission, and a bonus scene after the credits that delivers a final chuckle. The only question now is… how long will it take to get the sequel rolling?
p.s. I liked Superman far better than Jurassic World Rebirth. So if you’re torn…
Superman lands in theaters and IMAX nationwide on July 11. It’s rated PG-13, with a well-paced running time of 2 hours, 9 minutes (assuming you stay through the credits).