Faster than a speeding bullet. More powerful than a locomotive. Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. The infant of Krypton is now the Man of Steel, “Superman!” – Fleischer Studios’ Superman cartoons
After “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” ended the DC Extended Universe on a whimper, James “JG” Gunn and Peter Safran commenced a full-on redo starting with “Creature Commandos” as the first TV show in the “DC Universe” and Superman as the first film within a story arc, “Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.” When I first heard JG was gonna shepherd the DC Universe, I was open to see characters from DC Comics will finally get proper treatment. Here are the confirmed upcoming movies and TV shows so far. Mark ’em like you’re Calendar Man.
- Peacemaker’s second season – August 21, 2025
- Lanterns’ first season – Early 2026
- Supergirl – June 26, 2026
- Clayface – September 11, 2026
Superman’s now playing worldwide. Which movie or TV series are you most excited about? Please leave a comment. I’m excited for a Teen Titans movie. I always wanted to see my third favorite superhero, Raven on the big screen.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS.
Strong & Weak Qualities
Strong: David Corenswet did an excellent job for his performance as the titular character. Unlike Henry Cavill’s emo take on Supes, Mr. Corenswet captured the Last Son of Krypton’s hopeful, humble and kindhearted attitude.
Other Cast Members such as Nicholas Hoult, Rachel Brosnahan, Nathan Fillion, Edi Gathegi, Isabella Merced, Skyler Gisondo, Sara Sampaio, Wendell Pierce & Anthony Carrigan all did a decent job for their respective performances.
James “JG” Gunn did an awesome job kickstarting the first film just as he did as a showrunner for Creature Commandos.
Action Sequences display Supes in combat along with Guy Gardner, Mr. Terrific & Hawkgirl.
Tone has a light atmosphere like Christopher Reeve’s version.
Humor has Funny Moments that made me laugh. Especially, Guy Gardner being a smartass.
John Murphy & David Fleming orchestrated the soundtrack. They even retain portions of John Williams score.
Cinematography was shot in stable condition. JG mentioned the flight scenes are inspired by “Top Gun: Maverick.”
Visual Effects are stunning. Thank goodness they don’t look like an unrendered PS5 game. In other words, the opening flashback of digitally de-aged Harrison Ford in “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.”
Superman’s chemistry with Lois and his allies is the main highlight. His interactions with them move the story forward.
Remember Clark Kent can fool anybody wearing glasses without anybody recognizing him? Its finally addressed.
JG stated the film’s influenced by Superman storylines, “All-Star Superman,” “Superman: Birthright” & “Superman for All Seasons.” He was also influenced by Fleischer Studios’ animated short films, Richard Donner’s movie and my personal favorite, Bruce Timm’s ’90s cartoon.
Frank Grillo reprises his role as Rick Flag Sr. from Creature Commandos. You’re probably wondering why he has black hair instead of grey? He was filming scenes for Tulsa King’s second season. Contracted not dye his hair. JG confirmed Rick dyed his hair black. It’s fine. Could be worse, if the effects team digitally composite grey hair. Otherwise, end up like Henry Cavill’s digitally removed mustache in Justice League’s theatrical cut. I deeply regret praising it.
A few famous faces make cameo appearances.
As I recall, JG mentioned Superman is the story of an immigrant who’s here to protect Earth, inspires hope and goodness towards humanity and other superheroes. Actually, Supes arrived on Earth as a refugee forced to escape his dying planet. He was adopted by Jonathan and Martha Kent. Becomes a naturalized citizen. Their kindness influences Superman’s moral code. Fox News labels the new Superman movie “woke.” First of all, it’s not. JG didn’t shove pro-immigration down my throat. Supes is just there trying to protect people not forcing liberal or conservative views. I’ll tell you what, a lot of comics and adaptations features a real-life subject. This doesn’t change my opinion. They’re already written. Don’t jump to conclusions. Otherwise, you’ll lose credibility. Slander’s a no no.
- Hulk – Nuclear Weapons.
- Iron Man – Tony Stark is a Libertarian in the Armor Wars storyline.
- Fantastic Four – Doctor Doom ruled a country becoming a dictator.
- X-Men – Mutants are a metaphor reflecting Civil and Gay Rights.
- Daredevil is raised as a Catholic with good morals who struggles with a double life as a lawyer by day, crime fighter by night.
- Green Lantern & Green Arrow crossover Snowbirds Don’t Fly – Speedy becomes a heroin addict.
- V for Vendetta – London becomes a dystopian society due to Political Corruption.
- Watchmen – Deconstruction of superheroes affecting history. For instance, Richard Nixon has a third term. Look up the opening montage in Zack Snyder’s film.
- Marvel’s Civil War – Superhero Registration Act reflects the Patriot Act.
- Teen Titans’ episode “Troq” – Val-Yor is racist towards Starfire. Racism is wrong.
If you’re a fan of Superman or DC, there’s a ton of Easter Eggs.
Weak: My only gripe is a scene with Lex not flinching The Engineer’s projectile buzzsaws.
A Plot Twist is gonna piss off many people involving Superman’s origin story. I’ll let this slide. It’s retained from “All-Star Superman.” At least this Superman isn’t a deadbeat dad in “Superman Returns.”
The Final Verdict: A-
James “JG” Gunn’s Superman’s near perfect beginning of the DC Universe. A must-see movie worth watching. DC Universe has a bright future ahead. I cannot wait to see Raven in a Teen Titans movie.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 