If you’re a DC superhero movie fan, the release of the new “Superman” movie in 2025 is probably something you’ve been looking forward to for a while. Being a longtime DC comic book/movie fan myself, I was cautiously optimistic about this movie and it turned out to be a fun and refreshing new take to the story of Clark Kent and his world. With new faces and a new approach to the Man of Steel mythos by veteran director James Gunn, there’s plenty to talk about, both good and not-so-great.
What’s New?
This Superman (2025) movie marks a pretty noticeable switch up in tone compared to earlier versions. Gunn takes things in a more grounded direction, focusing on who Clark Kent/Superman is both with and without his cape. He has a cute pet dog as well, Krypto, who also has superpowers like him and helps him protect and rescue people and animals from any harm/danger. The special effects are good and definitely keep up with what fans expect these days, and the visual style leans into modern cityscapes that feel both familiar and fresh.
With casting, the film offers up someone new for Clark, and his performance is actually pretty sincere. He does a good job showing his toughness and vulnerabilities as Superman and as Clark. We see Superman get beat up and losing a lot, but he always tries to find a way to get through the many tough situations he faces in the movie.
The Lex Luther character, typically Superman’s main antagonist, is portrayed well and the movie has an interesting take on his character and motivations. He is angry at Superman due to his attempts to stop him from reaching his goals like world domination and really despises his extraterrestrial origins. He mainly wants to find a way to eliminate him by showing the world that Superman is not really a hero to be admired, but a threat that is to be feared and stopped.
Plot Overview Without Spoilers
The story focuses on Clark Kent’s life in Metropolis, once again balancing his job at the Daily Planet, his relationships (especially with Lois Lane), and the constant need to save people in trouble. The threat this time comes from Lex Luthor who wants to take Superman down by introducing new stronger, threats in Metropolis and by tarnishing his good, public image by publishing negative views on his origins which challenges his values and beliefs, rather than just his physical strength.
While the core of the movie definitely leans into action sequences with wild rescues and superhuman battles, the real strength is the focus on what choices Clark has to make throughout the movie. Scenes with Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen also help the audience relate to a world that is just as much about real people as flying aliens. No spoilers here, but if you’re looking for a plot that runs deeper than set-piece explosions, this movie has it. In fact, there are scenes where Superman is forced to weigh and feel the consequences of his actions, bringing in a layer of moral complexity that’s sometimes lacking from superhero blockbusters. These scenes and other smaller, touching moments are a real highlight, giving movie goers a reason to care beyond just the spectacle.
What Other Reviewers Are Saying
Since the movie was released, there are many varying positive opinions on sites like Rotten Tomatoes, IGN, and The Hollywood Reporter. Here’s a quick look at what other folks are saying:
- Rotten Tomatoes points out that the movie “gets back to the heart of Superman’s ideals,” with reviewers highlighting its charm and the way it treats Superman as a hopeful figure anyone can connect with.
- IGN scored it an 8/10, mentioning the “slick action and genuinely touching character moments,” though there’s some criticism that the villain could have used more screen time.
- The Hollywood Reporter focuses on the direction, calling it “a breath of fresh air,” especially after the past few years of darker superhero films. They praise the colorful visuals and the chemistry between Clark and Lois.
Many of these reviews make some good points about the movie. While there are a few slow moments, especially during the second act, most reviewers seem pretty pleased with how this movie brings back the fun, inspirational Superman that people would want to root for. Some reviewers jump into the cinematography, noting that the camera work brings a new layer of intimacy to scenes between Clark and Lois, intensifying their dynamic and making they city of Metropolis itself feel like a character. Others mention how the script doesn’t shy away from the emotional stakes, giving both new and longtime fans something to latch onto throughout the film’s runtime.
Standout Elements Worth Noticing
The action scenes here feel sharp , but also avoid going overboard. There aren’t endless city–destroying fights, which are nice. Instead, the film mixes in quick rescues, clever uses of powers (like using heat vision while spinning like a vortex to take down multiple foes), and public scenes that show Superman helping in everyday situations like rescuing a squirrel. It makes him feel approachable and that he cares about saving all of living creatures.
The soundtrack is good and has a nice variety. Returning to some classic orchestral themes gives things a sense of nostalgia, but there’s new music too, blending well with the updated setting. Set designs feel like Metropolis is a real city, not just a background to blow up, and I notice many shots linger on people watching Superman in awe and wanting to help him too, reminding us why he inspires hope. Even the costumes deserve some mention, with subtle updates that make Superman’s suit look modern without losing its iconic feel.
Small touches in the production design, like bustling newsrooms and iconic skylines, create a sense of immersion and a living, breathing city, with tall buildings and even showing a shady, underground areas as well. The lighting in emotional scenes, especially those set during sunrise or sunset, shines a light on Superman’s symbolic role as a beacon of hope. All these choices contribute to a feeling that this film honors Superman’s legacy, while making it fresh for today’s audience.
Character Perspectives: Clark, Lois, and Beyond
Clark is more a three-dimensional this time around. The script actually takes a few risks, letting him question his purpose in a changing world. It’s not weighed down by brooding, though; instead, there’s a focus on hope and resilience. There’s an authenticity to the way Clark connects with everyday people, from heartwarming chats with Lois and/or with his family to standing up for what’s right when no one else dares to.
Lois Lane gets more to do in this version, with her view of the story standing out as just as important as Clark’s. Her work as an investigative journalist, digging for the truth, is shown in detail, and it brings some real-world stakes to the superhero story. One example is her investigation into a military conflict between two foreign countries and it’s possible influence by Lex Luther. Jimmy Olsen brings some humor, while Perry White is the same no-nonsense editor-in-chief you’d expect.
There is an introduction of the Justice Squad, a small rag-tag group of superheroes that helps Superman to resolve any kind of threats to the general public. This group contains the funny, loudmouth Green Lantern, the headstrong Hawkgirl, and the knowledgeable and tech wizard Mister Terrific, with each having their own unique powers and character traits. They provide some comic relief and are likeable characters.
There are a few fun cameos for longtime fans too, but the focus always comes back to Clark and Lois, making their partnership a big part of the film’s heart. This deeper look at their relationship with examples like how they argue about which is a better Rock band helps to pull back the curtain on their mutual respect, making their scenes together feel genuine and earned.
Other supporting characters like Jimmy Olsen, Clark/Lois’s partner reporter, even if briefly on screen, each contribute something of value, and the balance between new faces and familiar ones keeps the narrative feeling fresh while respecting the classic elements fans love.
Things I Think Could Have Been Better
No movie is perfect, and there are a couple of things that movie goers should consider when watching a James Gunn movie. The movie is kind of messy in terms of introducing characters and plots, but it goes really fast which can be good and/or bad depending on the scene. The main villain’s motivations are teased, but probably could have been unpacked more, especially since the movie starts to hint at something deeper. A few more scenes showing the villain’s background and goals would have added depth to the conflict with Superman and increased the stakes.
Some of the supporting cast, especially a secondary antagonist, don’t get enough screen time to really make an impact. Also, while most of the CGI is good, one or two fast-moving action shots looked a bit off, it’s nothing major, but worth mentioning for anyone who’s picky about visuals.
Why This Film Matters Now
There have been so many interpretations of Superman in movies over the decades with each carrying a lot of expectations because this character is a pop-cultural icon and he means a lot so much to people. The 2025 version tries to speak to a new audience, while also wearing its classic roots with pride. With the last movie series taking a darker view of Superman, it’s nice to see a film that’s more optimistic and gives you a sense of hope leaving the theater.
This movie aims to remind people what’s good about Superman, standing up for what’s right, helping others, and staying true even when it’s not easy. It doesn’t try too hard to connect to a bigger cinematic universe, which helps people enjoy it as its own, contained story. The emphasis on Clark’s humanity, rather than just his super strength, offers a refreshing change and might encourage more superhero movies to switch things up by focusing on character as much as the spectacle.
In a media landscape overflowing with darker, dystopian sci-fi futures, Superman 2025 stands out by doubling down on hope and optimism. He wrestles whether he has to follow a destined future of becoming a ruthless, dark conqueror or choose to be the optimistic hero, inspiring others to do good. With the help of his friends and family, he chooses the path of hope and becomes the Superman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 Superman film a reboot or a continuation?
The film is more of a fresh start than a direct sequel, with a new cast and a story that stands on its own, though there are a few subtle nods to older Superman movies.
Is this movie good for kids?
It’s rated PG-13, mostly for action and some intense sequences, but it’s definitely family friendly, for the most part, and is similar to most recent superhero movies. The overall tone is positive and the message is easy for younger fans to follow.
Do I need to have seen previous Superman movies?
Nope. This one works just fine as an entry point. If you are new to Superman, you’ll have no trouble following the plot and understanding the characters.
Are there any surprises or cameos?
There are a few for longtime fans, but nothing that will leave newcomers lost. Keep your eyes peeled for some fun quick appearances and references.
Final Thoughts
This latest iteration of Superman is a great kick off movie for this new DC cinematic universe helmed by James Gunn and can be enjoyed by any DC, comic book, or fans of the past Superman movies. It’s fast-paced story with great action and with developed, relatable characters that you would want to root for to win. It has dark and light, hearted funny moments that gives the film a lot range and interesting moments. If WB/DC can continue to make great movies like this, many fans including myself are optimistically looking forward to their next release on the big screen.
What do you think of this movie? Did you enjoy it or not really? Please feel free to leave your comments down below. Thanks as always!