The DC Universe is reaching new heights with the return of Superman. On Thursday, fans were treated to an exhilarating first look into James Gunn’s vision for the upcoming Superman movie.
The highly anticipated trailer showcased several highlights, including Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and the introduction of Krypto, Superman’s faithful and superpowered canine companion.
The trailer begins with a dramatic shot of Superman, played by David Corenswet, hurtling through the sky before landing in a snowy landscape, blood dripping from his mouth. The intensity escalates as quick cuts reveal Lois Lane alongside her Daily Planet colleagues, setting the stage for the iconic workplace of Superman’s alter ego, Clark Kent.
Flashbacks offer a poignant look into Kent’s upbringing on a farm with his adoptive father, Jonathan Kent, portrayed by Pruitt Taylor Vince, hinting at Superman’s humble origins. The footage also introduces Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, the calculating CEO of LuthorCorp, intent on eliminating Superman.
The montage continues with glimpses of Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern, and Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, interspersed with scenes of widespread destruction in Metropolis, Superman’s iconic city.
A standout moment features Superman summoning Krypto, tying his cape to the dog’s tail, and instructing him, “Home. Take me home,” as Krypto takes flight. The trailer concludes with a heartfelt scene of Superman holding Lois Lane as they ascend into the sky together.
The trailer’s release followed a motion poster shared by Gunn three days earlier, featuring Corenswet’s Superman rising into the sky with the tagline, “Look up.” This poster, accompanied by a reimagined version of John Williams’ classic score, serves as a homage to the 1978 “Superman” film starring Christopher Reeve.
Originally titled Superman: Legacy, the film has since been renamed Superman and represents a cornerstone project for the newly reimagined DC Universe under the leadership of co-CEOs Gunn and Peter Safran.
What We Know About the Film
After wrapping production in July, Gunn revealed that the story centers on “a good man in a world that isn’t always so much.” In a 2023 interview, Safran clarified that this is not an origin story but rather an exploration of Superman’s dual identity, balancing his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing.
DC’s Standalone Superman Movie
The Cast:
David Corenswet stars as Superman/Clark Kent, with Rachel Brosnahan portraying Lois Lane. Nicholas Hoult appears as Lex Luthor, joined by Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern, and Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific.
David Corenswet’s Superman:
Best known for roles in Netflix’s The Politician and Hollywood, as well as the blockbuster Twisters, Corenswet steps into his most significant role to date. His resemblance to former Superman actor Henry Cavill hasn’t gone unnoticed, but Corenswet aims to deliver a fresh take on the character.
In a 2019 interview, Corenswet expressed his dream of playing Superman, envisioning a portrayal that balances optimism and heroism. Gunn has praised Corenswet’s talent, describing him as “one of the best actors I’ve ever worked with,” and noted his ability to excel in both dramatic and physical roles.
To prepare for the role, Corenswet underwent a rigorous physical transformation, bulking up to 238 pounds, which he admitted was challenging but essential for embodying Superman’s physicality.
Gunn’s Vision:
Gunn has imbued the film with callbacks to the 1978 classic, reintroducing Superman’s iconic red trunks and blending nostalgia with modern storytelling. For Gunn, the story is deeply personal, reflecting themes of identity and belonging.
Brosnahan described Lois Lane as ambitious and intelligent, while Hoult highlighted Lex Luthor’s menacing nature. Other cast members, including Fillion and Merced, praised Gunn’s commitment to authenticity and his innovative approach to the Superman legacy.
This film serves as a critical litmus test for the DCU’s future. Following a string of underperforming DC films, Superman aims to reconnect audiences with the character’s roots while laying the foundation for the franchise’s next chapter.
