First Reviews Arrive for James Gunn’s Superman Film

First Impressions Pour In for James Gunn’s Vibrant and Hopeful Superman Re-launch

The new film Superman, scheduled to premiere on July 11, 2025, officially relaunches the DC Cinematic Universe under the creative leadership of James Gunn. Starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as the villain Lex Luthor, the film is the first project in the DCU’s new “Gods and Monsters” chapter. The cast also features classic characters and surprises, including the charismatic Krypto the super-powered dog. Early reactions to the film began surfacing after advance screenings for journalists, influencers, and industry members. Overall, the comments are largely positive, praising the production’s vibrant, optimistic tone and Corenswet’s captivating portrayal of Superman. Many viewers compared the film’s style to Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy, noting its balance of action, emotion, and lightness. A key highlight is Gunn’s return to a more hopeful Superman, rooted in classic comic morality. Reviewers also frequently praised the chemistry between Clark and Lois, particularly Brosnahan’s performance as a determined and spirited Lois Lane. Many found the introduction of Krypto, the dog with superpowers, particularly pleasing, describing him as one of the film’s most enjoyable elements.

James Gunn’s Superman Film Sparks Polarizing Reactions – From ‘Mess’ to Soaring Success

However, not all reactions were positive. On July 7, 2025, before the film’s official release, one publication posted a negative review with the headline “Terrible New Superman Is Final Nail in Superhero Cinema’s Coffin.” This review broke the embargo and caused a stir before it was subsequently deleted. Despite its removal, the review had garnered significant views before vanishing from the web. Mixed reactions continued after the initial embargo lifted, allowing media and influencers to discuss the film more freely. Some critics, like Jen Yamato of the Daily Beast, described the film as a “mess” and “the Final Nail in the Coffin for the Superhero Genre,” citing a confusing script, lack of humor, and “over-the-top nonsense.” Conversely, many others lauded it. Bryan Sudfield stated that Superman “soars with heart, humor, and style,” and Ash Crossan simply expressed, “I really liked #Superman.”

Positive feedback consistently highlighted James Gunn’s direction and the performances of Corenswet, Brosnahan, and Hoult. David Corenswet’s portrayal of Superman earned rave reviews from critics like Brandon David and Epic Film Guys, with the latter calling him “the perfect Superman for a new era.” Perri Nemiroff appreciated Corenswet’s determined and warm approach to the role, noting that “Gunn and co. tackle the struggles one might face when balancing reality with core values.” Courtney Howard praised Superman for flying high, “respecting past versions while forging its own path.” Krypto, the super-powered pup, frequently emerged as “the true showstealer,” with critic Peter Howell specifically highlighting the character. Despite the widespread praise, some concerns emerged. A few reviewers noted excessive CGI and other minor film issues. The plot was occasionally described as overblown, with too many characters and subplots potentially compromising narrative focus. Others found the tone at times cartoonish, suggesting it might not appeal to all audiences. Peter Howell, despite praising Krypto, expressed mixed feelings about the film overall, criticizing the story and the portrayals of Corenswet’s Superman and Hoult’s Lex Luthor.

Nonetheless, Gunn’s direction has been widely recognized for his visual control, pacing, and ability to blend action with humor. Rachel Leishman was impressed, emphasizing that “Clark Kent’s always been a beacon of hope and goodness.” Jeremy Jazieva lauded the visual effects and camerawork. Another significant point of discussion across social media was the film’s emphasis on Superman’s origin as an immigrant from Krypton, drawing clear analogies to the American ideal of hospitality. Gunn defended this perspective as essential to the character’s core essence, directly responding to conservative critics by stating, “Let them [those who feel offended] care.”

Superman appears to present a renewed and lighter vision of the hero, striking a balance between nostalgia and modernity. While some critics point to structural flaws, the film’s hopeful tone, the cast’s charisma, and its more human approach to the character suggest that James Gunn has largely succeeded in his challenging mission of reintroducing Superman to the wider public. Looking ahead, upcoming DCU films are set to shine a spotlight on Supergirl and Clayface, while The Brave and The Bold, featuring a fresh take on Batman (distinct from Robert Pattinson’s portrayal), is also in development. Full reviews for Superman are expected by Tuesday afternoon.