SUPERMAN (2025): IS IT TOO GOOFY? OR IS IT A HOPE?

By: Naufal Risma Andreansyah (30802300012) 

Superman (2025) As The First Film To Open DC’s New Universe

Source: IMDB

How does it feel to see Superman smiling and emotional during battle? James Gunn answers that question in his latest film.

Who doesn’t know the superhuman hero named Superman? Since his appearance in comics in 1938 and his first film starring Christopher Reeve in 1978, Superman has been well known to superhero lovers. Not to mention the various films and series that tell the story of Clark Kent, which are still running today. So what sets James Gunn’s latest Superman film apart from the others?

James Gunn presents Superman’s story as a new chapter in the DC Universe superhero saga under his leadership. This new phase is marked by the appearance of actor David Corenswet, who plays Superman, replacing Henry Cavill.

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Clark Kent’s Inner Conflict As Superman

Instead of telling the story of his beginnings, the audience will be treated to the story of the Man of Steel through the conflict between Superman and his arch-nemesis, Lex Luthor. Not only the conflict with Luthor, but in this film, viewers will also explore Superman’s inner struggle as he balances his role as a human named Clark Kent with his responsibilities as a superhuman from the planet Krypton.

Here, Superman must grapple with his enormous responsibility as the strongest superhuman. Amidst his role as a hero, Superman must face the reality that his presence on Earth raises the perception that he is both a threat and a hope for humanity.

Source : WarnerBros DC

SUPERMAN WITH A TOUCH OF JAMES GUNN

Superhero fans are surely familiar with James Gunn’s film style, as seen in Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) and The Suicide Squad (2021). His Superman film also has a similar feel to the other films he has made. The Superman character in this film is colorful, full of dynamic and colossal action that is a feast for the eyes. And of course, there are the lighthearted jokes typical of director James Gunn.

Jokes are not the main focus of this film. But when they appear, the audience knows that they are James Gunn’s signature touch. Not to mention Clark Kent’s romance with Lois Lane and the cuteness of Superman’s dog, Krypto, which makes this film even more heartwarming. This is certainly different from previous Superman films.

One of Gunn’s trademarks is the soundtrack and song playlist. Audiences and fans alike can enjoy music from the 90s and 2000s that evokes nostalgia. In fact, this Superman film features many old songs that Gen Z can enjoy, such as Punkrocker, 5 Years Time, and Bring Me Sunshine.

However, James Gunn’s touches seem to clash with the Superman elements we know from previous films. Therefore, viewers may feel unfamiliar with James Gunn’s Superman. Many DC fans are skeptical, even mocking Gunn’s version of Superman for being too colorful and silly. This is because they are used to Zack Snyder’s version of Superman, played by Henry Cavill. Snyder’s Superman is portrayed as a serious, very powerful figure, even considered a “god among humans.”

However, many fans argue that Zack Snyder’s version of Superman is not true to the comics. They believe that Superman should be a protector, friendly to everyone, and a source of hope for all. Even in this film, Superman is portrayed as “an alien who is more human than humans themselves.” Fans also accept and even agree that Gunn’s version of Superman is more in line with what Superman should be. 

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Despite the silliness that colors his heroic story, this film does not eliminate the important element of Superman, which is hope for humanity. The points of courage, concern for others, and heroism are still strong in Superman.

Beyond its tone, the film stands out for its polished CGI, creative action sequences, and numerous cameo appearances from the wider DC Universe—elements that will delight long-time fans.

Released in theaters on July 11, 2025, the film is now also available on HBO Max, allowing audiences to experience Gunn’s heartfelt and energetic new chapter for Superman from home.