Today we’re talking about James Gunn’s Superman, the first film to truly lay the groundwork for the new DC Universe. As expected, the film oozes style from every frame. Visually, it’s an explosion of color and light. The dark tones of previous adaptations are abandoned to give way to a bright yellow sun that evokes the atmosphere of the All-Star Superman comics.
The action scenes are dynamic and engaging, with visual effects present but never intrusive, never overshadowing the narrative. The tone is just the right amount of fun, supported by a breathtaking soundtrack by John Williams. In the film, we witness the birth of a very young Justice League, with well-developed secondary characters. The film also subtly addresses current issues, keeping the viewer glued to the screen until the final credits.
This Superman is “more human than many humans”; his characterization is deep and realistic, in a modern setting like Metropolis that is inundated by media and social media. Clark Kent navigates this complex world, facing his difficulties and emotions. The film immediately catapults us into the heart of the action; Superman is vulnerable and broken in Antarctica, a side of him we’ve never seen before. David Corenswet wears the blue suit with ease, embodying a hero who gradually discovers his own power and his role in changing the fate of the planet. His Clark is a mix between a boy scout and the protagonist of a 1930s romantic comedy.
We can’t help but mention the superdog Krypto: not only does he save Superman, but he also captivates the audience with every appearance. Krypto is the mascot we didn’t know we wanted, so much so that now we’d love to see a film dedicated entirely to him.
Lois Lane, played by the excellent Rachel Brosnahan, is an intelligent, determined, and confident journalist who isn’t intimidated by even the man in the blue suit.
Dubbed in Italy by the great Flavio Aquilone, Nicholas Hoult plays a young and brilliant Lex Luthor who is a genius of technology and combat strategy, but also immature when compared to the protagonist. Lex is a child who grew up too fast, with money and power in his hands yet manages to inspire a certain empathy.
Superman is a film that manages to balance action, humor, and heart. It’s a comic book movie that isn’t afraid to show the human side of its protagonist, without sacrificing spectacle. It is a new beginning with a bang for the DC Universe, which gives us hope for a bright—and even entertaining—future for the Man of Steel.
