Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane-! No, it’s Superman! In a world grappling with uncertainty and politics, the new Superman (2025) refuses to fall flat and offers a much-needed beacon of hope.
Superman, The Last Son of Krypton. The character has had multiple iterations through the years but none have been as widely beloved as Superman, starring David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan – directed by James Gunn. One of the most refreshing things about this movie is how unapologetically it leans into the idea that kindness isn’t weakness – it’s power. In a world where most summer blockbusters push cynicism and grit, this film flips the script, echoing a quote from the titular character himself, “Maybe that’s the real punk rock.” Superman’s greatest strength here isn’t just the ability to fly or throw punches-it’s being human; Empathy, his compassion, being human. “That’s my greatest strength.” The movie treats decency not as a naïve ideal, but as a radical choice that demands courage and patience, and, clearly, strength. Watching him hold onto that truth in the face of both personal and cosmic challenges makes for a surprisingly moving experience, one that lingers far beyond the spectacle.
Speaking of the aforementioned spectacle, the visuals are a standout – bright, polished, cinematic, and far more exhibition than previous iterations of the character have ever shown. The yellow color-graded Metropolis skyline brings genuine awe. It’s not just spectacle, though. It’s fun is praise-worthy, as is its energetic action, smooth episodic pacing, and strong emotional undercurrents. But the most CGI impressive part of this movie must be one of its standout characters – and likely the one that sat the most butts in seats – Krypto The Superdog.
That’s right. For anyone unaware, Superman has a pet dog in this movie, named Krypto. Krypto was a fun addition to this movie and a comic-booky highlight of this comic-booky film. He’s not a good dog – at all. His antics were excessive, playful, silly, but in no way detrimental to the film’s overall tone. He didn’t detract from any serious or story points in any way.
Speaking of standout characters and story points; Superman (Corenswet) and Lois Lane (Brosnahan) share a palpable connection and believable chemistry in Superman. The movie’s antagonist, tech-billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) is played with a refreshing blend of menace and charisma, not seen since Gene Hackman’s portrayal in Superman: The Movie. Hoult’s Luthor isn’t a cartoonish villain twirling his mustache – he’s a reflection of modern envy and paranoia. Every scene between him and the titular character crackles with tension.
When the credits rolled, I found myself sitting there, smiling, jumping in joy and feeling genuinely moved by the performances and the story. Superman isn’t just another superhero movie – it’s a statement. It’s proof that optimism still has a place on the big screen, and that sincerity can hit harder than cynicism when handled with care. Gunn has crafted a heartfelt film without being saccharine, thrilling without losing its soul, and bold enough to wear hope on its sleeve in an age that often mocks it.
If you’ve grown tired of bloated blockbusters and grim heroes, this is your cure. Whether you’re a lifelong Superman fan like myself or someone who’s never given the character a second thought (like my brother) then this movie is worth your time. The visuals will wow you, the characters will charm you, and the heart will stay with you long after you leave the theater.
Superman gets a full 10/10 from me – a soaring reminder that sometimes, your greatest strength can be kindness. “Maybe that’s the real punk rock.”
