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Adriano Moreno—I just got out of the Superman screening, and my friend José Andrés—one of the few people I share a love for superhero movies with—asked me if it’s better than Man of Steel, that film where Henry Cavill first appeared as the Last Son of Krypton, kicking off a cinematic universe that eventually got lost in a mess of high expectations and too many hits and misses.

I’d say this new Superman, directed by James Gunn (after his great run with Guardians of the Galaxy at Marvel) and starring. And let me say, exceptionally well—David Corenswet, feels different. It’s a film that truly aims to bring the comic book world to the screen, with all the imagination and boldness that implies, without trying too hard to be a cult classic or taking itself too seriously.

And despite some users on X who seem determined to tear down anything with the DC Studios label, I promise you this: Superman isn’t just good — it’s so much more. It’s fun, engaging, and surprisingly heartfelt without being cheesy. That’s thanks to Gunn’s creative vision, a cast that really gets their characters. And —finally— a version of Superman surrounded by people who feel full of life and charisma.

This Isn’t Another Origin Story

We already know how baby Kal-El escaped Krypton, how Clark Kent grew up in Smallville as a farm boy and football player, and how he eventually joined the Daily Planet as the shy guy in glasses. This movie skips all that and jumps straight into the story — and honestly, I couldn’t be more thankful.

For the first time, Superman has been defeated—by a metahuman working under the orders of Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult). Meanwhile, Clark Kent and Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) are in the middle of their relationship, debating how the world sees the man in the red cape.

At the same time, other heroes—Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion), Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi), and Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced)—step in as a sort of “Suicide Squad,” helping to manage the chaos unfolding in Metropolis. Everything is already in motion, and if you’ve been keeping up with today’s global politic. You might even catch a few parallels in the film’s main conflict.

Good Things About It

First up: David Corenswet. When I first saw him in Hollywood (the Ryan Murphy series), I never imagined he could pull off Superman. And yet, now I can’t picture anyone else playing Clark Kent. Just as Superman symbolizes hope in a world full of gods and monsters, Corenswet feels like the light at the end of the tunnel DC has been stuck in for far too long.

The chemistry between him and Lois is exactly what it needs to be. It’s genuine, charming, and perfect for the little rom-com moments that pop up throughout the film. And honestly, who doesn’t enjoy a bit of romance every now and then?

The Justice League appearances are a bonus, bringing some standout scenes, and Krypto (yes, the dog!) ends up saving the day more than once. Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor is sharp, twisted, and compelling enough to deserve his own solo film.

And for the fans who care about the action—don’t worry. The battles, the flying, the Fortress of Solitude in the Arctic… all of it looks stunning on the big screen and is more than worth the trip to the theater.

Is Everything Great About Superman?

Not quite. I’m all for a touch of sarcasm. Especially in a film that needed to step out from under the long shadow of the old DC Extended Universe. And avoid falling into the trap of copying Marvel’s formula (Iron Man, Thor, and so on). That said, Superman (2025) has scenes where it tries to be heartfelt, while also leaning into intentional absurdity—and that mix in tone doesn’t always land. It feels like a puzzle piece trying to fit into a space that just isn’t made for it.

It’s a bit like being at an all-you-can-eat buffet but only getting a rushed tasting. And honestly, it doesn’t fully feel like the beginning of a new universe. I kept hoping for a sign—some kind of clue—pointing to what’s next, or where this story is headed.

And that’s the real pity, because Superman leaves you right on the edge: wanting more, curious to see where things go, and finally feeling connected to characters that, for the first time in a long while, are actually easy to root for. This is the right direction, DC. Now it’s just a matter of following through—and not getting stuck in that same in-between place again.