Superman: DC’s Revival

“Superman” is a well-deserved revival and redemption for the Kryptionian, along with the entire DC cinematic universe. 

The film has given us fans the charismatic, humorous, and hopeful man that we know Superman to be. Furthermore, we’re given a top-tier hating Lex Luthor, a true journalist in Lois Lane, and parents who love Clark like he’s still a little boy. The introductions of Hawk Girl, Mr. Terrific, and Guy Gardner are just as amazing.

Nicholas Hoult served amazingly as Superman’s archenemy. There wasn’t a single scene where I didn’t feel some sort of hatred or resentment towards Lex Luthor. Luthor truly hated Superman, and his only goal was to see him crumble. He did everything in his power to do so, and that’s what made him such a great and entertaining villain.

Superman, despite what is put up against him, has always been a man of justice and hope. Many viewed Superman as a stoic, “aura-farming,” nonchalant god because that’s the kind of Superman that Zack Snyder wanted fans to see. He wasn’t a true symbol of hope, and for many films, not just those in the Snyder-verse, Superman didn’t have many of his comic book villains or aliens to battle.

James Gunn understood Superman in the same ways as the fans who love him. He understands that Superman is the Symbol of Hope and makes sure he upholds that title throughout the film. 

The parasocial relationship between him and the civilians is now nonexistent. The people of Metropolis assist Superman in battle, even if it means helping him up from a bad fall or just cheering him on because they have no reason to doubt him. He’s even saved a squirrel from being crushed. The best thing about it? Superman acknowledges them as equals — even the squirrel.

David Corenswet’s Superman has weaknesses, both physical and emotional. Superman may seemingly have infinite strength and invincibility, yet we constantly see him getting beat down in the film. He truly is just like everyone else. He isn’t perfect. 

Additionally, the Kryptonite in this film actually harms Superman, not just weakens him. We see the true effect of the stone that we haven’t seen in years.

One of the greatest things about the film is the major conflict. The film definitely references conflicts going on in our current world that have impacted millions of people. It solidifies Superman’s standing as hope and how we as human beings should also navigate this world and its conflicts while standing up for one another.

The “Superman” film has truly brought Superman back to life. They bring his true compassion and his trait of never giving up even in the face of failure. He understands who he is and what he is meant to do, and the film portrays that perfectly. It’s such a joy to watch a Superman who can suffer but still come out on top. You never lose your hope in him because you never have a reason to. This is what we have been waiting for.