Superman Movie Review

Plot

The new Superman film embarks on a fresh journey for the iconic character, cleverly stepping away from the traditional portrayals we have come to expect over the decades. Unlike previous movies where Superman often presented a god-like figure, this version opens with him battered and bloodied, in desperate need of assistance—a stark contrast that sets the tone for a narrative steeped in vulnerability. This symbolic depiction cleverly mirrors the current landscape of the DC Universe, where humanity is grappling with a hero that has fallen from grace. The story doesn’t dive deep into origin tales or unnecessary backstory; instead, it fast-forwards to a world where Clark Kent (Superman) is already in love with journalist Lois Lane and battling high-tech threats like the android created by the self-serving billionaire Lex Luthor. The plot is straightforward and follows Superman as he juggles his responsibilities while battling various villains. What begins as a fun, light-hearted take on the superhero genre soon devolves into over-the-top silliness. While it tries to inject humor akin to James Gunn's previous work in properties like 'Guardians of the Galaxy,' it ultimately relies on predictable plot points that strip away the initial novelty. The climax features a battle between Superman and Ultraman that is both grand and chaotic, yet it lacks emotional heft. Ultimately, despite its attempts to thrill, the narrative feels flat and conventional, failing to evoke true excitement or depth. In terms of scripting, themes of trust and social media abound, as we see Superman grappling not just with supervillains but also the trolling culture of the internet. A scene where he confronts online criticism showcases a relatable side of this larger-than-life character. However, these themes, while timely, feel awkwardly shoehorned in amidst the comedic chaos, leading to an inconsistent tone that will leave many viewers wanting. Some political themes slip through, attempting to add significance to Superman's decisions, but they feel out of sync with the film's light-heartedness. For a story that's intended to bring new depth to these beloved characters, more substantial storytelling is crucial. The introduction of the Justice Gang is another subplot we encounter, which promises a team dynamic but remains underdeveloped. While there is a sense of fun generated with each character, especially Mr. Terrific, this storyline gets sidelined, providing comic relief rather than substantial narrative progression. The film ultimately hinges on the charm of its characters and the excitement of superhero action, but as the plot progresses, viewers might find themselves exhausted by the constant predictability and cartoonish antics. A tighter, more focused storyline could have transformed this movie into something truly special.

Acting

The performance in this latest Superman movie is undeniably one of its highlights. David Corenswet takes on the mantle of Superman with a boyish charm and relatable warmth that brings a refreshing twist to this iconic character. His portrayal oscillates between heroism and vulnerability, especially when Superman grapples with his feelings of inadequacy amid external expectations and trolls. Corenswet's ability to balance these aspects effectively provides a new layer to Superman’s personality, making him feel more human and approachable. Rachel Brosnahan delivers a compelling performance as Lois Lane, epitomizing the feisty journalist with grit and determination. Her chemistry with Corenswet is palpable, bringing heart and depth to the romantic subplot. Lois's character is not simply a damsel in distress; rather, she asserts her strength and independence throughout the story. As they face challenges together, it's evident that the film is keen on showcasing a partnership built on mutual respect and camaraderie. Nicholas Hoult steps into the role of Lex Luthor, effectively capturing the essence of a cold-blooded smart villain. His portrayal underscores the tension between Luthor and Superman, providing a character who is both jealous and menacing without tipping into cliché territory. Hoult’s cold gaze and calculated performance add to Luthor's menacing presence, making him a worthy adversary for our hero. Additionally, the supporting cast adds another layer to the performances. The group known as the Justice Gang features interesting dynamics, yet many of the characters, like Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, are relegated to the background. Despite their brief appearances, their contributions infuse the film with moments of levity and humor that fans may appreciate. While their potential is evident, their focus on humor rather than deeper characterization feels like a missed opportunity. As far as cameos go, the appearances by Bradley Cooper as Jor-El, and other surprise guest appearances, are delightful. Cooper's brief but impactful presence gives weight to certain emotional moments, building a connection that resonates with audiences. The film's ensemble cast does bring numerous smiles, but one can't help but wish a bit more narrative focus had been allocated to develop each character fully.

Cinematography

The cinematography of this Superman film embraces a bright, candy-colored palette that stands in stark contrast to the dark tones and serious motifs we've come to associate with the superhero genre, particularly from the previous incarnations. The aesthetics reflect the playful vibe of the movie, aligning well with James Gunn's signature style. The use of vivid visuals creates an enticing atmosphere that feels like a comic book brought to life, drawing viewers into Superman's world with great allure. The camera work is energetic, employing dynamic angles and quick cuts that mimic the fast-paced storytelling. Action sequences are vibrantly shot, allowing for flamboyant visual choices, particularly in battles that showcase Superman’s powers. Unfortunately, while the visual style captures a certain whimsical charm, it doesn't entirely escape a cartoonish feel—especially during CGI-heavy sequences where the lines between reality and animation become blurred. Action sequences, though exciting in spirit, can sometimes overwhelm with their reliance on special effects. There are moments where the technical execution shines, illustrating Superman's strength and speed in breathtaking fashion, but at times, these set pieces feel excessive and detract from the film's emotional core. While the climactic fight between Superman and Ultraman showcases some impressive visual feats, it does lean into the chaotic territory where the impact can feel diluted. Additionally, the film’s framing and lighting do contribute to storytelling, enhancing the emotional moments that surface throughout. Close-ups during key dialogues add a sense of intimacy, capturing the characters' emotions effectively. Furthermore, the production design immerses audiences in a fantastically colorful environment, albeit one that sometimes lacks the gritty realism that many superhero flicks have embraced lately. Overall, while the visual spectacle captures attention and offers a unique lens through which to experience the story, it occasionally employs a style that feels overly reliant on cartoonish aesthetics. A more grounded approach might have lent gravitas to the characters’ journeys, making their conflicts resonate on a deeper level.

Direction

James Gunn's directorial stewardship is evident throughout the film, blending humor with the superhero genre in a way that feels familiar to fans of his previous works. His choice to step away from the darker tones that have pervaded recent superhero films is refreshing; however, the tonal shifts might not satisfy every viewer. Gunn has a penchant for quirky humor and heartwarming moments, which flourishes in several scenes, particularly in the interactions between Superman, Lois Lane, and even the supporting characters. The pacing of the film remains brisk, which is a notable achievement considering the numerous character arcs and narrative threads being explored. The screenplay never lingers too long on exposition or unnecessary backstory, making it accessible for newcomers and longtime fans alike. However, the choice to gloss over character development may leave key aspects of the story feeling rushed and unsatisfying. The focus on fast-paced storytelling does sometimes come at the expense of depth, leading to a narrative that feels underdeveloped. Gunn successfully injects moments of levity into serious scenes, giving audiences opportunities to catch their breath amid the chaos. There are numerous comedic beats that elicit laughter and light-heartedness, particularly from Superman’s struggles with modern technology and social media. However, some of the humor feels a little forced and detracts from the overall character arcs, resulting in moments that can break immersion rather than enhance it. One of the more commendable aspects of Gunn’s direction is his ability to seamlessly blend ensemble performances. The chemistry among the characters, particularly between Superman and Lois Lane, creates engaging dynamics that ground the film amid its fantastical elements. Their relationship evolves organically throughout the movie, adding depth to a genre that sometimes overlooks emotional connections for spectacle alone. Unfortunately, there are times when Gunn's lighthearted approach clashes with more serious themes that the film attempts to tackle, leading to a narrative that feels muddled. The incorporation of socio-political themes about Superman's role in international affairs and the moral implications of his powers occasionally comes across as half-hearted. Such themes, vital for a character embodying hope and justice, require a more thoughtful exploration than what is presented here. In summary, while James Gunn’s direction carries a delightful charm and humor that makes this film entertaining, it ultimately skims over critical aspects that could have added greater impact. Balancing humor with emotional depth is an art, and while Gunn succeeds in many areas, the film struggles to find its footing in others.

Conclusion

The new Superman movie directed by James Gunn is a delightful, albeit shallow, romp through the familiar landscape of the DC Universe. While it brings a breath of fresh air to the superhero genre with its bright visuals, humor, and relatable hero, it struggles to infuse depth and complexity into its characters and narrative. David Corenswet, as Superman, presents a heartfelt interpretation of the iconic hero; Rachel Brosnahan shines as Lois Lane, adding a refreshing dynamic to their relationship. The plot adopts a straightforward approach, moving briskly but, unfortunately, without carving out the depth that fans of the franchise might crave. Humor is sprinkled throughout, but the reliance on predictable outcomes and a cartoonish ambiance could leave some feeling unsatisfied. While it attempts to tackle relevant themes regarding social media and the implications of Superman’s influence, these ideas remain disjointed within the overall tone of the film. Visually, the movie is a feast for the eyes, yet it often leans on computer-generated effects that may dilute the emotional weight of its central conflicts. The cinematography showcases a playful palette, continuing with Gunn's characteristic flair, but occasionally feels like it prioritizes style over narrative integrity. Overall, while the film is enjoyable—especially for those seeking a quick dose of superhero fun—it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity to breathe new life into the character in a more meaningful way. It presents a universe brimming with potential while falling slightly flat in terms of emotional resonance. For fans of light-hearted comic book adventures, this Superman is a watchable addition, but for those hoping for a more significant revival of the DC Universe, the journey ahead still seems uncertain.