Superman review: Embracing geeky weirdness on screen

Superman’s newest movie venture strides forward ambiguously into the forthcoming era of DC’s superhero saga, mixing quirky humor with intense action in a film that appears both overloaded and lacking depth. With David Corenswet portraying the legendary character, this fresh film provides comic enthusiasts with a rush of nostalgic nods and bizarre sci-fi elements, yet it may disengage broader audiences due to its hectic speed and deficiency in emotional resonance.

The movie signifies the launch of DC’s bold new film universe after the end of its earlier version, which struggled with several disappointing films in 2023. Directed by James Gunn, recognized for his contributions to Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy and DC’s The Suicide Squad, this fresh installment strives to transform the superhero category within the DC brand. Instead of carefully setting the stage for upcoming narratives, Gunn dives directly into the excitement, offering a show that resembles the progression of an existing series rather than the start of a fresh phase.

From the outset, viewers are thrust into a world where Superman has already become a familiar figure, protecting Metropolis for several years. He is romantically involved with the determined Lois Lane, portrayed by Rachel Brosnahan, and faces opposition from the villainous Lex Luthor, played with cold intensity by Nicholas Hoult. Interestingly, the film introduces several lesser-known superheroes alongside Superman, including Green Lantern, Mr. Terrific, and Hawkgirl, who form a morally ambiguous Justice Gang that both aids and complicates his mission.

This approach to skip the well-trodden origin story offers a refreshing change of pace. Audiences are spared the familiar tale of Krypton and Smallville, diving directly into the dynamic world of metahumans and epic battles. The inclusion of offbeat elements such as Krypto the Superdog and a team of robotic Superman helpers adds a whimsical touch rarely seen in previous adaptations of the character. These playful additions evoke a sense of comic book authenticity, appealing to longtime fans eager for a break from the somber tone of earlier films.

However, this unapologetically quirky vision comes with drawbacks. Gunn’s decision to pack the narrative with a dizzying array of concepts—clones, alternate dimensions, bizarre creatures, and social commentary—creates an experience that feels overwhelming and unfocused. The film barrels through its plot points with little room for character development or emotional resonance. Monumental events such as city-wide destruction and interdimensional travel unfold with a rapidity that undermines their potential impact, leaving the audience with fleeting impressions rather than lasting memories.

The visual effects, while elaborate, contribute to the film’s ephemeral quality. Much of the action resembles a high-end video game, with scenes of destruction and cosmic mayhem that feel detached from reality. Despite nods to the grandeur of Richard Donner’s 1978 Superman, including the use of John Williams’ iconic score, the film struggles to evoke a similar sense of awe. The result is a spectacle that dazzles momentarily but lacks the emotional weight necessary to make viewers truly invest in the story.

At the heart of this new Superman is David Corenswet, whose casting brings a classic, wholesome charm to both Superman and his alter ego, Clark Kent. Yet the screenplay gives him little opportunity to showcase the character’s legendary goodness and compassion. Instead, the portrayal leans toward impulsiveness, with the Man of Steel often displaying frustration and volatility, particularly in interactions with Lois Lane. This choice undercuts the character’s traditional role as an unwavering beacon of hope and moral clarity, making it difficult for audiences to connect with him on a deeper level.

The film’s rapid pace and emphasis on eccentricity suggest a creative vision driven more by indulgence than careful storytelling. Gunn appears to have approached the project with the mindset of cramming as much as possible into a single film, possibly out of concern that this opportunity might be short-lived. The result is an uneven mix of inventive humor and superficial spectacle that may delight comic book enthusiasts but leave mainstream viewers indifferent.

Although the movie’s ambitious nature and lighthearted approach are praiseworthy, its overall effectiveness as the foundation of a new cinematic universe is weakened by a lack of story cohesion and emotional depth. The playful aspects included, while amusing, seem inadequate to support the film’s broader thematic goals. Furthermore, not having calmer scenes to delve into Superman’s humanity and the ethical challenges of his position lessens the story’s influence.

Ultimately, this version of Superman represents both a daring attempt and an unfulfilled chance. It presents an imaginative, humor-filled universe that steers away from the somber tone of earlier installments but doesn’t manage to leave a powerful, enduring impact. The movie’s high-energy and packed storyline might attract loyal comic enthusiasts, yet its inability to create a grounded, accessible Superman might limit its appeal to a wider audience.

James Gunn’s signature style—quirky, irreverent, and unabashedly geeky—shines throughout the film, offering moments of genuine amusement and surprise. Yet the absence of emotional stakes and the relentless pacing result in a cinematic experience that is entertaining in the moment but forgettable in the long run. As DC embarks on this new cinematic journey, one can only hope that future installments will find a better balance between spectacle and substance, ensuring that Superman once again becomes not just a symbol of power, but a hero whose story truly matters.