After a string of flop after flop, it was inevitable that the DCEU, as we knew it, needed a serious shake-up. Now don’t get me wrong — there were some successful films, like Wonder Woman and Aquaman (which even crossed the $1 billion mark). But a few financial wins weren’t enough to justify keeping the extended universe alive in its current form.

So, in 2022, Warner Bros. brought in James Gunn as the new CEO to spearhead what was essentially a reboot of the DCEU — now rebranded as the DCU (DC Universe). Gunn had already earned major credibility thanks to his success at Marvel, particularly with the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, so fans were curious (and cautiously optimistic) to see what he would bring to the world’s first true superhero.

Well, I’m glad to say we finally reach. It’s 2025 and James Gunn’s Superman has touch down in cinemas. But yuh see with all that buildup, all the online noise, and all the Snyder fans that still vex—people only asking one thing:

Did it live up to the hype?

If y’all want a spoiler-free breakdown from someone who actually went to watch it—stick around.

Superman (2025). Image Courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures.

A lot was riding on the success of this new Superman movie, as it marks the first official entry in the DCU. Much like what Iron Man did for the MCU back in 2008, James Gunn’s Superman needed to come out of the gate swinging—and I’m happy to report that it delivers. This film feels like a love letter to the comic books and animated series that came before it. You can tell that the entire team, from the director to the cinematographer to the cast, truly loves the source material.

The newest actor to take up the mantle is David Corenswet and he truly is Superman. He perfectly captures what it means to embody the character—from his mannerisms and physical presence to his charm, strength, and quiet charisma. I know some fans of the Snyderverse were disappointed by the decision to recast Henry Cavill, but I genuinely believe that once they see this movie, many will agree it was the right move.
Corenswet brings a sense of sincerity to Clark Kent that feels both classic and refreshing. There’s a humility in his performance that reminds you Superman isn't great because he’s powerful—he’s great because he chooses to be kind, to care, and to protect. He just shows up for people, again and again, because that’s who he is.

Next, we have to talk about Nicholas Hoult’s take on Lex Luthor. In this movie, Lex easily claims the title of king of all haters. He absolutely despises Superman—driven by ego, deep-seated insecurity, and an unshakable need to prove that no one, not even an alien demigod, should be more powerful or admired than him.

Hoult does a great job of bringing the animated version of Lex to life. His performance—especially the facial expressions and mannerisms—really sells just how much pure contempt he has for the Man of Steel. You can feel the hate radiating off him in every scene, and it adds a sharp, almost theatrical flair to the character.

Now, Lex in this film isn’t a morally gray or complex villain like Nolan’s Joker. He’s not layered with tragic backstory or philosophical dilemmas—he’s just bad, and unapologetically so. That might not sit well with everyone, but honestly, it worked for me. It gave me that nostalgic feeling of the over-the-top villains we grew up watching in Saturday morning cartoons—evil simply because they can be. And sometimes, that kind of villainy is exactly what a superhero movie needs.

Lex Luthor (2025). Image Courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures.

Outside of the leads, the supporting cast does a solid job. Rachel Brosnahan brings sharp confidence to Lois Lane, and Nathan Fillion delivers just the right amount of obnoxious charm as Guy Gardner.

The real standout, though, is Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific. I wasn’t familiar with the character before, but Gathegi’s calm, calculated presence left a strong impression. He brings a quiet intensity that not only makes you want to learn more about his character, but also helps flesh out the broader tone of this new DC world—one where brilliant minds, advanced tech, and strange threats coexist as part of everyday life.

Justice Gang (2025). Image Courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures.

That’s what makes this film feel like such a promising step forward. It offers a brighter, more hopeful take on Superman—and while that may not land for every Snyderverse fan, it feels like a return to what the character is truly about. DC has leaned into dark, heavy stories for years, which works well for heroes like Batman. But Superman’s world is different. He’s a symbol of optimism, and his surroundings should reflect that.

Gunn’s Metropolis feels vibrant and full of life. The citizens don’t panic at the sight of a kaiju stomping through their city or Mr. Terrific’s ship zipping through the sky—For them, it’s just another Tuesday in a city built on hope, not fear.

With that said, I know this movie won’t be for everyone. If you’re only into the darker side of superhero storytelling, you might be better off waiting for Matt Reeves’ The Batman sequel coming in 2027. Some viewers may also find the film a bit overcrowded, with a lot happening all at once, and the way it throws us straight into the action might feel jarring. But honestly, do we really need another retelling of Superman’s origin?

If you’re a fan of Superman: The Animated Series, the comics, or James Gunn’s past work, you’re in for a treat. The movie took a little while to really find its rhythm—funny enough, considering how much is packed into it—but once it hits its stride, it doesn’t let up until the credits roll.

Superman is now playing in cinemas, and the team at Preshaa definitely recommends checking it out in IMAX if you can—it’s worth the experience.

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