Superman 2025

 Movies: Superman Review

Superman (2025): James Gunns 

In an attempt to reset its entire cinematic universe, Warner Bros. does so Superman (2025). However, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet as the new Man of Steel the film is positioned as both a fresh start for DC and a return to the soul of Superman. Normally, on paper, it checks many of the right boxes. But based on what we’ve seen and heard, this cinematic reboot might not win over every fan. 

Now lad and lassies let’s break down what works and what might not.

A Superman for a New Generation (Not an Origin Story This Time)

So, Gunns Superman isn’t about Kal-El learning who he is. It is about how he chooses to live among us. While Man of Steel took us through Clark’s alienation and struggle with identity, Superman (2025) picks up with him already established, working at the Daily Planet, and trying to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing.

Gunn’s strength: He skips the origin and dives into character dynamics.
Snyder’s strength: He made Superman’s alien-ness feel profound the outsider’s journey was central, emotional, and mythic.

While Gunn’s take is more humanized and accessible, some fans might miss the mythic, operatic tone Snyder used to elevate Superman to near-religious symbolism. Not sure what you guys think, but skipping the origin story is a big no in my opinion. Yes, we know it, but still.......

Suit Comparison: Color, Tone, and Identity

The suits say a lot about each director’s vision:

• Snyder’s suit: muted blue, no red trunks, heavy muscle padding, almost armor-like.

• Gunn’s suit: vibrant blue, classic red trunks return{i fee should remain only in comics }, and a slightly faded cape more fabric than armor

Gunn’s advantage: He embraced comic accuracy without shame I feel, and gave fans the Superman they had seen for 80+ years.
Snyder’s edge: His suit reflected a realistic, battle-worn Superman. Someone who had to earn the symbol, not wear it by default

Tone & Themes

If Man of Steel was about fear, doubt, and identity crisis, then Superman (2025) is about hope, heart, and belonging.

• Snyder’s Superman asked: Can I be accepted?

• Gunn’s Superman asks: How can I help?

The upside of Gunn’s tone: It repositions Superman as a beacon, not a question mark. It’s refreshing, especially for younger or new fans.
The downside: Without tension or internal conflict, some might find this version too straightforward, lacking the moral and emotional complexity Snyder injected into the character.

Gunn’s Superman is kinder; Yes, I agree. Less haunted but maybe also a little less deep.

David Corenswet vs. Henry Cavill

• Henry Cavill: Brought commanding presence, stoic intensity, and physical dominance. His Superman was burdened, noble, and emotionally reserved.

• David Corenswet: More approachable, emotionally open, and traditionally “Clark Kent-ish.” Early reports suggest he plays Superman as someone still learning how to be the symbol he already is.

Corenswet's strength: He channels the Reeve era warmth with a modern edge.
Cavill’s strength: He looked and felt like a demigod  which matched Snyder’s larger-than-life world.

Corenswet may win hearts, but Cavill left a powerful, mythic impression that’ll be tough to top.

Action & Visual Style

One of Man of Steel’s defining features was its destructive, high-octane action, particularly the controversial Metropolis battle. Buildings crumbled, shockwaves split the sky, and Superman’s power felt dangerous.

Gunn’s Superman appears more controlled  brighter lighting, less destruction, and more emotional stakes tied to each punch 

The benefit: A focus on meaningful action, not just spectacle.
The cost: It  lacked the visceral awe that made Man of Steel’s fight scenes unforgettable, even when controversial

Worldbuilding

Snyder’s Man of Steel mostly focused on Superman, only teasing the wider DCEU in small ways. Gunn’s Superman, on the other hand, introduces multiple heroes like Hawkgirl, Guy Gardner, and Mr Terrefic.

Gunn’s strategy: Jumpstart the DCU with a living world already in motion.
The risk: Too many side characters could make Superman’s own arc feel diluted (Watched BvS again and figured out that was one of the reason the movie was weakened).

Emotion Through Music & Mood

Snyder had Hans Zimmer, whose score brought emotional thunder  raw, sweeping, and unforgettable. The “Flight” track alone is legendary.

Gunns brought back John Murphy — made the sound track for SS — suggesting a more melodic, hopeful approach. It actually worked pretty well in all honesty. However, the pressure to live up to Zimmer’s musical legacy is real. WE TALKING HAN ZIMMER here ladies and gents. But he delivered nonetheless.

Did Cavill’s Superman Really Never Smile or Save People?

Let’s set the record straight here: despite the popular claim that Cavill never smiled or saved anyone, Man of Steel did show plenty of both.

He rescued oil rig workers, saved a school bus full of kids, stood up to bullies, and ultimately sacrificed his peace to save Earth from extinction. He even has quiet, sincere smiles with Lois. With his mother, and in Smallville flashbacks.

Yes, Zack Snyder’s take was darker and more introspective, but Cavill was never emotionless. He was just figuring out how to carry the world on his shoulders. I am a synder fan and i just needed to clear this up).

Well, I will not lie. The movie was good. Some even say "peak". Not sure why people say it was a "bit too colourful". How that is a problem is beyond me. I like the fact that the fortress of solitude was added, and that Gunn took inspiration from kingdom superman. The superman Robots. As well as the fact that krypto was added. Nice touch from Gunn it must be said. 

So, in my opinion, a solid 7/10. 

But what do you think: is James' Superman better than Zacks? Feel free to drop your comments on areas you don't agree with. Thank you.