A new Superman bounds onto the big screen

A new take on the iconic Man of Steel has arrived on the big screen with director James Gunn's *Superman*. Starring David Corenswet in the titular role, the film reportedly aims to connect with audiences by emphasizing the relatable human side of the classic DC character.

Superman, known for his dual life as the powerful superhero and the seemingly ordinary, awkward reporter Clark Kent at the Daily Planet, grapples with his identity in the comics. Corenswet steps into the famed blue and red suit, acknowledging that he's still processing the full weight of embodying such a legendary figure.

"As far as the moments of it hitting me that I'm playing Superman, I think saying the sentence out loud is the closest I get," Corenswet told Reuters, admitting, "But it still just sounds so ridiculous to me to say it out loud that, you know, it doesn't quite compute." He added that surprisingly, the physical costume element that truly brought the feeling together was the cape.

The film, which has premiered in some territories, plunges Superman into international political intrigue while pitting him against formidable foes, including his longtime nemesis, the billionaire Lex Luthor played by Nicholas Hoult, as well as monsters and other superpowered beings.

Early reception has been largely positive, with the film currently holding an 88% rating on the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have pointed to the film's focus on character as a highlight. Johnny Oleksinski of the New York Post noted that the best aspect of Gunn's work is its "laser-focused on relatable characters," describing it as not just "a puzzle piece in a universe or a loud series of action set pieces."

Wendell Pierce, who portrays Daily Planet editor Perry White, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the movie looks past the fantastical elements to remind viewers that Superman's true power lies in his humanity, particularly through his life as Clark Kent, the working journalist.

Adding to the discussion, Anthony Corrigan, who plays Superman's ally Metamorpho (capable of transforming his body into elements), emphasized that Gunn's approach wasn't simply relying on the character's popularity. Corrigan stated that a film needs a "vision and creative vision" rooted in a strong screenplay, rather than just resting on the intellectual property.

*Superman* marks a significant moment as the inaugural film in the new Warner Bros and DC Universe partnership, overseen by James Gunn. This new era is set to expand with future projects already announced, including a Supergirl film and an R-rated take on Clayface.