Movies - Superman : James Gunn's Bold Vision Unveiled in the new Trailer

By Mulder, 14 may 2025

The cinematic world is abuzz as director James Gunn finally unveils the much-anticipated trailer for Superman, a groundbreaking reboot of the Man of Steel saga. Scheduled to release on July 11, 2025, Superman is the first film in the revamped DC Universe (DCU) under the stewardship of Gunn and Peter Safran, co-CEOs of DC Studios. With a stellar cast, a fresh perspective on the iconic character, and a story steeped in legacy and innovation, this film marks a new chapter in superhero cinema.

At its core, Superman delves into the fragile balance Clark Kent must navigate between his Kryptonian heritage and his human upbringing in Smallville, Kansas. David Corenswet takes on the mantle of Superman, portraying a version of the character who embodies truth, justice, and the American wa" while exuding humanity, kindness, and compassion. Gunn envisions a younger Superman, around 25 years old, already established in Metropolis as a journalist at the Daily Planet. His dual identity as a Kryptonian and a human serves as the emotional crux of the narrative, promising a deeply resonant exploration of what it means to be both alien and human.

The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, led by Rachel Brosnahan as the fiercely intelligent and fearless Lois Lane. Joining her are Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Superman’s most formidable foe; Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, with his signature abrasive humor; Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, a winged warrior wielding formidable melee weapons; and Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, a superhero who can transmute elements in his body. Other notable cast members include María Gabriela de Faría as Angela Spica/The Engineer, Skyler Gisondo as the boyish Jimmy Olsen, and Wendell Pierce as Perry White, the editor-in-chief of the Daily Planet. Each character contributes to a richly textured world where Superman’s legacy intersects with an array of compelling figures.

The journey to bring Superman to life began in earnest in late 2022 when James Gunn was tapped to write and direct the film. Drawing inspiration from celebrated comic arcs such as All-Star Superman by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely, James Gunn crafted a narrative that balances action, heart, and philosophical depth. Filming commenced on February 29, 2024, Superman’s canonical birthday, in the stunning landscapes of Svalbard, Norway, which serve as the setting for the Fortress of Solitude. Principal photography continued at Trilith Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, with additional location shoots in Cleveland and Cincinnati, Ohio.

The production design, led by Beth Mickle, and costume design by Judianna Makovsky promise a visually arresting film. The Superman costume, prominently featured in early promotional material, blends classic elements with modern aesthetics, including the iconic red briefs, a nod to Superman’s comic book roots. Shot entirely in IMAX by cinematographer Henry Braham, the film aspires to immerse viewers in the grandeur and intimacy of Superman’s world.

Superman is the flagship film of the DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, a slate that promises interconnected storytelling across movies, television, and animation. Gunn and Safran envision a cohesive universe where characters can seamlessly transition between media while maintaining narrative consistency. In this context, Superman sets the stage for future films, including the highly anticipated Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (2026).

The film introduces not only familiar characters but also new elements, such as Superman’s loyal dog Krypto, whose inclusion was inspired by Gunn’s real-life experiences with his adopted pet. Krypto’s presence adds a layer of warmth and humor, reflecting the film’s balance between epic stakes and personal moments.

James Gunn’s approach to Superman draws heavily from the character’s storied history. The film’s themes and visuals are influenced by a variety of sources, including the Fleischer Studios animated Superman shorts from the 1940s, the Superman: Birthright comic series, and even Kingdom Come. These references ensure that the film remains deeply rooted in the essence of Superman while offering fresh interpretations for modern audiences.

With filming wrapped as of July 30, 2024, post-production is in full swing. Test screenings have already begun, and James Gunn has hinted at a Summer of Superman promotional campaign leading up to the film’s release. Early glimpses of David Corenswet in costume and a teaser showcasing the Fortress of Solitude have fueled fan excitement. The trailer itself teases a visually stunning and emotionally grounded story, featuring Superman’s confrontation with a world that doubts his values and his quest to prove that kindness is not outdated.

As the clock ticks down to the film’s release, anticipation continues to build. Fans and newcomers alike are eager to see Gunn’s vision for Superman—a hero for a new generation who remains steadfast in his ideals despite a cynical world. With its all-star cast, stunning visuals, and a narrative rich in heart and humanity, Superman is poised to redefine the superhero genre while honoring the timeless legacy of the Man of Steel.

Synopsis:
Next summer, DC Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures invite you to discover a new vision of the very first modern superhero, directed by James Gunn. With his unique style, James Gunn delivers a spectacular, funny, and touching film, portraying a Superman driven by compassion and guided by an unwavering belief in the goodness of humanity.

Superman
Written and directed by James Gunn
Based on Characters from DC
Produced by Peter Safran
Starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Isabela Merced, Edi Gathegi, Nathan Fillion, Anthony Carrigan, María Gabriela de Faría, Sara Sampaio, Skyler Gisondo, Nicholas Hoult, Terence Rosemore, Wendell Pierce, Pruitt Taylor Vince, Neva Howell, Beck Bennett, Mikaela Hoover, Christopher McDonald
Cinematography : Henry Braham
Edited by Jason Ballantine, William Hoy
Music by John Murphy
Production company : DC Studios
Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures
Release date : July 9, 2025 (France), July 11, 2025 (United States)