The DCU’s reputation has taken a few bruises in recent years, that is, until… Superman (2025). 

Just by scrolling through reviews on Letterboxd, it’s easy to tell DC might have done their big one with this movie. Superman (2025) is a cinephile’s surprise and, yes, a box office dark horse. From the moment the credits roll to the instant you feel that urge to rewatch every scene, you’ll sense something new is afoot in the skies above Metropolis.

Flying Into a Fresh Dawn

Director and co-writer for the New Superman, James Gunn, brings an impressive new creative energy to the franchise. A lot of people think Gunn’s style means tossing out the mythology, but honestly, what he’s done is transform it from the inside. His version feels more introspective, more spiritually curious and far less weighed down by the usual origin retellings. He trusts the audience already knows who Superman is, and instead shows us who he can become.

Blurred Lines Between Myth and Man

In this iteration, actor David Corenswet steps into the Superman (2025) role with measured restraint. Gone is the unflappable “boy scout” mask; here is a Clark Kent who is burdened, conflicted, and still learning how to handle his power. The scenes where he pauses, torn between saving one life or twenty, are simple but deeply grounded. When he finally dons the red-and-blue, the transformation feels earned. I’ll admit: I was skeptical at first. I mean, many have tried (and failed) to replace Henry Cavill, but the contrast between Henry Cavill and David Corenswet Superman is clear… and somehow, both work.

Here’s what I mean. On one hand, Cavill’s Superman was grandiose. He has this sort of veneer of invincibility shimmering just below the surface. On the other hand, Corenswet’s Superman has a very bright personality, he feels human, hopeful, and even a little awkward—despite the huge responsibility on his shoulders.

A New Clark, A New Journey

In David Corenswet Superman Clark Kent scenes, the movie slows down. You see him fumbling through human interactions: the awkward small talk, the longing for anonymity, and how he tries his best to not let anyone down. These moments, paired with his wholesome bond with his adoptive parents, bring humanity to an almost invincible being. Of course, there’s spectacle too. There’s that incredible moment where Superman storms into Lex Luthor’s office on a mission to save his cousin’s dog, and the epic sequence where Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi) absolutely steals the show. And then there’s the shot of Superman rising from a dust-choked sky, that might just be the coolest frame in the entire movie. Gunn balances the CGI fireworks with crisp emotional tension, never letting visuals drown out the story’s heart.

Box Office Performance With Heart

Now, a movie like this one that strays away from the status quo so much might seem risky at the box office, yet Superman (2025) box office returns are exceeding expectations. Word of mouth has been strong with viewers praising the film’s fresh tone, its thematic ambition, and its willingness to ask tough questions about heroism. Still, it’s not flawless. Superman’s final monologue to Lex feels a little overcooked, and certain side characters (Ahem! Jimmy Olsen) hog more screen time than necessary. The pacing dips here and there too but those are minor quibbles compared to the emotional weight this film carries. 

What really surprised me was the humor. It sneaks in naturally—dry one-liners, clever callbacks, and warm, human banter. You’ll laugh, you’ll tear up, and if you’re smart, you’ll stick around through the credits (trust me, grab that extra snack). At the end of the day, Superman (2025) feels like a long-overdue breath of fresh air. With James Gunn at the helm and David Corenswet giving us a more “punk rock” Superman that is raw, hopeful, and heartbreakingly human, the film hooks you emotionally, thrills you visually, and reminds you why this character has endured for nearly a century.

If you’re looking for a superhero blockbuster that actually means something, that teaches what it is to fly, to protect, to carry burdens, Superman (2025) delivers.