Beebom Score
When we were kids, you’d often find us faces buried in comic books, arguing over who was the coolest hero out there. Some swore by Batman’s grit, others were obsessed with Spider-Man’s acrobatics, and a few rolled with Iron Man’s tech. But there was always one name that united everyone, no matter the crowd: Superman. As we grew older, comic books turned into cartoons, then movies, and over the decades, each generation got its version of the Man of Steel. But lately?
Being a DC fan hasn’t exactly been a badge of honor. Personally, I’ve been roasted more times than I can count, but that might just be about to change. Because James Gunn’s Superman (2025) is here, and let me tell you, it’s got the internet buzzing for all the right reasons. There’s been noise around this movie for months, anticipation, backlash, arguments about tone and legacy, but now that the dust is settling, we finally have our answer: Gunn’s Superman is the real deal. So, with this Superman review, let’s break down everything that makes the movie a major win for DC’s cinematic comeback while also discussing some of its shortcomings.
Cinematography Will Take You Back to Your Childhood
Remember those days when we used to read comics and, without even realizing it, our brain would start running a montage of what that scene might look like in real life? James Gunn’s Superman nails that very feeling and splashes it onto the big screen. The cinematography here is not just beautiful, it’s deliberate, designed to make you feel like you’re flipping through a comic book where each frame is its own panel.
There are moments where the camera zooms in on Superman’s iconic logo mid-fight, or where Lex Luthor is just taking off his sunglasses as The Engineer butchers Superman Robots. It’s absolute aura farming; you can tell this isn’t just good direction, it’s love for the source material. And let’s not forget Krypto, who brings chaos with charm in every frame he’s in.
Another spectacular feat of cinematography you’ll witness in Superman (2025) lies in the way its action is captured. Typically, during fight sequences, cameras either stay locked in place or keep switching perspectives, but this movie takes things to a whole new level. When Superman is mid-combat, the camera doesn’t just observe, it moves with him. It’s almost like you’re flying alongside him, dodging debris, zipping past explosions, and landing punches with the Man of Steel himself.
The fluidity of the cinematography turns these action sequences into a full-blown visual ride, making the whole experience feel like a comic panel in motion, and honestly, it’s in a league of its own.
What stands out the most, though, is how the film uses light and color. There’s a golden glow to it all, a visual softness that almost feels like comfort food for comic fans. When you see Superman fly in the sky with Lois in his arms, it doesn’t feel like a scene from a movie; it feels like a memory straight out of the comics. And to replicate that emotion so perfectly on screen? That’s not just filmmaking. That’s a win.
The Cast Is the Definition of Perfection
Now, let’s be real, the key to making a good superhero movie starts with the cast. And when it comes to Superman (2025), James Gunn leaves no stone unturned to bring them as close to comics as possible. From top to bottom, the casting here is so on-point, it almost feels like the characters walked straight out of the comics.
Let’s start with the obvious: David Corenswet as Superman. I mean, come on. The man was born to wear that cape. His portrayal captures everything you’d want in the Man of Steel: innocence, empathy, hope, and that unwavering moral compass. Whether he’s showing mercy to Lex Luthor or going out of his way to save a squirrel from being flattened by a Kaiju, Corenswet makes you believe in Superman again. Genuinely, this is the kind of performance that deserves to be studied.
Now, enter Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern with the emotional range of a sledgehammer and the ego of a WWE heel. And guess what? Fillion absolutely nails it. The cocky smirks, the loudmouth energy, and yes, the unapologetically glorious bowl cut, he rocks in every scene he’s in.
Then there’s Rachel Brosnahan, who has embodied the character of Lois Lane to perfection. Like, if you’ve ever cracked open a comic or seen an animated Superman series, you’ll instantly recognize the fire and finesse she brings to the role. She’s sharp, fearless, and absolutely magnetic.
Moving on, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl? Both bring their A-game. Whether it’s the calm intellect of Terrific or the fierce, no-nonsense attitude of Hawkgirl, their screen presence is undeniable. Gunn, once again, proves he has the magic touch when it comes to assembling a superhero squad.
And now, Lex Luthor. Nicholas Hoult brings a version of Lex that’s annoying in the best way possible. He’s slick, smug, and maddeningly hilarious. And while we’ve had some solid takes on Luthor before, Hoult’s performance might just be the best live-action Lex we’ve ever gotten. Yeah, I said it.
With DC creating a new universe with a new set of actors, the future definitely looks promising if Superman is the reference.
So yeah, casting? Flawless. And if there’s one thing this movie proves, it’s that when James Gunn’s behind the camera, the casting is never something you’d complain about.
However, the Comic Book Style of Storytelling Does Not Work for Everyone
Now, don’t call me a hater for giving a just review for Superman, but here’s where things get a little tricky for the most anticipated movie of 2025. The biggest strength of Superman (2025) also turns out to be one of its potential weaknesses. The movie thrives as a comic book film. The storytelling unfolds in an episodic fashion, almost like you’re flipping through the pages of a vintage Superman issue. And while that’s absolute gold for comic book nerds like yours truly, it might not land the same way for everyone.
You see, the younger crowd, especially those whose Superman knowledge comes mainly from animated shows or the occasional movie, might find this format a bit jarring. I totally get why James Gunn leaned into this style, and I personally loved it, but let’s be honest, it’s not guaranteed to click with the general audience. It’s like giving someone a cookie from a bakery they adored as a kid; it’ll hit hard for the one with the memory, but for a random passerby? They might just go, “Eh, it’s alright.”
So yeah, while I respect the boldness and admire the intent, I can’t say with full confidence that this storytelling approach will resonate across the board.
Additionally, there are some pacing issues with Superman. If you have watched all the Superman trailers, you have already seen the initial half hour of the movie. The remaining portion happens so quickly that you will find yourself engrossed, and you will reach the credits without blinking an eye.
Is Superman Overcrowded? Well…
As soon as the trailer dropped for Superman, many fans were complaining that the movie has too many villains and heroes, and that might not work in the favor of DC. Sadly, that’s not true. While Superman IS definitely overcrowded, it doesn’t affect the movie negatively. At times, it felt that there could have been more character development for Hawk Girl or Jimmy Olsen, but it’s not a dealbreaker. We have seen James Gunn direct overcrowded movies before, and this one is not different. Once again, he has delivered justice to the plot despite the presence of so many characters.
Is Superman (2025) Worth Watching?
It’s time to answer the biggest question of them all: Is James Gunn’s Superman (2025) worth watching? Now, if you’ve made it this far into the review, I’m pretty sure you’re already eyeing those tickets like they’re the last slice of pizza at a party, and honestly, I urge you to swipe that card and go for it.
If you’re someone who loves superhero cinema with even a shred of passion, this movie is tailor-made for you. It’s got everything you’d want from a superhero flick: charm, heart, high-stakes action, a bold sense of identity, and yes, unapologetic silliness that works. I mean, there’s a flying dog with a cape. If that doesn’t make you want to adopt a dog on your way out of the theater, I don’t know what will.
Now, if you’re holding back because “your” Superman isn’t in the suit, look, I get it. He was phenomenal. No one’s denying that. But maybe, just maybe, it’s time to let go of what was and embrace what is. Ask yourself: Are you a fan of Superman and DC… or just a fan of a particular actor? If your answer is the former, grab your friends, your situationship, your Marvel-fan cousin, or even that kind neighbor who lent you jumper cables once, and go watch Superman (2025). And when you do, remember one thing… Look Up!
