David Corenswet Soars as a Heartfelt Superman in New Film

There’s a new Superman In town, and he's the type of tall, blue-eyed all-American guy in red swim shorts we've not encountered for ages.

Written and directed by James Gunn ("Guardians of the Galaxy"), "Superman" also presents A fresh Superman film A new version of Superman An updated take on Superman A modern iteration of Superman A contemporary Superman story A reinvented Superman narrative A latest installment featuring Superman A new portrayal of Superman A recent cinematic depiction of Superman A brand-new Superman movie in David Corenswet but also launches a rebooted DC movie universe A thrilling and fulfilling adventure (★★★½ out of four; rated PG-13; playing in theaters July 11) excels in both aspects, offering the finest Superman experience since Christopher Reeve . The movie features pervasive positivity A truly impressive dog and a vibrant comic book style. Although this new superhero world is very crowded and somewhat predictable, it still has a sense of authenticity and energy.

Gunn isn't interested in gradually introducing you to this new universe through an origin tale or heavy exposition. Drawing inspiration from "Star Wars" and "Raiders of the Lost Ark," he plunges audiences directly into the action, only three minutes after Superman has been thoroughly defeated by an antagonist. This approach becomes a recurring element: our protagonist faces numerous beatings throughout the film, yet consistently fights back.

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Following his rescue by his mischievous superhero dog Krypto, Superman rejoins the fight but encounters numerous challenges. The beloved hero of Metropolis is now facing public relations problems after preventing a fictional nation called Boravia from attacking another country, an action that upsets the U.S. government. Additionally, he's frustrated with a wealthy technology entrepreneur. Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) a prodigy who feels envious that this extraterrestrial from Krypton is more well-known than himself.

Luthor and his team — featuring his social media-savvy girlfriend Eve Teschmacher (Sara Sampaio), tech-enhanced enforcer The Engineer (María Gabriela de Faría), and the elusive masked figure Ultraman — attack Superman’s Fortress of Solitude. They uncover and expose a hidden video that even Superman was unaware of, leading the public to turn against him and making our hero doubt all he knows about his history and true self.

Gunn infuses his "Superman" with an abundance of excitement, ranging from the hero's flight sequences—captured as intense, wind-blown moments—to Superman confronting a massive kaiju. However, what truly elevates the film, along with Superman's character, is how he approaches every challenge with compassion and genuine heartfeltness.

He gets into a small argument with his girlfriend, colleague Reporter Lois Lane from the Daily Planet Journalist Lois Lane of the Daily Planet Lois Lane, reporter at the Daily Planet The Daily Planet's journalist Lois Lane Lois Lane working as a journalist for the Daily Planet Reporters at the Daily Planet include Lois Lane Lois Lane, a journalist with the Daily Planet The Daily Planet employs journalist Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) during the Boravia event that highlights their determined natures. And when everything goes chaotic, even across dimensions, Superman temporarily sets aside his deep-seated doubts to locate the lost Krypto.

Corenswet delivers a compelling performance, infusing the role with sincerity, approachability, comedy, appropriate anger, and a refreshing absence of sarcasm, making him perfect for the quintessential hero part. Meanwhile, Brosnahan brings delightful spunk to Lois, who serves as the film's secondary leading figure—she takes on more action-packed scenes compared to earlier portrayals and avoids characters like the easily-annoying Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion). Additionally, Hoult proves to be a brilliant fit for the anxious and slick Lex, a villain whose grounded demeanor stands out in a surreal setting.

Some might claim that Gunn attempts to include excessive elements in this initial episode. There is an abundance of hidden references, some surprise cameos and an extensive ensemble cast, so vast that you may find it hard to follow everyone. (Be sure to pay attention to the outstanding Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, however.)

With that being said, there aren’t any misplaced elements or unnecessary effort when it comes to setting this updated DC universe apart from the earlier, too serious DCU or the witty, polished Marvel productions. “Superman” follows a more traditional approach compared to Gunn’s “Guardians” projects, or even his own DC works like "The Suicide Squad" and "Peacemaker," but he has retained the chaotic, unconventional humor seen in those movies. Although Gunn avoids heavy-handed political issues, themes, and character dynamics, he clearly emphasizes that compassion is the true power everyone should embrace regularly.

However, what stands out the most is that the man in the costume succeeds. Previously, the "S" on Superman's chest symbolized hope, and Corenswet brings happiness and positivity to his character, right from his shoes up to his iconic haircurl. The Man of Steel may be considered outdated by certain people, but he feels more relevant than ever today.

How to watch 'Superman'

"The Man of Steel," featuring David Corenswet, opens in cinemas on July 11 and has been rated PG-13 by the... Motion Picture Association For brutality, combat, and profanity.

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