SUPERMAN – Review by Susan Kamyab
James Gunn tries his hand at a new Superman movie, and because of my love for the filmmaker, I went into this film cautiously optimistic, even though there hasn’t been a good Superman adaption since Smallville, no offense to Henry Cavill who did an amazing job with what he had to work with. And as I have said many times before, audiences are experiencing superhero fatigue, but I am happy to say this film blew me away. Gunn has revitalized the genre, especially for DC, and given us a Superman we can truly look up to.
Luckily for everyone, this is not an origin story. The film begins with him as an established superhero in Metropolis for 3 years, while, as many of us know, also working at the Daily Planet as Clark Kent. He is already dating Lois Lane and Lex Luthor is on a mission to destroy him. This is not a retelling of what we have seen a hundred times before, instead this story addresses real world issues, struggling with your identity and acceptance in a world you’re not from, and, showing a vulnerable and humorous side to the man of steel, we haven’t seen before. The film stars David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, and Nicholas Hoult, who are fantastic in their iconic roles. Hoult is easily the best portrayal of Lex Luthor to date. And the chemistry between Corenswet and Brosnahan as Lois and Clark flies off the screen.
Gunn has resuscitated the tired story and given life to this tale with a modern take told by a stellar cast, including a scene stealing dog. There is something brilliant about the fact that even though Gunn can make his stars shine, the smallest role still stands out and brings value. Particularly his addition of Mr. Terrific, Guy Gardner, and Hawkgirl, who all sprinkle in the right amount of comic relief. Like any good James Gunn film, he brings humor along with the heart.
This Superman leads with kindness, so much so that in the heat of battle he will stop to save a squirrel. His desire to be accepted by society, while still staying true to his innate virtue, pulls at your heart and inspires hope. Soar to theaters and see one of the best films of the year. James Gunn’s Superman is an absolute must-see.
