The DC Universe’s upcoming Superman movie features Clark Kent navigating early challenges as the Man of Steel, with the notorious Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, serving as one of his fiercest adversaries. In a recent interview, Hoult addressed the significant question of why Lex perceives Superman as a threat, offering insights that resonate beyond the superhero genre. During his appearance at MegaCon Orlando, Hoult explained that differing beliefs could shape views on tremendous power. “If someone had ultimate power and the ability to do anything, then what happens when what he does doesn’t align with everyone’s belief of what is right?” he articulated.
Nicholas Hoult’s portrayal of Lex Luthor marks a remarkable addition to his acting career, credited with his formative experience of Superman’s lore through the TV series Smallville. This new iteration of Superman focuses on an innovative angle, termed a “workplace origin story” by Warner Bros., depicting Kent’s earlier life at the Daily Planet while reconciling his Kryptonian background. Alongside Hoult, the film also features key characters like Luthor’s love interest, Eve Teschmacher, played by Sara Sampaio, and his henchman, Otis, portrayed by Terence Rosemore.
In preparing for this role, Hoult embraced the character’s iconic look, notably shaving his head and building a more imposing physique. He hinted that Luthor’s character will be depicted as “imposing and dangerous,” revealing plans to continually “outmaneuver” Superman at every turn. As part of an ensemble cast that includes Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, and Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, Hoult’s performance is highly anticipated within the film community.
The upcoming Superman movie is poised to be one of the highlights in the DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters slate, which consists of five films. For Hoult, this marks another exciting venture into the superhero film genre, following his acclaimed role in the Nosferatu remake and his previous acting as Dr. Hank McCoy, aka Beast, in the X-Men franchise. With anticipation building, Superman is set to hit theaters on July 11, shaping up to be a key entry in both Hoult’s career and the evolving superhero cinematic landscape.
