James Gunn‘s Superman promises a fresh take on the iconic hero, blending a heartfelt narrative with the latest in cinematic storytelling. Featuring David Corenswet as the new Man of Steel, fans recently got a glimpse of this vision through a sneak peek featured before screenings of A Minecraft Movie, now also available online. The clip reveals Superman crashing to Earth, wounded by a mysterious figure, and subsequently calling on Krypto the Superdog to transport him to the Fortress of Solitude. There, the robots expose him to concentrated sunlight to speed up the healing process. This sneak peek not only showcases the sci-fi elements Gunn intends to explore but also underlines the compassionate nature of Superman.
Throughout the footage, Superman’s kindness is evident as he expresses gratitude to the Fortress robots, even acknowledging them despite their lack of consciousness. His interaction with Krypto displays patience, further illustrating his commitment to resolving issues with understanding rather than conflict. This emphasis on kindness reflects Superman’s character as portrayed in beloved adaptations like Superman & Lois and Superman: The Animated Series. James Gunn’s approach to the film continues this legacy, emphasizing a narrative where Clark Kent seeks dialogue over violence, embodying a hero who aids those in need.
In interviews, both Gunn and Corenswet have expressed a deep understanding of Superman’s essence. Speaking to Vanity Fair upon the release of the first trailer, James Gunn stated, “This movie, at the end of the day, is not about power but about, in the loose sense of the word, a human being struggling with his day-to-day life.” Starting the film with Superman already vulnerable and in pain highlights his human qualities—the ability to feel, to hurt, and most importantly, to experience deep emotions. This portrayal raises intriguing questions about what could inflict such harm on Superman, further engaging the audience.
Tackling Kindness and Humanity
Gunn believes that Superman encapsulates the basic kindness of humanity, a theme he considers essential for the film. “It’s about the basic kindness of human beings,” he explains, noting that this can be perceived as uncool in a world often dominated by more cynical voices. This message, particularly resonant in today’s society, emphasizes that kindness and sincerity are not weaknesses but strengths to be celebrated.
The portrayal of such themes in a Superman film isn’t only timely; it’s foundational to what makes the character compelling. The hero’s appeal lies not in his powers—the ability to bend steel or fly—but in his willingness to extend a hand of compassion to others. This is exemplified in the iconic scene from All-Star Superman #10, where Superman saves a young girl named Regan from despair. By capturing even a fraction of such poignant moments, Gunn and Corenswet aim to create a film that transcends typical superhero fare, resonating with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
As Superman makes its way to theaters on July 11, 2025, the film stands to redefine the superhero genre. It promises a story where Superman reconciles his otherworldly heritage with his human upbringing, embodying truth, justice, and the American way in an era when kindness is often viewed as outdated. James Gunn’s heartfelt vision for Superman seeks to reestablish the hero’s humanity and kindness, making it a superhero film for the ages.
