David Corenswet could surpass Christopher Reeve as Superman, according to comic book icon Mark Millar, who expects the actor to bring a fresh, grounded perspective to the superhero’s role in James Gunn’s anticipated reboot. With long-time fans and newcomers eager for a new take, the stage is set for Corenswet to possibly redefine an entire legacy.
Mark Millar Believes Corenswet Offers a Groundbreaking Superman
Mark Millar, renowned for creating stories like Kick-Ass and Kingsman, recently weighed in on what David Corenswet is bringing to the Superman character, igniting major excitement among fans. Millar, who has a deep affinity for superheroes and a sharp eye for what makes them stand out, sees Corenswet’s approach as highly original and even transformative.
What captures Millar’s attention is Corenswet’s decision not to follow the template set by Christopher Reeve or previous actors. Instead, Corenswet embraces a more “blue collar” sensibility—subtle, grounded, and resonant with ordinary people, rather than striving for the ethereal, godlike aura sometimes associated with the character. In footage released so far, Corenswet appears approachable, relatable, and less polished, hinting at a Superman who feels right at home in an everyday setting.
On a recent YouTube episode of Critical Drinker After Hours, Millar explained why this new Superman stands out for him:
“I mean, Superman’s my favorite movie of all time. Like I’ve told people, I own the cat stuffed that Superman rescued from the tree. I own Christopher Reeve’s that’s brilliant. You know, Superman’s like my favorite thing. But I do think it’s really interesting what he’s doing here. And I think he’s doing something you won’t even begin to compare with Christopher Reeve. I’ve got a feeling his Superman seems really blue collar, and it really intrigued me.”
—Mark Millar, Comic Book Writer
For Millar, it’s not about comparing Corenswet to his famed predecessor but recognizing that this Superman has a different flavor, one that feels reminiscent of a 1940s “Jimmy Stewart” figure, but transplanted into the present day. There is an honesty and earnestness to Corenswet’s onscreen presence that could appeal strongly to both new and lifelong fans of the character. Millar’s enthusiasm, further amplified by his own status as a veteran storyteller in the superhero genre, lends weight to the buzz surrounding Corenswet’s casting in Gunn’s film.
Christopher Reeve’s Enduring Legacy and the Challenge Ahead
Christopher Reeve, who soared onto screens in 1978, has long been recognized as the definitive portrayal of Superman. His combination of humility, genuine warmth, and a touch of awkward humor made audiences believe in the hero as both savior and everyday man. Audiences saw more than a role—they saw someone embodying hope, kindness, and inspiration in equal measure. Every interpretation of Superman since has lived in the shadow of Reeve’s standard, which remains a towering benchmark within Hollywood and far beyond.
Reeve’s Clark Kent charmed viewers with his bumbling sincerity, while his Superman inspired with nobility, confidence, and unshakable morals. He set expectations sky-high for anyone who would ever follow, and few have managed to come close. His charm and unforgettable presence are often considered the heart of the Superman mythos, making him a generational symbol of heroism.
Why Corenswet’s Superman Feels Right for Today’s World
Now, as David Corenswet takes up the cape, the spotlight is on how he will navigate the legendary legacy left by Reeve while connecting with contemporary audiences. Significantly, Corenswet’s Superman is not the distant, flawless comic book god of tradition but rather a man who carries exceptional abilities with an accessible, everyman attitude. This approach has the potential to establish Superman as a hero for current generations—aspirational, yet deeply relatable.
Corenswet checks all the key boxes for the role, from classic good looks to that signature Superman presence, yet his interpretation brings something extra: he is not pretending to be above those he saves. Instead, his Superman is someone who learns and grows, who is noble yet approachable, a hero whose feet remain on solid ground. This portrayal lines up with what many viewers want—a figure to admire but also to understand and empathize with in an era craving authentic, grounded storytelling.
James Gunn’s upcoming Superman reboot, therefore, is not just another chapter in a long comic legacy. It represents a test of how well old ideals of heroism can mesh with modern stories and sensibilities. The anticipation is especially high because Gunn is known for his bold creative choices, and Corenswet for his nuanced performances.
The Coming Era for Superman and What Lies Ahead
With a release date set for July 11th, James Gunn’s Superman is poised to bring fresh energy to a classic character, thanks in part to a vision that values honest storytelling grounded in real human experience. Mark Millar’s vocal support suggests that longtime fans have much to look forward to, and that Corenswet may succeed in both honoring the past and redefining Superman for a new age. Whether or not he will truly surpass Christopher Reeve remains to be seen, but the buzz and excitement around his casting make one thing clear: Superman is ready to soar again, perhaps higher than ever before.
