James Gunn’s new Superman film has officially made a significant impact at the box office, bringing in $125 million in the U.S. during its opening weekend. Fans of Gunn’s past works, such as The Suicide Squad and Guardians of the Galaxy, will likely find this latest installment an exciting addition to the DC Universe.
The film features talent such as Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and David Corenswet as Superman. Notably, the story does not delve into Superman’s origins; instead, it begins with the character already established and grappling with a significant setback. The portrayal emphasizes a hero rooted in optimism and faith in humanity. CNET reviewer Aaron Pruner praised the film as “extremely fun, uplifting, and filled with joy.” Supporting roles include actors Edi Gathegi, Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, Anthony Carrigan, and more.
In keeping with current film trends, the movie includes two post-credits scenes that audiences are encouraged to stay for, totaling around 10 minutes of additional content. Unlike traditional teaser scenes that hint at future films, Gunn’s approach is more character-focused, providing a light-hearted yet meaningful exchange between Superman and characters like Mister Terrific—a move that reflects his direction for the future of the DC film universe. The mid-credit scene presents a tender moment between Superman and Krypto, the Superdog, further reinforcing the film’s wholesome themes, while the post-credits sequence captures a comical dialogue following a heroic mission.
Gunn has been transparent about his desire to avoid setting unrealistic expectations for future DC projects before scripts are completed, a philosophy he has firmly embraced since taking charge of DC Studios. This allows for the creative freedom to define the universe on its own terms, potentially leading to a more cohesive and enjoyable viewing experience.
Overall, the optimistic tone of Superman and the promise of a new direction for the DC Universe suggest that fans can look forward to more engaging stories ahead. The film captivates audiences not only through its thrilling narrative but also by hinting at the richness of character interactions that will form the backbone of the evolving universe.