James Gunn’s Superman isn’t just another superhero movie — it’s the cornerstone of DC Studios’ entire future. After years of false starts, fractured timelines, and fan division, Superman is being called on to do the impossible: reboot the most iconic character in comic book history, reestablish audience trust, and launch a brand-new DC Universe from the ground up.
Expectations weren’t just high, they were historic.
So when those early social media reactions started rolling in, nerves were taut. But here’s the big news: Superman seems to deliver.
Critics are calling the film joyful, heartfelt, and proudly old-school — a return to the earnest heroism that made audiences fall in love with the Man of Steel in the first place. While a few reviews point to pacing and CGI issues, the overwhelming consensus is that Gunn has crafted a hopeful and emotionally rich reinvention that honors the past while building toward something bold and new.
From USA Today and The Hollywood Reporter to Variety, The Wrap, and beyond, the early word is clear: Superman might just be the start of something special.
Star-Studded Praise
USA Today nails the tone, declaring: “Corenswet imbues his hero with joy and optimism… the Man of Steel who’s perhaps deemed old-fashioned by some yet seems most vital now.”
The Hollywood Reporter adds: “James Gunn gives DC Studios’ crown jewel a gleaming polish with help from David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan.” That polish extends beyond appearances. They go on to say: “Gunn’s Superman is overloaded, even muddled at times, but relentlessly entertaining”
Variety applauds its emotional pivot: “David Corenswet’s slightly puppyish Superman radiates a joy in what he’s doing, but he’s far from invincible. That lends the film emotional stakes.”
The Wrap hands it an impressive 88 rating: “A fabulously smart and entertaining film whose flaws stem from trying too much—a sign of ambition.”
Regional Reviews Reflect Mix of Strengths and Weaknesses
Houston Chronicle praises its charm: A “fun, goofy superhero adventure” blending humor and heart, even if the finale feels overly crowded
AP News appreciates the tone shift, calling it “unconventional and quirky,” and highlights its departure from dark past iterations.
Axios notes its ambition: The film may be body-packed and overstuffed, but its emotional depth shines through – “a hero with heart”
Nerd Universes Say: Classic with a Spin
Polygon praises the balance: Gunn breaks from darker DC builds, mixing vulnerability and sci-fi oddity for a fresh take.
The Washington Post highlights its bright reset: Calling it a “refreshing reset,” they praise Corenswet’s relatable performance and lively tone.
Social Reactions Buzz Optimism
On Reddit, fans celebrate: “Pure comic book bliss… charming and heart-humanizing.” X users call it nostalgic yet exhilarating, evoking Superman II amplified, big, goofy, and fun with a renewed spirit.
The emerging consensus? Superman is a hopeful, character-driven leap for DC:
- David Corenswet captures the soul of a hopeful, earnest Superman
- Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois is emotionally strong and well-played
- James Gunn’s vision revives classic heroism with heart, humor, and spectacle
- Minor criticisms—too much story, some uneven CGI, are overshadowed by its ambition
With early reviews so strong, this film doesn’t just elevate Superman; it might elevate the entire superhero genre and Warner Bros. itself. Superman opens in theaters everywhere on July 11. Check out the clip below, courtesy of Warner Bros. and DC Studios.
The Geek is a working screenwriter, director and screenwriting instructor.
REELated:
James Gunn’s Superman takes flight with early reactions soaring
