Is James Gunn’s Superman the hero we needed?

⚠️ SPOILER ALERT ⚠️
This article contains major spoilers for Superman (2025). If you haven’t seen it yet and want to keep the surprises intact, go grab your ticket first and come back after.

A Superman that feels… Human (Finally?)

I went in knowing absolutely nothing. No trailers, no teasers, just the basic Superman mythology we all share in our collective pop culture brain. And you know what? I walked out with a massive smile on my face.

James Gunn’s Superman feels more comic-booky than dark or gritty. It’s colorful, warm, and surprisingly funny at times. Less cold alien messiah, more big-hearted neighbor with laser eyes and an existential crisis. And honestly? It works.

A Clark Kent torn between two worlds

What truly hit me was Clark’s humanity. One scene stood out: his raw, instinctive reaction when Krypto (yes, the super dog with the red cape!) is kidnapped. He’s Superman, sure, but in that moment he’s just a guy terrified of losing this chaotic, unstoppable dog.

Krypto isn’t technically his dog at first, we don’t even know exactly whose he is right away. He doesn’t listen, he’s pure energy (super strength included), and yes… he’s entirely CGI. Okay, flying dogs don’t exist (sadly), but a few shots with a real dog might have made him even more endearing. Still, I love him.

Then there’s the Kryptonian message reveal. Clark always believed his purpose was to help humanity, to be their protector. But discovering that his parents’ full message actually encourages him to rule over humans (and… build a harem to repopulate Earth?! Excuse me?), it shakes him to his core.

Suddenly, all the duality and conflict we’ve always known in Superman stories feels sharper, more tragic, and more real. His choice to define himself beyond his alien heritage, and the support from his earthly parents, is what makes this Superman resonate so deeply. As his father puts it: parents are there to guide you, but children build themselves through their own choices, successes, and mistakes.

Lois Lane: finally the partner he deserves

Lois Lane here isn’t just “the love interest” or a damsel in distress. She’s an actual journalist: sharp, fearless, and nuanced.

She questions her place in this cosmic love story, wonders whether she can truly handle a relationship with the world’s strongest man. Her arc evolves beautifully, culminating in her confession of love, authentic and earned.

And can we talk about her style? Absolute queen energy. She feels modern, confident, and delightfully human.

Krypto: more than just a cute gimmick

When Krypto bursts onto the screen, he’s more than a marketing mascot. He’s chaos incarnate and a symbol of Clark’s vulnerable side.

There’s also a powerful subplot involving a small country under attack, tying into Superman’s controversial intervention without U.S. approval. Watching a powerless population try to stand up, ready to sacrifice themselves, it’s gut-punch cinema.

And shoutout to the Justice Gang (as they’re called in the film’s French version, possibly Justice League in the original? You tell me). We see Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, Metamorpho (though he’s not officially called that yet, or did I miss something?), and Mr. Terrific, all working together or crossing paths. It feels like the early days of a team…

Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern? Instant win.

The Politics: obvious but necessary

Yes, the politics are loud. Immigrant metaphors, intervention debates, journalism as the last line of truth… it’s all there, and it’s not subtle.

But honestly? We don’t need subtlety right now. We need stories that scream about decency, community, and choosing to do good even when the world is terrified of you.

The film also emphasizes the importance of honest journalism (go Daily Planet!), reminding us how vital it is to have real reporters exposing corruption in a world drowning in fake news.

And maybe, just maybe, some kids will grow up with this Superman and carry these lessons into their own lives. If that happens? Worth every second.

Verdict: Superman for 2025 and beyond

James Gunn finally found the sweet spot: between cosmic alien and farm boy, between unstoppable force and deeply flawed man.

Superman here is vulnerable, warm, and surprisingly funny. Lois is the partner he’s always needed. Krypto is pure serotonin (even if he’s fully CGI). And the world-building? It feels alive, timely, and relevant.

Should You Watch It?

✔ Yes, if you want a Superman who feels like an actual person, not just a symbol.
✔ Yes, if you love seeing new spins on old icons.
✔ Yes, even if you’re tired of superhero movies, this one might remind you why you loved them in the first place.

Now tell me: would you dog-sit Krypto? (Not me, I couldn’t keep up.) Do you secretly want a Lois spin-off? Let’s geek out in the comments.