Review: James Gunn's ‘Superman' (2025) is a promising restart for the DC franchise
This revelation rocks the Man of Steel. What was once a clear sense of purpose now fractures into doubt. Who is he really? Earth's guardian or its would-be ruler? The internal struggle is noticeable, yet through it all, his goodness and instinct to help emerge.
This is Superman at his most human: plucking civilians and small animals alike from burning wreckage, shielding the helpless from falling debris and even rescuing the occasional city squirrel from chaos.
More from Tatler: Who is the new Superman 2025? Meet David Corenswet Spot-on main cast
Above Behind the scenes: Nicholas Hoult (Lex Luthor) with David Corenswet and James Gunn (Photo: Warner Bros)
Gunn and his casting team made shrewd choices, and none more so than Rachel Brosnahan, who delivers a Lois Lane that is as sharp as she is unshakable. Fearless on the frontlines and razor-smart behind the byline, this Pulitzer-winning journalist does not wait for the story, she makes it.
Even while entangled with Clark Kent at the Daily Planet, Lane holds her professional ground and integrity intact. And when she turns her questions on Superman, they're anything but soft.
David Corenswet, for his part, delivers a believable performance as the dorky Clark Kent and the commanding and compassionate Superman.
In one scene set within Luthor's pocket universe, he endures kryptonite-induced agony, refusing to reveal the whereabouts of his adoptive parents, Martha and Jonathan Kent. It is here that Corenswet delivers his most affecting work, portraying a man desperate to spare others from harm.
Above Rachel Brosnahan is the empowered, Pulitzer-winning journalist from The Daily Planet, Lois Lane (Photo: Warner Bros)
Nicholas Hoult delivers exactly what you'd hope for (and perhaps a bit more) as Lex Luthor. Gleefully wicked and self-assured, his portrayal just leans into the villain's textbook brilliance. In most of his scenes, Hoult makes convincing reactions every time he hurts and outsmarts Superman.
In the end, when Luthor's plan crumbles and the tide turns against him, Hoult sheds a tear and convinces us that it is not out of remorse, but from the collapse of his plans.
Related : How Ryan Coogler's 'Sinners' raises the bar for the horror genre Colours, giants and a pocket universe
Above Krypto the Super Dog is modelled after James Gunn's real-life adopted dog 'Ozu' (Photo: Warner Bros)
Above Baby Kaiju in James Gunn's Superman 2025 (Photo: Warner Bros)
Viewers were promised a comic book come-to-life movie, and Gunn delivered just that. From the giant Baby Kaiju to a parade of super allies—Hawkgirl, Guy Gardner (Green Lantern) and Mister Terrific—the striking colours deviate from the darkness we have seen in Snyder's live-action portrayal of the Justice League. The magic is ever present in scenes such as inside Luthor's pocket universe and, of course, in Krypto the Super Dog.
Krypto is far from the clever and obedient canine we typically see in the comics; here, he is delightfully chaotic but very loyal and, most of the time, unpredictable. It's this tail-wagging mischief that injects a lively humour and undeniable charm into the film's playful spirit.
See more : Movie review: the new 'How to Train Your Dragon' is a rare remake that earns its wings A promising restart for the DC universe
Above The official trailer for James Gunn's 'Superman' (2025)
Gunn's Superman (2025) is a good standalone and an even better restart for the DC franchise. Ultimately, what makes this film truly resonate is the sense of hope it strives to project beyond the screen.
Superman's strength isn't measured by how fast he flies, how far he leaps or the laser beams he fires from his eyes. Even with all these extraordinary abilities, the movie implies that he cannot save the world alone or by chance.
His true power lies in his capacity to admit that he yearns: for friendship, help, love and, above all, humanity.
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Tatler Asia
09-07-2025
- Tatler Asia
Superman 2025: David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, James Gunn and Peter Safran's reflections on the new ‘Man of Steel'
For lead actor Corenswet, the process of filming Superman involved drawing deeply from his own experiences, allowing him to embody facets of himself while exploring the complexities of a superhero. 'Well, I started at the gym,' Corenswet revealed when asked how he prepared for his role. 'That was the first place I focused. James had kindly said 'You're in good shape, but I want you to build up a bit.' To me, that sounded like a fairly minor request. He didn't say, 'You're skinny, you need to pack on a lot of weight.' But I thought to myself, in Christopher Reeve's words, 'I've been a string bean my whole life, and Superman is not a string bean.' So, I decided to put on as much muscle as I could, in a healthy and focused way.' For Corenswet, the rigorous commitment of training five to six days a week, for two to three hours each session, has, in a way, deepened his understanding of the human side of Superman's life and the profound loneliness the character can at times experience. Related : Who is the new Superman 2025? Meet David Corenswet 'It's a routine I'd never maintained before. My days revolved around eating, thinking about eating, digesting, working out or sleeping. I felt deeply alone,' he confessed. 'In that moment, you feel very alone, even while you're at the gym with other people. And so that's the first time I tapped into Superman,' he added. He described how, at that point, the physical solitude of his training unexpectedly mirrored the emotional isolation Superman often feels. 'He struggled with feeling lonely, feeling isolated and alienated from the people he loves the most and the people he wants to be closest to: Lois and his colleagues at the Daily Planet and his adopted parents and his birth parents, and ultimately, humanity. He wants desperately to be a part of them, to be connected to them. But he knows and feels that he ultimately isn't quite like them—and fears that he isn't connected to them. And that, I thought—what a universal human experience: to be surrounded by people and to feel lonely.' More from Tatler: 'Army Of Thieves' Trailer Breakdown: Here's What Fans Can Expect Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane Above Rachel Brosnahan plays Lois Lane in this new iteration of Superman (Photo: Warner Bros Pictures) Brosnahan said it is the privilege of a lifetime to step into the shoes of Daily Planet journalist Lois Lane, a character in whom many young women have seen themselves. 'Lois is one of the characters who's evolved the most throughout the history of comics,' she said, commenting on the protagonist's appearance and the lens through which the audiences see her. 'One of the first things I asked James, even before the audition, was: where does she fit into the character Superman who is so familiar to so many of us?' she said. 'He spoke about the importance of her journalism, but what drew me to this version of Lois is that she feels equally weighted in the story. You have a superhero with powers, and then you have this woman who's a superhero in her own right,' she said. Comparing the characters of Lois Lane and Superman, Brosnahan noted a key contrast in their strengths and weaknesses: 'She [Lois] can reason her way through almost anything, and she's 10 steps ahead of everyone else. But then something comes along—something she couldn't possibly anticipate, something she can't logic her way out of—and it knocks her off her feet.' See also : In Conversation With Comic Book Artist Whilce Portacio 'You have a superhero with powers, and then you have this woman who's a superhero in her own right' - Rachel Brosnahan on her character Lois Lane - Brosnahan also reflected on the modernisation of the character: 'We talked a bit about what that would look like today. Showing up professionally looks different now than it did even 10 years ago. So we explored who Lois is as someone who would chase the story to the ends of the Earth, who puts her work first—what does her flat look like? How does she dress? How does she express herself through what she wears? That meant a lot of watching, researching and digging into the details.' Read more : Danny Boyle's '28 Years Later' changes the zombie genre yet again What to watch out for Above The official trailer for James Gunn's Superman 2025 For those who can't wait until July, filmmaker James Gunn revealed what to look forward to: a new Superman that captures the spirit of childhood while resonating with both new and longtime fans alike. 'I have always loved the character of Superman,' said director James Gunn. 'I started reading the Superman comics when I was just three or four years old. I adore many superheroes from both DC and Marvel, but today I'm here not just because of my own dream; it's really thanks to Peter Safran who has been nudging me for the past decade to make a Superman film.' For Gunn, the new Superman will be one that honours the character's rich legacy. 'People have approached me about it before, but it wasn't until one day I allowed myself to imagine what this movie could truly be. The Superman I fell in love with as a child reading comics is a Superman not just rooted in his origin story, but a part of a larger universe, a world filled with superhero friends, the Daily Planet gang, a flying dog and giant monsters. I became utterly enmeshed in that world before I could even read properly,' Gunn said. Above James Gunn wants to capture the childlike wonders for his new Superman film (Photo: Warner Bros Pictures) 'The Superman I fell in love with as a child reading comics is a Superman not just rooted in his origin story, but a part of a larger universe, a world filled with superhero friends, the Daily Planet gang, a flying dog and giant monsters.' - James Gunn on his new Superman movie - The filmmaker said he wanted to rekindle that sense of magic and awe he felt as a child for this new iteration. 'That childhood wonder is what I wanted to capture in this film—a feeling that resonates with both children and adults alike. It's a universe grounded in reality, with real stakes, flawed people facing problems and relationships, some stubbornly refusing to change,' he revealed. For Gunn and the rest of the team, bringing this new version of Superman to life has been a genuine joy. 'It's not about altering the essence of the character, but rather breathing new life into him,' Gunn said. NOW READ How Ryan Coogler's 'Sinners' raises the bar for the horror genre 'Gladiator II': Come for the spectacle, stay for Denzel's timeless screen presence Monsters within: Inside Netflix Philippines' first zombie film—'Outside' Credits Images: courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures
Tatler Asia
09-07-2025
- Tatler Asia
Review: James Gunn's ‘Superman' (2025) is a promising restart for the DC franchise
Above Superman, his 'super dog' Krypto and Robot number Four (Photo: Warner Bros) This revelation rocks the Man of Steel. What was once a clear sense of purpose now fractures into doubt. Who is he really? Earth's guardian or its would-be ruler? The internal struggle is noticeable, yet through it all, his goodness and instinct to help emerge. This is Superman at his most human: plucking civilians and small animals alike from burning wreckage, shielding the helpless from falling debris and even rescuing the occasional city squirrel from chaos. More from Tatler: Who is the new Superman 2025? Meet David Corenswet Spot-on main cast Above Behind the scenes: Nicholas Hoult (Lex Luthor) with David Corenswet and James Gunn (Photo: Warner Bros) Gunn and his casting team made shrewd choices, and none more so than Rachel Brosnahan, who delivers a Lois Lane that is as sharp as she is unshakable. Fearless on the frontlines and razor-smart behind the byline, this Pulitzer-winning journalist does not wait for the story, she makes it. Even while entangled with Clark Kent at the Daily Planet, Lane holds her professional ground and integrity intact. And when she turns her questions on Superman, they're anything but soft. David Corenswet, for his part, delivers a believable performance as the dorky Clark Kent and the commanding and compassionate Superman. In one scene set within Luthor's pocket universe, he endures kryptonite-induced agony, refusing to reveal the whereabouts of his adoptive parents, Martha and Jonathan Kent. It is here that Corenswet delivers his most affecting work, portraying a man desperate to spare others from harm. Above Rachel Brosnahan is the empowered, Pulitzer-winning journalist from The Daily Planet, Lois Lane (Photo: Warner Bros) Nicholas Hoult delivers exactly what you'd hope for (and perhaps a bit more) as Lex Luthor. Gleefully wicked and self-assured, his portrayal just leans into the villain's textbook brilliance. In most of his scenes, Hoult makes convincing reactions every time he hurts and outsmarts Superman. In the end, when Luthor's plan crumbles and the tide turns against him, Hoult sheds a tear and convinces us that it is not out of remorse, but from the collapse of his plans. Related : How Ryan Coogler's 'Sinners' raises the bar for the horror genre Colours, giants and a pocket universe Above Krypto the Super Dog is modelled after James Gunn's real-life adopted dog 'Ozu' (Photo: Warner Bros) Above Baby Kaiju in James Gunn's Superman 2025 (Photo: Warner Bros) Viewers were promised a comic book come-to-life movie, and Gunn delivered just that. From the giant Baby Kaiju to a parade of super allies—Hawkgirl, Guy Gardner (Green Lantern) and Mister Terrific—the striking colours deviate from the darkness we have seen in Snyder's live-action portrayal of the Justice League. The magic is ever present in scenes such as inside Luthor's pocket universe and, of course, in Krypto the Super Dog. Krypto is far from the clever and obedient canine we typically see in the comics; here, he is delightfully chaotic but very loyal and, most of the time, unpredictable. It's this tail-wagging mischief that injects a lively humour and undeniable charm into the film's playful spirit. See more : Movie review: the new 'How to Train Your Dragon' is a rare remake that earns its wings A promising restart for the DC universe Above The official trailer for James Gunn's 'Superman' (2025) Gunn's Superman (2025) is a good standalone and an even better restart for the DC franchise. Ultimately, what makes this film truly resonate is the sense of hope it strives to project beyond the screen. Superman's strength isn't measured by how fast he flies, how far he leaps or the laser beams he fires from his eyes. Even with all these extraordinary abilities, the movie implies that he cannot save the world alone or by chance. His true power lies in his capacity to admit that he yearns: for friendship, help, love and, above all, humanity. NOW READ Danny Boyle's '28 Years Later' changes the zombie genre yet again 'Gladiator II': Come for the spectacle, stay for Denzel's timeless screen presence Monsters within: Inside Netflix Philippines' first zombie film—'Outside'
Tatler Asia
13-06-2025
- Tatler Asia
9 movies about fathers and daughters full of laughs, tears and everything in between
2. 'Father of the Bride' (1991) Above 'Father of the Bride' (1991) captures every father's struggle to reconcile his protective instincts with his daughter's independence Steve Martin's George Banks transforms the universal parental experience of 'letting go' into both comedy gold and genuine pathos. The engagement of his daughter Annie (Kimberly Williams) triggers an emotional maelstrom that's simultaneously hilarious and deeply moving, capturing every father's struggle to reconcile his protective instincts with his daughter's independence. George's journey from curmudgeonly resistance to tearful acceptance mirrors the arc that significant life transitions demand of parents themselves. The film's enduring appeal lies in its honest portrayal of how a daughter's milestones become a catalyst for her father's emotional recalibration. 3. 'CODA' (2021) Above 'CODA' (2021) depicts the courage required for both fathers and daughters to embrace change This Academy Award-winning film explores the poignant tension between family loyalty and personal aspiration through the story of Ruby (Emilia), the film's titular CODA—a child of deaf adults—who is also the only hearing member of her family. Her bond with her father, Frank (Troy Kotsur), transcends sensory barriers through pure emotional connection, culminating in the film's most moving scene where he asks her to sing while feeling the vibrations through her throat. This moment shows how love creates bridges across seemingly insurmountable differences, while Ruby's eventual departure to pursue music represents the necessity of supporting dreams that may lead children away from family. The film balances themes of duty, independence and the courage required for both fathers and daughters to embrace change. 4. 'I Am Sam' (2001) Above 'I Am Sam' (2001) questions what truly constitutes fitness for parenthood Sean Penn's portrayal of Sam Dawson challenges society's narrow definitions of parental capability, championing emotional connection over intellectual capacity. Sam's developmental disability becomes irrelevant beside his unwavering devotion to his daughter Lucy (Dakota Fanning), whose growing intellectual abilities create a touching role reversal that questions what truly constitutes fitness for parenthood. The heart of the film lies in its belief that love means more than intellect, as Sam's fight for custody forces us to reconsider how we measure parental worth. 5. 'Leave No Trace' (2018) Above 'Leave No Trace' (2018) shows the inevitable moment when children must venture beyond parental care Ben Foster and Thomasin McKenzie's quietly devastating performances explore the painful recognition that love sometimes requires separation. Will's (Ben Foster) PTSD-driven isolation conflicts with his daughter Tom's (Thomasin McKenzie) need for community, creating a heartbreaking tension between protection and growth. The film's power lies in its refusal to villainise either perspective—Will's trauma is real, but so is Tom's right to choose her path. Their forest sanctuary becomes a metaphor for the protective spaces fathers create, while Tom's gradual integration into society represents the inevitable moment when children must venture beyond parental care to discover their identities. 6. 'Hearts Beat Loud' (2018) Above 'Hearts Beat Loud' (2018) explores how fathers can honour their children's independence while cherishing moments of connection Nick Offerman's Frank discovers that music becomes the perfect language for navigating his daughter Sam's (Kiersey Clemons) impending departure for university. Their collaborative songwriting shows how shared passions can strengthen relationships, exploring how fathers can honour their children's independence while cherishing moments of connection. Frank's support for Sam's academic dreams, despite his own musical aspirations, exemplifies the selfless nature of paternal love. 7. 'The Little Mermaid' (1989) Above 'The Little Mermaid' (1989) embodies the classic struggle between protection and freedom that defines the dynamics of fathers and daughters King Triton's relationship with the adventurous Ariel embodies the classic struggle between protection and freedom that defines the dynamics of many fathers and daughters. His initial restrictiveness stems from genuine fear for her safety, yet the narrative's emotional arc hinges on his recognition that true love requires trusting his daughter's judgment. The animated film explores how fathers must evolve from protectors to supporters, learning that safeguarding their children sometimes means allowing them to face risks. Triton's ultimate sacrifice—granting Ariel her human form—represents the profound act of putting a daughter's happiness above his desires. 8. 'Definitely, Maybe' (2008) Above 'Definitely, Maybe' (2008) reveals how relationships can be healing when approached with openness Will (Ryan Reynolds) finds himself explaining his romantic history to precocious daughter Maya (Abigail Breslin), whose innocent questions become catalysts for deeper self-reflection. The film's clever narrative structure—presenting three potential mothers for Maya to identify—creates opportunities for both characters to understand each other more fully. Maya's curiosity about her father's past demonstrates how children often help parents process their own experiences, while Will's honesty about his mistakes models true communication. This charming exploration reveals how the relationships of fathers and daughters can be reciprocally healing when approached with openness. 9. 'King Richard' (2021) Above 'King Richard' (2021) explores the fine line between supportive guidance and controlling behaviour Richard Williams (Will Smith) embodies the complex figure of the ambitious father whose dreams intertwine with his daughters's destinies. His meticulous planning and fierce determination to shepherd Venus (Saniyya Sidney) and Serena (Demi Singleton) to tennis greatness reflect both admirable dedication and potentially overwhelming pressure. This biopic explores the fine line between supportive guidance and controlling behaviour while acknowledging how Richard's vision ultimately empowered his daughters to achieve extraordinary success. This nuanced portrayal examines how paternal ambition can be both catalyst and burden, requiring a careful balance between pushing children toward excellence and allowing them space to develop their own motivations. Credits This article was created with the assistance of AI tools
