Kids

James Gunn’s Superman: Light, Heartfelt, and Perfect for the Whole Family

by Alexa Villano
July 9, 2025

The new Superman gives a glimpse of the hero’s vulnerable side, standing by his purpose, even when filled with doubt

Superman is back on the big screen, this time with James Gunn at the helm and David Corenswet donning the iconic red cape. Rachel Brosnahan, best known for The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, brings charm and conviction to her role as Lois Lane, Clark Kent’s fearless love interest.

Unlike Zack Snyder’s more somber take, Gunn’s Superman is nostalgic, warm, and intentionally lighter, honoring classic comics while reflecting today’s emotional and moral complexities. It’s a version that feels designed for this generation, without losing the timeless essence of the character.

The Man of Steel’s Vulnerability

While most Superman stories revisit Kal-El’s origin story in detail, Gunn smartly trims that back. Instead, we open with a battered Superman, weakened after saving a country on the brink of war. With the help of an exuberant Krypto, he’s brought to the Fortress of Solitude, where Super Robot #4 and the others tend to him, allowing him to heal in the sun.

Superman fans in Manila will get a chance to see the cast of the new Superman film on June 19

Photo from Warner Bros

It’s a powerful opening—and a clear signal that this Superman isn’t just invincible. He’s emotionally layered, human at heart, and visibly burdened by the weight of doing good in a complicated world.

Throughout the film, Gunn emphasizes that Superman’s strength isn’t just in his powers, but in his compassion, his doubts, and his relationships. His love for both his Kryptonian parents (Jor-El and Lara) and his adoptive Earth parents (Jonathan and Martha Kent) reveals the duality of his identity. And his bond with Lois shows a more personal side—two people aligned in purpose, but not always in methods. That tension makes their romance feel real and grounded.

Photo from Warner Bros

Wisdom from the Kents

One of the most touching parts of the film is when Clark returns to Kansas to recover after escaping an alternate-universe prison. As he watches Krypto play on the farm, he confides in Jonathan Kent about the weight of public scrutiny, especially after Lex Luthor and his minions hijack the Fortress of Solitude to discredit him.

Jonathan gently reminds him, “Your choices, your actions—that’s what makes you who you are.”

Screenshot from DC

Martha, as ever, is his steady emotional compass. With her usual quiet strength, she nudges him to get back in the fight, even making sure his boots are ready before he returns to Metropolis.

Though Jor-El and Lara couldn’t raise him, it’s clear that Jonathan and Martha shaped him with love and raised a son with strong values and a sense of responsibility.

Lex Luthor: A Lesson in Envy

Longtime fans know Lex Luthor as Superman’s greatest enemy, but this film paints him with surprising nuance. Lex becomes a symbol of envy—a feeling familiar to both kids and adults. He resents Superman’s fame, his purity, and the admiration he receives. And like many consumed by envy, he takes drastic steps to tear someone else down, even manipulating public perception in the process.

Photo from Warner Bros

But as the story unfolds, Superman is supported—not just by Lois and the Daily Planet team, but by fellow heroes like Hawkgirl, Mr. Terrific, and Guy Gardner. Together, they help restore faith in Superman, reminding viewers that no one succeeds alone.

A Family-Friendly Hero for a New Generation

So, is Superman worth the trip to the cinema with your family? Absolutely.

Superman and his parents Martha and Jonathan

Screenshot from DC

Parents who grew up with earlier versions will appreciate the respectful nods to the past. Kids will connect with the heartfelt lessons about identity, kindness, and trust. And everyone will walk away reminded that strength doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means showing up anyway.

And yes, Krypto steals the show. Dog lovers, rejoice.