Before I share my review, please note:
1) I'm not a hardcore Snyder fan; he's a good director but a terrible writer.
2) I grew up watching the animated series of Superman and Justice League.
3) I love Henry Cavill but also admire other versions of this iconic character.
A new era of DC begins with a disappointing start. In a world of comic book movies where we have seen Iron Man (2008), Batman Begins (2005), Spider-Man (2002), and Man of Steel (2013), this movie doesn't come close to these first films in their respective trilogies and cinematic universes. The first reason why this movie doesn't live up to the expectations is because of Man of Steel. Snyder's direction, Cavill's dedication towards the role, Goyer/Nolan's writing, and Zimmer's musicโthey raised the bar so high it was difficult for the upcoming Superman movie to meet its level.
"AND DO NOT EVEN TRY TO COMPARE THIS MOVIE WITH THE ICONIC SUPERMAN (1978) MOVIE!!!!"
Let's break down the movie:
Directing/writingโJames Gunn, an amazing director and writer with a solid filmography. Sadly, his charm doesn't work here; his last DC project, The Suicide Squad (2021), wasn't good either. Based on the success of GOTG 3 (2023), they made him CEO of DC Studios. Superman was never a dark and gritty character; even though he managed to show the 'hope and bright side' of Superman, he forgot to build the plot. This movie is definitely more colorful and comedic than the last two solo Superman movies. I am not sure, but it kind of feels like another Marvel movie with Matt Reeves touch of Batman. With all those silly jokes and not seeing an origin story, as Superman already existed in this universe. I don't deny there are one or two moments where I feel goosebumps. Maybe we'll see an upgrade in the sequel. Remember, Guillermo Del Toro's Blade II (2002) was great compared to its predecessor.
ActingโDavid Corenswet wears the iconic cape, and he fulfills his responsibilities, and there is more potential to unlock. Script makes his Superman look somewhere between the Christopher Reeves Superman and Star Lord from GOTG, along with Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane; everyone else did a good job in their respective roles. But Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor steals the show! He perfectly captures the emotions of hate and anger for Superman.
MusicโEven though it's similar to John Williams original score for Superman. John Murphy's version matches the tone for this movie.
Short review, It's the lighter version of MOS and BvS with less action. For the Indian audience, imagine there was a Sanjay Dutt biography directed by Anuragh Kashyap; this movie is like Rajkumar Hirani's Sanju. Maybe people who haven't watched any Superman movie would love this one.
In conclusion, it's not great to set an example but also not terrible to reboot the DCU again, but don't go with high expectations. Congratulations to David and James Gunn for their start, and all the best for their future projects.
With Love,
A DC Fan