DC Universe’s first chapter, “Gods and Monsters,” has officially begun, with the world’s greatest hero leading the charge to kickstart the new cinematic universe.

Director, writer, and producer James Gunn knocked it out of the park by delivering ‘Superman’ with a hopeful heartbeat — a love letter to the essence of what makes the Man of Steel timeless for a new generation.

The story follows Superman as he struggles to balance his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing, becoming entangled in conflicts both domestically and internationally.

David Corenswet steps into the role with warmth, charm, and quiet strength, embodying a Superman that feels familiar yet new. He delivers a performance that is both grounded, vulnerable, and awe-inspiring.

Compared to past Superman actors, he did not portray Clark Kent/Superman as a flawless god, but as a kind and thoughtful outsider trying to do what is right and believing in good.

Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane reimagines the character with sharp intelligence and fierce determination. Her chemistry with Corenswet is what made the film spark as their relationship builds on mutual respect, sharp banter, and emotional clarity.

Their connection never feels forced. Theirs is a Lois-and-Clark dynamic that feels timeless, yet fully alive in this new generation.

Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor chills with his subtlety. His version of the iconic Superman villain is a cold, calculating industrialist who is a master manipulator in the age of tech billionaires and media empires.

His rivalry with Superman simmers with philosophical tension. Their conflict is not built on destruction, but rather on who gets to define the future of humanity. And to quote Gene Hackman’s version of Luthor, their clash is all about “mind over muscle.”

What sets ‘Superman’ apart from the past iterations is how it builds its world. This film will let you know right from the beginning that we are introduced to a living, breathing DC Universe — with supporting heroes like Edi Gathegi’s Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, Anthony Carrigan’s Metamorpho, and Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl already active, not as distractions, but as hints of a much larger mythology.

Of course, this movie is not complete without other supporting characters in the Superman mythology. Among the Daily Planet crew, it was Skyler Gisondo’s Jimmy Olsen who was an energetic standout.

Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell ground the story as Jonathan and Martha Kent, offering warm, steady guidance that reinforces Clark’s moral compass. Their scenes are brief but deeply felt — reminders that Superman may be from another planet, but he is raised by the best of Earth.

And yes, Superman’s loyal (and sometimes chaotic) companion Krypto the Superdog steals every scene with delightful and heartfelt charm. Far from comic relief, the Kryptonian canine adds emotional gravity, especially with its bond with Superman.

The film’s greatest strength is its sincerity. The movie does not shy away from Superman’s ideals — it embraces them. “Truth, justice, and a better tomorrow” aren’t outdated slogans here; they’re what the world still needs. And the film makes a strong case that hope, even when unfashionable, is worth believing in.

The score by John Murphy and David Fleming is stirring and emotional, echoing John Williams’ legacy while carving its path. As expected, there are a few soundtracks that are of James Gunn’s signature. However, this film is primarily score-driven, incorporating punk rock music that suits the version of Superman featured here.

Visually, the film strikes a balance between comic-book colors and realistic textures, achieving an ideal blend of stylization and authenticity. Yes, the CGI in this film is a spectacle, especially when it comes to Superman’s flying sequences.

The pacing is brisk, the humor lands more often than not, and the tone — while juggling myth, journalism, and science fiction — manages to feel coherent and confident. These feats are all unusual in today’s franchise-dominated environment.

Overall, ‘Superman’ is a joyful, thrilling, and emotionally rich return to form for the Man of Steel.

With Corenswet’s sincere performance, a standout supporting cast, and Gunn’s complete passion for the material, this is not just a great superhero film — it’s a great Superman film since Christopher Reeve’s 1978 film.

‘Superman’ is now showing in cinemas worldwide.