Recent behind-the-scenes photos from the highly anticipated Superman: Legacy have ignited discussions among superhero fans, particularly about the new Superman costume. The images, released late on June 24 (Vietnam time) by journalists from Cleveland.com, quickly went viral on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter).
The film crew has been filming action scenes in Cleveland, Ohio, where the classic Superman costume, along with a new character, Mister Terrific (played by Edi Gathegi), was unveiled.
The new Superman costume, worn by David Corenswet in his debut as the iconic character, has drawn mixed reactions from fans of DC Comics worldwide. Loyal comic book enthusiasts praised the design for its “comic-accurate” aesthetic, particularly the return of the classic golden belt and the iconic red briefs, often humorously referred to as “underwear on the outside.”
“It’s absolutely beautiful, true to the comics, with creative tones that evoke nostalgia for true Superman fans,” wrote one Vietnamese user on Facebook.
However, fans of the DCEU and Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Superman had a different take. They criticized the new costume for being overly colorful and less sleek compared to the minimalist, form-fitting design of Zack Snyder’s version.
Many also expressed doubts about Corenswet’s ability to fill the enormous shoes left by Cavill, whose portrayal of Superman is widely regarded as definitive. “The shadow Henry Cavill cast is too big. The new actor has an uphill battle to even come close,” a fan remarked.
This isn’t the first time the costume has sparked debate. Back in May 2024, when director James Gunn teased the design on his personal social media, fans were already divided. Now, with the full costume revealed in action, the controversy continues to grow.
While opinions remain split on Superman’s costume, Mister Terrific’s appearance has been universally praised. Fans lauded the design as “straight out of the comics,” with its sporty leather outfit and sleek T-shaped mask.
In the comics, Mister Terrific is celebrated for his unmatched intelligence and advanced combat skills. Similar to Batman, he relies on cutting-edge technology to outwit and defeat enemies rather than superpowers. The faithful adaptation of his character has left fans excited to see him make his live-action debut in Superman: Legacy.
As the cornerstone of James Gunn’s ambitious plan to reboot the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), Superman: Legacy carries immense expectations. The project, which began earlier this year, has been the subject of continuous debate among fans every time new details emerge.
Despite the controversies, many entertainment outlets in the U.S. remain optimistic about Gunn’s vision. Known for his success in the superhero genre, particularly with The Suicide Squad (2021), Gunn is seen as having the creative prowess needed to breathe new life into the DCEU.
Set to premiere in November 2025, Superman: Legacy is one of the most highly anticipated superhero films of the next few years. Fans eagerly await whether the film can honor the legacy of Superman while paving the way for a revitalized DC cinematic universe.
The mixed reception to Superman’s new costume highlights the challenge of balancing homage to the character’s long history with the need to innovate for modern audiences. While Mister Terrific’s flawless adaptation suggests that Gunn’s team has the capability to respect source material, the debate over Superman’s new look underscores the immense pressure to get every detail right.
With its November 2025 release date fast approaching, Superman: Legacy represents more than just another superhero movie—it’s a pivotal chapter in the future of DC on the big screen. Whether Corenswet’s Superman can live up to Cavill’s portrayal and whether Gunn’s reboot can satisfy both hardcore fans and casual viewers remain the ultimate questions.
As fans eagerly anticipate the film’s debut, one thing is certain: Superman: Legacy will remain at the center of conversations within the superhero fandom until it hits theaters.
