The recently released trailer for James Gunn’s Superman, set to hit theaters in 2025, has sparked a wave of excitement among DC fans, offering a fresh take on the iconic Man of Steel. With David Corenswet donning the cape, the trailer promises a vibrant, comic-book-inspired vision, complete with a star-studded cast, including Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and a host of other DC heroes like Hawkgirl, Mister Terrific, and Green Lantern Guy Gardner. One standout moment is Superman’s 360-degree heat vision rotation, a visually stunning sequence that has fans buzzing with anticipation for its innovative action choreography. However, despite the trailer’s ambitious scope, certain scenes have left some viewers uneasy, drawing unfavorable comparisons to the widely criticized CGI in 2023’s The Flash. These moments, described by some as having a “rubbery” or “waxy” look, have sparked discussions about whether the new Superman can avoid the visual pitfalls that plagued its predecessor.
The Superman trailer opens with a blend of heart and spectacle, showcasing Clark Kent’s dual life as a mild-mannered reporter and a Kryptonian hero. The 360-degree heat vision rotation, where Superman unleashes his powers in a dynamic, panoramic display, has been hailed as a highlight, capturing the larger-than-life essence of the character. Fans have praised its comic-book fidelity, with the vibrant colors and fluid motion evoking the pages of classic DC comics. The trailer also introduces Krypto the Superdog, a fan-favorite addition, and teases a complex narrative involving Lex Luthor’s schemes and a pseudo-Justice League. These elements suggest Gunn is aiming for a balance of emotional depth and blockbuster action, a hallmark of his previous work in Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad.
Yet, not all reactions have been universally positive. On platforms like X, fans have expressed concerns about certain visual effects that echo the shortcomings of The Flash. That film, directed by Andy Muschietti, faced significant backlash for its CGI, particularly in scenes like the infamous “baby shower” sequence and the multiverse cameos featuring digitally recreated characters like Christopher Reeve’s Superman and Nicolas Cage’s unproduced Superman Lives. Critics and audiences alike described The Flash’s effects as “clunky,” “video game-like,” and “unfinished,” with characters appearing detached from their environments. The rubbery textures and unnatural movements in these scenes became a lightning rod for criticism, overshadowing the film’s narrative strengths.
In the Superman trailer, similar issues have surfaced in select moments. Some fans have pointed to outdoor crowd scenes and Daily Planet sequences that appear overly polished or artificial, with a glossy sheen that feels reminiscent of The Flash’s less convincing visuals. For instance, a shot of Superman soaring through Metropolis has drawn comparisons to the stiff, weightless motion seen in The Flash’s action sequences. Posts on X have highlighted these concerns, with users noting a “waxy” quality in character movements and a color grading that sometimes feels off. One user remarked, “The Superman shot is absolute CGI slop. The exact same look as The Flash fight scenes,” reflecting a sentiment that the visual effects, while ambitious, occasionally lack the polish expected from a flagship DC project.
These comparisons are particularly striking given the high expectations for Superman. James Gunn has a strong track record with visual effects, as seen in the polished, practical-heavy action of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. In response to concerns about CGI quality, Gunn has emphasized his commitment to giving VFX artists adequate time and resources, a departure from the rushed schedules that plagued The Flash. Industry reports suggest that The Flash’s visual issues stemmed from tight deadlines and overworked VFX teams, leading to unpolished effects. Gunn’s approach, by contrast, prioritizes collaboration with artists to ensure quality, and early glimpses of Superman’s practical effects, like Corenswet’s costume, suggest a blend of practical and digital elements to ground the film’s aesthetic.
Despite these concerns, the Superman trailer has generated significant hype, with many fans optimistic about its narrative and character-driven focus. The inclusion of classic Superman tropes, like Lois Lane’s interview with the Man of Steel and Pa Kent’s inspirational voiceover, has resonated with audiences craving a return to the character’s hopeful roots. The 360-degree heat vision scene, in particular, stands out as a testament to Gunn’s ability to translate comic-book spectacle to the screen. However, the lingering comparisons to The Flash’s CGI serve as a reminder of the challenges facing modern superhero films, where ambitious visuals can sometimes outpace technical execution.
As Superman approaches its release, the film has the opportunity to address these concerns through post-production refinements. Fans are hopeful that Gunn’s vision will deliver a cohesive, visually stunning experience that avoids the pitfalls of its predecessor. For now, the trailer’s highs, like the heat vision rotation, keep anticipation high, but the “uncomfortable” echoes of The Flash’s CGI remain a point of caution for a fanbase eager for a triumphant return of the Man of Steel.
