As the release of James Gunn’s Superman approaches on July 11, 2025, a passionate segment of DC Extended Universe (DCEU) fans, particularly those devoted to Zack Snyder’s vision, are planning to revisit Henry Cavill’s Superman trilogy—Man of Steel (2013), Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), and Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)—as a tribute to the actor’s portrayal of the iconic superhero. These fans, often vocal on platforms like X, express a deep connection to Cavill’s nuanced and introspective take on Clark Kent, a portrayal they feel captured Superman’s struggle with his god-like power and human vulnerabilities. However, many of these same fans are skeptical about embracing Gunn’s upcoming Superman, which introduces David Corenswet as the new Man of Steel, signaling a shift to a brighter, more optimistic DC Universe (DCU).

The Snyder fanbase, often referred to as the “Snyderverse” community, has remained steadfast in their support for Cavill’s Superman since his debut in Man of Steel. That film, which grossed $670 million worldwide, presented a darker, more grounded Superman, grappling with his Kryptonian heritage and the weight of his responsibilities on Earth. Fans appreciated Snyder’s exploration of Clark Kent’s internal conflict, particularly in scenes where Jonathan Kent, played by Kevin Costner, urged him to hide his powers to avoid scrutiny. This resonated deeply with audiences who saw Cavill’s Superman as a complex figure navigating a world that both revered and feared him. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice furthered this narrative, though it sparked controversy with its depiction of Superman’s death at the hands of Doomsday, a plot point some fans felt diminished the character’s impact by sidelining him in the subsequent Justice League. However, Zack Snyder’s Justice League, released after the #ReleaseTheSnyderCut campaign’s success, restored much of Snyder’s original vision, earning praise for its deeper exploration of Superman’s resurrection and heroism.

The announcement of James Gunn’s Superman in late 2022, following his appointment as co-CEO of DC Studios, marked a turning point for the franchise. The decision to recast Cavill with Corenswet was met with significant backlash from Snyder fans, who felt the actor was unfairly sidelined after a brief but celebrated return as Superman in Black Adam (2022). Posts on X reflect this sentiment, with users like @Uber_Kryptonian lamenting Warner Bros.’ handling of Cavill, accusing the studio of misleading the actor about his future in the role while planning the DCU reboot. The hashtag #RestoreTheSnyderVerse continues to trend whenever new Superman promos are released, underscoring the fanbase’s desire for Cavill’s return.

Gunn’s Superman has sparked debate with its trailers, which showcase a more traditional, “boy scout” version of the character, emphasizing hope and heroism over the brooding tone of Snyder’s films. The trailers reveal Clark Kent, played by Corenswet, intervening in a foreign war to save lives, a decision that Lois Lane, portrayed by Rachel Brosnahan, challenges as overly simplistic. Some fans argue this approach makes Superman appear “weak” or overly human, a critique that contrasts with Cavill’s portrayal, which balanced immense power with restraint. Others, however, see Gunn’s vision as a return to the character’s comic book roots, with a vibrant tone akin to his work on Guardians of the Galaxy. The inclusion of lesser-known characters like Mister Terrific, The Engineer, and the original villain The Hammer of Boravia suggests a broader, interconnected DCU, but this has done little to sway Snyder loyalists.

The Snyder fanbase’s planned rewatches are more than nostalgic viewings; they are a statement of loyalty to a vision they believe was cut short. Social media platforms, particularly X, have seen campaigns urging fans to stream Man of Steel, Batman v Superman, and Zack Snyder’s Justice League on Max in the weeks leading up to Superman’s release. These efforts are framed as a celebration of Cavill’s “amazing” performance, as Snyder himself described it in a recent post praising the actor’s cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine. Yet, the fanbase’s resistance to Gunn’s film is not universal. Some DC fans are open to Corenswet’s portrayal, citing Gunn’s track record and the promise of a fresh start after the DCEU’s mixed reception.

As July 2025 nears, the divide between Snyder fans and those embracing the DCU highlights the challenge Gunn faces in uniting a fractured fanbase. While his Superman aims to redefine the character for a new era, the enduring love for Cavill’s portrayal ensures that Snyder’s vision will remain a significant part of DC’s cinematic legacy. For now, fans are dusting off their Man of Steel Blu-rays, ready to honor a Superman they feel was taken too soon.