The release of James Gunn’s Superman on July 11, 2025, has reignited discussions about the Man of Steel’s cinematic legacy, with former Superman actor Dean Cain at the forefront of the conversation. Cain, who portrayed Clark Kent in Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman from 1993 to 1997, has voiced concerns about Gunn’s approach, suggesting the film feels more like a Justice League ensemble piece than a standalone Superman story. In a recent interview with TMZ, Cain argued that the movie’s focus on supporting characters overshadows the iconic hero, drawing comparisons to the 2013 film Man of Steel, which centered more explicitly on Superman’s journey. His comments have sparked a polarized debate among fans, with some echoing his sentiments and others embracing Gunn’s interconnected DC Universe (DCU) vision.

Cain’s critique hinges on the narrative structure of Gunn’s Superman, which introduces a vibrant cast of heroes, including Nathan Fillion’s Green Lantern Guy Gardner, Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi’s Mister Terrific, and Anthony Carrigan’s Metamorpho, collectively referred to as the “Justice Gang.” Unlike Man of Steel, which delved deeply into Clark Kent’s origins and internal struggles, Gunn’s film, starring David Corenswet as Superman, is set in a world already familiar with metahumans, where superheroes have been public knowledge for centuries. This broader scope, according to Cain, dilutes the focus on Superman himself, making the film feel like an ensemble piece rather than a character-driven exploration of the Kryptonian hero. Posts on X, such as one from user @M___D____M_____, reflect similar sentiments, describing the movie as “quirky and offbeat” and likening it to Guardians of the Galaxy rather than a traditional Superman narrative.

Gunn’s Superman follows Clark Kent as he navigates his dual identity as a Daily Planet reporter and Earth’s protector,fast-paced action sequences. The inclusion of the Justice Gang, alongside characters like Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), Jimmy Olsen (Skyler Gisondo), and the mischievous super-dog Krypto, creates a dynamic, interconnected world. However, Cain argues that this approach sacrifices the depth seen in Man of Steel, where Henry Cavill’s Superman grappled with his alien heritage and moral responsibilities in a more introspective story. Directed by Zack Snyder, Man of Steel focused on Superman’s formative years, emphasizing his isolation and the weight of his destiny, with supporting characters like Lois Lane and Pa Kent serving to highlight his personal journey rather than share the spotlight.

The debate over the film’s ensemble nature extends to its tone and style. Cain, who has expressed reservations about Hollywood’s tendency to “woke-ify” characters, suggested that Gunn’s emphasis on a diverse cast and themes of kindness and immigration may alienate some audiences. He pointed to the shift from Superman’s traditional motto of “truth, justice, and the American way” to “truth, justice, and a better tomorrow” as evidence of unnecessary changes to the character’s core. Despite his critiques, Cain expressed hope for the film’s success, noting Gunn’s knack for humor, which he felt was lacking in Snyder’s darker interpretation. Gunn, unfazed by the backlash, told Variety at the film’s premiere that Superman is about “basic human kindness,” a message he believes resonates universally.

Fan reactions on platforms like X highlight the divide. Some, like @ScorpTO, amplified Cain’s concerns about the film’s direction, while others praised the ensemble approach for setting up the DCU’s future. The film’s box office performance, with a record-breaking $22.5 million in Thursday previews and a $125 million domestic opening weekend, suggests strong audience interest despite the controversy. Critics, such as Amy Nicholson of The Los Angeles Times, noted that while the film doesn’t fully capture the “heart-soaring” Superman ideal, its character interactions and Hoult’s compelling Lex Luthor make it a solid foundation for the DCU.

Cain’s comments also reflect his broader perspective on Superman’s legacy. Having played a more romantic, lighthearted Clark Kent, he emphasized the character’s inherent goodness and traditional values. His critique of Man of Steel at a 2018 NYCC panel, where he questioned why Superman didn’t save Pa Kent, underscores his preference for a hero defined by selflessness. In contrast, Gunn’s Superman embraces a more collaborative heroism, with the Justice Gang playing significant roles in the narrative, much like the team dynamics in his Guardians of the Galaxy films.

As the DCU moves forward, with projects like *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow