The DC Universe is on the cusp of a new era, and at the heart of this cinematic reboot is James Gunn’s highly anticipated Superman film, set to soar into theaters on July 11, 2025. As the first live-action feature in the newly imagined DCU, the film has already generated immense buzz, not only for its fresh take on the Man of Steel but also for Gunn’s bold vision to redefine how the iconic superhero is presented on screen. In a recent statement that has sent waves through the fanbase, Gunn declared his intent to make this Superman “completely natural,” shunning fake muscles and excessive CGI to deliver what he promises will be “the best quality Superman you have ever seen.” With the release date just months away, this commitment to authenticity has sparked both excitement and curiosity among fans eager to see how Gunn will bring this vision to life.
David Corenswet, stepping into the role of Clark Kent/Superman, marks a significant departure from previous portrayals, most notably Henry Cavill’s tenure in the DC Extended Universe. At 25 years old in the film’s timeline, Corenswet’s Superman is younger than Cavill’s but more established than the teenage Clark seen in Smallville. Gunn has emphasized that this Superman embodies “truth, justice, and the American way,” focusing on kindness and hope in a world that often dismisses such values as outdated. This thematic core is reflected in the film’s approach to its hero’s physicality. Gunn revealed that the new Superman suit, designed to be bright and colorful, avoids artificial enhancements like airbrushed abs or padded muscles. He explained that the costume reflects Superman’s desire to be approachable, particularly to children, noting, “He’s an alien from outer space who doesn’t want children to be afraid of him.” This choice underscores the character’s inherent goodness, aligning with Gunn’s goal to craft a Superman who feels both human and fantastic.
The decision to minimize CGI, especially on Superman’s body, is a bold one in an era where superhero films often rely heavily on digital effects to create idealized physiques. Gunn clarified this approach after the release of the first teaser trailer in December 2024, addressing fan concerns about a flying scene featuring Corenswet. Some viewers speculated that CGI had been used on the actor’s face, but Gunn swiftly debunked this, stating, “There is absolutely zero CG in his face.” This commitment to practical effects extends to the broader production, with set photos revealing the use of physical sets, props, and real locations to ground the film’s fantastical elements. Filming, which wrapped in July 2024 after five months, took place in cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati, with iconic locations such as the Daily Planet building retaining its classic art deco globe—a nod to the comics that fans have celebrated.
Gunn’s approach isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about storytelling that resonates on a human level. The film, which clocks in at a reported 2 hours and 20 minutes, follows Clark Kent as a cub reporter in Metropolis, navigating his dual identity while reconciling his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing. The plot, while still largely under wraps, centers on Superman’s struggle against Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, whose tech-defense empire poses a formidable threat. Gunn has teased that the conflict explores deeper themes, with Luthor viewing Superman as a rival to his own genius, akin to an artist threatened by AI. The inclusion of other DC heroes like Nathan Fillion’s Green Lantern Guy Gardner, Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl, and Edi Gathegi’s Mister Terrific adds a layer of complexity, introducing a world already familiar with costumed heroes—a modern twist inspired by comics like Grant Morrison’s All-Star Superman.
What sets this Superman apart is Gunn’s focus on blending epic action with humor and heart, a signature of his work in films like Guardians of the Galaxy. Early footage shown at CinemaCon 2025 highlighted this balance, featuring a battered Superman being rescued by his loyal dog Krypto, who drags him to the Fortress of Solitude for healing. The scene, infused with humor as Krypto’s enthusiasm causes more pain, underscores Gunn’s intent to make Superman relatable and endearing. The year-long post-production window, a rarity in Hollywood, has allowed the visual effects team ample time to perfect sequences like these, ensuring that any CGI used enhances the story without overshadowing the practical elements.
As July approaches, the anticipation for Gunn’s Superman continues to build. The film’s marketing campaign, likened to Barbie’s in scale, promises collaborations and a global push to make this a cultural event. Despite a copyright lawsuit from the estate of Superman co-creator Joseph Shuster, which could affect its release in the U.K., Ireland, Canada, and Australia, Warner Bros. remains confident in its legal stance. For now, fans worldwide are counting down to see if Gunn’s promise of a “completely natural” Superman will indeed deliver the best iteration of the hero yet—a Man of Steel who flies high through authenticity, heart, and a renewed sense of wonder.
