The release of the official trailer for Superman, set to hit theaters on July 11, 2025, has sparked intense discussion among fans and industry insiders, with many pointing to perceived weaknesses in the film’s portrayal of its iconic leads, Clark Kent and Lois Lane. Directed by James Gunn, the movie marks the first major project of the rebooted DC Universe (DCU) and stars David Corenswet as Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. While the trailer showcases stunning visuals, a vibrant tone, and a host of DC characters, a recurring critique centers on the dynamic between Clark and Lois, with insiders noting that their disagreements in the trailer suggest a lack of chemistry, potentially undermining one of the most beloved relationships in comic book history.

The Superman trailer, released in May 2025, opens with a dramatic scene of a bloodied Superman crashing into the snow, setting a high-stakes tone. It introduces Corenswet’s Clark Kent as a young journalist at the Daily Planet, grappling with his Kryptonian heritage and human upbringing. Brosnahan’s Lois Lane, a sharp and skeptical reporter, is shown interviewing Superman, questioning his actions, such as intervening in a foreign conflict without U.S. approval. This exchange, meant to highlight their differing perspectives, has drawn criticism for making Clark appear immature and defensive, with some X posts describing him as going “from zero to ten” over minor provocation. Critics argue that the scene, placed early in the trailer, fails to convey the magnetic connection fans expect from Clark and Lois, instead emphasizing tension over romance.

Historically, the romance between Clark Kent and Lois Lane has been a cornerstone of Superman’s story, evolving from flirtatious banter in the 1940s comics to a deep partnership in modern adaptations like Superman & Lois. Gunn has promised a fresh take, inspired by the screwball comedy His Girl Friday and the comic All-Star Superman, where Clark is “madly in love” but Lois needs convincing. While the trailer includes two kiss scenes—one in a kitchen and another levitating mid-air—some insiders feel these moments lack emotional weight, overshadowed by the argumentative tone of their earlier interaction. Posts on X, such as one from @AnaBrigidaGomez, express confusion over their bickering, questioning whether it aligns with their supposed love story.

Beyond the chemistry concerns, the trailer has faced scrutiny for its editing and pacing. Some insiders note that the rapid cuts between action sequences, character cameos (including Hawkgirl, Green Lantern, and Mr. Terrific), and Clark’s personal struggles make the narrative feel disjointed. The inclusion of a new villain, the Hammer of Boravia—a golden robot likely created by Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult)—adds intrigue, but critics argue it overshadows the human elements of the story. The trailer’s focus on spectacle, with scenes of Metropolis in chaos and Superman facing public backlash, may dilute the emotional core of Clark and Lois’s relationship, which Gunn himself described as central to the film in a June 2024 set visit reported by ScreenRant.

Despite these criticisms, there are defenders of Gunn’s vision. Brosnahan, in a Fandango interview, emphasized that Clark and Lois have been dating for a couple of months at the film’s start, describing their bond as “magnetically drawn” and humanizing for both characters. Gunn has also highlighted the complexity of their relationship, noting long scenes dedicated to exploring how Lois’s skeptical journalism clashes with Clark’s idealism. Supporters argue that the trailer’s disagreements reflect a realistic portrayal of two strong-willed individuals, setting the stage for growth. The chemistry between Corenswet and Brosnahan, praised during screen tests, is expected to shine in the full film, with Variety reporting their dynamic as a standout in early footage shown at CinemaCon 2025.

The broader context of the DCU reboot adds pressure to Superman. As the first film in Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, it must establish a new tone distinct from the darker DCEU while satisfying a fanbase wary of change. The trailer’s bright aesthetic and earnest Clark, reminiscent of Christopher Reeve’s portrayal, have won over some, but others remain skeptical, with X posts like @kangminjlee’s calling the CGI “cheap” and Superman “weak.” These reactions highlight the challenge Gunn faces in balancing action, romance, and character depth.

As anticipation builds, the Superman team has remained silent on the trailer’s criticisms, focusing instead on promoting its July release. Whether the film can overcome the perceived lack of chemistry and deliver a compelling Clark-Lois romance remains to be seen, but for now, the debate underscores the high expectations for this iconic hero’s return.