The anticipation for James Gunn’s Superman (2025) has reached fever pitch with the release of new images featuring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel, but a peculiar trend in the trailers has fans buzzing with curiosity and concern. Every trailer and promotional clip released so far shows Superman lying down—whether in a healing pod, on the icy floor of the Fortress of Solitude, or surrounded by robotic assistants—prompting speculation about the film’s narrative direction. As the DC Universe undergoes a bold reboot under Gunn’s leadership, these images and trailers offer a glimpse into a Superman story that appears to be as emotionally complex as it is visually striking, set to hit theaters on July 11, 2025.
David Corenswet, known for his roles in The Politician and Pearl, steps into the iconic role of Superman, following in the footsteps of Henry Cavill, who portrayed the character in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) from 2013 to 2022. The latest images of Corenswet in the classic blue-and-red suit, complete with the signature “S” emblem, have been met with widespread approval from fans. One particularly striking shot shows him standing tall in the Fortress of Solitude, a crystalline Arctic sanctuary glowing with an ethereal light, as robotic assistants—reminiscent of those seen in Man of Steel—hover nearby. Another image captures a tender moment with Krypto the Super-Dog, a white pup wearing a red cape, sitting loyally by Superman’s side in a snowy landscape. These visuals highlight the film’s blend of high-tech spectacle and heartfelt character moments, a balance Gunn is known for in projects like Guardians of the Galaxy.
Yet, the trailers have raised eyebrows for their consistent depiction of Superman in a vulnerable state. In the first teaser, released in December 2024, we see Corenswet’s Superman lying in a healing pod, his face bruised and eyes closed, as the same robotic assistants tend to him. A second trailer, dropped earlier this month, shows him collapsed on the icy floor of the Fortress, his cape draped over him like a blanket, with Krypto nudging him worriedly. Even a brief clip from a recent DC Studios sizzle reel features Superman lying down, this time surrounded by the robots as they appear to scan or repair him. This recurring imagery has sparked a flurry of theories on platforms like X, with fans wondering why the Man of Steel, typically a symbol of invincibility, is being portrayed in such a weakened state.
One prevailing theory is that Gunn’s Superman will focus on Clark Kent’s humanity and emotional struggles, a departure from the more stoic portrayals of the past. The film, which Gunn has described as a “workplace origin story,” follows a young Clark Kent as he balances his life as a reporter at the Daily Planet with his duties as Superman. The trailers suggest he may face a formidable threat early on—possibly Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, or another villain like Brainiac—that leaves him battered and in need of recovery. The presence of the healing pod and robotic assistants hints at Kryptonian technology playing a key role in his survival, perhaps tying into his connection with the Fortress of Solitude, which is confirmed to be a major setting in the film. Some fans speculate that this vulnerability could be a narrative device to show Superman’s growth, emphasizing his resilience and determination to protect Earth despite overwhelming odds.
The inclusion of Krypto the Super-Dog adds an emotional layer to these scenes. In one image, Krypto’s worried expression as he sits beside a prone Superman suggests a deep bond between the two, a dynamic that could serve as the heart of the film. Gunn, who also wrote the script, has a history of using animal companions to ground his stories emotionally—think Rocket Raccoon in Guardians—and Krypto’s role might be to highlight Superman’s softer side, even as he faces immense challenges. The dog’s red cape, a nod to the comics, has already won over fans, with many on social media calling Krypto the “real star” of the movie.
Visually, the film looks stunning, with the Fortress of Solitude’s icy architecture and glowing crystals evoking a sense of otherworldly wonder. The robotic assistants, with their sleek, metallic designs and glowing blue eyes, add a sci-fi flair that complements Superman’s Kryptonian heritage. Corenswet’s suit, a modern take on the classic design with a slightly textured fabric, has been praised for its balance of nostalgia and innovation. However, the trailers’ focus on Superman lying down has some fans worried that the film might lean too heavily into a darker tone, potentially alienating those who prefer a more triumphant portrayal of the character.
As the release date approaches, Superman (2025) is shaping up to be a bold reimagining of the iconic hero. Gunn’s decision to show Superman at his lowest points in the trailers could be a deliberate choice to subvert expectations, setting the stage for a story about overcoming adversity. With a stellar cast—including Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern Guy Gardner, and Isabel Merced as Hawkgirl—the film has all the ingredients to be a defining chapter in the new DC Universe. For now, fans are left to ponder the meaning behind Superman’s vulnerable moments, eagerly awaiting the moment when the Man of Steel rises again to soar across the big screen.
