James Gunn’s Superman, slated for release on July 11, 2025, is already generating waves of excitement following a private screening that left Warner Bros. president Mike DeLuca effusive with praise. Emerging from the event, Gunn was met with resounding approval, with DeLuca declaring the film “epic, eye-catching, and emotional,” lauding the actors’ performances and branding it a “five-star film.” This glowing endorsement signals that Gunn’s bold reimagining of the Man of Steel could mark a triumphant new chapter for the DC Universe, setting a high bar for superhero cinema.
Gunn, a filmmaker celebrated for his ability to infuse heart and humor into expansive narratives, has taken on the monumental task of rebooting Superman for a modern audience. His previous successes, from Guardians of the Galaxy to The Suicide Squad, showcase a knack for balancing spectacle with character-driven storytelling, and early reactions suggest Superman follows suit. DeLuca’s comments, shared in a Deadline interview, paint a picture of a film that captures the essence of the iconic hero while pushing creative boundaries. “It’s the Superman I grew up with,” he said, hinting at a nostalgic yet fresh take inspired by classic comics like All-Star Superman.
At the center of the film is David Corenswet, stepping into the role of Clark Kent/Superman with a performance that insiders describe as magnetic. Corenswet, chosen for his ability to convey both strength and vulnerability, reportedly brings a warmth to the character that aligns with Gunn’s vision of a compassionate hero. Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane complements him, portraying a sharp, determined journalist in a relationship with Clark that feels lived-in rather than nascent. Their chemistry, glimpsed in teaser footage, promises to anchor the film’s emotional core. Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor, meanwhile, is said to offer a cerebral menace, setting up a rivalry that challenges Superman intellectually as much as physically.
The private screening, attended by key Warner Bros. executives, showcased sequences that left the room buzzing. DeLuca highlighted the film’s “jaw-dropping” action, with reports indicating Gunn employed innovative techniques, including drone-assisted shots, to make Superman’s flight sequences feel visceral and immersive. Beyond the spectacle, the story delves into Clark’s struggle to balance his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing, a theme that resonates deeply in a world grappling with division. The inclusion of Krypto the Super-Dog, a nod to Gunn’s own pet, adds a lighthearted touch, with one scene featuring the canine hero dragging a wounded Superman to safety drawing gasps and laughs.
The ensemble cast, featuring Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern Guy Gardner, Isabel Merced as Hawkgirl, and Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, suggests a broader DC Universe already taking shape. DeLuca praised the performances as “great,” noting that each actor brings depth to their role, even in a film centered on Superman. This interconnected approach, overseen by Gunn and DC Studios co-CEO Peter Safran, aims to avoid the pitfalls of the former DCEU, which struggled with consistency. Superman is positioned as the cornerstone of a cohesive franchise, with every frame crafted to inspire confidence in what’s to come.
Not everything has been smooth sailing. Online chatter has revealed a split among fans, with some embracing Gunn’s lighter, optimistic tone and others longing for the darker aesthetic of Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel. A teaser clip showing Superman in pain sparked debate, though Gunn clarified that the sun remains his source of healing, dispelling rumors of a weakened hero. Despite these divides, the overwhelming sentiment from those who’ve seen footage is positive, with DeLuca’s five-star rating echoing the enthusiasm of early test audiences.
Gunn’s exit from the screening was reportedly a moment of quiet pride, a contrast to the bombast of the film itself. His ability to weave humor, heart, and heroism—evident in moments like a quirky robot in the Fortress of Solitude—has Warner Bros. banking on a hit. With a runtime crafted for impact and a narrative that celebrates kindness, Superman feels poised to deliver both thrills and feels. As the DC Universe looks to rise from the ashes, Gunn’s vision could be the beacon fans have been waiting for, proving that even in a cynical age, a man can still fly.