Superman is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable and influential fictional characters ever created. Embodying ideals of truth, justice, and hope, the “Man of Tomorrow” has become the quintessential superhero since his debut in 1938’s “Action Comics” #1.
Over the decades, Superman has appeared in countless films, television shows, animated series, video games, and novels. His impact on pop culture is immeasurable, and now, a brand-new iteration of the iconic hero is set to take flight in Superman (2025), marking the dawn of a new era for the character within the DC Universe.
James Gunn, known for his work on Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad, is the director at the helm of Superman (2025). Produced by DC Studios and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, the film will serve as both a reboot of the Superman film series and a launching point for the all-new live-action DC Universe (DCU).
This new beginning also includes the animated series Creature Commandos on Max, which kicks off the broader universe’s animated side. Originally announced as Superman: Legacy, the film’s title was later shortened to Superman. This change signifies the film’s approach to forging a new path for the character, emphasizing the iconic nature of the Man of Steel and marking a clean break from the previous cinematic iterations.
Related: DC Universe’s Latest ‘Superman’ Film Lands on Streaming: Spoiler-Free Review
David Corenswet Cast as Superman
David Corenswet, known for roles in Pearl and Twisters, will portray the new Clark Kent/Superman in the upcoming film. Corenswet steps into the iconic role, following in the footsteps of legendary actors such as Christopher Reeve, Brandon Routh, and Henry Cavill.
Superman has also been portrayed in live-action television by Dean Cain in Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Tom Welling in Smallville, and Tyler Hoechlin in Superman & Lois on The CW.
Before Gunn’s reboot was announced, Cavill was expected to reprise his role in a sequel to Man of Steel (2013). However, following the appointment of Gunn and Peter Safran as co-CEOs of DC Studios, they decided to pursue a fresh start for the DCU, resulting in a new Superman and an entirely different continuity that’s unrelated to the prior DCEU (DC Extended Universe).
Upon the release of the first promotional image featuring David Corenswet in the Superman suit, the fanbase had a mixed reaction. The image showed Clark Kent changing into his Superman outfit while a battle raged in Metropolis behind him. Fans quickly criticized several aspects of the image, including Corenswet’s somber expression (despite James Gunn’s promise of a more hopeful Superman), the loose-fitting costume, and the fact that Superman, known for his super-speed, was shown calmly putting on his boots. The image sparked a discussion about the tone of the film and whether it would live up to expectations.
First look at David Corenswet as Superman.
First look at David Corenswet as Superman. pic.twitter.com/Gr5P7zPQ53
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) May 6, 2024
Superman (2025) Premise
Superman (2025) will explore Clark Kent’s journey to reconcile his alien heritage with his adoptive human family. The character of Clark Kent is portrayed as being around 25 years old in the film, taking inspiration from the comic series “All-Star Superman” (2005–2008) by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely.
Superman (2025) Teaser and Trailer Update
On December 11, 2024, the official Superman social media accounts released the first teaser for the upcoming film, hinting at what fans can expect from the official trailer. The teaser features David Corenswet’s Superman in a sky-bound position, surrounded by dazzling colors that reflect the super-speed at which the Kryptonian flies.
The trailer also reintroduces the famous phrase “Look Up”—a direct nod to the iconic line, “Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s Superman!”
Adding to the nostalgia, the teaser also features a remixed version of John Williams’ iconic Superman theme, now composed by John Murphy. This thematic choice evokes a sense of continuity with the Superman films of the past while offering something new for fans to look forward to in this reboot.
Superman’s Official Trailer Debuts
After months of anticipation, the first official trailer for Superman (2025) dropped on December 19, 2024. The trailer showcases a more detailed look at Corenswet’s portrayal of the Man of Steel, giving fans a glimpse into the new tone, visual style, and the challenges Clark Kent will face as he steps into his role as protector of Earth.
Watch the teaser and the trailer below, per DC and Warner Bros.
Official teaser:
Official trailer:
Related: Related: ‘Superman’ Reboot Introduces AI-Powered Suit and New Cape Design
Superman (2025) Cast and Characters: A Star-Studded Ensemble
In addition to David Corenswet as Superman, the film will feature an array of prominent DC characters, many of whom are making their big-screen debuts:
- Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl
- Edi Gathegi as Michael Holt/Mister Terrific
- Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern
- Anthony Carrigan as Rex Mason/Metamorpho
- María Gabriela de Faría as Angela Spica/The Engineer
The film will also introduce key supporting characters, including:
- Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane
- Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher
- Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen
- Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
- Terence Rosemore as Otis
- Wendell Pierce as Perry White
- Pruitt Taylor Vince as Jonathan Kent
- Neva Howell as Martha Kent
- Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard
- Mikaela Hoover as Cat Grant
- Christopher McDonald as Ron Troupe
With such a broad cast of characters, Superman will bring a wealth of iconic personalities to the screen, setting the stage for future DCU crossovers and team-ups.
The New DCU: What’s Next?
James Gunn and Peter Safran have outlined a range of exciting projects for the new DC Universe. This includes both live-action and animated films that will make up Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, the first phase of the rebooted DC Universe. The upcoming live-action theatrical releases include:
- Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow
- The Authority
- The Brave and the Bold
- Swamp Thing
- Untitled Teen Titans film
- Untitled Bane and Deathstroke film
- Sgt. Rock
- Untitled Clayface film
These projects will all contribute to building the new continuity, expanding on the world of Superman and other key DC heroes.
Superman (2025) Release Date
Superman (2025) is set to soar into theaters on July 11, 2025. As anticipation builds for the film’s release, fans are eager to see how this new chapter of Superman’s story unfolds within the context of a fresh DC Universe.
Are you excited about James Gunn’s Superman? What are your thoughts on the trailer and the new direction of the DC Universe? Share your opinions in the comments below!
