James Gunn's "Superman" Takes Flight with First Reactions-Critics Divided on Bold DC Reboot

With the social media ban officially lifted, early reviews for James Gunn’s Superman are now soaring across the internet, igniting plenty of buzz ahead of its theatrical debut. This high-profile relaunch of the DC Universe is the first major chapter in the revamped vision of DC Studios, now co-led by Gunn, known for Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad, and producer Peter Safran.

The film, starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel, is being hailed by many in the press as a vibrant and heartfelt leap forward for the franchise. Critics are calling it a “thrilling” and “ambitious” opening salvo for this new era of DC storytelling.

Bryan Sudfield, a film critic, praised Gunn’s approach as both courageous and respectful of Superman’s mythos. “This version of Superman brims with emotion, charm, and visual flair,” he posted on X. “It’s a fresh yet loyal portrayal of the beloved hero. Corenswet brings genuine gravitas and warmth. A strong beginning for what’s to come.”

Entertainment journalist Brandon Davis also highlighted Corenswet’s performance, particularly his onscreen connection with Rachel Brosnahan, who plays Lois Lane. “David perfectly captures Superman’s noble spirit. His dynamic with Brosnahan’s Lois fuels the story with heart and chemistry that’s off the charts,” Davis wrote.

Still, not everyone was impressed. Veteran critic Peter Howell expressed disappointment, calling the movie more style than substance. “While Gunn knows how to build eye-catching worlds, the storytelling gets lost in the noise,” he commented. “Corenswet is likable but too soft for the role—better suited for a throwback comedy than a superhero epic. Brosnahan’s Lois is biting, Hoult’s Lex feels irritating, and frankly, Krypto the Superdog steals the whole film. I’d pay to see his spinoff instead.”

The ensemble cast also includes Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl. Story details are mostly under wraps, but Gunn has hinted that the movie is meant to reflect deeper themes about morality, identity, and the American experience.

“To me, Superman represents the essence of America,” Gunn told The Sunday Times. “It’s a story about kindness, about how people with differing moral outlooks—like Clark and Lois—can either come together or be torn apart. It’s deeply political, but it’s also about what it means to do the right thing.”

Superman hits theaters July 11, launching a bold new direction for DC Studios—whether everyone is on board or not.