Two Jewish men, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, created the story of Superman in the 1930s as a symbol of hope against injustice. The Toronto-born cartoonist Joe Shuster used to be a newsboy for the Toronto Star, formerly called the Toronto Daily Star. Toronto inspires the skyline of Metropolis and the name of the Daily Planet. Now, a Jewish actor, David Corenswet, plays a charming and ideal Superman.
In an era of numerous superhero stories released in theatres, Superman is the latest attempt for the DC Universe to replicate Marvel Studios’ success. James Gunn, known for the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy and The Suicide Squad, directs a distinct and hopeful superhero story, one that stands out from the typical cynical and broody heroes that usually grace the big screen. James Gunn’s Superman returns to its comic book roots with a story of rising against the hatred of minorities and immigrants while protecting them.
James Gunn’s rebooted Superman is the first installment in his new DC Universe. Fortunately, there is no origin story; everyone knows of Superman’s parents sending Superman to Earth from Krypton. The intentions to expand the DC Universe are obvious with the inclusion of the Justice Gang, who are not given the chance to breathe.
Superman has been deemed a controversial ‘Superwoke’ by a few critics. James Gunn’s statement that Superman is an immigrant sparked outrage. Yet, Superman has three names: Kal-El, Superman, and Clark Kent. Similarly to several immigrants in America, Kal-El changed his name when he arrived on Earth. Critics also compare the Gaza war and the conflict between Boravia and Jarhanpur. Critics say there is no need to include politics in a superhero movie. In the film, Superman says that he only represents himself. He simply does not want to see anyone die.
Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) is a delight to watch. Lex Luthor’s nonsensical hatred for Superman makes him a believable and enjoyable villain. He does everything in his power to destroy Superman because of his fear of Superman’s abilities. Lex Luthor is the antithesis of Superman. Lex Luthor’s bald head and suits in a dark colour palette portray his intelligence. Superman is the light. His superhero suit consists of bright and eye-catching red, blue, and yellow. Superman’s trunks over his superhero costume are influenced by athletes in the 1930s and were almost not used in the film. The playful costume with the trunks highlights Superman’s interest in being accepted and portrayed as harmless.
The film is a comic book brought to life. The movie is cheerful with its positive message, colourfulness, and use of bright lighting. The fight scenes are similar to cutscenes in video games. The various animated and whimsical angles during fight scenes between the hero and their opponent engross the audience. The fluidity of the scenes allows audiences to feel as though they are flying along with the hero.
When a woman is about to be crushed in her car by a large building, Superman arrives and stops the building from falling. While she drives away after making sure he is not hurt, Superman watches her leave in the grey haze of dust and debris. A speck in the sky as sunlight creates a halo above him from behind. James Gunn has created a hero who will hopefully change the path of cinematic heroes.
Superman is now available in Cineplex theatres.