David Corenswet movies and TV roles before Superman have laid a compelling foundation for his upcoming portrayal of the iconic hero in James Gunn’s anticipated DC Universe reboot, with performances spanning intense dramas, complex romances, and morally conflicted antiheroes. Before he dons the legendary Superman suit, Corenswet’s diverse career has connected him with major talents like Ryan Murphy, Mia Goth, and Natalie Portman, while giving audiences a glimpse of his versatile skills across both film and television.
From Breakout Debut to Leading Roles: David Corenswet’s Career Trajectory
James Gunn has cast David Corenswet as Superman in his newest DCU installment, setting up a new era for the character previously portrayed by Christopher Reeve, Brandon Routh, and Henry Cavill. The decision comes after Corenswet’s rising profile and a series of performances that have shown his range and depth as an actor. The buzz around the film is intense, thanks in part to promotional materials that highlight Corenswet’s transformation into Clark Kent, with fans and critics watching closely to see how he will continue the iconic legacy.
Corenswet began his on-screen career in 2011 with the short film “Following Chase,” for which he wrote the screenplay. He entered the feature film scene in 2018 with a starring role in “Affairs of State.” In the years since, he has taken on a mix of supporting and lead parts, from independent films to major television series. His career shows a willingness to tackle complex roles—whether as the antihero, lover, or steadfast protagonist—making him well-suited for the multi-layered Superman character.
In addition to his major parts, Corenswet has made brief but memorable appearances in films like “The Sunlit Night” and is set to take on the real-life role of John Tuggle in the forthcoming sports biopic “Mr. Irrelevant.” His collaborations include work with celebrated industry figures such as Mimi Rogers, Adrian Grenier, and Netflix’s powerhouse showrunner Ryan Murphy. Each project has allowed Corenswet to refine his craft and prepare for his most significant challenge yet.
Five Notable Movies Featuring David Corenswet Before Superman
Corenswet’s filmography is marked by five standout films that showcase the diversity of his talent, where he moved deftly between genres and character types. Each role provided insight into his ability to portray figures who are conflicted, complex, and at times, profoundly flawed.
5. Affairs of State (2018)
Corenswet’s breakout as a lead came with “Affairs of State,” a political thriller that let him grapple with ambition and moral ambiguity. As Michael Lawson, he is drawn into a web of relationships involving a powerful congressman’s wife, played by Mimi Rogers, and his daughter. The story unfolds as Michael manipulates those around him in an effort to rise in Washington’s cutthroat world, crossing numerous ethical lines along the way. The film arrived the same year as his small guest appearance in “House of Cards,” where his criticism of Frank Underwood seemed almost prophetic given the antiheroic arc of his character in “Affairs of State.” The movie can be streamed on The Roku Channel and Plex.
4. Look Both Ways (2022)
Corenswet appeared as Jake in this Netflix romantic drama, which centers on Lili Reinhart’s Natalie Bennett and an unexpected pregnancy test that splits her life into parallel realities. Corenswet’s Jake inhabits the branch where Natalie is childless, and he pursues his artistic dreams in Nova Scotia. The film’s story is subdued, but Corenswet’s chemistry with Reinhart is genuine, offering a moment of lightness within the film’s otherwise somber tone. “Look Both Ways” is streaming on Netflix.
3. Pearl (2022)
In Ti West’s “Pearl,” the prequel to the acclaimed horror film “X,” Corenswet plays a small-town projectionist opposite Mia Goth. His character initially seems to support Pearl’s aspirations to become an actress, but his true motives are far less noble, with his interest stemming more from lust than genuine care. When confronted with Pearl’s instability, his demeanor shifts to fear and self-preservation, ultimately leading to his grisly end—a hallmark of the slasher genre. “Pearl” is available to watch on Max.
2. Twisters (2024)
Corenswet took another turn as an antagonist in “Twisters,” where he is cast as Scott, a skeptical and sometimes abrasive partner to Anthony Ramos’ Javi. Early in the movie, he brushes off Glen Powell’s character,
“A hillbilly with a YouTube channel.”
—Scott, Character in Twisters
Throughout the film, he aligns with opposing forces, betraying his own team in pursuit of personal gain. The film also became a milestone for Corenswet outside the narrative: it was during shooting that his casting as Superman was announced. According to director Lee Isaac Chung, Corenswet gave audiences a brief meta-nod to his superhero future when his character, Scott,
“turned to the camera really angry and ripped his shirt off.”
—Lee Isaac Chung, Director of Twisters, via THR
“Twisters” is now available on Prime Video.
1. The Greatest Hits (2024)
In this music-driven romantic drama, Corenswet stars as Max, the late boyfriend of protagonist Harriet, played by Lucy Boynton. Harriet, struggling with grief, discovers she can travel back in time whenever she hears songs linked to Max, using the ability to try to save him repeatedly. Meanwhile, she forges a new connection in a grief support group. The film leans heavily into emotional territory, inviting viewers to explore the lingering impact of loss through Harriet’s eyes, with Corenswet’s Max playing both a memory and a catalyst for change. “The Greatest Hits” streams on Hulu.
David Corenswet’s Standout TV Performances Prior to Superman
Corenswet’s television work is equally rich, revealing a range of characterizations from awkward exes and tragic lovers to crusading law enforcement officers. Before taking on the lead in “Superman,” he also displayed his writing and producing talents with the web series “Moe & Jerryweather,” which he developed alongside Adam Langdon. As a guest star, he appeared in network hits like “Elementary,” “Instinct,” and “House of Cards.” Corenswet is also slated to appear as Christopher Skye in FX’s “The Answers.” Here are his four most noteworthy TV roles:
4. Lady in the Lake (2024)
Set in 1960s Baltimore, “Lady in the Lake” thrusts Corenswet into the orbit of Natalie Portman’s Maddie Schwartz, where he plays Allan Durst, her ex-boyfriend. His character appears across three different time periods within the show and provides glimpses into the troubled, interconnected pasts of the characters. The storytelling is non-linear, and Corenswet’s transitions between ages—from a flawed teenager to a bearded, disillusioned adult—underscore his chameleonic acting style. “Lady in the Lake” is available on AppleTV+.
3. The Politician (2019–2020)
Collaborating for the first time with Ryan Murphy, Corenswet’s role as River Barkley in “The Politician” cemented him as an emerging talent, even though his character’s demise is part of the pilot. The show, starring Ben Platt as the ambitious Payton Hobart, relies on Corenswet’s presence as a stabilizing influence, as well as a source of conflict. Spread across two seasons, his portrayal of a rival and lover earned praise alongside the performances of Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Lange, and Bette Midler. In one memorable moment, Platt’s character makes reference to Corenswet resembling Superman—a nod that now feels prophetic with his casting in the new DCU era. “The Politician” is streaming on Netflix.
2. Hollywood (2020)
In “Hollywood,” Corenswet returned to work with Murphy, not only as the lead actor, Jack Castello, but also as an executive producer. The series imagines a more inclusive entertainment industry in mid-20th-century Los Angeles, with Corenswet’s Jack working relentlessly for a break in show business—all while moonlighting at a gas station that secretly functions as a service for rich clients. The narrative doesn’t shy away from confronting racism and homophobia, with Corenswet’s character standing at the crossroads of industry transformation and societal prejudice. The series is available for viewing on Netflix.
1. We Own This City (2022)
The HBO miniseries “We Own This City” drew inspiration from Justin Fenton’s real-life account of Baltimore law enforcement corruption, centering on Jon Bernthal as Sergeant Wayne Jenkins. Corenswet appears as Officer David McDougall of the Harford County Narcotics Task Force, determined to investigate the corruption case. In this ensemble, Corenswet’s role may not command the spotlight, but his upright, sincere depiction provides a balance to the series’ turbulent moral center. The show is available for streaming on Max.
The Growing Legacy and Impact of David Corenswet’s Pre-Superman Roles
David Corenswet’s journey through film and television, from “Affairs of State” to “We Own This City,” demonstrates an actor comfortable inhabiting complex, conflicted, and emotionally charged environments. Whether working alongside stars like Natalie Portman and Lucy Boynton, or collaborating with visionary creators like Ryan Murphy, Corenswet has consistently shown the capacity for depth and intensity within his roles. His upcoming turn as Superman, marking a new chapter in the DCU, stands on the foundation of a career defined by willingness to embrace challenging and nuanced characters.
For audiences eager to see his take on the legendary superhero, his earlier performances offer clues—there are shades of Clark Kent’s integrity, glimpses of Superman’s inner struggle, and a consistent ability to hold attention within the most turbulent and overwhelming scenarios. As James Gunn and the DCU prepare for Corenswet’s era of Superman, fans may find surprises and familiar echoes by exploring the diverse range of his previous roles across the evolving landscape of American cinema and television.
