James Gunn’s latest Superman film redefines the character by exploring his identity and heritage in ways that contrast sharply with Zack Snyder’s 2013 Man of Steel. Released recently, the new movie confronts the complex legacy of the Superman character, emphasizing his struggle to connect with humanity rather than portraying him as a near-divine figure. This fresh approach to Superman character evolution Zack Snyder’s portrayal struggled to achieve provides a more relatable and nuanced hero for modern audiences.
A New Perspective on Superman’s Heritage and Identity
Unlike Snyder’s Man of Steel, which presented Superman as a godlike savior figure with a straightforward heroic mission, Gunn’s film reveals that Kal-El, played by David Corenswet, faces a much more conflicted understanding of his origins. The story shows that Kal-El’s parents, Jor-El (Bradley Cooper) and Lara Lor-Van (Angela Sarafyan), sent him to Earth with a hidden agenda: they expected him to conquer and restart Kryptonian civilization. This terrifying revelation forces Superman to grapple with feelings of betrayal and challenges him to redefine his purpose beyond the legacy imposed by his Kryptonian lineage.
This inner turmoil is compounded by the public’s suspicion. Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) exploits xenophobic fears, accusing Superman of threatening humanity’s survival. Rather than being rejected solely for the destruction his battles cause, as in previous movies, this Superman is judged for his heritage, reflecting a more contemporary and relatable struggle with identity and acceptance.
At its core, the film argues that nurture outweighs nature. Superman’s moral compass and compassion stem from his upbringing in Kansas with his adoptive parents, Jonathan (Pruitt Taylor Vince) and Martha (Neva Howell), who provide him with grounding and guidance. Jonathan’s advice that
“it is his choices and actions that determine who he truly is”
underscores that Superman’s heroism is a conscious decision, not destiny. This message challenges the idea of fate and presents a character deeply rooted in humanity despite his alien origins.
Superman as a Symbol of the Modern Immigrant Experience
Gunn’s Superman fully embraces his life on Earth, not as a visitor but as an engaged member of society. Clark Kent’s role at the Daily Planet is portrayed with sincerity, showing his dedication to journalism and his meaningful relationships with colleagues such as Jimmy Olson (Skyler Gisondo), Steve Lombard (Beck Bennett), Cat Grant (Mikaela Hoover), and Perry White (Wendall Pierce). This grounding in everyday human connections enhances the character’s believability and relatability.
The film also moves beyond the typical romantic trope by portraying Clark’s relationship with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) as mature and established. Their interactions reflect real-life complexities, as they question their future rather than falling into instant love clichés. This dynamic humanizes Superman and adds emotional depth to his character.
Importantly, the story addresses political and social themes through Superman’s role as a hero. His confusion over why saving innocent people in a war is controversial highlights the discomfort modern society feels toward intervention and heroism. The decision to portray Superman’s heroism as an active, personal choice rather than an obligation resonates with contemporary ideas of individual agency and ethical responsibility.
This incarnation of Superman also embraces today’s cultural landscape—he monitors online criticism and identifies with punk rock sensibilities. Yet, his idealism echoes the character’s roots in the 1930s, providing a bridge between traditional values and modern realities. The mixed legacy represented by his Kryptonian parents, though troubling, makes his dedication to humanity feel earned and heartfelt rather than imposed.
The Impact of This Reimagined Superman on Audiences and Future Storytelling
This new film sets a different tone for Superman within the superhero genre and the wider DC Extended Universe. By focusing on the character’s internal conflicts and the social challenges he faces, it offers a Superman who is not only more accessible but also more relevant to current cultural and political climates. The emphasis on chosen identity over inherited destiny enriches the character’s mythology and potential for future storytelling.
David Corenswet’s portrayal brings a vulnerability and complexity that encourage viewers to connect with Superman’s struggle to balance his alien origins with his human experiences. This nuanced portrayal marks a departure from the absolutism of Snyder’s Man of Steel and invites a deeper conversation about what it means to be a hero in today’s world.
As Superman continues to inspire debate and excitement, this evolution of his character may influence how superhero stories explore themes of identity, belonging, and morality going forward. With its intense exploration of character and society, Gunn’s film proves that Superman can still evolve meaningfully to meet the demands of the 21st century.
