Though James Gunn’s Superman has achieved remarkable box office success since its release, Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel surpasses it in one key area: the musical score. The work of composer Hans Zimmer for Man of Steel leaves a lasting impression that many fans and critics feel outshines the soundtrack choices in Gunn’s recent DCU installment.
Comparing Musical Styles Between Snyder’s and Gunn’s Superman Films
James Gunn’s approach to the Superman soundtrack follows a trend familiar from his previous projects, often featuring upbeat pop songs from various decades, including hits from the ’70s and ’80s. This musical style injects an energetic, hopeful tone throughout Gunn’s film, as evidenced by the use of several licensed tracks during action sequences and character moments. The introduction of a reworked version of John Williams’ iconic Superman theme creates a bridge between the past and present, offering audiences a recognizable musical touchstone.
Despite this, many viewers—including those who have watched Gunn’s Superman multiple times—find that its musical impact does not rival that of Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel. The latter benefits from Hans Zimmer’s original score, which carries a darker, more intense mood that suits the tone Snyder pursued for his version of the Man of Steel. The music adds significant emotional weight during pivotal scenes, including Henry Cavill’s first flight and key battle moments, elevating the film’s atmosphere beyond the hopeful, yet lighter, feeling present in the newer DCU offering.
How Hans Zimmer’s Score Enhances the Emotional Depth of Man of Steel
Hans Zimmer’s compositions for Man of Steel—featuring tracks such as “Flight,” “Look to the Stars,” and
“What Are You Going to Do When You Are Not Saving the World?”
—effectively establish a somber, contemplative mood. This soundtrack reflects the film’s grimmer narrative direction, emphasizing the struggles and stakes associated with Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Superman. The music underpins the film’s tension, making fight scenes more gripping and the overall experience more immersive.
In contrast, Gunn’s soundtrack, while enjoyable and suited to his film’s tone, carries a lighter emotional backdrop. The pop music selections impart a feeling that conflicts are temporary and will ultimately resolve favorably, which contrasts with the ominous weight carried by Zimmer’s score in Man of Steel.
This musical distinction highlights Zack Snyder’s ability to surpass Gunn in an area commonly associated with the latter’s work: the effective use of music to complement storytelling. Despite Snyder’s darker vision facing skepticism among some fans, Hans Zimmer’s score remains a standout element that deeply influences the perception of Man of Steel’s emotional and narrative resonance.
The Lasting Influence of Man of Steel’s Music on the Superman Franchise
While James Gunn’s Superman continues to attract audiences worldwide, Snyder’s Man of Steel, available for streaming in the USA via HBO Max, maintains a unique status thanks in large part to Zimmer’s powerful musical contribution. The contrasting musical approaches between the two films not only reflect different creative visions but also shape how viewers emotionally connect with the character and story.
Understanding these differences encourages deeper discussion about how music influences superhero films, and questions about which soundtrack truly captures the essence of Superman remain open for fans to debate.
“Well, comparing Zack Snyder and James Gunn’s movies, we do have a winner between the two (James Gunn, by the way). But, there is one aspect where Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel was able to beat the DCU flick. Adding salt to the wound, Snyder beat James Gunn at something which the director is particularly known for in his movies.”
—Unnamed Author
“No offence to James Gunn’s Spotify playlist, but it just felt better when legendary composer Hans Zimmer sat on his piano and tuned out some of the finest tracks and score that redefined Henry Cavill’s Man of Steel.”
—Unnamed Author
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Zack Snyder quit?
A. Making the first film was challenging, with the script often changing a lot. In May 2017, Snyder left the project after his daughter died. Joss Whedon was then hired to complete the movie, finishing it as an additional director without being credited.
Q. Did Zack Snyder lose a child?
A. After his daughter Autumn’s death by suicide, Snyder stepped away from finishing Justice League in May 2017 to support his family. Joss Whedon took over and completed the movie.
