While Man of Steel remains a respected film, James Gunn’s Superman (2025) clearly stands as a better movie through its fresh approach and deeper emotional resonance. Released as part of the new DC Universe (DCU) Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, Superman (2025) invites comparison with Zack Snyder’s 2013 Man of Steel, but ultimately delivers a more hopeful and engaging take on the iconic hero.
The Impact and Strength of Man of Steel as a Superhero Film
When Man of Steel premiered in 2013, it represented one of the boldest attempts to revitalize the Superman story for modern audiences. Following the critical acclaim of Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy, Warner Bros. pushed for a grittier, more realistic portrayal of superheroes. Directed by Zack Snyder, the film succeeded in presenting Superman as a conflicted and weighty figure, grappling with his immense responsibilities.
Henry Cavill’s portrayal stood out as a major strength of the film. His combination of imposing physicality with vulnerable emotional moments captured the duality of Clark Kent’s experience as both an alien and a man. The film’s striking visual style, particularly the memorable opening sequence on Krypton, delivered awe-inspiring imagery while Hans Zimmer’s new iconic score refreshed the Superman theme for contemporary audiences.
Man of Steel’s large-scale action sequences rivaled those of major Marvel blockbusters, yet it also sparked debate over its darker elements. The destruction of Metropolis and Superman’s lethal confrontation with General Zod raised questions about the hero’s moral compass. Despite such controversy, the film succeeded in transforming Superman’s cinematic image, proving that the character could be taken seriously in a grounded setting. This groundwork made possible the more hopeful vision that James Gunn would present in 2025.
James Gunn’s Superman Reimagines the Hero with Heart and Humor
In contrast to Snyder’s serious and mythic interpretation, James Gunn’s Superman chose to emphasize the humanity behind the hero. David Corenswet’s Clark Kent is portrayed as approachable, kind, and filled with warmth, allowing audiences to connect with him not as a godlike figure but as a man first and foremost. This shift makes the character instantly relatable and imbues the film with a more uplifting spirit.
Gunn’s movie embraces the comic book roots of the DC Universe with vibrant villains, quirky supporting characters, and a playful tone. Rather than avoiding the more fantastic or “silly” elements of superhero lore, the film dives into them with confidence. This blend of sincerity and spectacle marks a departure from the earlier era’s focus on realism, showing that audiences in 2025 are eager for a colorful and emotionally open cinematic experience.
The world surrounding Superman also benefits from this fresh tone. The Justice Gang is presented as diverse and dynamic, while Rachel Brosnahan’s sharp and witty Lois Lane contributes to a stronger, more engaging narrative. Rather than a distant alien struggling to belong, Superman is portrayed as a beacon of hope and compassion, inspiring others by choosing kindness even when dealing with difficult characters.
This contrast highlights the evolving tastes of superhero fans over the past decade. Snyder’s alienated and divine Superman mirrored the early 2010s’ desire for grounded realism, while Gunn’s version reflects contemporary desires for connection, joy, and unabashed comic spectacle. Both visions are important, but Gunn’s Superman ultimately resonates more deeply with today’s audience.
The Ongoing Legacy of Both Superman Films
It would be unfair to pit Man of Steel and Superman against each other as if one invalidated the other, since they exist in conversation. Snyder’s portrayal opened the door for Gunn’s optimistic take by pushing Superman into a new realm of seriousness and complexity. Without Man of Steel‘s groundwork, audiences might not have been ready to embrace a Superman filled with light and humor.
Over the 12 years between the two films, the superhero movie landscape shifted dramatically. In 2013, realism was viewed as essential to gaining legitimacy for the genre, but by 2025, audiences celebrate films that fully embrace comic book eccentricity and emotional openness. Man of Steel demonstrated that superhero stories could be taken seriously, paving the way for more vibrant and heartfelt interpretations like Superman (2025).
Now, viewers experience a Superman movie that masterfully balances myth and humanity, seriousness and joy, struggle and hope. While Snyder’s Superman wrestled with tragedy and impossible choices from a godlike perspective, Gunn’s version inspires through empathy and uplifting others. This evolution reflects how superhero cinema continues to adapt and thrive, offering different yet complementary portraits of one of the world’s most enduring heroes.
