Recently I watched James Gunn’s “Superman,” starring David Corenswet, and “Man of Steel” directed by Zack Snyder and starring Henry Cavill.
I used to read a lot of DC comics growing up, and I am aware of the qualities that Superman should have. Both films represented Superman in two completely different ways, each highlighting specific parts of his character.
Starting off, I watched “Superman,” directed by James Gunn. The film seemed very lighthearted and bright.
I think they used the right villain for Superman in this film regarding how they wanted the conflict to be portrayed. Lex Luthor isn’t the strongest or have any superpowers. He is a regular human with an exceptional mind, and he knew how to poke and provoke Superman.
David Corenswet’s Superman focused more on the good nature of Superman, his heroism. In the early fight scenes where he fought Lex’s machine and battled against the fire-breathing monster that Lex sent to distract him, he fought very conservatively, and it felt a little frustrating to me. Superman is the strongest in the DC verse, seeing him struggle didn’t do him this justice. But maybe for that exact reason James Gunn portrayed him like this.
Maybe the reason that he holds back his strength is for the safety of the civilians. Constantly rushing out of battle to make sure nobody is hurt portrays a side of Superman that is amazing. He’s not just some alien that has super strength and super speed — he also has a kind heart.
Overall, this movie seemed very lighthearted, from a visual perspective it was very bright, contrasting with Superman’s character. It seemed like a movie that was part of a campaign to express kindness back into the world. Maybe this is the reason why a lot of Christian viewers enjoyed it so much. I have a friend that said the movie made him so happy because the character that he grew up loving is acting exactly how he expects him to act.
Zack Snyder’s film “Man of Steel” was different. I felt like I watched four movies in one. It feels hectic going from Superman’s life on Krypton to him being sent away while his home is blowing up. Then from him in childhood in Kansas and then him before he was Superman. The film was a rollercoaster to me, but I think it painted a better picture of Clark Kent and of him trying to keep his humanity.
Both movies did different things. One movie started off on an adult Superman focusing on his image of Superman and him not trying to stay hidden and be human but embrace himself as Superman and that he genuinely wants the safety and protection of the world, while the other focused on Clark Kent and his slow transformation into the Man of Steel.
Back to my original question, “What’s your idea of Superman?” I found I resonate more with David Corenswet’s portrayal. My only gripe is that they didn’t do a great job of showcasing how powerful the character of Superman really is. We saw a very vulnerable and mentally weak Superman. But the theme of this alien, fighting adversity while actively making sure everybody is safe, is the most ideal for Superman.
