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The dawn of a new Superman: Why the new movie will see fans fall in love with the DC Universe all over again
One of the most hotly anticipated films of the year is almost here, and the countdown to Superman has DC fans on the edge of their seats.
With opening night just weeks away, excitement is reaching fever pitch as audiences prepare to witness the dawn of a new era in the DC Universe.
All eyes are on writer-director James Gunn and new star David Corenswet, tasked with reintroducing the Man of Steel to cinemagoers, as Superman launches 'Gods and Monsters,' the first chapter in the rebooted DC Universe.
The newly imagined superhero story by Gunn, who helmed Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad, promises epic action as well as humour and heart.
Fans got their first taste of the reboot at CinemaCon 2025, where early footage hinted at a Superman that feels both fresh and nostalgic.
The trailers show that the films honours the legacy of the classic comics and beloved films of the Silver Age era of the 1950s through 1970s.
Marking a shift from the darker tone of recent iterations led by Henry Cavill, this new take embraces a brighter aesthetic and a more hopeful, morally grounded hero: a Superman who's driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.
Starring in the dual role of Superman and Clark Kent, Corenswet made a name for himself in Ryan Murphy series The Politician, which he followed up with roles in Pearl, Hollywood and Twisters.
Lois Lane is portrayed by Rachel Brosnahan, who starred in the much acclaimed series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel from 2017 to 2023.
Mad Max and The Great actor Nicholas Hoult plays Superman's nemesis Lex Luthor.
The storyline is being kept tightly under wraps by DC Studios, however the latest trailer reveals that Superman's initiative in stopping a war is attracting criticism from the public and the ire of the government, which views his actions as meddling in international affairs.
We also know from previous comments by Gunn, that the film will explore Superman's struggle to 'reconcile his Kryptonian legacy with his human upbringing in Smallville, Kansas'.
While a host of DC characters are set to appear— including Green Lantern, Mister Terrific, Hawkgirl, Metamorpho and Supergirl— James Gunn has confirmed that this movie is no ensemble piece a la Justice League, and will centre on the key players Clark Kent/Superman, Lois Lane and Lex Luthor.
The cast of supporting characters includes Dora and the Lost City of Gold star Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, X Men: First Class actor Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific and Guardians of the Galaxy's Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern.
This year marks a new dawn for the DC Universe under the stewardship of James Gunn and co-CEO of DC Studios Peter Safran, with Superman the first live action project to be unveiled.
The universe's foundational blockbuster is expected to set the tone for upcoming spin-offs, sequels and ensemble projects as the DCU reestablishes itself in cinema with fresh takes on characters and storylines.
Upcoming DC movies in the works include Batman film The Brave and the Bold, reported to be in early development. This Batman is separate from the current franchise starring Robert Pattinson as the Dark Knight.
TV series Lanterns is currently filming and is expected to be released in 2026.
Supergirl: World of Tomorrow, starring the Australian star of Sirens and House of the Dragon Milly Alcock, has wrapped filming and is slated for a 2026 release in cinemas.
So diehard DC Comics fans have plenty to be excited about, and Superman is just the beginning. To secure your seat on opening weekend, fans can pre-purchase tickets now by visiting the website.
Superman is only in cinemas from July 10. Tickets are on sale now.