#SHOWBIZ: Heroism takes flight in latest Superman film

New Straits Times

5 days ago

QUIRKY Hollywood director James Gunn's new take on the Man of Steel, simply titled 'Superman', is nothing short of a cosmic delight.
Forget everything you thought you knew about the last few iterations. This one is a breath of fresh, super-powered air that reminds us why we fell in love with the Last Son of Krypton in the first place.
Right from the get-go, Superman isn't wasting time with another origin story.
We're plunged straight into a world where Kal-El has been Metropolis' protector for a good three years, even having faced his first major setback.
This isn't the brooding, conflicted hero we've seen before. This is a Superman (David Corenswet, more on him later!) who is trying his best, still learning and, crucially, brimming with that good old-fashioned hope that has been sorely missed.
The storyline, which sees our hero entangled in a political powder keg between the militarised Boravia and the struggling Jarhanpur, all while Lex Luthor, played by a chillingly good Nicholas Hoult, schemes in the background, is complex without being convoluted.
It's a narrative that explores Superman's place in a nuanced, sometimes messy world, yet never loses sight of his core mission: to save people, with as little collateral damage as possible.
And oh, the acting! Corenswet steps into those iconic red boots with captivating ease. He's not just playing Superman; he is Superman. His earnestness, that undeniable optimism that radiates from him, and his ability to convey both the mighty hero and the charmingly awkward Clark Kent are simply superb.
Many are drawing parallels to the legendary Christopher Reeve, and for good reason. Corenswet's Clark is wonderfully human — a bit clumsy, utterly sincere, and you can't help but root for him.
Then there's Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. What a powerhouse! She's sharp, witty and resourceful, and her chemistry with Corenswet is off the charts.
You truly believe in their dynamic, and it's a joy to watch their relationship unfold on screen.
And Hoult's Lex Luthor? He's pure, unadulterated villainy wrapped in a sophisticated package. His narcissism and sheer cunning make him a genuinely formidable foe, a true standout in a sea of cinematic antagonists.
Now, let's talk about the spectacle. The pacing is fast, almost relentless, which means you're constantly on the edge of your seat.
Some might find it a tad rushed, but honestly, nothing drags here. The film just moves, pulling you along for the ride.
But where 'Superman' truly excels, and where it demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible, are the action scenes. They are, to put it mildly, breathtaking. The flying sequences are so magnificent and immersive, you almost feel the wind in your hair.
There's one scene where Superman glides down to shield a child from an attack that is nothing short of a masterclass in visual storytelling.
The special effects are top-tier, the sound design is immersive, and the choreography? It's like watching a comic book panel spring to life before your very eyes. This is the kind of cinematic experience IMAX was made for!
Compared with previous iterations, Gunn's 'Superman' feels like a genuine return to form. It sheds the darker, grittier tones of its predecessors and embraces the inherent optimism and hope that defines the character. This isn't a film weighed down by existential dread; it's a celebration of heroism, a reminder that even in a complex world, there's always room for a beacon of light.
The new Superman is definitely worth a watch for comic book superhero fans. It's entertaining, visually stunning and delivers a much-needed dose of joy and inspiration.
Those who have not caught it should make a beeline to the cinema. You'll leave feeling like you can fly.
NOW SHOWING
SUPERMAN
Directed by James Gunn
Starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult
Duration: 130 mins
Classification: 13