Superman

 

        Writer/director James Gunn foregoes the origin story and drops us into the middle of a world that already exists with Superman. This allows him to shape the story without any preexisting notions. And for that reason, we get a Superman we have never quite seen like this before.

         Mr. Gunn refreshes the story by including elements of the comic books, the 1950's TV show and even the older animation stories. He introduces more characters from the D.C. universe in novel ways and gets terrific performances from his cast. He even tackles social issues like immigration and alienation without getting heavy-handed. And while some may not like seeing a Superman getting his butt kicked for most of the film, truth and justice do prevail.

         The film stars David Corenswet as Superman/Clark Kent. Mr. Corenswet borrows elements from Christopher Reeve's Superman as well as the Superman of the more recent comics. However, he does make the character his own with humor and just enough gravitas. Rachel Brosnahan is Lois Lane and she is perfect. Nicholas Hoult plays Lex Luthor and while I had my doubts, he is actually very good as the high-tech villain with a chip on his shoulder. The film also co-stars Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, the Element Man (with even a nod to Stagg Industries), and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl. Together this group make up the "Justice Gang" (name pending) and they deserve their own film, they are that good together. Personally I was excited to see "Metamorpho", one of my favorite DC comic characters.

         Additional co-stars are Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Sara Sampano as Eve Teschmacher, Maria Gabriela de Faria as "The Engineer"", Frank Grillo as Rick Flagg Sr., Pruitt Taylor Vince as Pa Kent and Neva Howell as Ma Kent and Wendell Pierce as Perry White. There are also a few cameos which I won't spoil. And of course I can't forget Krypto, the Super dog, who completely steals the film.

         Mr. Gunn's technical team produce some first rate special effects, the score is excellent, even borrowing the theme we all know so well, and Mr. Gunn even throws in some easter eggs for good measure. The film comes in at a trim two hours and never feels bloated. I recommend seeing it in IMAX, if possible, for an optimum experience.

           There is one quick mid credit scene and one post credit scene which are clever but don't provide any clues to the next film. And I'm sure there will be a next film and more as I suspect Mr. Gunn is just getting started.