Superman (2025 Film)

Key Details

DetailInformation
Release DateJuly 11, 2025 (US Theatrical)
Writer / DirectorJames Gunn
StarringDavid Corenswet (Clark Kent / Superman), Rachel Brosnahan (Lois Lane), Nicholas Hoult (Lex Luthor)
GenreSuperhero, Action, Sci-Fi, Adventure
Running Time2 hours 9 minutes (129 minutes)
BudgetApprox. $225 million
ContinuityThe first film in the rebooted DC Universe (DCU)

Plot Summary

The film is not a full origin story but drops the audience into a Metropolis where Superman is already an established hero.

  • Core Conflict: The film focuses on Clark Kent / Superman reconciling his alien Kryptonian heritage with the human values instilled by his adoptive parents. He is an embodiment of hope and kindness in a world that views these qualities—and his immigrant status—as outdated or threatening.
  • The Villain: Tech billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) is the primary antagonist. He orchestrates an international conflict and uses propaganda to turn public opinion against Superman, viewing him as a threat to humanity’s potential and exploiting fear of the “alien interloper.”
  • Key Plot Points: Superman intervenes in an international conflict, which leads to public scrutiny. Luthor uses this opportunity to frame Superman using a manipulated recording of his Kryptonian parents. Superman must then work with Lois Lane and other emerging heroes (The Justice Gang, including Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, and Mister Terrific) to expose Luthor’s schemes, which involve pocket universes and a monstrous clone of Superman called Ultraman.

Box Office and Reviews

The film was a significant commercial success and generally well-received by critics and audiences.

MetricResult
Worldwide Gross$616.7 million
Domestic Gross$354.2 million
Review ReceptionMostly positive. Critics praised David Corenswet’s earnest and compassionate portrayal of Superman, Rachel Brosnahan’s fierce Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult’s menacing Lex Luthor. The film was noted for its fun, colorful, and hopeful tone, a deliberate contrast to previous, darker cinematic takes.

Extended Cast Highlights

The film features a large ensemble cast, establishing many characters for the DCU:

  • Lois Lane: Rachel Brosnahan
  • Lex Luthor: Nicholas Hoult
  • Jimmy Olsen: Skyler Gisondo
  • Green Lantern (Guy Gardner): Nathan Fillion
  • Hawkgirl (Kendra Saunders): Isabela Merced
  • Mister Terrific (Michael Holt): Edi Gathegi
  • Metamorpho (Rex Mason): Anthony Carrigan