Director James Gunn has dropped a new teaser for his highly anticipated Superman film, featuring David Corenswet as the iconic superhero. The brief 30-second clip showcases Superman zooming through icy landscapes and performing the trademark super flip, thrilling some fans and stirring controversy among others. Set to hit theaters on July 11, 2025, this new vision of Superman is already creating quite the buzz.
Upon its release on January 26, 2025, the teaser raised eyebrows, particularly among loyal fans of Henry Cavill, who has previously donned the iconic cape. Many dedicated viewers expressed their nostalgia for Cavill's portrayal, stating they would prefer him back rather than Corenswet. Online chatter quickly escalated, with comparisons being drawn between the new Superman and Tom Cruise's jet maneuvers from Top Gun: Maverick. Some fans even mocked the new Superman, dubbing Corenswet’s character as “Superman from Temu.”
Memes flooded social media as the aerial scenes sparked both amusement and skepticism. “The most useless spin in history,” commented one user alongside humorous GIFs. Others found pleasure reminiscing about the superdog Krypto, hoping he might salvage the new film's reception. Enthusiasts like Mason Campbell celebrated the teaser, commenting, “This looks super!” urging others to remain optimistic.
Despite the criticism, not all fan reactions were negative. Some users defended the film, arguing, “People are using a random three-second clip to hate on the movie.” This sentiment points to divisions within the fanbase as they engage with Gunn’s bold vision. Even as many fans take shots at the creative direction, others are defending it by framing their judgments around mere snippets narrated through social media.
The newly released footage also teases glimpses of key characters, like Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult. The interplay between Superman and Luthor—one being the epitome of truth and justice, and the other embodying cunning intelligence and moral ambiguity—has traditionally fueled the narrative tension within the Superman saga. Yet, Hoult's take on Luthor, sporting eccentric sunglasses and a sharp persona, has become the centerpiece of comedic commentary. Memes ensued, with comments like, “Why does Luthor need those silly sunglasses?” and “Lex is just ready to save his hairline,” capturing the audience's collective incredulity.
Online memes flooded social media from enthusiasts and critics alike, slowly outlining the polarizing reception of this new Luthor. It seems Gunn's playful undertones could either come off as absurdist or offer fresh takes on classic villains. The sunglasses, dubbed “the true villains of the internet,” have ignited conversations and laughter, proving partially effective at gaining media traction and generating buzz.
The teaser provides not just humor but hints of heroic action. A poignant moment features Superman saving a young girl from calamity—a display of selflessness and valor indicative of the character's legacy. Background imagery of the Fortress of Solitude helps evoke nostalgia and adds depth, drawing long-term fans closer as they familiarize themselves with Gunn’s interpretation.
Technical details of the film reveal direct connections to Gunn’s previous work. Cinematography for Superman is done by Henry Braham, known for his collaboration with Gunn on the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise. Meanwhile, John Murphy, who has scored Gunn's prior works like The Suicide Squad and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, is on board to provide music. This connection may instill more confidence among fans worried about how well-done the film might be.
Gunn is steering the film away from traditional origin tropes, stating it will focus more on Superman reconciling his Kryptonian heritage with his upbringing on Earth, illustrating kindness and heroism within contemporary society's framework. The decision not to centralize on Clark Kent's initial trials or his defining relationship with Lois Lane creates space for character exploration under Gunn's guidance.
Although the film won’t chronicle Kelly’s romantic encounters, it seeks to represent Superman’s moral compass with heartwarming themes relevant to today’s audience. Fans remain eager to see how the narrative shapes up against societal norms and expectations, particularly with Gunn’s penchant for balancing humor and drama.
With posts flooding feeds and social media lighting up with memes, as the July 11, 2025, release date approaches, every new teaser or image only heightens the anticipation. While reactions may vary from enthusiastic delight to outright skepticism, one undeniable fact reigns supreme—the film is already delivering what many presumed it would: entertainment. Whether or not they end up loving or critiquing the new vision of Superman, fans are engaged, which bodes well for its success.