DC’s films have been on a dark path for many years, and thinking about it now, especially Superman, there seems to be almost no element of joy. This year’s “Superman” finally turned on the light that had been kept off for so long.
Synopsis of “Superman”
The main storyline actually follows the same process as most superhero movies.
Superman’s Presence, Fighting Villains
This time, there is no introduction of Superman’s origin from the beginning. After all, if there’s any superhero who is a household name, Superman would definitely be at the top. The movie opens with Superman being beaten up, and his eternal nemesis Lex Luthor doesn’t waste any time, immediately going after Superman.
Villains Gain the Upper Hand
Luthor strikes a deal with local warlords, helping to incite wars, keeping Superman busy flying around, and then controlling the media to smear Superman, making it difficult for him to move. Eventually, Superman voluntarily surrenders to the government, which then outsources the task of capturing Superman to the tech-savvy Luthor. Luthor imprisons Superman in a pocket universe created by a particle collider.
Superman Gains the Upper Hand
While imprisoned, Superman encounters someone who can transform into various elements. After some hesitation, this individual agrees to help Superman by using their ability to create a small sun through nuclear fusion, allowing Superman to partially recover. He is eventually rescued from the pocket universe by Lois, Mr. Terrific, and the adorable dog Krypto.
Superman Wins
Fully recovered, Superman engages in a final showdown with Luthor and his monstrous Superman. Ultimately, he sends the monstrous Superman into the collapsing pocket universe and puts Luthor behind bars. A happy ending indeed.
Thoughts on “Superman”
Although the plot is similar to other superhero movies, this “Superman” has a style reminiscent of James Gunn’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” — everyone has a role, everyone has a purpose, even the dog Krypto is no exception. In the crucial pocket universe rescue and the final battle with the monstrous Superman, Krypto’s presence was essential. Without Krypto, Superman might not have made it. The film feels thoughtfully arranged, rather than just randomly throwing elements together.
Past “Superman” movies or series always portrayed Superman as the epitome of justice, selfless dedication, and compassion. This time, Superman feels more human compared to previous versions.
He often loses fights to Luthor, sometimes has incomplete thoughts, intervenes in wars without considering international politics, gets scolded by his girlfriend, and when his dog goes missing, he angrily confronts Luthor. When in a bad mood, he might skip work and leave monster-fighting duties to his teammates, flying home to rest. Watching this Superman, I can’t help but think, “Isn’t that just like me?” He’s just an ordinary young adult with super strength, flying abilities, and laser eyes. This actually makes sense, considering he was raised by kind-hearted farmers on Earth.
What I find most endearing about this Superman is his directness. He doesn’t beat around the bush for a task with a clear goal. For instance, when his dog is kidnapped:
Previous Superman: Darn kidnappers, I’ll make you pay. Let me slowly devise a plan with Batman to find you and rescue my dog.
Current Superman: (Immediately flies to crash through Luthor’s wall) Luthor, where’s my dog? ˋ ˊ
The Justice League’s scenes are also interesting, feeling like a newly formed Guardians of the Galaxy, each member with unique skills, trusting each other but never admitting it, always teasing and exposing each other’s flaws. I haven’t read American comics, so I’m not sure if Green Lantern is originally this cheeky. Initially, I found him a bit annoying, but as the plot progressed, I realized he’s just a tsundere, which made him more likable. Mr. Terrific, who has a significant role, is also one of the standout tsundere members of this cheeky Justice League, constantly saving friends despite thinking everyone is an idiot.
The storyline of the Daily Planet’s reporter team is also intriguing. Despite Superman being heavily defamed by Luthor’s online army, the team still believes in him, making various sacrifices to obtain insider information. Eventually, they manage to get solid evidence against Luthor’s evil plans. At the brink of Metropolis being torn apart by the pocket universe, the entire team writes and publishes the news article mid-air in Mr. Terrific’s aircraft, bringing Luthor to justice and clearing Superman’s name.
This “Superman” feels more relatable because he is more human, making it easier for me to empathize with his struggles. Seeing Superman overcome many setbacks yet ultimately triumph over darkness with optimism and the adorable Krypto makes me feel really good after watching it. It’s indeed a fitting blockbuster for the summer.