Let me start this by saying one thing clearly: I’m a huge DC fan. I’ve watched Man of Steel more times than I can count, I grew up with animated Justice League episodes, and Henry Cavill’s Superman has a permanent place in my heart. So, naturally, when I saw James Gunn’s new Superman movie in theaters, I had to follow it up the very next day by rewatching Man of Steel. I needed to compare the two. Feel them both. Let it all settle.
And now that it has — here’s my honest breakdown of both films, and which Superman truly represents the Man of Tomorrow.
Man of Steel (2013): Powerful but Emotionally Distant
Let’s give credit where credit is due — Man of Steel is a visual masterpiece. Cavill looks like a god. The way Zack Snyder frames each shot makes it feel like it belongs in a DC graphic novel. The fight scenes? Brutal. Raw. Groundbreaking. That battle with Zod is still one of the most intense superhero clashes ever put to screen.
But here’s the thing: as much as I love Cavill in the role, the movie felt emotionally fragmented. It jumps from scene to scene like important chunks were cut out and never glued back properly. I constantly felt like something was missing — like emotional moments were hinted at but never truly earned.
Yes, the film was bold. Yes, it took Superman into darker territory. But was that really Superman?
He’s supposed to be hope. The light. The calm in the storm.
Snyder gave us a god among men — but forgot to show us the man beneath the god.
James Gunn’s Superman (2025): A Bright New Dawn
Gunn’s Superman is a total shift. It’s brighter, more hopeful, more human. From the opening shot, this Superman actually feels like someone we’d want to believe in. He’s awkward, charming, idealistic — and yes, sometimes a bit too goofy. But isn’t that the point? Superman isn’t supposed to be brooding like Batman. He’s the answer to darkness, not part of it. The film nails this tone. It’s uplifting, emotional, and surprisingly funny without becoming a parody of itself. You feel what Superman stands for — faith in people, optimism, second chances.
Characters That Shine
Lex Luthor is outstanding. He’s not some cartoon villain twirling his mustache — he’s smart, obsessed, dangerous. You truly get the sense that his intellect is his superpower, and his obsession with Superman feels both personal and terrifying.
Lois Lane finally gets the respect she deserves. She’s dynamic, witty, and has real chemistry with Clark Kent. Their relationship doesn’t feel forced or idealized — it’s flawed, layered, and believable. You can see how their love will grow, and also how it might be tested.
The Justice Gang? Clearly just a setup for future projects, but not too intrusive. Green Lantern is fantastic, Mr. Terrific is a highlight, and… Hawk Girl? Well, she didn’t need to scream that much. That felt unnecessary. She’s probably the weakest link in the ensemble.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Like I said — Gunn’s Superman gets a little too goofy at times. Not in a cringey way, but there were moments where I thought, “Okay, tone it down a notch, we get it — he’s not Batman.”
Also, some people are complaining that this Superman “gets beat up too much.” But go back and watch Man of Steel — it’s really not that different. Cavill gets thrown through buildings non-stop. The only difference is that Gunn’s Superman reacts more humanly. He feels pain. He stumbles. He doubts.
And honestly? That makes him more relatable.
My Verdict: Who Wins the Cape?
If you had asked me ten years ago, I’d have shouted Man of Steel without blinking.
But today? After seeing Gunn’s vision?
I give Gunn’s Superman a solid 8 out of 10. It captures the soul of the character in a way I haven’t seen in a long time. The heart is there. The story flows better. It leaves me hopeful — and that’s what Superman should do.
Man of Steel? A beautiful film with an epic presence, but emotionally hollow in places. I’d say 6 out of 10, purely for the spectacle, Cavill’s commanding performance, and that unforgettable Hans Zimmer score.
Bonus: Our Hand-Painted Resin Superman Figure
As a die-hard fan, I couldn’t end this post without mentioning something I’m truly proud of — our hand-painted resin Superman figure, available on AikusStudio.com.
This collectible statue is inspired by the same values I talked about above — hope, strength, and storytelling.
- Sculpted in high-resolution resin
- Meticulously painted by hand with airbrush techniques
- Features Superman mid-flight, cape swirling, eyes forward — ready to inspire
- Carefully packed with assembly glue included
- Perfect for fans of both Gunn’s and Snyder’s takes
- Darkside
Whether you’re Team Cavill or Team Corenswet, this figure captures the essence of what Superman means to us all. And honestly? It looks badass on any shelf.
Final Thoughts
Both versions of Superman have their place. Snyder gave us a god struggling to be human. Gunn gives us a man striving to be something more. As a lifelong DC fan, I’m just happy we’re finally getting a Superman who smiles again.
But hey — that’s just my take.
Let me know in the comments:
Which Superman do YOU prefer — Cavill or Corenswet? And why?