FILM REVIEW SACHIN CHATTE
Film: Superman
Cast: David Corenswet, Rachel Broshnahan, Nicholas Hoult
Directed by: James Gunn
Duration: 2 hours 9 minutes
Rating: * * *
Following the release of Man of Steel (2013) and the critically panned Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), which failed to perform well at the box office, the Kryptonian superhero was granted a hiatus. This film has been in the works for some time; however, when Justice League (2017) encountered production difficulties, the sequel to Man of Steel was also sidelined.
James Gunn, who directed the three Guardians of the Galaxy films for Marvel, has transitioned to D.C. with this new Superman project. Although Guardians franchise featured a team of superheroes while this one primarily focuses on a solo hero (with the Justice gang making a brief appearance), there is a significant difference in the tone of the two movies. Guardians was predominantly a light-hearted film that utilised humor to navigate its narrative, whereas Superman does not follow the same pattern. He faces a serious mission to thwart the nefarious schemes of Lex Luthor. With Lois Lane present, there is an opportunity to incorporate some romantic elements, and some of the most delightful moments arise from Krypto, the Superdog. But otherwise, Superman plays it by the numbers.
To be fair, Gunn aims to pay homage to the 1978 classic and intends to maintain that style. However, advancements in CGI have made it difficult to avoid unnecessary battles involving collapsing buildings and bridges. Given that this is a Superman film, it is essential to include a scene where a structure is on the verge of collapse or where someone is about to be crushed by a giant creature, with the superhero arriving just in time to rescue.
There is limited time dedicated to the background narrative here – Superman’s identify as Clark Kent (David Corenswet), is well known– and an international dispute is escalating between two fictional nations, Boravia and Jarhanpur (one wonders about the origin of that name). The former intends to invade the latter, drawing a parallel to the situation between Russia and Ukraine. However, the film deliberately avoids delving into political themes. Additionally, one could interpret Superman as an immigrant in America, considering he was brought up by his adoptive parents. He loses all public sympathy when Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) spreads the news that Superman was sent by his biological parents, portrayed by Bradley Cooper and Angela Sarafyan, to conquer the planet.
Lex Luthor is depicted as a formidable manipulator, while Superman is portrayed as the victim. This dynamic resonates with contemporary issues in America. There are these elements that stand out, but otherwise the film opts for a cautious approach.
As the film is part of a broader narrative within the D.C. universe, the Justice Gang, which includes Green Lantern (who had a previous appearance in 2011), Mister Terrific, and Hawkgirl, also teams up with Superman. They exert all their strength to fight a Kaiju unleashed by Lex Luthor’s henchmen.
Meanwhile, Superman continues to do what he is best at – rescuing individuals and safeguarding the world – along with the occasional squirrel and taking risks for his dog.
On a positive note, the film does not solely depend on action and visual effects. Gunn has adhered to the Superman formula that has proven successful in the past. Even Lois Lane’s character resembles the portrayal by Margot Kidder in the Richard Donner film. Both David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan are well-cast. Corenswet appears at ease in the iconic blue suit. Nicholas Hoult fits the bill as the villain.
All said and seen, this Superman reboot many not be super but it is not a washout either.
