'Superman' first reviews out: Some critics call James Gunn's film the 'best Superman to date', while others found it 'convoluted and silly'

First reactions from critics for James Gunn's new Superman reboot have been spotted on social media after the social media embargo was lifted, ahead of its wide release on July 11. While most of the reactions were positive, there were a few that didn't warm up to the film starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, and Nicolas Hoult in lead roles. However, it's too early for a general consensus. Review aggregator sites such as RottenTomatoes are expected to give a general picture soon.

 

Peter Howell, film critic of the Toronto Star, wrote: "Not the super start to the DC Universe everybody had been hoping for. James Gunn is brilliant at conjuring spectacle and creating alien realms, not so great at storytelling. David Corenswet plays a boyishly sweet Superman, constantly getting his ass kicked; he’d be better as the lead in a Dudley Do-Right movie. Rachel Brosnahan makes a spiky Lois Lane, Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor is more obnoxious than villainous. The real star of the show is superdog Krypto, who steals every scene he’s in — I’d rather see a movie about him." 

 

Brandon Davis, host of the Phase Hero podcast, wrote: "David Corenswet portrays an exceptional iteration of #Superman with sincerity, heroism, purity, and inspirational traits. Corenswet & Rachel Brosnahan’s chemistry for Clark and Lois is off the charts. Their relationship is an excellent driver, especially early."

 

Bryan Sudfield of Life Moves Pretty Fast Podcast called it a "bold and beautiful" take on the DC superhero. "SUPERMAN soars with heart, humor, and style—a bold yet faithful take on the iconic hero. James Gunn sets a fresh tone while honoring the character’s legacy, and David Corenswet shines with sincerity and strength. A promising, thrilling start to DC’s new era."

 

Critic Rachel Leishman praised James Gunn's vision, calling it "a comic book brought to life, and it brought a lightness and a happiness to one of the most beloved heroes around."

 

Another critic, Grace Randolph, said it is the "best Superman movie to date", while adding, "It's not perfect, but darn close & made me a believer in Gunn's DC." 

 

RottenTomatoes-approved writer Nicola Austin gave a mixed take: "There are glimmers of a heartfelt, hopeful & optimistic Superman akin to classic Action Comics, but the film sadly buckles under a convoluted & often silly plot. However, there are terrific performances from Corenswet, Brosnahan, Hoult & Gathegi - plus Krypto really is the best!"

 

Film critic Mike Ryan was more enthusiastic. "I absolutely loved James Gunn’s SUPERMAN. Big themes, but still pure joy. It put me in a great mood (which isn’t often these days); it’s the happiest I’ve walked out of a theater since Top Gun: Maverick."

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