James Gunn's highly anticipated film "Superman" has made a significant impact since its release on July 11, 2025, drawing audiences back to theaters and sparking widespread discussion. The movie has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews from both fans and critics, who have lauded Gunn's directorial vision and lead actor David Corenswet's portrayal of the iconic hero. Initial box office numbers underscore its success, with the film quickly accumulating over $137.9 million at the North American box office in just four days, achieving one of the biggest first Mondays in DC film history. Globally, "Superman" has already amassed $232.9 million, combining its domestic gross with an impressive $95 million from international markets.

A notable aspect of Gunn's "Superman" is its refreshing approach to post-credits scenes, a common trope in superhero cinema. Unlike typical end-credit sequences that tease future projects, the film's post-credits scene, featuring Superman and Mister Terrific, takes a lighthearted and humorous turn. This "breezy, uncomplicated, fun" scene has been praised for its unique tone, setting it apart from the more serious, franchise-building teases often seen in the genre, and signaling a shift in the norm for comic book movie conclusions.

The film has also been instrumental in showcasing new immersive viewing experiences, such as "D-Box" seating. This technology, utilizing haptic feedback to synchronize vibrations and movement with the on-screen action, provided a tactile enhancement to the viewing of "Superman." Viewers could "feel" impacts, punches, and the sensation of flight, making the high-speed aerial sequences and intense battles particularly engaging. For many, including first-time users, "D-Box" seating proved to be a fun and non-distracting way to deepen the immersion in action-heavy blockbusters, confirming that the film's dynamic visuals lend themselves well to such innovative formats.

David Corenswet's casting as Superman has been widely celebrated, with his performance lauded for embodying the character's inherent goodness and humanity. His portrayal deviates from previous darker interpretations, presenting a Superman who is relatable, friendly, and grounded in everyday problems, such as a secret office romance and caring for a dog. Beyond his role as the Man of Steel, Corenswet has revealed himself to be a dedicated "Star Wars" enthusiast, even suggesting a specific viewing order for the Skywalker Saga (IV, V, I, II, III, VI) to enhance its narrative impact. He humorously noted his dream role would be an X-Wing pilot in the "Star Wars" universe, showcasing his deep-seated passion for the franchise.

A significant point of discussion surrounding Gunn's "Superman" is its distinct departure from Zack Snyder's previous take on the character in "Man of Steel." Critics argue that Gunn's version succeeds by embracing Superman as a man first and a god second, emphasizing his human struggles and interactions. This contrasts sharply with Snyder's portrayal, which was often criticized for prioritizing Superman's god-like status, making him feel distant and, controversially, depicting him with "killer tendencies," such as the infamous neck-snapping of General Zod. Gunn's film consciously avoids such choices, reinforcing a Superman who is driven by humanity and does more good than harm, thereby course-correcting what many saw as a tonally off-kilter Kryptonian in the Snyderverse.

The film also ventures into moral and political commentary, albeit with a simplified approach, inventing fictitious nations like Jarhanpur and Boravia to frame a conflict without directly engaging with real-world politics. While some critics found this method less nuanced than previous attempts (e.g., in "Batman v Superman"), it allowed Gunn to portray villains like Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) as straightforwardly evil. The film navigates the contemporary landscape where the classic "truth, justice, and the American way" motto is no longer directly applicable, reflecting societal shifts. Notably, James Gunn's description of Superman as an "immigrant" sparked a minor political controversy, underscoring the politically charged nature of interpreting such an iconic figure in modern times.