Superman's New Film: More Than Just a Setup for Future DC Shenanigans?
AI Gaming News Author · IGN South Africa ·
The new *Superman* film is getting buzz for its post-credit scenes, but it's more interesting because it actually tells a good story and focuses on the characters without just being a setup for future movies. James Gunn seems to be taking a different approach to building the DCU, and, frankly, it's a relief.
Alright, mates, let's talk about the new *Superman* flick. It's finally here, officially kicking off the James Gunn era of the DC Universe (after *Creature Commandos* warmed things up, that is). Now, everyone's been buzzing about post-credit scenes and what they mean for the future, but the real magic might just be in how well this film stands on its own two feet.
First things first: Yes, there *are* mid- and post-credit moments, but don't expect universe-shattering reveals. Think more along the lines of a quiet reflection and a chuckle-worthy interaction. Full spoilers follow, so if you haven't seen it, best fly off and catch it first!
The film throws us into the thick of it with Lex Luthor (played by Nicholas Hoult) stirring the pot, revealing some dodgy info about Superman's Kryptonian parents (apparently, they weren't exactly advocating for peace and love). This, naturally, makes everyone question the big guy in blue. The question is, does the ending just serve as a launchpad for more superhero sequels? Or is there a real reason to care about this story?
**Luthor's Gone Off the Rails (Again)**
Luthor, that sneaky so-and-so, manages to convince everyone he's the good guy fighting against Superman's *ominous* plans (eye roll). He even teams up with the president of Boravia (sounds made up doesn't it? Oh wait...) to invade Jarhanpur – a country Superman previously stopped them from bullying. It all unfolds in a suitably epic third act, with two crises happening simultaneously.
Superman is told the world is in danger and that he needs to deal with a pocket universe Luthor made which is tearing Metropolis apart. Luthor, obsessed with defeating Superman, sends Ultraman and the Engineer (María Gabriela de Faría) after him. Things get dicey when Superman is nearly taken out by the Engineer, but then they reveal Ultraman is a clone of Superman – though, interestingly, they don't use any of the usual names like Bizarro or Superboy. The two Supermen throw down, and Ultraman gets sucked into a black hole. Oops.
Luthor is arrested and sent to Belle Reve Prison and Superman's reputation is restored! And as for Jarhanpur, just when hope seems lost, they are saved by the Justice Gang, Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion), Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), along with Superman's new ally, Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan) - all of whom answered Superman's offscreen request for help. The president of Boravia learns the hard way that Hawkgirl does not follow Superman’s vow to never kill when she takes him high up in the air and drops him to his death.
**Supergirl's Entrance: Less Heroic, More Hungover?**
The film's final scene gives us Supergirl (Milly Alcock), who isn't exactly making a grand entrance. She stumbles into the Fortress of Solitude, slurring about moving the door and asking where her dog, Krypto, is. Turns out, Krypto's been hanging out with Superman as more of a foster situation. If you've read *Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow*, this'll all sound very familiar. In that comic, she's a foul-mouthed, drunken Supergirl sitting at a bar on an alien planet, specifically getting plastered on her 21st birthday. Her outfit is also similar to how she appears in that comic.
Superman explains she "likes to go and party on other planets. Planets with red suns. Because of our metabolism, we can’t get drunk on a planet with a yellow sun.”
**The Credits: A Reflection and a Grumble**
So, about those credit scenes... The mid-credit is a simple shot of Superman and Krypto chilling on the moon, looking at Earth. It's a nod to the *All-Star Superman* comic and a sweet moment. But the post-credit? It's Superman and Mister Terrific standing next to a building that got a bit messed up during Luthor's shenanigans. Superman says, "It's just a little off," and Terrific basically explodes, yelling, "What do you want me to do!?" It's a small, funny moment, not a huge plot reveal.
James Gunn seems to be aiming for self-contained stories that contribute to a larger universe without relying on cliffhangers. It's a refreshing approach, especially compared to other superhero flicks that get bogged down in setting up future installments. Gunn wants each movie to stand on its own merits. This is a welcome change to what we have become accustomed to!
This Superman film, in its own way, avoids some of the superhero film mistakes by allowing *this* story to stand on it's own.
Gunn is quoted on record saying that he doesn't like the idea of a post-credit scene that teases things that aren't planned. The one "blatant tease" of Supergirl worked because they are already done filming!
Ultimately, *Superman* succeeds because it focuses on being a great *Superman* movie. The dynamic between Lois and Clark sizzles, and the contrast between Superman's Fortress of Solitude and the Kent's loving home is brilliantly done. Superman is exactly the right balance of sweet and heroic. It is a comic book movie like the ones from our childhood.
All in all, *Superman* is a triumph – a film that captures the essence of the character and delivers a satisfying story without sacrificing character development. It reminds us why we fell in love with superheroes in the first place, and that's a pretty darn good reason to watch it.
Tags: Superman, DCU, James Gunn, Supergirl, Movie Review
Original article: IGN South Africa