James Gunn's “Superman” is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about films of 2025, and not just because of its sky-high $300 million budget. The latest cut, now running at 140 minutes, has sparked a whirlwind of reactions—ranging from “terrible” to “great”—as Warner Bros. and DC Studios brace for what could be a make-or-break moment for the DC Universe. With David Corenswet's performance being hailed as stellar and Gunn's signature blend of humor and drama on full display, this film is already generating buzz, both good and bad. But can it live up to the hype?
The latest test screenings reveal a runtime of 140 minutes, placing it squarely between Gunn's previous DC efforts: “The Suicide Squad” (132 minutes) and “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” (150 minutes). While the runtime might see some trimming before the July 2025 release, reshoots scheduled for next month in Ohio suggest Gunn is still fine-tuning the film.
David Corenswet's portrayal of the Man of Steel is being praised as a standout, with Gunn balancing humor and drama in a way reminiscent of his work on “The Suicide Squad.” The cast, including Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and a supporting ensemble featuring Skyler Gisondo, Anthony Carrigan, and Isabela Merced, adds depth to what promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film.
However, the road to release hasn't been smooth. Test audience reactions have been polarizing, with some calling it a masterpiece and others dismissing it as a misfire. Warner Bros. is clearly on edge, given the film's astronomical budget and the pressure to revive the DCU after a string of underwhelming entries. For CEO David Zaslav, this isn't just another blockbuster—it's a high-stakes gamble that could determine the future of the franchise.
Gunn's track record suggests he knows how to deliver crowd-pleasers, but “Superman” is a different beast altogether. The character carries decades of cultural baggage, and fans have sky-high expectations. Gunn's ability to balance humor with gravitas will be crucial, especially in a post-“Justice League” world where DC's cinematic identity feels fractured.
The runtime, while not excessive by modern blockbuster standards, could be a double-edged sword. A tighter edit might help streamline the narrative, but cutting too much could risk losing the emotional beats that make Gunn's films resonate. The reshoots indicate Gunn is committed to getting it right, but will it be enough to win over skeptics?
As the release date approaches, all eyes are on Gunn and his team. Will “Superman” soar to new heights, or will it crash under the weight of its own ambition? One thing's for sure: this isn't just a movie—it's a cultural event that could redefine the DCU for years to come.
James Gunn's “Superman” is shaping up to be a cinematic gamble of epic proportions. With a runtime of 140 minutes, a stellar cast, and Gunn's signature style, the film has all the ingredients for success. But the polarizing test reactions and the pressure to revive the DCU add an air of uncertainty. Will it be the triumphant return fans are hoping for, or another misstep in DC's rocky cinematic journey? Only time will tell, but one thing's clear: this is a film that demands attention.
Do you think James Gunn's “Superman” can save the DCU, or is the franchise beyond redemption? Share your thoughts below!
