DC Studios has released the highly anticipated full trailer for Superman, directed by James Gunn, marking a pivotal moment for the rebooted DC Universe (DCU). The trailer, released ahead of the film’s July 11 theatrical debut, offers an exhilarating glimpse into Gunn’s reimagining of the iconic superhero, with David Corenswet stepping into the role of Clark Kent/Superman. Shared across platforms, including a post by Gunn on X, the trailer has sparked widespread excitement and debate among fans, promising a fresh take on the Man of Steel that balances action, heart, and a modernized vision of heroism.
The trailer opens with vibrant shots of Metropolis, where Corenswet’s Superman is an established hero, though still early in his journey, as Gunn has previously noted. Skipping a traditional origin story, Superman explores Clark Kent’s balance of his Kryptonian roots and Smallville upbringing. Scenes at the Daily Planet highlight his life as a journalist, with Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane delivering sharp, charismatic energy inspired by the 1940 romantic comedy His Girl Friday. Their chemistry, a focal point teased by Gunn, shines through in moments of witty banter and quiet intimacy, anchoring the film’s emotional core.
High-octane action sequences dominate the trailer, featuring Superman clashing with a super-powered villain, possibly the Hammer of Boravia, in visually stunning confrontations. The Fortress of Solitude appears prominently, with a humorous moment where Superman thanks a robot crew, only to be met with, “No need to thank us, sir, as we will not appreciate it.” This light touch, paired with the inclusion of Krypto the Super-Dog—modeled after Gunn’s own dog Ozo—adds warmth and levity, echoing Gunn’s signature style from Guardians of the Galaxy. Krypto’s expressive presence is a standout, promising to charm audiences.
Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor emerges as a cunning adversary, with the trailer hinting at a sophisticated plan that tests Superman’s ideals of truth and justice. While Luthor’s full scheme remains undisclosed, Gunn’s comments suggest a layered portrayal that avoids clichéd villainy. The trailer also nods to Superman’s comic book legacy, with Gunn confirming the film honors past iterations while carving a new path for the DCU. This aligns with the studio’s strategy, led by Gunn and co-CEO Peter Safran, to build a cohesive cinematic universe after the uneven reception of DC Extended Universe (DCEU) films like Man of Steel.
The trailer builds on months of anticipation, following a December 2024 teaser, a five-minute CinemaCon clip in April 2025, and a Superman Day behind-the-scenes feature. These previews sparked discussion, particularly over scenes showing a vulnerable Superman, which Gunn has defended as central to the film’s focus on Clark Kent as “a simple man in complicated times.” Corenswet has echoed this, drawing inspiration from moments like All-Star Superman #10, where Superman offers compassion to those in need, emphasizing his humanity over raw power.
The ensemble cast, including Nathan Fillion, Isabella Merced, and Edi Gathegi, enriches the DCU’s world-building. Gunn’s active promotion, including a post urging fans to “look up” for Superman’s arrival, underscores the film’s role as the DCU’s flagship project. Warner Bros. executives Pam Abdy and Mike De Luca have lauded Gunn’s vision, noting his “heart is in the right place” after viewing an early cut.
As the first major DCU cinematic release, Superman sets the tone for future projects like Peacemaker Season 2 and Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. With Gunn’s proven storytelling and Corenswet’s compelling performance, the trailer signals that Superman may redefine the franchise, delivering a hero for a new era.
