Superman Rotten Tomatoes Score: James Gunn’s Film Soars at 91%
James Gunn’s much-anticipated Superman has officially debuted with a 91% score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it not only a critical success but also the highest-rated Superman film ever based on early reviews. This fresh take on the Man of Steel marks a triumphant start for Gunn’s new DC Universe, with critics praising its hopeful tone and comic book authenticity.
Why the Superman Rotten Tomatoes Score Matters
The Rotten Tomatoes score is a key indicator of a film’s critical reception. For superhero fans and moviegoers, a high score can signal both quality and entertainment value. With 55 reviews counted at launch, Gunn’s Superman stands out as a crowd-pleaser and a return to the optimistic spirit of the character
How It Compares to Previous Superman Films
| Film | Critic Score | Audience Score |
|---|---|---|
| Superman (1978) | 86% | 86% |
| Superman II | 88% | 76% |
| Superman III | 32% | 23% |
| Superman IV | 14% | 16% |
| Superman Returns | 73% | 60% |
| Man of Steel | 57% | 75% |
| Batman v Superman | 28% | 63% |
| Superman (2025, Gunn) | 91% | TBA |
James Gunn’s Superman not only surpasses all previous entries in the franchise but also sets a new benchmark for DC films.
What Critics Are Saying
Positive Reviews:
- Critics highlight the film’s optimism, heart, and vibrant comic book style. David Corenswet’s Superman is praised as a worthy successor to Christopher Reeve, and the chemistry with Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane stands out.
- Reviewers applaud Gunn for reviving the hopeful, earnest qualities of Superman, delivering a film that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
“James Gunn’s SUPERMAN is an awesome achievement and hopeful balm, honoring past iterations while cutting its own path. Brimming with energy, vibrancy, heart and humor, this picture absolutely soars.” — Fresh Fiction
- The film is described as a “generation-defining superhero movie” and a “soaring start to the DCU,” with many noting its appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers
Negative Reviews:
- Some critics point to an overstuffed narrative and uneven tone, suggesting the film sometimes struggles to balance humor and drama.
- A few reviews mention that the film can feel “cartoonish” or “like a parody,” with certain emotional moments undercut by comedic elements.
“Superman is a mess, but it’s a colorful one. It’s either a terrible superhero movie or an OK parody, take your pick.” — San Francisco Chronicle
Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus is that Gunn’s Superman is a refreshing and ambitious reboot that honors the legacy of the character.
Key Features of James Gunn’s Superman
- Hopeful, Classic Tone: Returns Superman to his comic book roots, emphasizing hope, idealism, and heroism.
- Strong Cast: David Corenswet (Superman), Rachel Brosnahan (Lois Lane), and Nicholas Hoult (Lex Luthor) lead a vibrant ensemble.
- Visuals and Action: The film is praised for its colorful visuals and exciting action sequences, capturing the essence of classic superhero storytelling.
- Emotional Depth: While some find the tone uneven, many critics appreciate the film’s emotional core and character-driven moments.
What’s Next for Superman and the DCU?
James Gunn’s Superman is not just a standalone film—it’s the launchpad for a new era of DC storytelling. Early reactions suggest that fans and critics alike are excited for what’s to come, with Gunn’s vision breathing new life into the franchise.
The film opens in theaters on July 11, with international screenings beginning July 9. Audience scores and fan reactions are expected to follow, potentially boosting the film’s reputation even further
James Gunn’s Superman has soared to a 91% Rotten Tomatoes score, setting a new standard for the iconic character and the DC Universe. With its hopeful tone, strong performances, and vibrant style, it’s a must-see for superhero fans and a promising start for the next chapter of DC films
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