By Molly Lynch and Ava Grippo – Advocate Editors

The latest “Superman” movie, released earlier this year, received mixed reviews. Some fans thoroughly enjoyed its optimism and strong performances by the actors, while others found the plot overly complex and inconsistent.

“Superman” was directed by James Gunn and cast were David Corenswet as Superman, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luther, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Maria Gabriela de Faria as The Engineer, and Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher. 

This “Superman” adaptation follows Clark Kent/Superman as a startling truth is revealed to the world, and turns everyone against him. Lex Luther uses everything in his power to try to take him down. But Superman does not let this decide who he is and who he isn’t. He fights to prove to himself and others who he truly is. 

Lex Luther is a mastermind who desires to kill Superman. He has built a team and utilizes advanced technology to achieve his goals. And that is making an end to Superman. Nicholas Hoult does a great job at playing Luther and really making you despise him and his intentions. 

In this adaptation, Clark and Lois already have a semblance of a romantic relationship. The movie follows the two of them as they grow and realize their true feelings for one another. The movie lacks the development and deep connection that the two of them share in other adaptations, such as Smallville and Superman and Lois, where you get a better understanding of their relationship and how they came to be. 

Superman’s character was written well, showcasing what kind of hero he is and what makes him the same as everyone else, even if he is from another planet. Another thing that the movie lacks is the screentime of him as Clark Kent. There were only a few short scenes showcasing him as Clark. The movie was more focused on Superman than it was on Clark Kent. Both identities are important to the story, so the lack of seeing Kal-El as Clark Kent was disappointing. 

The movie felt very lackluster and included scenes that did not add anything to the overall plot. While watching, it was hard to follow along at times when side plots would come up out of nowhere. Lots of aspects of the plot, mostly ones that involved Lex Luthor, were not explained well and left many viewers confused. More explanation was needed for it to feel complete and leave no plot holes. 

“Superman” did a great job on exploring the hero side of Clark Kent: Superman, and its portrayal of the iconic villain Lex Luthor was well written and acted. The movie contained several action scenes and plot twists that kept you entertained. 

Even so, this movie did not live up to other “Superman” adaptations, as it left viewers with undeveloped characters and many questions. 

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars