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Summary
Over the past decade, audiences have witnessed a growing fascination with one particular trope involvingSuperman. From Homelander inThe Boysto Omni-Man inInvincible, and even the twisted reimagining inBrightburn, creators have explored what happens when a being with godlike power becomes a threat rather than a savior and an evil Superman threatening the human race. Zack Snyder’s interpretation ofSuperman, while not evil, leaned heavily into a morally ambiguous and darker version of the character, amplifying the theme of unchecked power and its consequences. While these stories have their merits and provide thought-provoking commentary, the trope has become oversaturated. James Gunn, with his upcomingSupermanfilm has the perfect opportunity to remind audiences of what makes the Man of Steel truly iconic: his unwavering love for humanity and his commitment to doing good, no matter the cost.
At its core, Superman is not defined by his superpowers but by his heart. He embodies hope, resilience, and the belief that even in the face of overwhelming odds, humanity is worth saving. By focusing on these qualities,Gunn can steer Superman awayfrom the grim portrayals that have dominated recent years and instead reintroduce him as a beacon of hope in a world that desperately needs it.
The Oversaturation of the ‘Evil Superman’
The appeal of an “evil Superman” lies in its subversion of expectations. A character who should be a protector instead becomes the ultimate threat, challenging notions of power and morality.The Boysuses Homelanderto critique celebrity culture and unchecked authority, whileInvincibleexamines the dangers of a fascist ideology through Omni-Man.Brightburnflips the Superman origin story entirely, presenting a terrifying “what if” scenario. Each of these works offers unique perspectives, but collectively, they’ve saturated the pop culture landscape. The novelty of the concept has worn off, leaving audiences craving a return to the original ideal: a Superman who inspires rather than intimidates.
Even Zack Snyder’s Superman, while not explicitly evil, leaned into the darker aspects of the character. His films emphasized the fear and mistrust surrounding Superman’s power, portraying him as a conflicted figure struggling with his role in a world that questions his intentions. While this approach added depth to the character, it also contributed to the broader trend of portraying Superman as a potential threat rather than a symbol of hope. For fans of the character, this departure from his core values has been disheartening.
Why Superman’s Humanity Matters
What sets Superman apart from characters like Homelander and Omni-Man is his humanity. Despite his Kryptonian origins and godlike abilities,Superman’s upbringing in Smallvilleinstilled in him a profound love for humanity. He sees his powers not as a means to dominate but as a responsibility to protect and uplift others. This compassion is what makes him a hero, and it’s a quality that has been overshadowed in recent years by darker, grittier interpretations of the character.
Starring
James Gunn has the opportunity to bring this aspect of Superman back to the forefront. His previouswork onGuardians of the GalaxyandThe Suicide Squaddemonstrates his ability to balance humor, heart, and action while delivering emotionally resonant stories. Gunn’s Superman doesn’t need to brood or grapple with the morality of his power—he needs to inspire. By emphasizing Clark Kent’s love for humanity, his relationships with those around him, and his unyielding optimism, Gunn can remind audiences why Superman has endured as a cultural icon for nearly a century.
A Fresh Start for the Man of Steel
James Gunn’s approach toSupermancomes at a crucial time. With superhero fatigue setting in and audiences growing weary of darker narratives, a hopeful and uplifting Superman story could be exactly what’s needed to reinvigorate the genre. By rejecting the “evil Superman” trope and embracing the character’s core values, Gunn can deliver a film that stands out in a crowded field of superhero content.
By rejecting the “evil Superman” trope and embracing the character’s core values, Gunn can deliver a film that stands out in a crowded field of superhero content.
Moreover, Gunn has the chance to explore whattruly makes Superman a hero. It’s not his ability to fly or his super strength, but his unwavering belief in the goodness of people and his commitment to making the world a better place. This doesn’t mean shying away from challenges or conflict—on the contrary, a Superman who faces adversity with hope and determination is far more compelling than one who succumbs to cynicism or despair.
Homelander andOmni-Man became villainsnot because of their powers but because of their environments. Homelander was shaped by years of abuse and manipulation, while Omni-Man’s worldview was shaped by a brutal, fascistic ideology. Superman, on the other hand, was raised by kind, hardworking parents who taught him the value of compassion, humility, and justice. By leaning into this origin and emphasizing Clark Kent’s humanity, Gunn can create a Superman who feels fresh, relevant, and inspiring.
