The buzz surrounding James Gunn’s Superman: Legacy reached a fever pitch this week as David Corenswet, the newly cast Man of Steel, emerged from a private screening of the film with a bold and confident demeanor. The event, held on March 27, 2025, at an undisclosed location, marked a significant moment for the DC Universe’s reboot under Gunn’s creative leadership. As cameras flashed and reporters clamored for a reaction, Corenswet delivered a succinct yet striking five-word statement: “This is our Superman now.” The words, spoken with unwavering conviction, sent shockwaves through the fandom, signaling a new era for the iconic superhero and igniting debates about what this means for the character’s cinematic legacy.
The private screening was an exclusive affair, attended by key members of the Superman: Legacy production team, including Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios Peter Safran, and a select group of Warner Bros. Discovery executives. While details of the film remain tightly under wraps, the event was reportedly organized to showcase an early cut of the movie, set to premiere in theaters on July 11, 2025. Sources close to the production hint that the screening was a success, with attendees praising the film’s blend of heart, humor, and action—a signature of Gunn’s filmmaking style. Corenswet’s emergence from the screening, however, stole the spotlight, as his poised exit and powerful statement underscored his readiness to carry the weight of Superman’s cape.
For Corenswet, stepping into the role of Clark Kent and Superman is no small feat. The 31-year-old actor, previously known for roles in Netflix’s Hollywood and A24’s Pearl, beat out hundreds of contenders in a rigorous casting process that Gunn described as “arduous.” His physical transformation has been a topic of fascination, with the actor bulking up from 200 to 240 pounds under the guidance of trainer Paolo Mascitti. But it’s not just his physique that’s turning heads—Corenswet’s confidence suggests he’s fully embraced the duality of the character, balancing the bumbling charm of Clark Kent with the stoic strength of Superman. His five-word declaration seems to reflect this, positioning him as the definitive Superman for a new generation.
The statement itself—“This is our Superman now”—carries layers of meaning. It’s a nod to the fans, acknowledging their role in shaping the character’s legacy, while also asserting ownership over a role previously defined by legends like Christopher Reeve and Henry Cavill. Reeve’s bright, optimistic portrayal set the gold standard in the 1970s and ‘80s, while Cavill’s brooding, modern take anchored the DCEU from 2013 to 2022. Corenswet’s words hint at a fresh interpretation, one that aligns with Gunn’s vision of a Superman driven by compassion and humanity rather than grit or gloom. Posts on X following the screening reflect a mix of excitement and curiosity, with fans speculating about how this Superman will differ from his predecessors.
Gunn, who wrote and directed Superman: Legacy, has been vocal about his intent to honor the character’s roots while pushing the narrative forward. The film isn’t an origin story—Clark Kent is already a reporter at The Daily Planet when the story begins—but it explores his struggle to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing. The cast, including Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, adds depth to this reimagining, promising a dynamic ensemble. Early reactions from the screening, shared via industry insiders on X, suggest the film strikes a balance between “genuinely funny” moments and serious drama, a tightrope Gunn has walked successfully in films like Guardians of the Galaxy.
For DC, Superman: Legacy is a make-or-break moment. After years of mixed reception to the DCEU, the studio is banking on Gunn and Safran to deliver a cohesive, crowd-pleasing universe. Corenswet’s confidence could be a sign that the film delivers on that promise. His statement wasn’t just a soundbite—it was a gauntlet thrown down, challenging skeptics and inviting fans to embrace this new chapter. Whether it resonates with audiences remains to be seen, but the actor’s poise suggests he’s ready for the scrutiny that comes with wearing the “S” shield.
As the July release date approaches, anticipation will only grow. Corenswet’s five words have set the tone: this isn’t just another Superman movie—it’s a bold reclamation of the character. Whether he’ll soar to the heights of Reeve or carve his own path, one thing is clear: David Corenswet believes in this Superman, and he’s betting fans will too. For now, the world waits to see if Superman: Legacy can truly make us believe a man can fly—again.
