Superman Gets Beat Up? Fans Confused By James Gunn’s New Weak Man of Steel

The unveiling of the latest Superman movie trailer reignites discussions concerning why the DC Universe adaptation of Superman appears less powerful. Following James Gunn’s hints about an impending new Superman movie trailer over the last few weeks, we were given our first glimpse at this much-awaited production. In general, I must admit that, for the most part, Superman’s portrayal aligns closely with my mental image, based on Gunn’s statements about the film emphasizing a traditional approach.

Superman, the most recognized superhero, is leading the DC Universe’s first film in their franchise, starring David Corenswet in Man of Steel. The latest Superman trailer highlights the actor’s ability to portray both Clark Kent and Superman effectively, which is vital for a good interpretation of the iconic DC character. However, it seems that this new take on Superman is showing him as vulnerable or weak, a twist I wasn’t expecting, as this is being emphasized in every new sneak peek.

James Gunn’s Superman Trailers Keep Showing The Man Of Steel Being Beat Up

Clark Kent Simply Does Not Catch A Break In Any Of The DC Movie’s Trailers

The initial teaser for the first “Superman” film opened dramatically, deviating from the usual depiction of Superman engaging in a fight or flying through the skies. Instead, it began with a scene showing Corenswet’s Superman bleeding in the snow, indicating he was severely injured. So badly hurt that he couldn’t return to the Fortress of Solitude on his own, he had to summon Krypto for assistance. The Superman movie preview shown prior to “A Minecraft Movie” in theaters offered a more extensive glimpse into Superman’s condition, with DC providing an extended look at him in this state.

In the sneak peek, Krypto pulled at his cape and leaped onto Superman, causing him to react helplessly, and it sounded like bones were breaking. Over the years, I’ve seen numerous adaptations of Superman, such as Tom Welling’s Smallville and Christopher Reeve’s Superman films, but this portrayal of the Man of Steel in a vulnerable state is not common. Notably, the upcoming Superman movie trailer shows several instances of Corenswet’s Superman receiving beatings, even from supposedly frail robots wielding stun batons.

Superman Looking Weaker Avoids An Old Superman Problem

The DC Universe Understands A Common Criticism About Superman

In the trailers for the DCU movies, it’s unusual to see Superman appearing weak, but given his comics background as an ideal superhero, I can appreciate James Gunn’s choice to incorporate scenes like David Corenswet’s Superman falling into a crater and receiving help from Metropolis citizens. Superman embodies the classic concept of what a superhero should be, with his unparalleled morals, compassion, and immense power that only a few beings can challenge.

Over time, this extraordinary power has sparked numerous discussions about Superman being too dominant in other characters’ narratives, as he often effortlessly defeats villains without much challenge, leading to criticism that he is excessively powerful and thus often seen as dull, since there isn’t much that can harm him. The 2017 film, “Justice League“, illustrates this issue well. In the movie, the heroes face a tough battle against Steppenwolf, but once Henry Cavill’s Superman enters the scene, the villain is swiftly defeated.

By portraying a vulnerable Superman who sustains numerous injuries, the DCU effectively addresses viewers’ concerns, thereby amplifying the menace of the movie’s villains and validating the involvement of multiple DCU heroes such as Nathan Fillion’s Green Lantern Guy Gardner and the entire Justice League. Instead of a seemingly invincible Clark Kent who effortlessly solves problems, this portrayal makes Superman more captivating by necessitating his reliance on other heroes for assistance.

The Meaning Of Superman Bleeding & Being Beat Up In James Gunn’s Movie

The DCU Hero’s Injured State Is Part Of The Movie’s Bigger Theme

The concept of introducing the initial Superman movie trailer with the hero wounded in the snow rather than performing a heroic act really intrigues me. As soon as the trailer came out, it sparked numerous questions, and James Gunn explained his reasoning during a Q&A session at a press event where ScreenRant was present. Gunn likened the injured Superman to America, suggesting that Superman symbolizes the “fundamental kindness” of people, which is often perceived as unpopular or under attack by some of the more sinister voices in society. Here’s the full quote for your reference:

[James Gunn said] “Superman represents the ‘basic kindness’ of people, which can be seen as uncool and under siege [by] some of the darker voices.

Initially, our nation appears worn down, much like a weary Superman. Yet, I hold faith in humanity’s inherent goodness. Regardless of political leanings or ideological differences, most individuals within this country strive to live honorably and navigate life as best they can. This film is a portrayal of that. It highlights the essential kindness in people, a quality that is often perceived as outdated or under threat by some of the more dominant, perhaps sinister voices.

As Gunn discussed how Superman was wounded amidst snowflakes, his sentiments resonated profoundly with the movie’s central idea. The latest Superman trailer reveals that Clark finds himself in trouble due to his entanglement in another nation’s conflict. In this new iteration, Superman experiences betrayal as he is apprehended by the Secretary of Defense and derided by Lex Luthor as an “it,” rather than a person. Given the glimpse we’ve had from the trailers and Gunn’s insights, it seems that presenting a more vulnerable Superman, appealing to his compassion, and showcasing his talent for bringing out the best in others could be a wise choice for the upcoming Superman reboot.

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2025-05-14 21:50