Superman' debuts super-pet and vibrant monsters

Warner Bros Pictures is back to relaunch yet another beloved DC Comics character. The trailer for the much-awaited—with or without optimism—Superman (2025) is out now.

"Superman embarks on a journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent," reads the synopsis, which is just about what anyone with vague knowledge of the protagonist would know. But that fact shouldn't downplay its appeal.

This take on the famed superhero has the vibrant, James Gunn-aimed kick to it that is apparent from the get-go. If you've watched the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy or even DC's very own The Suicide Squad, you know the kind of visual treat that awaits you in the theatres.

Generous with its bright display of colours, the film is a fresh turn away from the usual drab palettes of the DC Extended Universe. It respects the sharp reds and blues of the hero's costume without ever blurring the lines between comic-accurate and comical.

But enough about the colours. What really draws the viewer is the rock 'n roll edge to the iconic Superman theme. And from there, it only gets better.

Although the trailer rightfully doesn't offer us much to gauge about his heroic mettle, David Corenswet's performance as the clumsy Clark Kent is a controversial debut for longtime fans, especially those with a preference for Henry Cavill's execution as the idealist. But Corenswet's shift of manners between his hero's two identities speaks of his fluidity in playing the part. To decide whether or not he has done justice to the role, fans will have to wait until the theatrical release in the summer.

Music subdues the first half of the trailer, which is careful not to bombard its viewers with an onslaught of fanservice. But as it picks up speed, it offers glimpses that are equally as action-packed as they are suspense-strapping. As a pleasant surprise, Gunn has also introduced the protagonist's furry friend, Krypto the Super Dog, onscreen for the first time. Being a trusted pal since the 1950s, the super-pet is an instant win long before the film's release.

And then a wealth of source-lifted characters and easter eggs are thrown into the mix, leaving filmgoers to wonder what all could possibly fit into this cinematic feature. A promising Lex Luthor performance from Nicholas Hoult, civil conflict, family dynamics, an evergreen romance, and a side of... monsters?

Indeed, the trailer gives anticipating audiences much to look forward to. How all of this will blend seamlessly within a film burdened by high expectations remains to be seen.