Ten years ago the world was introduced to Henry Cavill in Man of Steel. He looked the part and his performance in the first installment of the DCEU had fans immediately on board. Fast-forward to 2023, Cavill’s time as Superman is up, and the story of the DCEU concludes with The Flash.
James Gunn and Peter Safran are the new Co-CEO’s of DC Studios, and their first order of business is a clean slate for Clark Kent. The beloved DC hero will usher in the new era of the DCU on the cinematic front with Superman Legacy. The film is slated to release in 2025, but what do we know about the reboot? Let’s take a closer look!
What is the inspiration for Superman Legacy?
When James Gunn announced the partial slate of the first chapter called DCU: Gods and Monsters, the Superman project was accompanied by the cover of All Star Superman. The story is a 12-issue run released in 2006 by Grant Morrison, Frank Quitely and Jamie Grant. Morrison stated that he never wanted to tell an origin story for Clark Kent.
Gunn is credited as both writer and director on the movie, and he has stated that Superman Legacy won’t be an origin story either. Instead, it will focus on an earlier part of Superman’s life where he already has a job at the Daily Planet, and other superheroes are established.
What is the plot for Superman Legacy?
Warner Bros. Discovery released an official plot summary for the Superman reboot.
“Superman Legacy tells the story of Superman’s journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas. He is the embodiment of truth, justice, and the American way, guided by human kindness in a world that sees kindness as old-fashioned.”
—Warner Bros. Discovery
It appears we are in for a fun and wholesome time with our beloved boy scout. Superman is the symbol of hope for everyone, so descriptions like “embodiment of truth” and “guided by human kindness” ensure that Gunn plans to capture the true essence of this magnificent character. He also mentioned that the story will primarily focus on Superman and Lois.
Who is the cast of Superman Legacy?
It’s been a whirlwind three months for James Gunn! He’s been preparing material for auditions, narrowing down some names and calling in actors to read for these exciting roles. On June 27, 2023, David Corenswet (The Politician, Pearl) was announced as the last son of Krypton with Emmy Award winner Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) claiming the part as the trailblazing reporter, Lois Lane. Corenswet looks like Clark Kent ripped from the pages of the comics, and Brosnahan is the personification of the powerfully independent Lane. These castings are pure perfection!
Filling out the supporting roles for established superheroes are Isabella Merced (Dora The Explorer) as Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi (X-Men: First Class) as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion (Firefly) as Green Lantern (Guy Gardner), and finally Anthony Carrigan (Barry) will portray Metamorpho. James Gunn is a master at directing an ensemble cast, so there shouldn’t be any worries regarding so many supporting heroes cast in the first DCU outing.
If the story does indeed follow the events of All Star Superman, Lex Luthor will be showing up in the movie. However, there isn’t any word on the magnitude of Lex’s presence within the epic. There were rumours that Nicholas Hoult auditioned for both Clark Kent and Lex Luthor, but James Gunn is yet to confirm his presence in the film, stating only that the role will not be played by Daniel Craig.
It’s interesting to note that both Mister Terrific and Metamorpho are members of The Terrifics. Gunn teased a picture back in March with the team front and center of the DC Universe. Will Phantom Girl and Plastic Man be cast next? It would be quite hilarious if DC casts their version of The Fantastic Four before Marvel Studios.
When will production begin?
On April 18, Superman’s Anniversary, James Gunn confirmed that the script is completed, and the movie has entered pre-production. Superman Legacy is scheduled to begin principal photography at the beginning of 2024, which is dependent on the current WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike. The longer the strike carries on, the more likely for a delay.
Superman Legacy release date
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Superman Legacy flying into theaters on July 11, 2025! As aforementioned, with the current strikes ongoing, don’t be surprised if this date is changed sooner rather than later. Artists and performers have the right to stand on those picket lines as long as they need to, to ensure they are properly compensated for the amazing work they produce.
Superman is hope. Superman is kindness. Superman is the perfect hero.
Are you excited about the Superman reboot? Do you approve of the casting thus far? Let us know on the Agents of Fandom socials and keep it locked for all the latest DCU news!
