This latest ‘Superman’ reboot nods to the 1978 classic with visual homages and a variation on John Williams’ iconic score. Directed by James Gunn (of ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ fame), this version introduces characters like Krypto the Superdog and Mr. Terrific, giving the story a less reverential and more comic-book flair.

Even Christopher Reeve’s son makes a cameo, joined by a flying warrior Hawkgirl. The film plays with the idea that Superman, though an alien, often embodies human values more nobly than humanity itself. This contrasts sharply with Lex Luthor, a technocratic villain driven by capitalist greed.

Unlike previous reboots, especially the 2006 version that slavishly recreated the ’78 original, this film feels like it drops us mid-arc, as though it’s a sequel to a ‘Superman’ story we haven’t yet seen. There’s no clear beginning or end, and the plot spans multiverses, geopolitics, and myth-building, including a subplot about preventing a war between two fictional nations, Boravia and Jarhanpur.

The structure is messy, and there’s so much happening that the emotional core can get lost. Gunn, having jumped from Marvel to DC, brings a Marvel-style tone to the film, whether that excites fans will depend on how much crossover they’re willing to embrace. There’s a Godzilla-like figure, a fire-breathing monster, and even a floating eyeball that alludes to the multiverse. It’s all big, bold, and busy – but doesn’t always find its heart.