‘Superman’ sneak peek released online

Today, James Gunn, the director and co-CEO of DC Studios, officially revealed the latest sneak peek of footage that was shown during the WB panel at CinemaCon earlier this week on social media.

The appearance does come as entirely a shock. Still, it was no surprise, as it teased that those who attended the theatrical release of a Minecraft Movie would be treated to the footage; however, with the abundance of leaks, from shared video to screenshots, being shifted around social media, it felt it was only a matter of time before WB and Gunn would publicly share the footage. 

The footage shown offers a colorful and expressive palette and a unique vision from Gunn. Viewers are also greeted by a more bloody and bruised Man of Steel, as he’s thriving in pain from Krypto playing with his master, not realizing the actual pain and danger he’s experiencing at the moment, a deeper context to the small sample of the superpowered canine from the teaser trailer. 

From that point on, it is clear that the set design for the Fortress of Solitude closely resembles the iconic elements depicted in Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely’s “All-Star Superman.” This includes the crystals emerging from the snowy tundra leading to the entrance door, which is adorned with the House of El sigil. Additionally, there are automatons, each marked with a different number indicating either rank or purpose, assisting Superman. One of these automatons is voiced by Alan Tudyk, which is always a delightful addition.

Most impressive is the use of an exterior shot to showcase the technological portion of the Fortress while giving a more relative feeling of the comic being brought to fruition. This still gives off the distinct perception that this is the home and place of remembrance for any iteration of the big blue Boy Scout.

The visuals and movement of the sun being transferred through various magnification lenses are a subtle touch. The Fortress can move in any direction to hone in on the sun’s strength, as where this occurs with the titular hero being essentially down for the count remains to be seen. 

The latter portion of the latest footage features an expanded version of John Murphy’s original score. While it may evoke some similarities to John Williams’s iconic theme, it establishes its own identity through triumphant horns and a layered crescendo of percussive elements. These sounds are complemented by what appear to be the voices of Earth’s inhabitants echoing chants of “Superman,” infusing the narrative with a sense of hopeful connection.

Viewers are also introduced to a few new lines from Nicholas Hoult, who portrays Lex Luthor, proclaiming, “He’s back.” However, aside from the rehashed footage from the original teaser paired with the updated score, DC hasn’t revealed much more. In my opinion, this is a positive aspect, as it ensures that when fans enter the theater this summer, they will have plenty to experience and will be able to enjoy the surprises and mysteries that James Gunn and DC have in store.

“Superman” stars David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as star-studded Daily Planet reporter Lois Lane, Skyler Gisondo as photographer Jimmy Olsen, Wendell Pierce as Perry White, Nicholas Hoult as classic antagonist Lex Luthor, Neva Howell as Marhta Kent, Pruitt Taylor Vince as Jonathan “Pa” Kent, Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard, Mikaela Hoover as Cat Grant, and Christopher McDonald as Ron Troupe.

The cast also includes Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Terence Rosemore as Otis, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, and María Gabriela de Faría as The Engineer. 

“Superman” flies into theaters on July 11, 2025.