First Reactions and New Footage from James Gunn's Superman Screening

In a highly anticipated screening of James Gunn's reboot of Superman, which took place yesterday, a select group of critics and influencers were invited to preview the film ahead of its official press showings next week. Although the reactions from the screening remain under embargo until July 7, preliminary responses have begun to surface online. These reactions, while vague, suggest promising sentiments towards the film.

According to Robert Meyer Burnett, a film critic and commentator known for his insights on superhero cinema, the film represents a significant departure from the vision of previous director Zack Snyder. Burnett stated, "A friend saw James Gunn's SUPERMAN today. He said it’s 180 degrees away from Zack Snyder’s vision. The most important thing was...he really, really liked it" (Burnett, 2025).

Initial impressions characterize the film as embodying the essence of a live-action episode of 'Superman: The Animated Series.' One viewer described the film as "very Silver-Age," rich in sci-fi tropes, and noted that it promises a blend of spectacle, drama, and humor, asserting that it is "big in its heart" (Everything_DCU, 2025).

The screening also introduced a new television spot featuring previously unseen footage, showcasing the iconic Man of Steel in action alongside Lois Lane, played by Rachel Brosnahan. The reactions on social media have been largely positive, with some users describing the film as "unique" and "damn beautiful" (JamesGunnNews, 2025).

Box office tracking for Superman has already begun, with projections estimating an opening weekend gross between $95 million and $135 million. Early ticket pre-sales have reportedly exceeded $10 million, indicating strong initial interest from the audience (ComicBookMovie.com, 2025).

The cast of this reboot includes David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, among others. Gunn expressed his gratitude towards the cast and crew for their dedication in bringing this project to life, emphasizing the film's thematic focus on goodness and kindness (Gunn, 2025).

As anticipation builds for the film’s official release, the early reactions, albeit limited, suggest that James Gunn’s vision for Superman may resonate well with both fans and critics alike. The film aims to deliver a contemporary take on the beloved superhero, blending action, humor, and heartfelt storytelling, an approach that could redefine Superman for a new generation.

In conclusion, while many details of the film remain closely guarded, the initial reactions indicate a positive reception. As the official release date approaches, the film industry and audiences alike will be watching closely to see how this new iteration of Superman unfolds. Given the mixed legacy of past adaptations, Gunn’s version holds the potential to rejuvenate the franchise and set a new standard for superhero films in the current cinematic landscape.