Donning Superman’s iconic red cape for the first time gave actor David Corenswet a major boost of confidence as he stepped into one of cinema’s most legendary roles. Corenswet, known for roles in The Politician, Hollywood, Twisters, and Pearl, now joins the ranks of Christopher Reeve and Henry Cavill as Clark Kent/Superman in the latest reboot of the DC Universe (DCU).
Speaking at the film’s red carpet fan event in London on Wednesday, Corenswet said, “When the cape gets on, it really ties the whole thing together. You walk out with it flowing behind you, you feel like, ‘Yeah, I’m all right, I’ll do okay.'”
This highly anticipated Superman film is the first cinematic glimpse into director James Gunn’s reimagined DC Universe under Warner Bros. Gunn, also known for his work on Guardians of the Galaxy, both directed and wrote the screenplay. He described the film as a modern celebration of Superman’s classic values.
“In a world where there’s so much meanness and so many petty things happening, Superman—who can often be seen as old-fashioned or too earnest—is those things. I think that’s the most rebellious thing you can be in this day and age,” Gunn explained. “It’s a movie about kindness—told in a universe full of giant monsters, flying dogs, robots, and space battles.”
Rachel Brosnahan, star of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, brings Lois Lane to life, while Nicholas Hoult (Nosferatu, X-Men, About a Boy) plays the menacing Lex Luthor. Hoult shared that he drew inspiration from the comics, particularly All-Star Superman, in shaping his portrayal of Superman’s arch-nemesis. “Lex really prides himself on being the peak alpha human,” he said. “I really wanted to bring that kind of energy.”
Brosnahan acknowledged the legacy of previous Lois Lanes, saying Gunn’s unique approach made this version stand out. “James’s knowledge of and love for these characters and the different adventures he’s taking them on with different friends brings it into the present day,” she said.
Superman begins its global theatrical release on July 9.
