The studio has released a teaser introducing the cast of the upcoming Superman movie, directed by James Gunn, set to premiere on July 11, 2025. The teaser, launched on December 18 (California time, evening of December 19 in Hanoi), opens with a nostalgic soundtrack reminiscent of previous Superman films. It features a scene of the superhero, portrayed by David Corenswet, injured and lying in the snow. The teaser also gives a glimpse into Clark Kent’s life as a reporter.

Superman is then seen whistling for his dog, Krypto, to bring him home. This marks Krypto’s first appearance in a live-action film within the DC Universe (DCU). Known as Superman’s super-pet, Krypto has been featured in various animated series, most notably DC League of Super-Pets released in 2022.

The teaser also introduces the iconic villain Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, along with his empire, Luthor Corp. Lex Luthor, a character from DC Comics created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, first appeared in 1940. He is portrayed as a wealthy American billionaire and one of the world’s smartest individuals. The teaser also highlights Superman’s love interest, Lois Lane, played by Rachel Brosnahan, a reporter for the Daily Planet.

According to Variety, this film kicks off the first chapter of the new DCU, titled Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, overseen by director James Gunn and producer Peter Safran. Inspired by the All-Star Superman comic series, the movie presents a world where humanity is aware of the existence of superheroes.

However, the world is in chaos, facing civil wars, alien invasions, and Lex Luthor’s schemes pushing humanity to the brink of extinction. Superman faces public backlash, with citizens throwing objects at him for failing to protect them. Critics have praised James Gunn’s unique approach, noting that instead of reintroducing the DC world, the creative team has crafted an original narrative to engage a broader audience.

Gunn’s DCU introduces a new cast, replacing many actors from previous projects, including Henry Cavill, who had long been associated with the role of Superman. In late 2022, Cavill announced his departure from the role due to the studio’s plans to cast a younger actor. By June 2023, David Corenswet (standing 1.93 meters tall) was selected after months of auditions. According to ScreenRant, Corenswet convincingly portrays the hero’s compassionate and virtuous nature. DC fans have shown support, noting that his appearance closely resembles Superman’s classic comic look from the 1930s. However, some Henry Cavill fans believe the new casting mirrors the old portrayal too closely.

Superman first debuted in Action Comics #1, published on April 18, 1938, introducing his origin story as an alien child sent to Earth and his love interest, Lois Lane. The character has since become one of America’s most recognizable pop culture icons, inspiring blockbuster films, books, toys, and merchandise.

The Superman franchise has been adapted into TV series, animated shorts, and films. The character’s most recent appearance was in The Flash (2023), portrayed by Nicolas Cage. According to The Numbers, Superman films have grossed over $2.5 billion worldwide, with Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) being the highest-grossing entry at $874 million globally.