The summer movie season is heating up, and fans are buzzing with excitement for James Gunn's upcoming Superman film. Warner Bros. has released a new trailer that offers a deeper look into the plot and the dynamic between David Corenswet's Superman and Rachel Brosnahan's Lois Lane. However, it's the villains that are stealing the spotlight. The trailer introduces us to Nicholas Hoult's Lex Luthor, María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer, Gunn's creation the Hammer of Boravia, and the enigmatic Ultraman. This raises the question: who is the true antagonist in Gunn's vision of Superman? Is Lex Luthor playing second fiddle to other DCU villains? Let's delve into the array of villains and their roles in the film.
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Who Is the Hammer of Boravia?
The latest trailer introduces a formidable new villain, the Hammer of Boravia, a character not previously seen in DC comics. Gunn has chosen to craft an original adversary for David Corenswet's Superman, showcasing his creative vision. The Hammer was first hinted at in DC's promotional materials, where a faux-Daily Planet headline reported, "'Hammer of Boravia' Creates Havoc Downtown." In the trailer, we see this conflict unfold as the Hammer clashes with Superman and unleashes a devastating laser attack.
The Hammer of Boravia appears to be a technologically enhanced soldier in a weaponized battlesuit, reminiscent of the Zaku from the Gundam series. Gunn's mention of kaiju in the film suggests a blend of influences from Japanese media, combined with classic Silver Age Superman elements and the graphic novel All-Star Superman. This fusion creates a unique cinematic experience.
The Hammer represents the fictional nation of Boravia, which has recently invaded Jarhanpur. Superman's intervention in this conflict draws the Hammer's ire upon Metropolis, sparking significant political repercussions, including scrutiny from the US Secretary of Defense. Gunn's Superman explores the challenges Kal-El faces not only within Metropolis but on the global stage, echoing themes from Zack Snyder's Batman v Superman.
María Gabriela de Faría’s Engineer
After a brief appearance in the first teaser, María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer takes center stage in the new trailer. Her nanotech-based abilities are showcased, positioning her as a formidable foe for Superman. This is a departure from her comic book persona, where she is a member of the superhero team The Authority. In Gunn's film, Angela Spica, aka The Engineer, works for Lex Luthor and engages Superman in combat, including battles in a baseball stadium and the Fortress of Solitude.
The film explores the tension between Superman's traditional heroism and the more cynical approach of modern heroes, a theme also reflected in Superman's costume, which features the angular S logo from the graphic novel Kingdom Come. The Engineer's allegiance to Luthor and her aggressive stance against Superman suggest a complex narrative arc, possibly leading to a change of heart by the film's end.
Is Ultraman in James Gunn’s Superman?
The trailer also introduces a mysterious masked figure speculated to be Ultraman, identified by the large U emblem on his chest. If this is Ultraman, the film takes creative liberties with the character, traditionally from Earth-3, where heroes and villains are reversed. In this universe, Ultraman leads the Crime Syndicate of America, and Lex Luthor is the hero.
Given the film's focus, it's unlikely to delve into the DC multiverse. Instead, Ultraman might be reimagined similarly to Nuclear Man from Superman IV or certain Bizarro versions, possibly a genetically engineered being with Superman's powers. His obscured face hints at a dramatic reveal, suggesting he might be the primary physical threat to Superman, while Lex Luthor operates more subtly.
Superman vs. Kaiju
The new trailer emphasizes the film's grand scale, with scenes of buildings collapsing and Superman battling giant monsters, or kaiju. These creatures seem to be a recurring challenge for Superman, raising questions about their origin and purpose in the narrative. It's possible that Lex Luthor is orchestrating these attacks to undermine Superman's reputation.
Another scene recalls the initial costume reveal photo from 2024, where Superman suits up against a massive monster in Metropolis. Lois Lane's presence in these scenes adds another layer to the narrative, highlighting her role beyond just a love interest.
Lex Luthor: Supporting Villain?
While Superman faces numerous adversaries, Lex Luthor, portrayed by Nicholas Hoult, appears to be a more indirect threat. He sees himself as humanity's savior and resents Superman's influence on the public. Luthor's efforts to discredit Superman include potential alliances with ARGUS and Rick Flagg, Sr., leading to Superman's imprisonment and physical assault.
Luthor's role in the film seems more supportive than central, using other villains to do his bidding while he works to undermine Superman's image. Ultimately, Lex may be the thematic and emotional antagonist, with Ultraman serving as the primary physical challenge. The film is likely to culminate in Superman reaffirming the values of kindness, decency, and hope, defeating Luthor intellectually rather than physically.
Lois Lane and Clark Kent’s Relationship
The trailer also sheds light on the relationship between Lois Lane and Clark Kent. Lois already knows Clark's secret, reflecting her intelligence and investigative prowess. The opening scene, reminiscent of the 1978 Superman film, focuses on Lois challenging Clark on the political ramifications of his actions, prioritizing her role as a reporter.
Their relationship appears to be one of close friendship rather than romance initially, though a later scene shows them sharing a dramatic kiss. Gunn's vision emphasizes Lois's strength and intellect, ensuring she is not relegated to a damsel-in-distress role.
Gunn's comments on set in 2024 highlight the complexity of their relationship, focusing on the dynamics between a brilliant journalist and a superhuman hero. This approach promises a nuanced portrayal of Lois Lane, matching her intellectual prowess with Superman's physical strength.
Which villain are you most excited to see in James Gunn's Superman?
- The Hammer of Boravia
- The Engineer
- The Kaiju
- Ultraman
- Lex Luthor
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