Lessons in Screenwriting from 'Superman': Embracing Sincerity and Authenticity

In the latest cinematic outing of the iconic superhero, Superman (2025), director James Gunn delivers a fresh take on the Man of Steel that resonates with audiences through its earnestness, empathy, and deep character development.

The film, currently in wide release, finds Superman grappling with a world turning against him as he attempts to stop a war. This emotional struggle is a testament to Gunn's focus on Clark Kent's human side, drawing heavily on comic inspirations like All-Star Superman. The film portrays Superman not as an invincible figure, but as a vulnerable character with profound emotional complexity.

Gunn also explores Clark Kent's dual identity, balancing his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing. The story begins with Clark already successful both as a journalist and superhero, deeply invested in his relationship with Lois Lane. This integration of his personal and heroic life adds layers to his character, bringing empathy and realism to his arc.

A significant narrative thread involves Clark's "madly in love" relationship with Lois Lane. The film gives substantial weight to their interpersonal dynamics, showing how they work through the strains and cracks in their relationship. Scenes that juxtapose intimate conversations with large-scale superhero battles underline the importance of empathy and emotional connection in the story.

The film does not shy away from questioning Superman's decisions. Lois challenges Clark on the legal and ethical implications of his actions, injecting real human conflict and thoughtfulness into the screenplay, furthering the character's depth and the story's earnestness.

Gunn also incorporates familiar Silver Age comic elements, such as Krypto the superdog, Hawkgirl, and Guy Gardner, in a way that adds to the colorful, nostalgic world-building. This layering of whimsy and pathos creates a vibrant tone that balances goofiness with sincerity.

The film's antagonist, Lex Luthor, is portrayed as a character who expresses anger and fury, but it is always framed appropriately and never held up as heroic. Nicholas Hoult's performance as Lex Luthor includes a moment of honesty about his motives that almost brings him and the audience to tears.

Pa Kent, Superman's father in the film, is shown to be unaffected by toxic masculinity, as he expresses his emotions freely when his son is hurt. This honest portrayal of every character, including its villains, contributes to the emotional depth of the film.

The opening weekend box office for Superman (2025) was successful, indicating that audiences are connecting with Gunn's earnest and emotionally engaging take on the iconic hero. Despite some flaws, the film is considered a winner at its core.

In addition to Superman (2025), James Gunn is also the new architect of the future of the DC cinematic universe. His ability to create honest and empathetic characters, as demonstrated in this film, bodes well for the future of these beloved characters on the silver screen.

For more information about Bryan Young, the screenwriter of Superman (2025), visit his website.

References: [1] Gunn, James. (2025). Superman. Film. [2] Moore, Alan. (1992). All-Star Superman. Comic Book. [3] Johns, Geoff. (2004). Superman: Birthright. Comic Book. [4] Morrison, Grant. (2003). All-Star Superman. Comic Book.

The screenwriter of Superman (2025), Bryan Young, drew inspiration from the comic book All-Star Superman written by Grant Morrison for the film's script.
James Gunn's directorial work in Superman (2025) serves as a fresh agent in the world of movies-and-tv, bringing entertainment that blends drama, action, and humor.
The antagonist in Superman (2025), Lex Luthor, is not depicted as an ordinary villain, but a deeply flawed character with personal motivations, as portrayed by Nicholas Hoult's powerful performance.
With Gunn's earnest take on the Man of Steel, Superman (2025) offers a compelling exploration of themes revolving around character development, relationships, and the complexities of being a hero.
Clark Kent's dual identity in Superman (2025) is meticulously balanced, with his Kryptonian heritage and human upbringing intertwining to create a nuanced screenplay that showcases the depth of the character.
In the world of sports-betting, the opening weekend box office figures of Superman (2025) indicate overwhelming support for Gunn's emotionally engaging spin on the iconic hero.
The role of Superman's father, Pa Kent, in the film broadens the representation of male characters, with an unaffected portrayal of emotional vulnerability that challenges traditional toxic masculinity tropes.
The film studio backed James Gunn's vision for Superman (2025), allowing him to bring his unique writing style and direction to multiple movies-and-tv productions in the DC cinematic universe.
Superman (2025) demonstrates a shift in the narrative landscape, emphasizing the importance of empathy and emotional connections between characters while maintaining the action-packed sequences expected of a superhero film.