OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.
The release of the first trailer for Superman (2025), starring David Corenswet, marks the beginning of a new era for DC, as part of Chapter One of the DC Universe (DCU), titled Gods and Monsters. This trailer provides fans with a glimpse of the much-anticipated shift in tone and style from the darker, more serious Man of Steel (2013), featuring Henry Cavill as the iconic hero. Corenswet’s Superman promises a fresh direction, offering a dynamic, action-packed narrative with an entirely new vibe that contrasts sharply with Cavill’s brooding portrayal. Here’s a closer look at how the two trailers compare and what makes Corenswet’s Superman a game-changer for the Man of Steel legacy.

The Human Side of Superman: Corenswet vs. Cavill
From the opening moments of the Superman (2025) trailer, David Corenswet’s Superman is introduced in a way that emphasizes his humanity. The trailer opens with a battered and bleeding Superman lying in a vulnerable position, resembling a scene that evokes both the hero’s struggle and his need for rescue by his faithful dog, Krypto. This image of vulnerability presents a Superman who is more human than ever before. The trailer goes on to showcase scenes of his life as Clark Kent, balancing work and relationships, portraying Superman not just as a symbol of hope but as a relatable individual.

In stark contrast, the Man of Steel trailer introduces Henry Cavill’s Superman much later, focusing initially on the god-like nature of the character. Cavill’s Superman is portrayed as a towering, almost divine figure, with the iconic image of him hovering in space above Earth — a powerful visual metaphor for his godly status. While both portrayals delve into the complexities of being a super-powered being, Corenswet’s take seems more grounded, highlighting Superman’s emotional and personal struggles, which aligns more with James Gunn’s character-driven storytelling.

A Retro, Fun Vibe: Superman (2025) vs. Man of Steel

One of the most striking differences between the two trailers is the overall tone. The Superman (2025) trailer embraces a retro aesthetic with vibrant visuals and a lighthearted, fun tone. The bright colors of Superman’s suit and the joyful energy present in the scenes suggest a more optimistic take on the character. James Gunn, known for his work on Guardians of the Galaxy, brings his trademark style to the film, infusing it with a sense of fun, celebration, and adventure.

In contrast, Man of Steel took a much more somber approach, reflecting on Superman’s existential struggles. Directed by Zack Snyder, Man of Steel had a grounded and realistic tone, focusing on Clark’s personal journey and the challenges of being a near-omnipotent figure in a world that fears him. While the DCEU’s Superman was designed to feel more like an introspective, serious figure (closer to Batman), Corenswet’s Superman looks to be a more accessible, vibrant character, engaging with his world in a way that is both fun and inspiring.

Music Choices: Stark Contrast in Emotional Impact
Both trailers use music to amplify their respective tones, but the choices couldn’t be more different. Man of Steel opens with a hauntingly sparse score by Hans Zimmer, capturing Clark’s isolation and the destruction of Krypton. The minimalist, somber approach builds into a powerful heroic theme, amplifying the grandeur of Superman’s arrival and his godlike presence.

On the other hand, Superman (2025) begins with silence, with only the howling winds surrounding a weakened Superman, emphasizing his vulnerability. But as the trailer progresses, the iconic Superman theme by John Williams rings out, remixed on an electric guitar. The inclusion of this fanfare — slowed down and reinterpreted — delivers a sense of nostalgia while still feeling fresh and modern. The music here evokes warmth and familiarity, fitting perfectly with the more upbeat, optimistic tone of the trailer.

Visuals: Vibrancy vs. Desaturation

Visually, the contrast between the two films is stark. Gunn’s Superman (2025) bursts with color, showcasing a bold, comic-inspired aesthetic that stands out as energetic and visually engaging. The bright Superman suit and the lively color palette indicate a return to Superman’s roots as a symbol of hope and joy, with a visually “cartoony” style that recalls the optimistic days of the classic comics.

Man of Steel, in contrast, relies on desaturated tones and darker visuals, contributing to the film’s somber mood. The muted color scheme and darker costume for Cavill’s Superman emphasize realism and gravitas, a style that was highly influenced by the darker, more grounded superhero portrayals popularized by The Dark Knight trilogy.

A New Era of Storytelling: Less Revealed, More Intriguing
Another noticeable difference between the two trailers is how much they reveal about the plot. Superman (2025) gives us glimpses of some exciting elements — including other DC characters, an alien invasion, and Superman’s struggle with his dual identity — but keeps the details of the story deliberately vague. This approach builds intrigue, leaving fans eager to learn how these storylines will unfold. It’s a modern, more mysterious way of teasing a film, with Gunn leaning into excitement over exposition.

On the other hand, Man of Steel offers a much clearer picture of the narrative. The trailer sets up the origin story, focusing on Clark’s growth from a young boy to Earth’s protector. While this approach works well for establishing expectations, it lacks the sense of surprise and mystery that makes Superman (2025) so intriguing.

Conclusion: A Bold New Direction for Superman

The trailers for Man of Steel and Superman (2025) represent two vastly different visions for the iconic hero. While Man of Steel presented Superman as a grounded, almost tragic figure, Superman (2025) is more vibrant, optimistic, and fun, emphasizing the humanity of the character while still capturing his heroic essence. David Corenswet’s portrayal, under the direction of James Gunn, is set to usher in a new era for Superman, blending nostalgia with fresh energy and promising an exciting and relatable superhero experience for audiences.

As the DC Universe begins its new chapter, it’s clear that Corenswet’s Superman is aiming for a tone that is both accessible and inspiring — a stark contrast to the brooding legacy left by Cavill’s take. Fans have plenty to look forward to as this new vision of Superman takes flight!