When Henry Cavill first donned the red cape in Man of Steel (2013), he ushered in a modern and more grounded interpretation of Superman—one that divided fans and critics alike. For some, his portrayal was a revelation, showing a deeper, more conflicted version of the Man of Tomorrow. For others, Cavill’s Superman felt too brooding, lacking the unshakable optimism traditionally associated with the character. Now, with James Gunn’s DC Universe (DCU) taking a fresh approach and leaving Cavill’s Superman behind, fans remain split over the direction of the franchise.
But there’s still hope for Cavill’s return—through a Superman: Red Son adaptation under DC’s Elseworlds label. This alternate-universe storyline could not only bring Cavill back in a meaningful way but also bridge the gap between divided fans by offering a fresh perspective on his Superman.
The Elseworlds label in DC storytelling serves as a creative playground. Stories under this banner aren’t bound by the continuity of the main universe, allowing writers and directors to explore bold “what if” scenarios.
We’ve already seen this concept succeed with films like Joker (2019) and The Batman (2022), both of which delivered unique takes on iconic characters without being tied to larger cinematic universes. For Henry Cavill, Elseworlds represents not only a chance to return as Superman but also an opportunity to reimagine the character in a completely new light—enter Superman: Red Son.
Why Superman: Red Son is the Perfect Fit
Based on the celebrated comic by Mark Millar, Superman: Red Son asks a fascinating question: What if Superman landed in the Soviet Union instead of Kansas?
In this alternate universe, Superman becomes a symbol of Soviet power, serving under Joseph Stalin and embodying communist ideals. It’s a morally complex tale that challenges our perceptions of heroism, power, and loyalty.
For Cavill, Red Son offers the perfect vehicle to revisit his portrayal of Superman.
For Fans of Cavill’s Darker Superman: The authoritarian edge of Red Son’s Superman aligns with the tone Cavill established in Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.
For Fans of a More Classic Superman: The moral dilemmas explored in Red Son allow Cavill to showcase Superman’s internal conflict and potential for redemption, reminding audiences of the character’s core humanity.
It’s a win-win scenario. Cavill gets to return to a role he clearly loves, while fans on both sides of the Superman debate get a story that appeals to their preferred interpretation of the character.
Matthew Vaughn’s Vision: A Director with the Right Touch
Director Matthew Vaughn (Kingsman, X-Men: First Class) has already expressed interest in creating an Elseworlds Superman film with Cavill, and Red Son seems like the perfect project for him. Vaughn’s knack for blending sharp storytelling with stunning visuals would complement the alternate-history setting of Red Son beautifully.
With Vaughn at the helm and Cavill in the lead, Superman: Red Son could be the gritty, thought-provoking superhero film fans have been craving—a movie capable of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the likes of The Dark Knight and Joker.
The Elseworlds Potential: Bringing Back Beloved DCEU Stars
Gal Gadot could return in an Elseworlds Wonder Woman film.
Ben Affleck could star in a gritty The Dark Knight Returns adaptation.
Even Michael Keaton or Brandon Routh could reprise their iconic roles in alternate-world adventures.
By leaning into Elseworlds stories, DC could appease long-time fans of the DCEU while allowing the new DCU to grow and thrive independently.
A Missed Opportunity Without Red Son
If James Gunn and DC Studios choose to overlook the potential of Red Son, they risk leaving one of their most valuable assets—Henry Cavill—on the sidelines. The passion for Cavill’s Superman remains strong among fans, and an Elseworlds project could turn what many perceive as a wasted opportunity into a triumphant return.
The Superman Fans Deserve
Henry Cavill’s journey as Superman may have ended abruptly in the main DCU timeline, but Red Son could offer him a second chance—not just to wear the cape again, but to redefine what a Superman story can be.
In a cinematic landscape filled with sequels, reboots, and shared universes, Elseworlds projects like Superman: Red Son offer something rare: creative freedom and the ability to tell truly unique stories.
Henry Cavill deserves a proper send-off as Superman, and fans deserve closure. Red Son isn’t just another Superman story—it’s a chance to unite a fractured fanbase, honor Cavill’s legacy, and remind audiences why the Man of Steel is still the most iconic superhero of all time.
In the right hands, Superman can fly again—and this time, the red cape might just come with a hammer and sickle.
