Superman cast, plot and release date as DC hero returns | Films | Entertainment

Superman is without a doubt one of the most eagerly awaited films of 2025, with millions of comic book enthusiasts keen to see the Man of Steel’s return to the big screen.

Directed by James Gunn, known for his work on Guardians of the Galaxy, this upcoming blockbuster is set to launch a new era for the DC Universe (DCU), following the problematic production and lukewarm reception of Justice League and The Flash.

With several more projects currently in development, all eyes are on Superman to deliver breathtaking spectacle and unforgettable excitement to ensure the rebooted franchise thrives for years to come.

Fortunately, Gunn’s superhero credentials are second to none and there’s an impressive cast of A-list stars and rising talent stepping into the roles of some of the most iconic characters ever created.

As the countdown begins for Superman’s cinematic comeback, let’s delve into everything you need to know about this fresh interpretation of the DC world, reports the Mirror US.

Who is in the cast of Superman?

Relative newcomer David Corenswet is taking on his first major leading role as Clark Kent/Superman, the all-powerful survivor of the planet Krypton raised in Kansas.

His acting career kicked off with guest spots on House of Cards before landing more significant roles in Ryan Murphy’s Netflix series The Politician and Hollywood. He has also shared the screen in the popular films Twisters and Pearl and the miniseries We Own This City and Lady in the Lake.

Corenswet is at the helm of a star-studded cast that includes fellow superheroes, notorious villains and Clark’s colleagues from the Daily Planet.

Joining him is Rachel Brosnahan, known for her role in The Marvelous Mrs Maisel, who will be playing the fiery star reporter Lois Lane, Clark’s love interest. Besides her popular Prime Video series, Brosnahan has also starred in The Amateur and shared screen space with Corenswet in House of Cards.

Working alongside them at the Daily Planet under the stern gaze of editor-in-chief Perry White, portrayed by Wendell Pierce, are Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard and Christopher McDonald as Ron Troupe.

Naturally, every superhero requires an adversary and Superman’s arch-enemy is none other than Lex Luthor, one of the most persistent villains in comic book lore. Nicholas Hoult, known for his roles in Nosferatu and The Menu, will be bringing this iteration of Lex to life.

Joining him in his mission to defeat Superman are María Gabriela de Faría as Angela Spica/The Engineer and Sara Sampaio as Lex’s girlfriend and assistant Eve Teschmacher.

While some of Superman’s most iconic allies, such as Batman and Wonder Woman, have yet to appear in the DCU, there’s no shortage of heroes in this universe. Nathan Fillion, known for his roles in Castle and The Rookie, will be playing Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, Isabela Merced from The Last of Us will portray Kendra Saunders/Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi will be Michael Holt/Mister Terrific and Anthony Carrigan will take on the role of Rex Mason/Metamorpho.

The cast also features Pruitt Taylor Vince and Neva Howell as Clark’s Earthly adoptive parents Jonathan and Martha Kent, Frank Grillo as Rick Flagg Sr, Sean Gunn as Maxwell Lord, and Milly Alcock from House of the Dragon as Kara Zor-El, also known as Supergirl.

Guardians of the Galaxy stars Pom Klementieff and Michael Rooker join Alan Tudyk, Grace Chan and Jennifer Holland in lending their voices to the robots assisting Superman in the Fortress of Solitude.

What’s the plot of Superman?

While the exact plot details remain under wraps, the trailers hint at a monumental face-off between the Last Son of Krypton and a host of formidable adversaries.

Simultaneously, Clark grapples with defining what Superman should symbolise to the world as his heroic deeds begin to stir up controversy.

Viewers will also be privy to the beginnings of his whirlwind romance with Lois Lane and intense rivalry with Lex Luthor.

A synopsis discloses: “Superman must reconcile his alien Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as reporter Clark Kent.

“As the embodiment of truth, justice and the human way he soon finds himself in a world that views these as old-fashioned.”

What is Superman’s runtime?

Superman has a runtime of 2 hours and 9 minutes, making it marginally shorter than the character’s previous solo film, 2013’s Man of Steel.

Director Gunn has confirmed this is the official runtime, including both post-credits scenes and the credits themselves.

When is Superman being released?

Superman is scheduled for release on Friday, 11th July.

However, from Tuesday, 8th July, Prime Video members in the US will have the opportunity to buy tickets for screenings, three days prior to the official release.

For a chance to see one of the year’s biggest blockbusters before everyone else, check Fandango.

Superman is exclusively in cinemas from Friday, 11th July.