Henry Cavill passed on the iconic role of Superman to David Corenswet as part of the new reboot under James Gunn with Superman: Legacy slated to be the first film of the new universe. In the months that have followed since the announcement, a first look, release date, and various new details regarding the plot have surfaced that might just give an edge to the new flick.

Henry Cavill as Superman in Man of Steel | DC Studios© Provided by FandomWire

Conversely, as with any new beginning, there may be initial setbacks. Despite James Gunn’s extensive experience in filmmaking and his resolve to ensure the success of his inaugural movie in the new DCU, there remains a cause for fans’ concern.

James Gunn will find it tough to outdo a Zack Snyder masterstroke

Hans Zimmer at a concert | Victor R. Ruiz for Wikimedia Commons© Provided by FandomWire

Arriving in theaters in 2013, Man of Steel came across as quite a divisive venture for both Zack Snyder and the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), then in its infancy. With a critical rating of just 56% on Rotten Tomatoes, the movie still boasts being the favorite for many fans. One major aspect of that favoritism lies in the original soundtrack for the movie composed by Hans Zimmer.

In a post on X (previously known as Twitter), noted superhero genre critic Matt Ramos expressed his skepticism about James Gunn surpassing previous achievements. The acclaimed soundtrack of the Snyder film saw the award-winning composer emulating John Williams, renowned for his work on the original Superman movie. Moreover, Zimmer’s distinctive contributions to tracks like “Flight” continue to echo even today.

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James Gunn has enlisted John Murphy to score the music for Superman: Legacy. Murphy, renowned for his compositions in Kick-Ass, 28 Days Later, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, is unquestionably talented. Yet, surpassing Zimmer, who has garnered recent praise for his Dune: Part Two score, will be a formidable challenge, one that could significantly impact the fan experience, akin to Gunn’s narrative experimentation.

How Superman: Legacy will differ from Man of Steel

David Corenswet as Superman in Superman: Legacy | James Gunn via Instagram© Provided by FandomWire

A significant critique of “Man of Steel” pertained to its tone. Henry Cavill’s portrayal deviated from the traditionally vibrant comic depiction, showcasing Snyder’s grim and somber vision. The film’s scenes, such as Metropolis’s devastation, Superman’s choice to let his father perish, and the subdued color palette, provoked strong reactions from critics. Additionally, the film’s abundant slow-motion effects and non-linear narrative structure were points of contention for some reviewers.

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James Gunn, though, has already stated his intentions to make a light-hearted Superman movie. Thus, David Corenswet’s outing will probably feature humor, and heart, and should be more aligned with the comic version. Additionally, a first look released a few weeks ago also resonated with a brighter, vibrant style while returning iconic elements like the red trunks, leading to a brighter hope among fans.

Superman: Legacy releases on July 11, 2025.