The anticipation for James Gunn’s Superman is growing increasingly stronger with each day that passes, and a new behind-the-scenes image has just dropped, giving fans their first glimpse of David Corenswet’s Man of Steel squaring off against Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor. This exclusive peek, shared by Collider, captures the heart of the iconic rivalry that’s set to define the DC Universe’s bold new chapter. With Gunn at the helm, this isn’t just a superhero movie, it’s a reinvention of a legend, promising a fresh take on the world’s first superhero.
The image shows Gunn on set, beaming as he directs Corenswet, decked out in Superman’s classic red-and-blue suit, standing face-to-face with Hoult’s sharply dressed Lex Luthor. It’s a moment that feels electric but cheerful with Gunn. “It’s the Man of Steel versus the mind of Metropolis — and it looks like sparks will fly,” Collider notes, and the image backs that up. You can almost feel the tension between Superman’s unshakable heroism and Luthor’s cunning intellect.
Gunn’s Superman, slated to hit theaters on July 11, 2025, marks the official launch of the reimagined DC Universe under his and Peter Safran’s leadership at DC Studios. Unlike past iterations, this film dives deep into Clark Kent’s humanity, focusing on his compassion and belief in people’s better nature. Corenswet, stepping into the cape for the first time, brings a younger, more earnest Superman to life, balancing his Kryptonian roots with his Smallville upbringing. Meanwhile, Hoult’s Luthor is being teased as a uniquely dangerous foe—brilliant, ruthless, and unlike any version we’ve seen before.
Not just David and Nicholas as primetime actors but you have Rachel Brosnahan as the fearless Lois Lane, joined by Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern Guy Gardner, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, and Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, among others. This ensemble promises to ground the film’s epic stakes with rich character moments. From the trailers, fans can expect a blend of heart-pounding action and heartfelt drama, with Superman navigating his dual identity as both a journalist and a hero.
What makes this image so exciting is what it represents: a new era for DC. Gunn’s vision leans into the character’s core,his hope, his strength, and his flaws, while setting up Luthor as a formidable antagonist whose schemes could reshape Metropolis. “With today’s exclusive image showing Corenswet and Hoult going face-to-face under Gunn’s direction, it’s clear that we’re in for something special,” Collider writes, and it’s hard to disagree. The shot captures not just a confrontation but a clash of ideals, with Gunn’s infectious enthusiasm tying it all together.
As summer 2025 approaches, Superman is shaping up to be more than a blockbuster—it’s a chance to rediscover why Clark Kent endures as a symbol of hope. Fans are already loving that this will be a different take on the Lois and Clark romance scene as these two will already know each other going into this fil, with Lois knowing Clark is Superman already. Mark your calendars for July 11, because this is face-off of love and action is something you won’t want to miss.
