The summer movie season is heating up, and anticipation for James Gunn's "Superman" continues to soar. Warner Bros. has just released a new trailer that delves deeper into the plot and the evolving relationship between David Corenswet's Superman and Rachel Brosnahan's Lois Lane. However, the real buzz is around the villains. The trailer not only showcases Nicholas Hoult's Lex Luthor but also introduces characters like María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer, Gunn's original creation the Hammer of Boravia, and the enigmatic Ultraman. This raises the question: who is the true antagonist in Gunn's vision of Superman? Let's delve into the array of villains and see how they intertwine within the film's narrative.
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Who Is the Hammer of Boravia?
The latest trailer introduces a formidable new character, the Hammer of Boravia. This villain, a creation of Gunn, doesn't hail from existing DC lore but is a fresh adversary for David Corenswet's Superman. The character was first hinted at in promotional materials featuring a faux-Daily Planet headline about the "Hammer of Boravia" causing chaos downtown. In the trailer, we witness the Hammer clashing with Superman and unleashing a devastating laser attack.
The Hammer of Boravia appears to rely on advanced technology, sporting a weaponized battlesuit reminiscent of the Zaku from the Gundam series. Gunn's nod to giant monsters as "kaiju" suggests a blend of Japanese influences with the traditional Superman narrative, drawing from both classic Silver Age comics and the graphic novel "All-Star Superman." The Hammer represents the fictional nation of Boravia, which has recently invaded Jarhanpur, prompting Superman's intervention and sparking international tension. This narrative explores the complexities of Superman's role on the global stage, echoing themes from Zack Snyder's "Batman v Superman."
María Gabriela de Faría’s Engineer
María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer, who had a brief appearance in the first teaser, takes center stage in the new trailer. Her nanotech-based powers are showcased, positioning her as a clear adversary to Superman. Unlike her comic book counterpart, a member of The Authority, this Engineer aligns with Lex Luthor and is eager to confront Superman. The trailer depicts her battling Superman in a baseball stadium and attacking his robotic aides in the Fortress of Solitude, even targeting Krypto.
This portrayal reflects the film's theme of contrasting Superman's traditional heroism with a new breed of more cynical heroes. The Engineer's angular "S" logo, borrowed from "Kingdom Come," underscores this conflict. Her allegiance to Luthor suggests a belief that Superman poses a threat to humanity, though her character arc may evolve as part of a larger storyline.
Is Ultraman in James Gunn’s Superman?
The Engineer's interactions hint at a mysterious masked figure speculated to be Ultraman. The character's "U" emblem and ability to match Superman's strength fuel this theory. However, Gunn's film appears to take creative liberties, possibly reimagining Ultraman as a genetically engineered being akin to Nuclear Man or certain Bizarro versions. This could lead to a dramatic reveal, with Corenswet potentially behind the mask.
Physically, Ultraman seems poised to be the film's primary physical antagonist, challenging Superman with equal power but contrasting morals. The trailer suggests intense battles, with Superman likely facing significant physical challenges.
Superman vs. Kaiju
The trailer highlights the movie's grand scale, showing buildings collapsing and Superman battling giant monsters reminiscent of those from the Monsterverse or "Pacific Rim." These kaiju confrontations raise questions about their origins and whether they're part of a larger scheme, possibly orchestrated by Lex Luthor to discredit Superman.
Lex Luthor: Supporting Villain?
While Superman faces numerous foes, Nicholas Hoult's Lex Luthor appears to operate more subtly. The trailer portrays him as a traditional antagonist, viewing himself as humanity's savior and resenting Superman's popularity. Lex's indirect approach involves manipulating events and possibly collaborating with ARGUS and Rick Flagg, Sr., to undermine Superman's reputation.
Lex's role seems more thematic and emotional than physical, setting the stage for an intellectual showdown. His influence may extend beyond this film, positioning him as a recurring figure in the DCU.
Lois Lane and Clark Kent’s Relationship
The dynamic between Lois Lane and Clark Kent is a focal point in the trailer. Lois, portrayed by Rachel Brosnahan, already knows Clark's secret, reflecting her sharp intellect. The opening scene, reminiscent of the 1978 "Superman" film, emphasizes her role as a journalist rather than a romantic interest, though their relationship evolves throughout the movie.
Gunn emphasizes the complexity of their relationship, highlighting Lois's strength and skepticism as she engages with Superman's global impact. This portrayal ensures Lois remains a formidable character, intellectually matching Superman and avoiding the damsel-in-distress trope.
Which villain are you most excited to see in James Gunn's Superman?
- The Hammer of Boravia
- The Engineer
- The Kaiju
- Ultraman
- Lex Luthor
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