Superman Movies In Order and How James Gunn's reboot is Reviving the DC Universe

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it's the latest Superman film that continues a great tradition of fabulous films depicting the Man of Steel. Superman (2025) is set to hit our screens this year and is being widely touted as a significant departure from the classic superhero movie. This time, Clark Kent's alter ego explores his humanity while also protecting planet Earth. 

If you’re new to the world of fluttering capes and changing into costume in phone boxes, our top tip is to watch the previous movies first. Examining every aspect of the Superman character reveals a range that spans from films paying homage to the original comics to darker, more brooding variations. Let's take a look at all the Superman movies in order and then move on to the latest 2025 offering.

Superman Movies In Order

You have to go right back to  1948 to watch the very first Superman outing, followed by ‘Atom Man Vs Superman’ in 1950, at the height of the nuclear age. The questionable ‘Superman and the Mole Men’ followed in 1951, before our superhero retreated to his Castle of Solitude for 27 years and disappeared from movie screens. 

In 1978, Superman: The Movie exploded onto screens, with Christopher Reeve in the lead role, a part that was to catapult him into movie stardom until a tragic riding accident cut his career short. Superman II, Superman III and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace followed in quick succession after the massive success of the 1978 movie. In 2006, Superman Returns completed the storyline started by Christopher Reeve nearly 30 years previously. 

In 2016, Superman teamed up with Batman, introducing the Justice League concept. While one superhero may be a force for good, a whole team is even better when it comes to fighting evil! Justice League followed in 2017, bringing Wonder Woman and Aquaman on board in a big, brash and bold film, and was revived in 2021 with Zack Snyder's Justice League, which brought the story up to date. In the meantime, dozens of animated films have been released, adding even more meat to the DC Universe and the story of Superman.

So where next? Step up James Gunn, a director with a whole new vision for our hero.

The Man of Steel Returns in 2025

DC Studios knows that they’re on to a winner with the Superman movie, but the introduction of James Gunn as director is a stroke of genius. Known for adding multiple layers and depth into his characters, as well as a sprinkling of humour and heart, Gunn is the perfect match for Superman in the 21st century. 'Superman: Legacy' harks back to the warmth and compassion of Reeve's original portrayal, exploring the backstory of Superman's dual role as both an alien and a human son of a loving farming family in the Midwest.

Release Date and UAE Premiere Plans

Mark the date – July 10th. That’s when DC fans will be queuing around the block to get their seats for the Superman Legacy premiere at VOX Cinemas in Dubai and across the UAE. We’re planning special showings of the film because we know just how popular it's going to be and how keen film fans are to see the latest incarnation of their favourite superhero. Our top tip: Use our online and app booking service to ensure you secure your tickets for the premiere on the 10th. 

Who’s Playing Superman and the New Cast

Hopes were that Henry Cavill would revive his role as the Man of Steel, but a new face is taking on the role - American actor David Corenswet. Best known for the TV show House of Cards and Netflix series The Politician, there’s no doubt that Superman is his biggest role to date. He’s got the looks, the physique, and the acting skills to bring a new side to this already complex character. 

Corenswet is joined by a bright, up-and-coming cast of new Hollywood actors, including Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, as well as Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, and Isabela Merced.

Plot Rumours and Confirmed Story Details

We won't delve too deeply into the plot rumours, as they're often inaccurate. Let's keep the spoilers to a minimum and provide you with the bare essentials of the story. Superman's alter-ego, Clark Kent, may be a humble reporter for the Daily Planet, but when the world needs a hero, he takes those glasses off and replaces them with a cape. 

However, as much as he tries to be a symbol for all, there are still those who see him as a threat rather than a saviour. Superman (2025) delves deeper into the alien elements of the character and how he reconciles them with his human aspects. Protecting family and friends or the whole world – which is more important to Superman?

The James Gunn DC Reboot: Superman’s Role

James Gunn, who made his name as the director of Guardians of the Galaxy and Suicide Squad, is no stranger to the DC universe and the whole fantasy genre in general. His trademark style introduces humour and sharp dialogue as well as an exploration of more complex human emotions. 

Gunn's Superman isn't just about 'Truth, Justice, and the American Way'. It runs much deeper than that. This Superman is trying to protect a world that seems intent on tearing itself apart, so Gunn's approach is to show the story not just from Superman's perspective but from those around him. That makes this particular film a much more in-depth analysis of what it means to be human and superhuman at the same time.

How VOX Cinemas Will Showcase the New Superman

With special screenings, theatres sporting plenty of red, white and blue decorations and matinee performances, we're as excited as everyone else about the new Superman film. While it is an English-language film, subtitles will also be available in Arabic, allowing everyone to feel truly immersed in the experience.

What This Movie Means for DC Fans

The Superman 'reboot' is a boost for DC fans, especially those who felt the story had perhaps become a little clouded in the most recent films. The dark, depressing, and brooding elements of Superman's character have been replaced by a more human and warmer aspect, making him a much more relatable character. It’s a film that’ll make DC fans fall in love with the DC Universe, and Superman in particular, all over again.

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