The full reviews for Superman are in, and it's looking good for the iconic DC character.

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The reviews which have been published so far have been, for the most part, very positive, with the film currently sitting at 86 per cent on the Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer, based on 151 reviews.

This means that 86 per cent of critics have posted a review which skews more positive than negative, with some leaving glowing feedback regarding the film.

For instance, The Independent's review has said that the script "is making the best use of the genre as a vast, ideological playground", while The Telegraph's says: "In a genre infamous for feints and teases, Gunn’s kitchen-sink approach feels refreshingly generous, and his excitement for the character shines through."

Rachel Brosnahan and David Corenswet play Lois Lane and Superman, standing across from one another amid some rubble
Rachel Brosnahan and David Corenswet play Lois Lane and Superman. Warner Bros.

There have been some more negative responses, with The Guardian's review saying: "How many more superhero films in general, and Superman films in particular, do we need to see that all end with the same spectacular faux-apocalypse in the big city with CGI skyscrapers collapsing? They were fun at first… but the thrill is gone."

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On the whole, though, this certainly looks to be an auspicious start for James Gunn's new DCU, which will continue on the small screen later this year with the second season of Peacemaker, and early next year with Lanterns, while the next big-screen outings will be Supergirl and Clayface, both expected to debut in 2026.

The Rotten Tomatoes score for Superman is currently one of the highest for a film based around the character.

It is tied with 1978's Superman: The Movie, and just below Superman II, which is on 88 per cent.

Meanwhile, Superman Returns has a 72 per cent score, while the other Superman films, such as Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, have 'rotten' scores.

Gunn had recently predicted that some viewers will take the film's message about "human kindness" as "an offence", telling The Sunday Times that it is "the story of America".

He said: "An immigrant that came from other places and populated the country, but for me it is mostly a story that says basic human kindness is a value and is something we have lost."

Gunn continued: "It’s about human kindness, and obviously there will be jerks out there who are just not kind and will take it as offensive just because it is about kindness. But screw them."

Superman is coming to cinemas on Friday 11th July 2025.

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Authors

James HibbsDrama Writer

James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.

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