The highly anticipated film, Superman, directed by James Gunn, has captivated audiences with its fresh take on the iconic superhero. The movie not only revives the character’s legacy but also integrates elements from the post-Crisis era of DC Comics, particularly through the intriguing identity of Ultraman. This film serves as a homage to a rich comic history that has shaped the narrative of Superman.
In comic history, “post-Crisis” refers to the continuity established after the groundbreaking series, Crisis on Infinite Earths. This series redefined the DC Universe, providing new origins and complexities for its characters. Gunn’s film draws heavily from this era, with Ultraman representing a deep-cut reference that seasoned comic fans will appreciate. The character of Ultraman, originally an evil version of Superman from Earth-Three, is reimagined in the film, offering a compelling twist for viewers.
From the outset, the film subtly hints at Ultraman’s origins, weaving in elements that reflect Lex Luthor‘s intelligence and determination. In the post-Crisis narrative, Luthor evolves from a mad scientist to a corporate antagonist, using his intellect to challenge Superman. In Man of Steel, Luthor’s quest for power leads him to experiment with Superman’s DNA in an attempt to create a clone. This results in the creation of Bizarro, a flawed reflection of Superman, which adds layers to the story.
Ultraman serves as a unique counterpart to Bizarro. Unlike Bizarro, who speaks in opposites, Ultraman is a silent brute, lacking intelligence but trained to fight under Luthor’s instruction. This marks a notable departure from the traditional portrayal of clones in the Superman mythos. The film’s depiction of Ultraman as a clone created from Superman’s DNA emphasizes Luthor’s relentless ambition to destroy the Man of Steel.
As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Gunn’s love for comic lore is evident in every frame. By incorporating Ultraman’s identity, he not only pays tribute to comic book history but also creates a narrative that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers. The film’s exploration of Ultraman’s identity is a testament to Gunn’s commitment to honoring the source material while making it accessible to a broader audience.
In the post-Crisis storyline, cloning is not limited to Bizarro. The character of Superboy also emerges as a clone, distinguished by the addition of Luthor’s DNA to stabilize him. This concept adds depth to the narrative and showcases the lengths Luthor is willing to go to combat Superman.
Gunn’s approach to the Superman franchise is refreshing and innovative. By choosing to highlight Ultraman, he not only draws from the post-Crisis narrative but also engages fans with a lesser-known aspect of the Superman mythos. This creative decision exemplifies how the film successfully merges comic book history with contemporary storytelling.
As Superman continues to garner positive reviews, it is clear that James Gunn has crafted a film that honors the legacy of the character while introducing new elements that excite audiences. Fans of the comics will appreciate the intricacies of Ultraman’s identity, and the film serves as a reminder of the enduring power of Superman’s story.
With its release, Superman stands as a significant entry in the DC cinematic universe, appealing to both devoted followers and casual viewers alike.