The forthcoming Superman film has fans eager to see how the latest iteration of the Man of Steel will honor his storied legacy while breaking new ground. During a press Q&A for the Teaser Trailer release, the film’s cast and director shared their insights into the inspiration behind their portrayals and their own personal introductions to the world of Superman.
David Corenswet on Crafting Clark Kent and Superman
For David Corenswet, stepping into the dual role of Superman and Clark Kent required an exploration of the character’s complexities. Director James Gunn recommended All-Star Superman, a celebrated comic that influenced Corenswet’s approach, especially to Clark.
“I hadn’t read so many Superman comics that I had a sense of all the different Clarks,” Corenswet admitted. “It was great having a silent version to look at. I also loosely stole some stuff from my brother-in-law, who’s 6’8” and 270 pounds. He’s always in the way and always trying not to be, and I think there’s something to that for Clark.”
Corenswet also credited his co-stars for helping him solidify his portrayal, particularly during scenes opposite Nicholas Hoult, who plays a nemesis in the film. “A hero is only as interesting or cool as the nemesis they’re up against,” he noted.
First Encounters
The cast reflected on their earliest memories of the iconic superhero, a character whose iconic “S” symbol is instantly recognizable across generations.
“For me, I definitely sneaked episodes of Smallville growing up after school,” Corenswet shared. “I remember seeing Superman Returns in theaters, and since then, all the iterations kind of jumble together into this grand arc.”
Rachel Brosnahan, who plays Lois Lane, recalled the Christopher Reeve films as her introduction. “He was the Superman of my parents’ generation, and they loved the movies, so he was Superman for me for a really long time,” she said.
She also spoke about the surreal experience of seeing Corenswet in the suit. “I remember walking through a field during a scene and thinking, ‘You’re Superman.’ It was crazy. Those moments hit you when you least expect it, even on the most mundane days.”
Nicholas Hoult, who also grew up watching Smallville, shared his excitement for the new generation to experience Corenswet’s Superman. “I’m excited that my kids will have David as their Superman to grow up with. It’s so ingrained in our culture that I think I knew Superman and Kryptonite before I’d even seen any of the films or tv shows.”
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The cast and crew agreed on the universal nature of his appeal. “There’s a cool thing about Superman,” Corenswet said. “You can show a kid the Superman symbol, and whether they’ve seen a comic or a movie or not, they know that’s Superman. It’s bigger than any one iteration.”
As fans prepare to welcome this new chapter of DC’s most famous hero, the team behind the film promises a version of the character that both honors his iconic past and introduces fresh layers of depth and humanity.
