James Gunn’sSupermanhas now earned a somewhat pensive review from a legendary game developer. SinceSuperman’srelease, largely positive reviews have been pouring in, amounting to an 83% Tomatometer and 91% Popcornmeter on Rotten Tomatoes. As a result, Gunn’s venture marks a promising start to the new DC Universe.
At the time of writing,Supermanhas grossed $513.5 million at the box office worldwide, making it the seventh highest-grossing movie of 2025so far. In fact,Superman’sdomestic box office has even overtakenHarry PotterandStar Wars, demonstrating an astonishing response from audiences as the DC movie climbs the ranks of several major franchises.
Now,Supermanhas earned another review from Hideo Kojima viaX. In the post, Kojima states he’s been busy promotingDeath Stranding 2’sreleaseon a world tour, “but this morning, I finally got to see James Gunn’s Superman. It was good.” However, the game developer then goes on to deliver a more contemplative review.
Kojima surprisingly states thatSupermanis “neither dark nor stylish, cool or even ‘super’“before adding that it “is different from the Superman we used to LOOK UP (into the sky) to.” However, Kojima then comments on Gunn’s more humanistic approach to the famous superhero in a more positive light. Check out the full review below:
What Hideo Kojima’s Review Means For Superman
Kojima Has A Preference For Grand Movies
ConsideringHideo Kojima once listed his four favorite moviesto be2001: A Space Odyssey, Taxi Driver. Mad Max 2,andAkira Kurosawa’s High and Low,it makes sense that he was somewhat disappointed by James Gunn’sSuperman. Although Kojima states the film was “good,” it’s clear he was less enthusiastic asSupermanwasn’t “dark, stylish, or super.”
Kojima’s favorite movies show that he has a preference for grander visions with compelling visuals, intricate world-building, and complex characters. This much is apparent in his ownDeath Stranding. Therefore,Gunn’s more down-to-earth and human approach to Superman may be less appealing to the game developer,who is famed for his wild storytelling.
That being said, Kojima does callSuperman"heartwarming,” showcasing some enjoyment of the film. Furthermore,there are plenty of other filmmakers and creators who have praisedSuperman, including another legendary franchise creator,Game of Thrones’George R. R. Martin. Interestingly, evenMarvel’s Kevin Feige reviewed DC’sSupermanmovie, saying: “It’s clearly not superhero fatigue, right? I liked it a lot.”
Our Take On Superman’s “Heartwarming” Approach
Superman’s Human Approach Is Needed
Everyone is going to have their own opinions on the newSupermanmovie, as the director has certainly changed the game for superhero pictures. In an era of so-called superhero fatigue,James Gunn provesSupermanis the perfect heroto take the limelight now. We have done the nitty-gritty version, and people are tired of the same formula.
While anti-superhero media likeThe BoysandInvinciblehave been great for bringing different perspectives to a stale genre, evidently, something new was still needed.
While anti-superhero media likeThe BoysandInvinciblehave been great for bringing different perspectives to a stale genre, evidently, something new was still needed. Talking about his version ofSuperman, Gunn said: “I think that old-fashioned is something that’s really beautiful and, in its own way, the most rebellious thing about that character.“He might be right.
In today’s rather negative world, 2025’sSupermanis a breath of fresh air, fully leaning into that “old-fashioned” style. ConsideringSuperman’s box office has surpassed all other 2025 superhero movies, the director’s approach has worked. Therefore, we might see more cheesy, heartwarming takes on superhero movies likeSupermansoon, and I hope it revitalizes the genre.
