When we hear the name Superman, we think of Metropolis—a bustling, vibrant city where the Man of Steel soars above the skyline, protecting its citizens from the clutches of evil. But over the years, Metropolis’ portrayal in the DCEU (DC Extended Universe) has faded a bit. It didn’t have the energy and charm we saw in the comics. Now, James Gunn, as co-CEO of DC Studios, and director, is set to give us a new, exciting version of this iconic city.
Henry Cavill’s Era and the Challenges of the DCEU
Henry Cavill made an outstanding contribution as Superman. It was clear from his performance in “Man of Steel” (2013) that he took the role seriously. However, due to the DCEU’s creative problems and controversial decisions, his version of Superman did not receive the recognition it expected. Their Metropolis was often portrayed as a generic, modern city like any other, which slightly blurred the uniqueness of the city and the color of Superman’s story.
Gunn’s Superman: A New Beginning
The DC Universe (DCU) led by James Gunn and Peter Safran is bringing a refreshing approach to Superman and Metropolis. The new Superman film being directed by Gunn, titled Superman: Legacy, promises to be the most different and exciting film yet. While keeping a close eye on its production, Gunn has hinted that the look and feel of the film will be quite different from the DCEU.
Metropolis’ New Look: A Retro-Futuristic Approach
Recently released set photos have given a glimpse of Superman’s new Metropolis. Shared on @DCUSuperNews/Twitter, the images show a distinctive retro style of the city that seems to come straight out of the comics. Storefronts and buildings have a bright, vibrant design that brings the fantasy of a futuristic city to life.
This new Metropolis will be very different from the lifeless setting we’ve seen in the DCEU. It feels like a city that’s alive and dynamic, a place that perfectly encapsulates the energy and excitement of Superman’s stories. It will provide a perfect backdrop for Superman’s character and his world.
DCU’s Urban Design Strategy
This vision from Gunn also indicates that similar uniqueness and creativity can be seen in the design of the DCU’s other iconic cities like Gotham City, Themyscira, and Central City. Each city should be unique and designed according to its own characteristics, ensuring that the DCU’s world is not only expansive and diverse, but that each city has its own identity.
New Direction, New Expectations
It’s clear from Gunn’s Superman reboot that the new DCU films are bringing new expectations to fans while correcting some old wrongs. The new incarnation of Metropolis in Superman: Legacy tells us that this film will not only tell a new story of Superman, but will also present his world in new and refreshing ways.
As the release date of the new DCU Superman film draws closer, fans are excited about this new direction. Under Gunn’s direction, it is expected that Superman’s story will get the respect and excitement it deserves, and Metropolis will become a shining star at the center of it all.
