Most superheroes I have seen focus greatly on the heroes suffering and personal dilemmas, fighting the bad guys, and getting that applause. And it’s fine. They’re good for entertainment.
But what I love about James Gunn’s Superman movie is how ordinary citizens of this extraordinary universe were given their snippets of characterizations and showed their relationship with the world and their hero. Clark’s very normal parents and his gentle upbringing. Mali dashing to help Superman stand up while the rest of the crowd kind of just stood there. And how his death was so devastating it became so pivotal to the plot. The visual focus on the fear, judgement, and relief from the people when they’re in danger or saved. The panic way they escape running blindly or clinging to the hands of their loved ones. Those who trudged on silently with quiet resignation hugging their treasures to their chest as they evacuate. The visible heartbreak and devastation on their faces when met with the possibility that maybe that bright light they rely on was just a lie. The fear turning into that bright eyed hope in that lady’s face when Superman appeared. Even the guys on Lex’ side showed how they’re clearly delusional and removed from the consequences of their actions until it slapped them in the face was nuanced too. The political scenes and conversations just-wow!
They were so visible and highlighted in the film it added to the world-building and making it feel truly lived in. There’s so much in heart put into the people here. From the main characters to the side characters, and “extras” of this story.
