[Slate] What We Need Now Is a Benevolent Superman

If the Hero 47 Years Ago Was Strong and Mighty,
The New Film Presents a Noble and Virtuous Superman
A Bold Choice Amid Trump's Immigration Crackdown

'Superman' serves as a mirror reflecting the inner workings of American society. Popular content such as comics and films have always embodied the desires of people living in the same era.

Movie still cut from 'Superman'

When Superman first appeared in 1938, the United States was in a dark era. The Great Depression had struck, beginning with Black Thursday in 1929. The streets were filled with the unemployed, and there was a shortage of food in many homes. It was the downfall of the United States, which had risen to the ranks of a major power after victory in World War I and a period of economic growth. Although President Roosevelt's New Deal policies had brought about a phase of recovery, there were few notable results.

The emergence of Superman at that time reflected the hearts of Americans. Many people found relief from their suppressed desires by watching the exploits of a fictional hero. While in reality, they could not control anything in their lives, Superman was different. He transcended human limitations and even restored a sense of national pride.

Superman was first adapted into a live-action series in 1948 and a feature film in 1951. The globally renowned film 'Superman' starring Christopher Reeve was released in 1978. This was around the time when the Cold War, led by the United States and the Soviet Union, was entering a period of d?tente. The powerful status of the United States was projected onto Superman, who was depicted as a guardian of world peace.

Movie still cut from 'Superman'

In the 'Superman' film released on July 9, such an image is hard to find. From the very first scene, he is bruised and bloodied. He is defeated in battle and thrown near the Fortress of Solitude in the Arctic.

Director James Gunn did not portray Superman (David Corenswet) as a hero who mercilessly beats down his enemies. Instead, he imbued him with human vulnerability, making absolute goodness feel alien on Earth. This approach reflects today's distorted world, where even pure beliefs are swallowed up.

This intention is also evident in the story. While Superman's battle against his archenemy Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) remains consistent with previous content, Gunn focused heavily on misunderstandings and backlash arising from heroic actions. A representative example is the story of Superman preventing an invasion in a conflict zone of a dictatorship. He is praised by those who escape war, but also faces harsh criticism for interfering in diplomatic affairs. Luthor seizes this opportunity to wage a public opinion campaign and ensnare Superman.

Movie still cut from 'Superman'

Superman is put on trial because he is not human. He is an alien from Krypton, akin to a refugee sent to Earth. In today's American society, this makes him comparable to an undocumented immigrant scapegoated for all problems. Highlighting this aspect, especially as President Donald Trump tightens immigration enforcement, is a bold directorial choice.

In interviews with local media, Gunn said, "It seems that Superman appears at a time when people are losing hope." He continued, "Malicious behavior online is creating a toxic atmosphere in society. That's why I thought this story was necessary. We cannot progress culturally in this state. If there were a button in front of me that could make the Internet disappear, I would press it immediately. I don't make movies to change the world. But if watching 'Superman' makes even a few people a little kinder, I would be very happy."

Movie still cut from 'Superman'

The Superman he envisioned is also completely different in character from the hero of 47 years ago. He suddenly raises his voice like a child while talking to his girlfriend, and entrusts incidents involving the lives of many people to the Justice Gang (Green Lantern, Mister Terrific, Hawkgirl). Yet, he possesses a noble character, risking himself to save children, isolated female drivers, and even animals from collapsing buildings.

In American culture, a hero originally meant someone who saves others, not necessarily an exceptional person. From this perspective, some analyze Superman's archetype as that of Jesus, reflecting the religious mindset of Americans. Perhaps the Superman we need now is this kind of benevolent being.