New Superman – David Corenswet has revealed to Variety that he proactively reached out to two actors who previously played the iconic role — Henry Cavill (Man of Steel) and Tyler Hoechlin (Superman & Lois) — to ask for advice before taking on the character himself.

However, both “predecessors” refused to give him any specific tips. “Both of them, in their own way, said: ‘I’m not going to give you any advice.’ And I think that’s very ‘Superman.’ He’s not the kind of person who likes to give advice or tell others what to do,” David Corenswet recalled.

Instead, both Henry Cavill and Tyler Hoechlin simply encouraged him to enjoy the role — exactly in line with the positive and calm spirit of the character.

Superman is a film that reflects American politics

Also at the event, director and DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn spoke in more depth about the themes the new Superman film aims to convey, in an interview with The Times of London.

According to him, the movie is not just a story about a superhero, but also a story about America. “Superman is an immigrant who came from somewhere else, just like how America was built by people from all over the world looking for a better life. But for me, above all, this is a story that emphasizes that basic kindness is a value — something we seem to have lost,” James Gunn said.

He did not hesitate to confirm that the film has political elements, even if it may be controversial: “There will be unkind people who feel offended just because the movie is about kindness. But screw them.

Yes, the film will talk about politics. But on another level, it’s about morality. Superman believes that killing is never acceptable under any circumstances, while Lois thinks that sometimes there needs to be a balance. This fundamental difference in moral viewpoints could even create cracks in their relationship,” James Gunn emphasized.

In addition to David Corenswet, the film also features an impressive cast including Rachel Brosnahan (Lois Lane), Nicholas Hoult (Lex Luthor), María Gabriela de Faría (The Engineer), Nathan Fillion (Green Lantern), Skyler Gisondo (Jimmy Olsen), and Isabela Merced (Hawkgirl).

This is the first film that kicks off the new DC Universe built by James Gunn, titled Gods and Monsters. It is scheduled to release in Vietnamese cinemas starting July 11.