Superman: Man of Tomorrow – The new future of DC animation

DC Fandome brought pleasant surprises to DC comics fans. The virtual convention showcased new trailers for movies and series and all manner of information’s about DC’s upcoming projects. One of the highlights, no doubt, was the release of a new Superman movie, which may be the beginning of a new shared Universe.

Superman: Man of Tomorrow follows a young Clark Kent, trying to make his career as a reporter work at the same time he tries to find his place to act as Superman. In this manner, the movie focuses on the discovery of his origins and his internal conflict about his status as an alien.

The movie presents us with essential characters from Superman’s mythology, such as Lois Lane and Lex Luthor, whilst also bringing in some not so present in Clarks’ stories in the form of Lobo and Martian Manhunter. The positive side of this choice is that we see new dynamics in a Superman story. The negative side is that the number of characters doesn’t allow a bigger development for each one of them. But this introductory characterization is enough to push the story forward and open up possibilities for the next installments.

The way Lois is displayed, as a young and confident reporter that can achieve feats which no one else can, even though she’s still in college, put us in the position to totally understand Clark’s admiration for her while the other aliens, Martian Manhunter and Lobo, work as ways to showcase Clark’s connection to his alien origins. While the Martian provides a sense of identification regarding their isolation in the world, Lobo brings an intense reality shock that puts the chaotic events of the movie into motion.

Lex Luthor has a part, that even if not that big, is essential and his findings in the movie have the potential to generate interesting ramifications in a sequel. The fight sequences are incredible, as we are used to with DC movies. It is extremely satisfactory for the fans to follow the combat between Superman and Lobo, and how each of their abilities and resources is used to show their strength and make for a balanced fight.

Metropolis characterization is thoroughly beautiful. The city of tomorrow is more futuristic than ever in this adaptation and provides a surprising scenery. The vibrant but soft colors bring a setting of optimism to this supposed shared Universe.

The film also touches on important themes, since there is a parallel between conflicts regarding xenophobia in current society and Superman’s story as an alien. We are taken through a reflection about how the way one group is represented by the consensus affect the participants of this class. This idea is present until the climax of the movie, which has the power to make us think through its manner of delivering the resolution of the main conflict in a way relatively different to what is the usual in Superhero movies.

In a nutshell the movie presents us a solid introduction to the new animated Superman and maybe to a new shared Universe, full of possibilities for the development of diverse characters and stories. It is a must watch!

And of course, there are some nice easter eggs…