Since Black Adam after it was believed he hung up the red cape for good. Almost a decade since Man of Steel’s debut, it didn’t take long for rumors to start about the production of a sequel and for fans to give DC another chance to bring Superman back to the big screen.
In 2022 and shortly after Henry Cavill’s appearance in Black Adam, supposed sightings came in of Steven Spielberg having a meeting with Warner Bros. Discovery’s CEO David Zaslav. Perhaps it was wishful thinking or the director’s past works that had many believing that Spielberg could direct the next Superman film, but regardless, there are few more qualified or ideal to give Man of Steel the soft revamp it deserves. Having helped to define modern mythology and delivered some of the most uplifting films of all time, as DC attempts to course-correct its past movies, it’s the teamwork of Spielberg and Cavill that’d give the world the Superman story it needs.
Cavill Is Bringing Back Superman's Hope & Optimism
After projects such as DCEU’s Man of Steel series never needed to be scrapped, just another opportunity to improve and a change of direction to deliver the hopeful outlook that defined Clark Kent for over 80 years.
Steven Spielberg has created some of American cinema’s most awe-inspiring, emotional, and beloved films. Through Cavill’s return in Black Adam, it’s clear he’s restoring hope for the DCU and never needed to be replaced just the right story told through someone like Spielberg that brings out the best in his character.
Spielberg Almost Directed A Superman Movie Already
Despite being previously associated with films like the Fantastic 4 movie. However, neither film would be Spielberg's first offer to work on a Marvel or DC project, as in the past, he almost worked on one of the most beloved superhero movies of all time.
1978’s Superman, for many, was the flashpoint of modern comic book cinema, helping to redefine and reimagine the character in a way that raised expectations of what a superhero story could be. Although Jaws became a success and the Oscar-winning director signed on for another alien film, Close Encounters of the Third Kind. While it may have taken almost half a century, Man of Steel 2 could be the Spielberg Superman movie audiences were always intended to see.
A Superman Movie Presents Spielberg A Fresh Challenge
Although responsible for films like Henry Cavill Superman movie would play to Spielberg’s strengths but require the full extent of his talent developed through his long career.
What always made Superman such an appealing character was the idea that as an alien who could bend steel with his bare hands and withstand the force of a collapsing building, he was more human than most would think. The struggle wasn’t necessarily Kal-El having to fight Lex Luthor; it was trying to show him mercy. Clark Kent doesn’t need to exist, but rather, Superman wanted him to because Earth was his home, and it allowed him to experience it in ways a Kryptonian never could. Spielberg would have his work cut out for him, not only portraying Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.
The DCU Landing Spielberg Is A Major Statement Of Intent
Between James Gunn as the new creative lead of the DCU and its previous rebranding, DC wants its audiences to know that their movies are evolving. After mixed critical receptions, confusing reorganizations, and various controversies surrounding stars like Ezra Miller, the DCU now more than ever needs its audience to know that from now on, DC films aim to raise the bar and deliver something better. Additionally, the DCU also needs to establish it's actively listening to the fans and what they want to see. Recruiting Steven Spielberg and restoring Henry Cavill in the DCU is one of the best ways Warner Bros. could make a statement in a case of their actions speaking louder than their words.
Steven Spielberg’s name is synonymous with beloved characters, timeless stories, and some of the greatest spectacles put to screen. Recruiting high-tier talent like Spielberg is an affirmation by the DCU to moviegoers that after some disappointments and struggles to find their footing, they will deliver a better cinematic experience. By hiring Spielberg, who directed films like E.T. and Jurassic Park, the DCU acknowledges that it’s aware of its critics and that people want to see Henry Cavill’s Superman again, but this time they’ll do him justice.
There’s an irony in the DCU where it faces the same struggles as the characters it wishes to represent. Some claim that DC’s cinematic universe is beyond saving, believing after so many mistakes and shortcomings, the DCU doesn’t need a Man of Steel 2; it needs to be rebooted from the ground up. While others see the best in the DCU, choosing to build upon what DC established and help it realize its potential. Superman taught audiences that sometimes all it takes is one person to make a difference, lead the charge and do something incredible. Steven Spielberg is the perfect person to restore faith and optimism within the DCU; perhaps through his unique vision and Henry Cavill’s return, Superman and Man of Steel 2 can once again take flight.
