In a time of uncertainty, reviews describe the new Superman as “wonderful, sweet, and charmingly different.” David Corenswet, alongside Rachel Brosnahan as the iconic Lois Lane, brings new energy to the timeless duo. Under the direction of seasoned filmmaker James Gunn, this Superman isn’t just about strength — he listens, understands, and responds to the needs of people today.

In an exclusive interview with Gala, David Corenswet talks about stepping into the most legendary superhero role of all time, the unexpected challenges that came with the costume, and how he hopes this portrayal will connect with a new generation.

GALA: What did Superman mean to you before playing him?

David Corenswet: It might sound odd, but just hearing the word “Superman” made me happy — especially when strangers or friends used to call me that, and not without reason. Honestly, I didn’t grow up watching the Donner films. I knew who Christopher Reeve was and that he played Superman, but I wasn’t into the movies or the comics. My connection with the character really began when someone said I looked like him.

There’s a funny story: I was in college with two close friends when the smoke alarm suddenly went off. I ran out of my room, grabbed a chair, climbed up, and managed to shut it off. One of my roommates said, “You’re literally Superman — you just appeared and saved us!” That moment made me realize how good it feels when people believe someone will show up at the last second, stay calm and positive in a tough situation, and help.

I never thought I was Superman, but I liked doing small things that made others feel like someone had their back. That’s who Superman is to me — someone with empathy, who watches over others and stays composed, even when he doesn’t have all the answers.

GALA: Everyone knows Superman flies and fights — how did you train for that?

Corenswet: Once production got underway, the real training began. We had to learn how to work with wires — how to fly, how to fight in midair. I had never done anything like that before. Maybe as a kid I tried rock climbing, and luckily I’m not afraid of heights, but this was a whole new experience — and honestly, really fun.

We had an amazing stunt team. They were fantastic teachers. I learned all the technical aspects of wirework and got used to the equipment. Later, we trained for specific fight sequences we knew would be in the film. That included some martial arts, although one nice thing about Superman is that, unlike other heroes, he doesn’t rely much on flashy combat skills.

GALA: What was it like to wear the iconic Superman suit for the first time?

Corenswet: Can I be honest? It was kind of disappointing. You know why? Because the first time you put it on, it’s made of separate pieces. The “S” isn’t sewn on right, the cape isn’t even a real cape — it’s all a bit of a mess.

These suits take so much design, construction, redesign, and fine-tuning. Especially once you realize how your body needs to move in them, how the fabric stretches, and how it changes over time… But the costume department did an amazing job creating mine from scratch.

Eventually, a few things happened: First, I wore it so often that I honestly can’t remember when I put it on for the first time. Second, every time a crew member saw me in it for the first time, their reaction was: “Whoa, that’s cool.” And third, I finally caught a glimpse of myself in playback after a shoot — just a quick shot — and thought, “Okay, this actually looks great.” But the moment it really hit me? During our promotional photoshoot. I saw the full look and thought, “Wow, this is iconic.” That’s the memory I hold onto as my Superman moment.

GALA: What do you hope audiences will take away from this film?

Corenswet: This isn’t just a film adaptation of a comic book character. What James [Gunn] created feels like the experience of a great comic brought to life on a giant screen, with real actors and mind-blowing effects. Instead of reading it on a page, you’re watching it unfold in epic proportions. I think that will really excite Superman fans.

And I hope it speaks to a new generation — kids who maybe don’t go to bookstores or read comics. Hopefully, this movie will be their gateway into those stories, just like they were for James when he was young. That would mean a lot to us.

Info
The movie Superman, directed and written by James Gunn, is now playing in theaters, distributed by Tanweer.