It looks like theDC Universeis already set up in a way where it will avoid one of the first Superman movie crimes when it comes to its own cinematic universe.Superman’s iconic movie historyis one that is only really challenged by the likes of Batman and Spider-Man, even though this film history isn’t a totally spotless one.
While Superman is a straight-forward character on some levels, executing his story in a way that resonates with fans and the general public often seems no easy task. As such, I’m glad to see that it already seems the DCU is evading one of the first true Superman movie mistakes based on howSuperman’s own storyis being set up.
DCU’s Superman Trailers Suggest Lois Lane Will Be A Permanent Part Of Clark’s DC Movie Story
Supermanhas already built up the idea that it will establish a version of both Metropolis and its protector that can not only kick off the DC Universe, but also provide a long-lasting cornerstone for the franchise. Much as we got glimpses of Gotham’s past inCreature Commandos,Supermanwill hopefully provide a starting point for Metropolis that sets up its past and future.
This also appears to be the case given the extra effort that has been put in to make those around Superman - both as a hero and as Clark Kent - a more focal part of the story. With the Daily Planet getting some nice focus, and Lois getting even more focus outside of this,it seems Lane’s story will be doubly important in Clark’s life.
Supermanis set to debut on July 01, 2025.
Given Lois being one of the few people to know Clark is Superman - and their relationship is clearly something that’s part ofthe DC Universe timelinefrom here onward - it seems the franchise will mirror the comics, wherein the pair’s relationship is essentially a permanent fixture of their lives. Happily, this approach seems like it would have several story benefits.
Other than the obvious benefit of getting an extended storyline between the pair, this would also make it easier to introduce characters like their son, Jon Kent, down the line - as well as Conner Kent to some degree, even though he’s a clone of Superman. Perhaps the biggest, though, is that this avenue would avoid a prior movie mistake.
Superman’s Trailers Make It Look Likely The DCU Movie Will Avoid One Of The First Major Superman Movie Crimes
The original 70s-80s Superman movies remain some of the most iconic takes on the Kryptonian hero’s story to this day - in part because they were the first big Superman movies, and in part because they truly nailed some aspects of the character. However, the original film series also has some more controversial moments.
The already divisive decision to tend the directorial reigns away from 1978Supermandirector Richard Donner was exacerbated by the receptions toSuperman IIIand laterSuperman IV: The Quest For Peace.One of the most controversial elements ofSuperman III’s storyline was that it entirely eschewed Superman’s romance with Lois Lane, replacing her with Lana Langinstead.
With both Lex Luthor and Lois Lane essentially replaced in the film, the movie immediately feels different to much of what came before, and loses some of the heart that made the prior films work. This also underlines how hard it is to replicate what makes Superman and Lois' romance work with other characters, explaining why this is Lana’s first and last appearance in the movie series.
TheSupermantrailers depict a fresh version of the classic Man of Steel - with his wide range of powers on display, his classic shorts on his costume, and his relationship with Lois helping drive him. Given the direction the DCU seems to be taking things in, adding something like a love triangle seems very unlikely, which is probably for the best.
Lois Lane Deserves A Long-Term DC Universe Movie Story
While we’ve gotten some more long-term storylines exploring Lois Lane’s life over the years on-screen - including Smallville and Superman & Lois' depictions of the unwavering journalist - letting a new version get the long-term big screen spotlight certainly doesn’t seem like a bad idea.
Though the DCEU’s take on Lois was interesting, the way Superman’s story unfolded meant that her story was also cut shorter alongside the hero’s own. As such, the DCU provides the first real chance for Lois to appear in a long-term and interconnected cinematic universe, which would let a lot of storylines that would otherwise be impossible seem tangible.
This is an exciting prospect, and one that’s all the more exciting given it offers theDC Universethe chance to learn from all the releases that came before it, includingSuperman III. Hopefully, whatever directionSupermankicks off for the franchise, it’s one that takes in all the lessons it can, including how prior Superman movies handled Lois' story.
