All DC Characters Unveiled in the Superman Trailer: Comic Comparisons and Visuals

All DC Characters Unveiled in the Superman Trailer: Comic Comparisons and Visuals

The highly anticipated teaser trailer for Superman has finally been released, offering fans their first glimpse of various DC Comics characters in live-action. Set to premiere on July 11, 2025, this new film will be the inaugural entry in the revitalized DC Studios cinematic universe, known as the DC Universe. This reboot has prompted several recasts for major roles, including that of Superman himself, although a few characters from the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) will make the transition to the new universe.

Even though the focus is on the titular hero, Superman features a robust ensemble cast, many of whom have yet to be portrayed on screen. The teaser, which debuted on December 20, 2024, showcases the supporting characters in vibrant, comic-accurate designs. Here’s a detailed look at those revealed and how they measure up to their classic comic book iterations.

10
Superman Emulates The Silver Age Of DC

Portrayed By David Corenswet

Superman in prison cell
Clark Kent as David Corenswet
Clark Kent in comics
All-Star Superman
Superman in All-Star Superman

In the teaser trailer, Superman is prominently featured, dramatically depicted as he falls into a snowy terrain likely representing the Fortress of Solitude. His bloody and bruised state raises intriguing questions about the adversary responsible for his condition. Corenswet also brings Clark Kent to life, complete with his trademark curly hair and iconic glasses.

The portrayal of Clark Kent differs slightly from his classic comic book representation, presumably enhancing the believability of his alter ego. Notably, director James Gunn has cited the “All-Star Superman”comic series as a significant influence on this adaptation. This homage is reflected in Superman’s costume, which closely resembles the design from that specific comic series.

9
Lois Lane Looks Like The Classic Intrepid Reporter

Portrayed By Rachel Brosnahan

Superman and Lois Lane in comics
Superman eye machine
Lois Lane at Daily Planet
Lois Lane in Daily Planet office
Lois Lane comparison

Lois Lane, recognized as Superman’s closest confidante, assumes a pivotal role in the trailer, showcasing the vital nature of her relationship with Superman. While traditionally unaware of his secret, the trailer hints at romantic moments, such as her kissing both Superman and Clark Kent. This narrative choice suggests that the film does not serve as an origin tale but rather portrays Superman as an established hero who may have already revealed his identity to Lois.

Rachel Brosnahan’s portrayal of Lois Lane remains loyal to the comic book aesthetic, featuring her signature dark hair and professional attire. However, she sports longer hair in this adaptation compared to certain comic versions depicting her with a shorter bob cut. The dynamic between Lois and Superman will evidently be central to the overall storyline, likely placing her in perilous situations throughout the film.

8
Jonathan Kent Is Seen Sobbing Over Something

Portrayed By Pruitt Taylor Vince

Pa Kent and Clark Kent comparison
Clark and Jonathan Kent in trailer
Jonathan Kent in comics
Jonathan and Martha Kent with Young Clark Kent

In a poignant moment from the trailer, Jonathan Kent is shown experiencing an emotional breakdown, being comforted by Clark on their family farm. The absence of Martha Kent raises troubling implications, suggesting her potential demise during the events of the film. This could echo the narrative in Man of Steel, where Superman faced significant loss, albeit with a twist where it is Jonathan dealing with grief this time around. Should Ma Kent have any role in Superman’s iconic suit creation, it would add an additional layer of emotional depth.

Pruitt Taylor Vince’s depiction of Jonathan Kent deviates from the traditional image of Superman’s adoptive father, who is often illustrated as clean-shaven with a full head of gray hair. Vince’s portrayal features a balding head and beard, yet it appears he will convincingly capture the essence of a farmer donning a faithfully comic-accurate outfit.

7
Krypto Rescues Superman

Based On James Gunn’s Dog

Krypto in DC Comics
Krypto comparison
Krypto in comics
Superman with Krypto
Krypto pulling Superman's cape

The trailer introduces Krypto, who has also appeared in promotional materials. He is showcased racing through the snow after responding to Superman’s call. Commanded to carry the incapacitated Superman “Home,”Krypto grabs Superman’s cape, indicating a pivotal relationship between the two characters. The destination—whether it be the Fortress of Solitude, Kent Farm, or another site—is left ambiguous in the trailer.

Krypto’s design in the live-action adaptation appears somewhat different, being smaller with a fluffier coat than traditionally depicted in the comics. However, he dons a comic-accurate red cape with the iconic yellow S-symbol badge. James Gunn has shared that Krypto’s design inspiration comes from his own dog, Ozu, emphasizing the unique character dynamic anticipated between Superman and his Superdog.

6
Lex Luthor Looks Especially Threatening

Portrayed By Nicholas Hoult

Lex Luthor in prison
Lex Luthor villainous in comics
Lex Luthor in Superman trailer
Lex Luthor comparison
Lex Luthor mech suit in comics

Lex Luthor makes a striking entrance midway through the trailer, seemingly within the confines of Luthorcorp’s headquarters. He watches a flying metahuman and engages in emotional introspection, suggested by his close-up shot as he spins the cylinder of a revolver. James Gunn has confirmed that Lex Luthor will be the primary antagonist in Superman.

In terms of appearance, Nicholas Hoult closely aligns with Lex Luthor’s traditional depiction in comic books, characterized by his bald head and clean-shaven look. Luthor’s portrayal in previous films diverged from this well-known image, with some fan criticism regarding his initial hairstyle in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Hoult’s portrayal indicates a commitment to a more comic-accurate Luthor, reflecting an overall trend within the new DC Universe.

5
Guy Gardner Appears As The Green Lantern

Portrayed By Nathan Fillion

Guy Gardner in Green Lantern
Guy Gardner dismayed in comics
Guy Gardner comparison

Nathan Fillion’s casting as Guy Gardner, introduced as the first Green Lantern in the new DC Universe, complements his collaborative history with director James Gunn. In the trailer, viewers can see Gardner utilizing his power ring to manipulate a Stagg Industries building’s windows as he approaches a vulnerable Superman. His appearance alongside Hawkgirl hints at a supportive team dynamic reminiscent of the Justice League.

Fillion embodies Guy Gardner’s classic appearance, featuring the character’s recognizable bowl haircut. While Gardner traditionally wears a green suit, in this adaptation, he sports a predominantly white superhero outfit reminiscent of Hawkgirl’s design. Despite these changes, Fillion effectively captures Gardner’s brash and confident demeanor throughout his brief screen time.

4
Hawkgirl Is Another Established Superhero

Portrayed By Isabela Merced

Wonder Woman and Hawkgirl
Hawkgirl comparison
Hawkgirl in comics

Hawkgirl makes a brief appearance in the trailer, following Guy Gardner into the Stagg Industries building. Fans catch a glimpse of her flying through Metropolis, wielding her signature mace. The character’s combat scenes remain obscured, particularly who, if anyone, she is countering, just before viewers witness Superman engaging in a kaiju battle in the same area.

In her live-action portrayal, Hawkgirl seems to wear a stylish combination of black and white attire akin to Gardner’s instead of her classic yellow and green costume seen in comics. She still performs with her steadfast winged helmet and mace, which gives her character a comic-accurate essence, though future appearances may showcase different costume iterations.

3
Superman Appears To Be Crying Over Kelex

Voice Actor Still To Be Determined

Supergirl fighting Kelex in comics
Kelex comparison
Kelex in DC Comics

In a heart-wrenching scene from the trailer, Superman is shown mourning over a seemingly incapacitated robot, clutching its hand with a visibly distressed expression. This moment appears to unfold within the confines of the Fortress of Solitude, inferred from the environment’s crystalline design. It’s presumed that the robot is Kelex, Superman’s loyal Kryptonian assistant.

The depiction of Kelex in the trailer varies from traditional illustrations; typically rendered in gold, the version seen here is a pale blue with a more humanoid head shape instead of its comic form. Nonetheless, the character’s iconic visor feature remains intact, further establishing its identity.

2
Metamorpho Appears In A Close-Up

Portrayed By Anthony Carrigan

Metamorpho in DC comic cover art
Metamorpho comparison
Metamorpho fighting in DC Comics

In a notable moment toward the end of the Superman trailer, Metamorpho makes a brief appearance, directly gazing at the audience. As one of DC’s more diverse characters, Metamorpho possesses the extraordinary ability to transmute his body into various materials, including steel and rubber. Although his role in the film remains unclear, his association with Stagg Industries could imply a significant narrative connection.

Since his presence is limited to a close-up shot, it is challenging to ascertain the full extent of his comic accuracy; yet, his shoulders appear composed of different substances, suggesting a patchwork design in keeping with his comic origins. The character’s pale skin and blue eyes also align with Rex Mason’s classic illustration.

1
Mister Terrific Wields Some Protective Tech

Portrayed By Edi Gathegi

Mister Terrific coordinating heroes
Mister Terrific fighting in comics
Mister Terrific comparison

Mister Terrific appears prominently in the trailer, sharing a scene with Guy Gardner. He showcases his prowess by generating a protective forcefield with his T-Spheres amidst a chaotic firefight, potentially involving soldiers from Lex Luthor given their familiar color scheme.

Unlike other characters, Mister Terrific appears highly faithful to his comic book portrayal. His distinctive black-and-white leather jacket and T-shaped mask echo his comic book costume, and there are indications that the phrase “Fair Play”may be featured on his attire based on set photos, reinforcing his character’s legacy within the Superman narrative.

For additional insights and updates, you can refer to James Gunn’s Threads.

Source: ScreenRant

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