*Warning – this article contains major spoilers for Superman*
The latest reboot of Superman is currently flying high in cinemas. James Gunn’s revamp of both the Man of Steel and the DC cinematic universe has kicked off on a largely positive note.
A bumper weekend with more than $120 million in takings at the global box office, coupled with an 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, should have fans buzzing about what’s to come.
Naturally, that should include sequels, spin-offs and significantly more crossovers, hinted at in the new film. As a film critic, I made sure to catch the release at the earliest opportunity. Having been disappointed with DC’s recent offerings, I was pleasantly surprised and already anticipating what’s next, reports the Mirror.
So here are X things that I would like to see from a Superman sequel. Note, these are wishes for a straight Superman follow up, Justice League style crossovers or spin-offs do not count.
Keep Ma and Pa Kent safe.
James Gunn has voiced his decision to omit the overused origin story of Superman in the new film. He argued, rightly so, that audiences have seen it too many times and don’t need to revisit those plot points again.
The same seems to be said for the role of his adoptive human parents. Ma and Pa Kent still play a pivotal role in the film.
However, neither of them needed to die for it to happen.
Much like Batman’s backstory, we often witness the demise of Kent senior, with Superman’s inability to save him (Man of Steel, we’re looking at you) serving as a catalyst for his heroic transformation.
However, this isn’t the case for Gunn’s Superman. Their mere existence is sufficient motivation.
It would be refreshing if Gunn maintained this approach for at least one more film. Superman has already had a significant character development without the loss of a parent. If such an event were to occur in the future, perhaps it could take place off-screen between films.
Repeat the feat of Mr Terrific
Edi Gathegi’s portrayal of Mr Terrific is a highlight of the film. Despite some criticism about an overload of characters, I didn’t find this to be an issue. This was no Suicide Squad.
Each additional character – or Metahuman chosen to appear contributed something unique. Mr Terrific serves as the perfect example.
He may be one of the lesser-known characters from the comics, a fact the film cheekily acknowledges.
Nevertheless, he played a crucial role without stealing the limelight. It would be fantastic if Gunn could replicate this success and introduce another lesser-known character into the spotlight.
Could it be a character who initially appears to be an ally but quickly becomes a formidable adversary?
Show off Superman’s stylish combat skills
Edi Gathegi’s character delivers one of the film’s most thrilling action sequences, battling a camp of soldiers to the soundtrack of Noah and the Whale’s ‘5 Years Time’, all while Lois Lane observes from behind an energy shield. It’s classic James Gunn.
Regrettably, we didn’t see the same for Superman. Early in the film, it’s revealed that Lex Luthor has studied Superman’s battles meticulously enough to predict his moves and defeat him.
Consequently, we seldom see Superman truly showcase his abilities or style.
Perhaps this is something we could look forward to in a sequel’s opening sequence. Gunn did something similar with Guardians of the Galaxy 2.
The team was assembled for the sequel, and fans were treated to them performing their roles to the catchy tune of ‘Mr. Blue Sky’.
Avoid rushing Batman, Wonder Woman or Justice League cameos.
The unexpected appearance of Milly Alcock’s Supergirl ahead of her standalone film was a surprise. However, there’s no need for such significant cameos in future.
While it was enjoyable to have a few members of the Justice Gang around, Gunn and the new DC studios must steer clear of repeating previous errors. Past films that brought Batman and Superman together felt too hurried.
There’s uncertainty over who will play Batman in this new DCU. It’s almost certainly not Robert Pattinson, whose films are being treated as a separate universe known as Elseworlds.
Marvel took a measured four years to assemble the Avengers, following a clear blueprint. In contrast, DC Studios appears to lack a solid strategy for the new Justice League, so let’s not jump the gun. Particularly when we can once again savour Superman films.
Superman is in cinemas now.