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Superman Wasn’t Terrible, But…
XEROFORHIRE PODCAST: Superman (2025) Review Summary
In this episode, Xeroforhire offers a candid, spoiler-heavy review of the 2025 Superman film, navigating a mix of praise, critique, and cultural frustration. He describes the movie as "fine"—not great, not terrible—but loaded with contradictions. While the central theme of superhero authority and international interference is surprisingly mature, much of the film unfolds like a child’s cartoon version of reality. From cheap-looking government sets and cartoony character behavior to clashing aesthetics that mix 1980s tech with modern cell phones, the film leans into a surreal logic that only works if you’re willing to turn off your brain.
Key characters like Mr. Terrific and Guy Gardner steal the spotlight from Superman, who, despite being kind and dorky, lacks the gravitas or respect traditionally associated with the character. Mr. Terrific in particular earns audience admiration for his competence, seriousness, and commanding presence—things Superman seems to lack in this version. Supergirl, portrayed as a drunk and foul-mouthed party girl, fails to offer any aspirational qualities, adding to the host’s growing concern that these characters reflect a post-Christian cultural shift.
Ultimately, the host doesn’t hate the movie, but finds it thematically confused—oscillating between childlike wonder and adult edginess. It's not meant for little kids, nor does it offer much depth for adults. Still, if you're in the mood for a popcorn flick and can ignore the tonal whiplash, you might have a fun time.
The episode wraps with a reminder to preorder Utopia, part of The Last Day series, available July 22nd.
Here’s a timestamped summary of the XEROFORHIRE podcast episode reviewing the 2025 Superman movie, including key commentary and critiques throughout:
(00:00–01:10) – Intro & Spoiler Warning
* Host opens with mixed feelings: “Not the best, not the worst.”
* Warns of spoilers due to low audience awareness or unfair pre-judgment of the film.
* Points out many didn’t even know the movie was out.
(01:10–02:30) – General Impressions & Ticket Price Rant
* Describes the movie as “fine,” but not worth buying.
* Would rewatch at home due to high ticket prices ($40+ just for two people).
* Cost of cinema vs. real life (e.g. electricity bill) highlighted.
(02:30–04:10) – Concerns from the Trailer
* Krypton the Superdog and weird fisheye shots raised concerns pre-watch.
* Early footage made Superman look like a trauma victim, coughing up blood.
* Initially assumed the film would be an “anxiety deconstruction,” not heroic.
(04:10–05:00) – Choosing to See It Anyway
* Despite reservations, decided to go with wife for date night.
* Also wanted to compare Superman with Mars (from user’s own book Utopia).
(05:00–06:00) – Misleading Political Themes
* Film rumored to be about immigration—not true.
* Actually about international interference and superhero authority.
* A surprisingly thoughtful core theme.
(06:00–08:00) – The World Through a Child’s Eyes
* Describes the movie as what “a kid thinks the world is like.”
* Government scenes feel like Power Rangers villain rooms.
* Characters (e.g. newspaper editor) behave like cartoon tropes.
(08:00–10:00) – Cinematic Style & Time Period Confusion
* Overuse of wide-angle lenses (possibly 17mm) becomes annoying.
* Film’s tech is inconsistent: 80s phones + cell phones = “What year is this?”
* Reminiscent of Batman: The Animated Series but less grounded.
(10:00–12:30) – Embracing Cartoon Logic
* Lex Luthor’s pla
Published on 1 month, 3 weeks ago