The Legacy of Superman and the Evolution of Lex Luthor
One of the most satisfying aspects of watching James Gunn’s Superman succeed is how it manages to honor the legacy of Richard Donner’s iconic 1978 film while also carving out its own unique identity. While many superheroes have been reimagined multiple times in cinema, there's something special about the original Superman that continues to cast a long shadow over all future adaptations. It set such a strong foundation that even someone as unconventional as Gunn couldn’t help but draw inspiration from the Christopher Reeve era, particularly in how he incorporated a key plot point involving Lex Luthor.
A Shared Motivation with Diverging Interpretations
James Gunn’s version of Lex Luthor is dramatically different from Gene Hackman’s portrayal in Donner’s film, yet both characters share a similar goal: to seize a large piece of land for their own purposes. This isn’t just a minor detail; it reflects a deeper evolution in how we view Lex Luthor as a character and what he represents. By examining why these two versions of Luthor want the same thing, we gain insight into why each film’s depiction of Superman works so well and why Lex Luthor has remained a compelling figure for decades.
The Plot Point Rooted in the 1978 Film
In Gunn’s Superman, it’s revealed that Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) sent weapons and millions of dollars to the fictional country of Boravia to help them conquer Jarhanpur. In return, Boravia would give him half of the conquered land, which he plans to turn into his own tech empire called “Luthoria.” While Luthor later claims this was all to defeat Superman, it still fits his character to want to claim a vast territory, name it after himself, and profit from it. This idea actually originated in the 1978 film, where Lex Luthor (Gene Hackman) planned to use a missile attack to separate California from the United States, hoping to gain control of the land for himself.
A Smarmy and Punchable Tycoon
Gene Hackman’s Lex Luthor is a classic example of a smug, wealthy antagonist. He exudes an air of entitlement and arrogance, reminiscent of late 1970s tycoons like Ted Turner or Donald Trump. His character is more about flaunting wealth and status than any real political or economic strategy. He’s a character who gloats and dares Superman to punch him, making him both infuriating and entertaining. However, the film doesn’t delve deeply into the consequences of his actions or the broader implications of his wealth.
A Psychologically Insecure Tech Bro
In contrast, Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor is more internally complex and driven by personal ambition. He wants Luthoria not just for power, but as a reflection of his ego and a way to undermine Superman. This version of Luthor is more emotionally insecure, driven by envy and a need to prove himself. It’s clear that Gunn drew heavily from All-Star Superman, particularly Grant Morrison’s take on Luthor as someone consumed by jealousy over Superman’s genetic superiority.
Reflecting Modern Society
Some critics have taken issue with how Superman incorporates current political tensions into its narrative. However, this approach allows for a more nuanced and relevant portrayal of Lex Luthor. By highlighting his insecurity and vengefulness, Gunn creates a character who is both threatening and reflective of modern-day issues surrounding unchecked capitalism and the behavior of tech billionaires. This isn’t a sign of laziness on Gunn’s part, but rather a thoughtful exploration of how our society views power and wealth.
A New Era for Superman
James Gunn’s Superman is now in theaters, offering a fresh take on the Man of Steel that respects the past while embracing the present. It challenges audiences to think about the evolving nature of superhero stories and the characters that define them. With its bold storytelling and deep character exploration, it sets a new standard for what a Superman film can be.
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