Cavill’s departure is indicative of DC Studios’ intention to draw a line beneath the preceding era. Aside from a handful of exceptions, most of the DCEU’s cast will be replaced in the DCU as it adopts a new aesthetic and ethos. Arguably, none of these recasts pack as much of a sting as Henry Cavill, whose depiction of Superman was among the best-loved aspects of the DCEU. The DCEU movies in which Superman starred may have been divisive, but plenty of scenes demonstrate just how well Cavill embodied the role.
Henry Cavill’s Superman Era Is Back In Focus As The DCU Kicks Off
Fans Are Still Calling For Cavill’s Return
Despite my confidence in David Corenswet after the first Superman teaser trailer, I know I’m not alone in lamenting Cavill’s departure. The biggest challenge now facing Corenswet, who so far seems to be portraying a particularly vulnerable version of Superman, is measuring up to Henry Cavill’s depiction. Cavill conveyed similar traits throughout his tenure, often appearing as a tortured soul uncertain about his status as a near-invincible alien among mortals he tasked himself with protecting. His grounded portrayal explored how Superman would slot into a world not unlike our own while perfectly matching his physical attributes.
Cavill’s celebrated portrayal of Kal-El has brought the question of when and how he could return to the fore now that Superman is around the corner. Despite Gunn definitively drawing a line beneath the DCEU, the first hurdle for the new franchise to overcome is ensuring that its new flagship character can live up to the mantle like his predecessor. I’d wager that much of this residual desire to see more of Cavill’s Kal-El is thanks to the fact that he was never granted enough screen time in his own franchise.
Superman’s Future Is Bright, But Henry Cavill Was Underused
Superman Only Had One Solo Movie
However Corenswet’s Superman is received, James Gunn at least has the opportunity to capitalize on a DCEU misfire. While both cinematic franchises opened with Superman, the DCU has an opportunity to make its flagship character much more prolific than his predecessor. Despite being the foremost fan-favorite of the DCEU’s cast, Superman was front-and-center in only his first DCEU movie. Cavill shared his other main appearances with other members of the Justice League before the DCEU came to an end, causing fans of his character to lament his overall absence.
Superman’s Appearances In The DCEU
Movie
Role
Release Date
Man of Steel
Protagonist
June 14, 2014
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
Co-Protagonist
March 25, 2016
Justice League
Co-Protagonist
November 17, 2017
Zack Snyder’s Justice League
Co-Protagonist
March 18, 2021
Black Adam
Cameo
October 21, 2022
Across eight years, Superman appeared just four times in the DCEU and once in a cameo (that showed his face, anyway). Two of these appearances were different versions of Justice League, while Batman v Superman felt like more of a Batman vehicle, given the Caped Crusader had yet to star in a solo movie. Man of Steel may have divided audiences and critics, but I can’t help but think that Man of Steel 2 might have helped change the fate of the DCEU before it was too late. Unfortunately, we can only reflect fondly on Man of Steel‘s best scene.
This Superman DCEU Scene Was Henry Cavill’s Best
Henry Cavill Looks Incredibly Powerful But Is Also Calm And Cooperative
For me, the DCU’s Superman trailer successfully sparked the sense of wonder that should be synonymous with the character. Its bright color scheme looks like it has been taken straight from the comics, while several action-packed moments and mind-blowing visuals promise spectacle in spades. At the same time, I think Henry Cavill’s grounded take on the Man of Steel excelled most in the Man of Steel scene that showed him surrendering to the US military. With a full contingent of ordnance pointed directly at him, Henry Cavill exuded a quiet confidence that showed he was truly indestructible.
Henry Cavill reportedly based his Superman performance on comic books alone.
Superman could decimate the world but actively chooses to defend it instead. Henry Cavill, as he hovered unswayed above the might of the military, conveyed this perfectly in the scene. He surrenders to the military and accepts handcuffs, later stating to Lois that he wears them to make his “captors” feel secure. He is untouchable and assured, but willing to work with humanity on their terms.
I have no doubt that David Corenswet will perfectly embody that part of Superman that wishes for people to feel safe around him, as his argument for wearing trunks demonstrated.
I have no doubt that David Corenswet will perfectly embody that part of Superman that wishes for people to feel safe around him, as his argument for wearing trunks demonstrated. I’m also sure that his and James Gunn’s knowledge of and love for the character will manifest as one of the best renditions of Superman on the big screen. Nevertheless, this scene helps me understand why so many lament the loss of Cavill.
