DC’s superhero reboot of Superman is finally underway, and already generating buzz, but not necessarily for its colourful visuals or cast. What surprised fans is the runtime of this new Superman adventure, which has now been made public. Coming in at a mere 122 minutes, James Gunn’s Superman is presently the shortest film in the history of the franchise.
The film is scheduled for release on July 11, 2025, and speculation is building leading up to the release date about what the reduced runtime could mean for the story and how it will affect the rebooted DC Universe. Let’s take a look at the behind-the-scenes drama and what has affected the runtime of the movie so much.
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Superman’s Test Screenings Spark Major Changes
According to reports, Superman went through dramatic changes after early test screenings, leaving Warner Bros. executives jittery. The original version of the film, sources say, was more humorous, a choice that test audiences did not seem to like. As a result, several comic scenes were cut, reducing the film’s runtime and rebalancing its tone.
One of the editors on this film was swapped out during post-production, switching up some scenes and re-editing or re-shooting others. Although the changes preserved the overall storyline, they have affected the flow and pacing of the film’s narrative.
Another composer was even brought on late into production to re-score the film to balance the emotional tone following the edits. In total, about 25 minutes of the movie were eventually trimmed down. This shows that the studio and the creative team are trying to avoid past mistakes, particularly with this being the first major film that’ll kick off the rebooted DC Universe under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran.
A Runtime That Breaks Franchise Patterns
A number of reliable sources, including foreign distributors, have cited the film’s runtime to be approximately 122 minutes, or two hours and two minutes. Warner Bros. has not confirmed the runtime officially, but all sources state that the film will surely be 122 minutes. The shorter runtime will likely maintain a tighter focus on Superman’s story and give more importance to his status as a symbol of hope and compassion.
If this runtime holds, Superman (2025) will be the fourth-shortest Superman film ever. Only the following Superman movies are shorter:
- Superman and the Mole Men (58 minutes)
- Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (90 minutes)
- Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut (116 minutes)
For comparison, Man of Steel (2013) ran for 143 minutes, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) clocked in at 152 minutes.
The longer cuts of Superman include Superman Returns (154 minutes) and the television version of Superman: The Movie, which stretched to 188 minutes. Gunn’s version clearly aims to tell a tighter story, possibly as a direct response to criticisms that DCEU has faced in the past about making their films overly long and chaotic.
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Creative Changes Indicate New Emphasis
James Gunn’s approach appears more focused and intentional. Multiple sources suggest that the shorter runtime isn’t just about trimming excess. It’s also meant to establish the tone of the new DCU as fast-paced, energetic, and engaging, with a balance of action and heart, without leaning too heavily on constant humour like Marvel.
This is also DC Studios’ chance to reset expectations. Superman is the first theatrical release in the new DCU’s Chapter 1: Gods & Monsters. It’s positioned to establish the tone, character direction, and broader universe-building strategies that future films will follow. With a streamlined runtime and careful revisions behind the scenes, the studio seems determined not to repeat the storytelling issues of the past.
New Faces, New Vision for Superman
Starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, the movie marks the beginning of a new era for the Man of Steel. The film also features Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Wendell Pierce as Perry White, and Neva Howell and Pruitt Taylor Vince as Martha and Jonathan Kent.
As per the official logline, Gunn’s Superman will have “a unique combination of epic action, humor, and heart”. It will be centered on a hero “inspired by compassion and a fundamental faith in the inherent goodness of man.” The tone matches the DCU’s plan to move away from the darker style of the old movies and make their films vibrant and fun to watch.
Box Office Expectations Are High
The studio is going all in. Recent estimates have Superman poised to bring in as much as $175 million in its opening weekend domestically, which would be the biggest DC movie opening of all time, ahead of the $166 million opening of Batman v Superman. Even a lower $100 million opening would be a major success for Warner Bros., coming after a string of disappointments over the last stretch of the DCEU.
If the movie does as well as it’s expected to, it might be a game-changer for Warner Bros. With releases on the horizon such as Peacemaker Season 2, Lanterns, and Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, the DCU is counting on Superman to bring them back to their former glory.
A Carefully Calculated Launch
Some fans worry the shorter runtime won’t leave enough room to explore the story or characters, but others think it could work in the film’s favour. With less time to fill, the movie can focus more on Clark Kent’s journey and give viewers a clear look at who this new Superman really is. Winning over fans after Cavill’s exit won’t be easy, but a strong first impression could make all the difference.
Whether 122 minutes is enough to redefine the world’s most iconic superhero remains to be seen. What’s certain is that DC Studios is aiming to get it right this time. Fans can watch and decide for themselves when the film hits theatres and IMAX on July 11, 2025.
