The DCU introduced the acclaimed “Death of Superman” storyline in its first project, before the Superman the film was even released. The DCU Superman is the first film in James Gunn and Peter Safran's reboot of the DC Universe. However, the iconic Man of Steel has already established himself in the franchise through another DCU project that paid homage to the story of “Death of Superman”: Creature Commands.
The “Death of Superman” is one of the most memorable arcs in DC comics, chronicling the hero’s ultimate sacrifice in a battle against the monstrous Doomsday. The image of Superman's tattered cape flying like a flag has become a defining visual symbol of his legacy. With Creature Commands Referencing this storyline, the DCU chose to present its Superman in a highly unconventional way – not through triumphant heroism, but through his absence. This sets the stage for deeper exploration of your character in the next Superman (2025) film.
The first release of the DC Universe has just introduced Superman through the adaptation of The Death Of Superman
Creature Commandos presented a tribute to the death of Superman
The first release of DCU: Chapter One: Gods and Monsters is Creature Commandsan animated series based on the anti-hero team of the same name. In Creature Commands episode 4 “Chasing Squirrels”, Circe gives Amanda Waller a glimpse into a post-apocalyptic future. The vision depicts a battlefield filled with destruction, culminating in the image of Superman's torn cape fluttering in the wind.
The images directly reflect the iconic cover of “The Death of Superman”, where the tattered cape serves as a stark reminder of the hero's fall. The rest of the scene features a line of heroes hanging from crosses, reminiscent of the LJA “Tower of Babel” cover. However, it's the torn cover that steals the spotlight and leaves an emotional impact. This bold storytelling choice establishes Superman's presence in the DCU, but also highlights his importance to the universe.
By adapting such an iconic moment, the creators made a statement: Superman's legacy will be central to the DCU, even in his absence. This move also defies traditional expectations, as Superman's introduction into the franchise is not as a savior, but as a symbol of loss and sacrifice. This is particularly intriguing, as Gunn previously suggested that Superman would be a bastion of hope.
Superman trailer also shows a defeated Superman
The Superman (2025) trailer opens with a battered Superman
The first trailer for Superman (2025) continues the trend of portraying the Man of Steel in a vulnerable light. Opening with a stunning image of Superman lying face down in a snow-covered crater, visibly injured and bleeding, the trailer immediately sets a tone of fallibility. This representation is far from the invincible and divine figure that the public came to associate with the character, contrasting with Man of Steel notably.
Instead of soaring triumphantly through the skies, Superman is grounded – literally and metaphorically. This vulnerable portrait aligns with the images in Creature Commandscreating a cohesive narrative thread that emphasizes Superman's humanity. By presenting him as a hero who can be defeated, the DCU invites audiences to empathize with him on a deeper, more human level, setting the stage for a more emotionally resonant story.
Why DC Universe releases keep showing a defeated Superman
The DCU is creating a very different Superman than the DCEU
This recurring theme of a defeated Superman in early DCU projects is a deliberate narrative choice that serves multiple purposes. First, it substantially humanizes the character, making him more understandable to the audience in a way that divine depictions sometimes cannot. Superman's near-invincibility has often been cited as a storytelling challenge, as it can make his fights seem less convincing. By showing him at his lowest level, the DCU highlights your vulnerabilitycreating a hero who feels more approachable and grounded.
Secondly, this approach creates sympathy for Superman from the start. Seeing him fight and suffer endears him to viewers, making them root for his eventual triumph. It also sets higher stakes for your character, as your victories will feel hard-won rather than inevitable. This strategy ensures that the audience is emotionally invested in Superman's journey from the beginning.
Finally, portraying a fallible Superman adds an element of uncertainty to the narrative. As Gunn's Superman aims to be a symbol of hope, the D.C.U. I have already framed this eventuality as something wrought with trials and tribulations. This approach not only subverts expectations, but also reinforces the idea that even the most powerful heroes can face insurmountable challenges. When referencing the “Death of Superman” in Creature Commands and showing a badly treated Man of Steel in the Superman trailer, the DCU is laying the groundwork for a nuanced portrayal of its titular hero.
Upcoming DC film releases