Debunking the Backlash: Why ‘Superman’ Isn’t as ‘Woke’ as Critics Claim

In James Gunn’s new film, “Superman,” the iconic hero faces a shocking revelation: his birth parents sent him to Earth not as a savior, but as a potential ruler over humanity. This unexpected twist shakes him to the core.

Set a few years into Superman’s journey, the film shows Clark Kent, who grew up as an average farm boy in Smallville. He had always believed his parents’ message praised him for being a hero. When he discovers this was never their intent, he grapples with his identity.

Jonathan Kent, Clark’s adoptive father, reminds him that it’s not where he comes from that defines him, but his choices and actions. This idea is vital. Superman’s origins as an alien are part of his journey, but his true heroism comes from the love and values instilled by his human parents, Martha and Jonathan.

Interestingly, this Superman film has become a focal point in the ongoing cultural debate in America, particularly surrounding immigration. Gunn has pointed out that Superman embodies the immigrant experience. While some see this as a political statement, others argue it reflects the optimism of assimilation and opportunity.

Recent statistics highlight the complexities of the current immigration landscape. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, nearly 2.5 million migrants attempted to cross the Southern border in 2022. This drastic rise has sparked heated discussions about immigrants’ roles in American society.

Historically, the U.S. has a long record of targeting communities based on their heritage. During World War II, for instance, over 120,000 Japanese Americans were unjustly incarcerated, irrespective of their citizenship.

Gunn emphasizes that his Superman film is about kindness and goodness. As a testament to this, Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Long Beach) noted that Superman’s story is fundamentally that of an outsider striving to make the world better.

Social media reactions have varied. Supporters highlight Superman’s immigrant roots, while critics label the film as “woke.” Former Superman actor Dean Cain voiced concerns about the perceived political overtones in the movie. Meanwhile, many fans and political figures have defended Superman’s narrative, viewing it as a timeless tale of hope.

Superman, created by Jewish immigrants Joe Shuster and Jerry Siegel in the 1930s, has always represented the ideal of the American Dream. Across decades, he’s confronted various threats—supervillains, corrupt billionaires, and even hate groups. While some narratives have political undercurrents, Superman’s focus has largely been on heroism, rather than intense sociopolitical critique.

This debate surrounding Superman isn’t new. The character’s duality—being both an alien and a quintessential American—has raised questions about identity and belonging for years. Yet, that’s part of what makes his story resonate: the struggle to find one’s place in a complex world.

As society grapples with extensive immigration discussions today, Superman remains a unique lens through which we can examine our values. Let’s remember that he symbolizes hope and the pursuit of goodness, transcending borders and backgrounds.



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