David Corenswet’s audition tape for Superman has become a viral sensation and for good reason.
Unlike the character as he appears in James Gunn’s theatrical cut—often emotional, sometimes pouty, and prone to explosive displays at Lois Lane—the audition offers a subtler, more grounded take on the iconic hero.
A Calmer, More Classic Superman in the Audition Tape
In the audition, Corenswet displays a restrained, measured performance. He maintains composure, embodying a mild-mannered Clark Kent while still taut with quiet authority.
Even in scenes opposite Lois (played by Julia Warner in the audition tape), he avoids overt dramatics, offering instead confidence and clarity—traits fans recognize as hallmarks of the traditional Superman.
Clark slips seamlessly into the role, ending the scene with the quiet, understated grace that’s refreshing in contrast to some of the theatrical version’s more emotionally charged moments.
The BTS Featurette: Gunn and Corenswet Spar Over Superman’s Emotional Tone
The previously released behind-the-scenes featurette also sheds light on a pivotal creative clash between James Gunn and Corenswet during filming.
The two got into a heated argument over the tone of a critical speech Superman delivers in the climax. Gunn pushed for an emotionally intense delivery—an outpouring, raw and vulnerable.
Corenswet hesitated, feeling it didn’t align with his understanding of Clark as composed and restrained.
David Corenswet and James Gunn having a heated discussion about the ‘Superman’ monologue pic.twitter.com/OFWvEOJhek
— Superman Saga News (@SuperSagaNews) August 12, 2025
The controversy
Gunn’s divisive version of Superman hasn’t sat well with fans. It’s only at $600M at the box office, much less than Matt Reeves’ The Batman and even Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel without adjusting for inflation. Gunn’s flick particularly fell flat with international audiences.
I like the movie, and even in my review, I pointed out how Superman felt like one of the weakest-written characters of the film. I like the Superman in the audition tape more than the final version.
It will be interesting to see if Gunn changes things going forward. Superman isn’t a big baby, he’s the Man of Steel.
