CLEVELAND, OHIO — The much-anticipated trailer for the new Superman movie, directed by James Gunn, premiered today at 9 a.m., giving fans a glimpse of the blockbuster filmed extensively in Cleveland. Slated for release on July 11, 2025, the movie features David Corenswet as Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, marking the start of a new chapter for the iconic superhero.
Filming in Cleveland this past summer transformed several local landmarks into the fictional Metropolis. Mentor Headlands State Park became a retro Army base complete with tents, Jeeps, and barracks. Public Square was reimagined with park benches and bus stops to match the bustling cityscape of Superman’s world. Downtown Cleveland served as a backdrop for pivotal scenes, including Superman’s first appearance, shot in front of the Metzenbaum U.S. Courthouse.
Local business owners and organizations played significant roles in the production. Neal Grossman, owner of Grossman Inc., shared his experience contributing to the film. “They came out, took pictures and measurements of a firetruck I had for sale, and created graphics to transform it,” Grossman said. “I was asked to drive the truck downtown, park it in front of the library, and teach the crew how to operate it. By the time I left, it was wrapped in graphics for the movie. It looked like a completely different truck.”
The truck, which makes an appearance in the movie, was only needed for a day before returning to Grossman’s lot. Grossman expressed pride in being part of a project that highlights Cleveland on a global stage.
Cleveland’s connection to Superman runs deep. Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, the creators of Superman, grew up in the city’s Glenville neighborhood, where they first conceptualized the superhero in the 1930s. Their creation debuted in Action Comics No. 1 in 1938 and remains one of the world’s most enduring pop culture icons.
The Greater Cleveland Film Commission (GCFC) played a crucial role in bringing the production to the city. Their efforts helped facilitate road closures and coordinated local resources, boosting the economy and showcasing Cleveland as a prime location for major Hollywood productions.
Local businesses also reaped benefits. Dave’s Cosmic Subs provided catering for the cast and crew, while K&D Group’s Leader Building was transformed into the Daily Planet offices. The enthusiasm surrounding the production extended to Cleveland residents, who eagerly embraced the city’s transformation into Metropolis.
Fan excitement reached new heights when a teaser for the trailer was released on YouTube. One commenter remarked, “Truth, Justice, and a Better Tomorrow! This is so exciting!” Another wrote, “David Corenswet was born to play Superman. This is RDJ-level casting.”
The movie promises a fresh take on Superman, with a storyline that skips his origin and introduces a well-established hero grappling with his dual identities. The cast includes Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, adding depth to the DC Universe.
The Siegel & Shuster Society is working to further honor Cleveland’s Superman legacy by raising funds for an 18-foot statue of the superhero in the Glenville neighborhood. This initiative underscores the city’s enduring pride in its role as the birthplace of Superman.
The new Superman film offers not only a fresh vision for fans but also a moment of celebration for Cleveland, a city that continues to leave its mark on the hero’s story.
