The Evolution of Superman and Cultural Reflections
The latest installment in the Superman film series, Superman (2025), has sparked a wave of cultural reflection beyond just entertainment circles. Christian commentators have found unexpected opportunities for evangelism within the film’s narrative, drawing parallels between the character’s evolution and broader shifts in cultural worldviews.
Mark Legg, a former associate editor at Denison Forum and now a philosophy graduate student at the University of Edinburgh, has explored these themes in a detailed review titled A Cultural Commentary on “Superman”: From Modernism, to Postmodernism, to Metamodernism. In this analysis, Legg traces the character’s journey over nearly nine decades, highlighting how his portrayal reflects changes in cultural perspectives—from the hopeful modernism of post-WWII America, through the skeptical postmodernism of the early 21st century, to today’s emerging “metamodernism,” which blends irony with sincere optimism.
The Early Days of Superman
Legg points out that the first Superman was not born into a bright and easy world. His debut in Action Comics #1 in 1938 placed him in a dark, corrupt society reeling from the Great Depression and on the brink of global war. The earliest stories focused on rescuing women from abuse, exposing corrupt politicians, and fighting injustice—not just punching out supervillains. These narratives reflected a sense of hope and responsibility during a time of great uncertainty.
The Postwar Era and American Ideals
In the postwar era, Superman became an embodiment of American ideals. Films like Superman (1978), starring Christopher Reeve, portrayed him as a clean-cut hero standing up for truth and justice. The 2006 film Superman Returns continued this modernist narrative of hope and responsibility, reinforcing the image of Superman as a symbol of American values.
A Shift to Postmodernism
However, the 2013 film Man of Steel, starring Henry Cavill, marked a significant departure from this idealized portrayal. Legg describes it as a postmodern take on the hero, emphasizing inner turmoil, moral ambiguity, and large-scale violence. Superman is portrayed as sexy, guilt-ridden, violent, moody, and morally confused. This version critiques the very ideals Superman once symbolized, reflecting a more skeptical and fragmented worldview.
The New Superman and Metamodernism
With James Gunn’s 2025 Superman, starring David Corenswet, Legg sees a return to hope—what he calls “metamodernism.” This cultural mood, popular among Gen Z and Gen Alpha, oscillates between postmodern skepticism and a renewed hunger for optimism. The new film “maximizes modernist sensibilities to the point of ridiculousness (but without being sarcastic),” offering a Superman who saves a dog, a crowd of people, and even a squirrel during an apocalyptic battle. He insists on showing mercy even to monstrous foes, embodying a blend of sincerity and irony.
Identity and Moral Choice
The film also explores themes of identity and moral choice. A key plot point involves Superman learning a shocking truth about his biological parents’ intentions for him to dominate Earth. Rather than succumbing to that narrative, he chooses the path of service, inspired by his adoptive earthly parents. This decision reflects a deeper exploration of personal responsibility and ethical choices.
Opportunities for Christian Outreach
For Legg, this narrative opens a door for Christian outreach. He argues that metamodern audiences, weary of constant deconstruction, are hungry for meaning, purpose, and hope. “The rise of metamodernism represents an opportunity for evangelism and revival in the youngest generation,” he writes. “Exhausted by the apparent doom and gloom of the future, they seek fresh hope to combat the constant deconstruction.”
Legg draws on biblical themes, pointing to humanity’s sinful nature (Jeremiah 17:9) and the transformative hope found in Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Corinthians 15:51). He echoes other Christian thinkers who see in today’s cultural moment a unique readiness to hear the gospel.
Intersection of Pop Culture and Theology
As a freelance writer and author of the Agape Sophia blog, where he explores philosophy, faith, and culture, Legg is no stranger to finding intersections between pop culture and theology. With Superman (2025), he believes Christians have a fresh chance to share the message of a Savior whose mission is not domination or violence—but self-giving love, mercy, and redemption. This film serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of hope and the potential for meaningful dialogue between faith and contemporary culture.
