Best Superman Movie Trailers, Ranked

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Summary

  • Trailers for Superman movies vary in style & appeal, engaging audiences differently to draw them in.
  • Zack Snyder’s vision for Batman V Superman excited fans at first with Superman & Batman together.
  • James Gunn’s Superman teases a very different Superman movie, but one that evokes classic comic books.

As a long-time fan of Superman, I must say that revisiting these trailers has been a thrilling journey down memory lane. Each one showcases the unique charm and promise of the respective films they were promoting.

Initially formed opinions matter significantly, and this concept applies well to trailers for superhero series like the famous Superman franchise. The legendary DC hero has starred in numerous films, with directors presenting him in diverse styles. This diversity necessitates that each trailer must entice audiences to the cinema through unique methods.

Some trailers were more effective than others due to smart editing techniques or offering an enticing sneak peek of the film experience. Even less successful Superman movies had trailers that managed to grab viewers’ interest.

7. Batman V Superman: Dawn Of Justice Teaser Trailer

The Original Teaser Set Up The Ultimate Superhero Duel

Although there were contentious decisions made in the film “Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice,” its original idea initially sparked enthusiasm among fans. This was due to the fact that it marked the first time Superman and Batman appeared together on screen, and the initial trailer captivated many viewers with glimpses of Ben Affleck’s portrayal as Batman and a grittier storyline where Superman is both admired and despised by Earth.

In my opinion, it’s undeniable that Zack Snyder aimed to highlight Batman prominently, but the captivating image of Superman soaring above the Dark Knight in the sky, poised to taunt their epic confrontation, skillfully piques the curiosity of viewers. After all, countless schoolyard debates revolved around who would emerge victorious in a hypothetical superhero showdown.

6. Zack Snyder’s Justice League Official Trailer

Fans Helped Zack Snyder Complete His Vision

It’s crucial to understand the context behind Zack Snyder’s Justice League, as the 2017 movie underwent significant alterations due to studio-mandated reshoots and edits that deviated from Zack Snyder’s original intentions after his dismissal. But thanks to persistent fan campaigns, even those who weren’t fans of the DC Extended Universe, the director was given the chance to complete his intended vision.

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, when the initial teaser for Zack Snyder’s Justice League unfurled, it showcased visually stunning effects, tantalizing glimpses of over three hours of fresh material, and an enticing peek at Henry Cavill’s Superman. The previous 2017 portrayal of Superman had been ridiculed due to reshoots intended for a more child-friendly appeal, but the 2021 version delivered the resurrected, powerful figure in the black suit that fans craved.

5. Superman: The Movie Official Trailer

Christopher Reeve Proved To The World That A Man Can Fly

A key element in the characterization of Superman is his ability to fly, which was significantly emphasized in Richard Donner’s initial Superman: The Movie. This flying scene was a significant component of the film’s promotional materials. The trailer predominantly showcases Krypton’s destruction and Clark Kent’s arrival on Earth, delaying the unveiling of Superman until more than halfway through. However, this unveiling includes several memorable shots of Christopher Reeve that have since become iconic.

Although today we take it for granted that Superman can fly on screen, this was a groundbreaking special effect when first shown in 1978. The film’s tagline, “You’ll believe a man can fly,” perfectly encapsulated this revolutionary idea and played a significant role in establishing Christopher Reeve as the iconic Superman. This movie not only became a defining portrayal of the character but also paved the way for future superhero films at the box office.

4. Man Of Steel Teaser Trailer

Henry Cavill’s First Appearance Was Somber Yet Intriguing

Following a considerable anticipation for another Superman film, Zack Snyder’s “Man of Steel” left everyone in awe with its first trailer, which leaned towards the ominous and solemn. This teaser primarily depicted Clark Kent as a nomadic helper, assisting others, while Jor-El’s voiceover echoed, highlighting his mission as per his arrival on Earth. This initial glimpse suggests that “Man of Steel” offers a more realistic portrayal of Superman’s origins.

A significant factor that makes the teaser impactful is its incorporation of Howard Shore’s melody from The Fellowship Of The Ring, which plays during the Fellowship’s mourning for Gandalf. This somber tune effectively portrays the grimness of the world Zack Snyder crafted, yet it also imparts a surprising sense of optimism as it transitions to scenes of a young Clark donning a cape and Superman breaching the speed of sound while flying into the heavens.

3. Man Of Steel Trailer #3

The Final Trailer Showcased How Action-Packed The Movie Was

The third trailer for Man Of Steel offers a glimpse into the grandeur and expansiveness of the film, hinting at elements such as the Krypton origin story, Clark Kent’s journey to Superman, encounters with General Zod, and segments from the climactic battle in Metropolis. Following the minimal superhero action in Superman Returns, Man Of Steel is poised to deliver on the return of such scenes.

In order to elevate the majesty of the action scenes reminiscent of Dragon Ball Z, the trailer unveiled the freshly introduced Superman score by Hans Zimmer. This new composition boasts a more grandiose tone compared to the legendary John Williams theme, yet it maintains a fitting style that aligns with Superman and has since gained equal notoriety.

2. Superman Teaser Trailer

James Gunn Quickly Impressed The World With The First Look At David Corenswet

The trailer for James Gunn’s take on Superman emphasizes Superman as a symbol of hope and positivity amidst a backdrop of jaded superheroes and citizens. It presents an authentic and imaginative portrayal of the DC Universe reminiscent of comics, where superheroes are prevalent, alongside fresh interpretations of Lex Luthor, Lois Lane, and Superman disguised as the bashful Clark Kent.

There is a sense that Superman is a diamond in the rough, as shown by shots of a child calling out to him for help and scenes where he seems to have failed Metropolis. With the inclusion of aspects such as Krypto and the other DC heroes such as Mr. Terrific, Hawkgirl, and Green Lantern, fans are already excited about seeing the first true chapter of the DCU.

1. Superman Returns Teaser Trailer

Nostalgia And Mystery Helped Sell Audiences On Brandon Routh

As a dedicated Superman fan, I must admit that “Superman Returns” didn’t quite live up to the epic Superman film we had all been eagerly anticipating. However, the marketing campaign for this movie was nothing short of brilliant. The initial teaser cleverly tapped into our nostalgia for the classic Christopher Reeve movies, gradually building suspense until the grand unveiling of Brandon Routh, all while the swelling notes of John Williams’ iconic theme filled the air.

In a more casual and readable manner: Superman (as well as Clark Kent) are often depicted in dimly lit or rear shots, with a focus on vibrant and inviting settings along with meticulously crafted sets. The teaser for Superman Returns evokes nostalgia while also hinting at something fresh and distinct from the previous portrayal of Superman. This is effectively accomplished when Brandon Routh is unveiled, soaring through the sky much like Christopher Reeve’s initial introduction.

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2024-12-20 19:25