The Superman trailer depicts the iconic DC hero in a Yamcha pose, and it perfectly demonstrates the direction of David Corenswet’s Superman. The trailer for Superman (2025) introduced the DCU’s new Man of Steel. Amid the action and drama, Superman is seen lying in the “Yamcha Pose.” This moment isn’t just a visual Easter egg for anime enthusiasts, but a powerful statement about the direction Corenswet’s Superman is heading.
The DCU’s Superman is the first film in James Gunn’s revamped DC Universe, commencing the cinematic arm of Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. Gunn has promised a Superman who embodies hope, compassion, and relatability while exploring what it means to be a hero in today’s world. Unlike the stoic, godlike portrayal of Superman in some previous iterations, Corenswet’s Clark Kent aims to reconnect the character with his roots as a symbol of optimism and perseverance.
Superman’s Trailer Opens With A Yamcha Pose
The “Yamcha Pose” refers to a famous moment in in the anime Dragon Ball Z. The character Yamcha lies defeated in a crater, his body curled into a position that became emblematic of complete and utter failure. This pose has been widely memed, often used to humorously represent crushing defeats or embarrassing moments.
The Superman trailer opens with a very similar visual: Superman, bloodied and battered, lying in a crater in the snow with his limbs curled inward. The imagery immediately recalls Yamcha’s infamous defeat, but its context in the trailer is far more significant. It’s a stark depiction of Superman at his lowest. The shot sets a tone that’s raw and unfiltered, depicting a hero who’s vulnerable and fallible right from the beginning.
Why Superman Showing Weakness Is So Deep
Superman is often criticized for being too powerful, too perfect, and therefore difficult to relate to. However, the DCU’s Superman trailer confronts this perception head-on by opening with a moment of complete vulnerability. In the first seconds of the trailer, Superman bleeds. Not only that, but he mimics a famous death pose and is ultimately saved by Krypto, his dog. This sequence signals that the film isn’t just exploring Superman’s physical strength, but his weakness as well.
Related
How Powerful Is Krypto Compared To Superman
Superman’s adorable dog Krypto is making his live-action big-screen debut, so here’s how powerful the DCU’s Superdog is compared to the Man of Steel.
This depiction of weakness is more than a storytelling device; it’s a statement. Superman’s willingness to face failure, pain, and even death elevates him as a symbol of resilience. By showing him at his most vulnerable, the film reminds audiences that true strength isn’t about being impervious but about standing back up after being knocked down. It’s a bold choice that redefines the Man of Steel, emphasizing his humanity in ways that haven’t always been explored. It signals that Superman is poised to deliver a deeply personal and emotionally resonant take on the classic hero.
Superman
Written and directed by James Gunn, Superman is the first movie in Warner Bros.’ rebooted DC Universe to center around the titular comic book hero. It introduces a new version of the Man of Steel after Henry Cavill’s departure from the role, honoring the character’s roots as “the embodiment of truth, justice and the American way.”
- Release Date
- July 11, 2025
- Cast
- David Corenswet , Rachel Brosnahan , María Gabriela De Faría , Edi Gathegi , Nicholas Hoult , Frank Grillo , Nathan Fillion , Milly Alcock , Sara Sampaio , Pruitt Taylor Vince , Skyler Gisondo , Anthony Carrigan , Wendell Pierce , Beck Bennett , Sean Gunn
- Distributor(s)
- Warner Bros. Pictures