Kojima Finds Superman ‘Human,’ But Questions Its Punk Credentials
A new perspective on the Man of Steel has resonated with acclaimed game director Hideo Kojima, though he questions whether James Gunn’s Superman truly embodies the spirit of punk rock. The filmmaker, fresh off work on Death Stranding 2, shared his thoughts on the film following a recent viewing.
Kojima, a noted cinephile and music enthusiast, offered a nuanced take on the latest DC Universe installment. While acknowledging the film’s emotional core, he suggests it diverges from the rebellious energy traditionally associated with the punk movement.
A Human Superman
According to Kojima, Superman distinguishes itself by focusing on the duality of Clark Kent and Superman, presenting a more grounded and relatable portrayal of the iconic hero. “This film gently observes the human being Clark Kent and Superman as one person, approaching him from that same human perspective,” he commented on X. “It is a moving and human film.” This shift in perspective, he argues, allows viewers to connect with the character on a deeper level, recognizing his vulnerabilities and internal struggles.
The director of Metal Gear emphasized that this representation, devoid of excessive ornamentation or idealization, fosters a stronger emotional connection with the audience. This approach contrasts with previous iterations of the character, often depicted as an untouchable, superior being.
The Punk Rock Paradox
Despite praising the film’s humanity, Kojima expressed reservations about its “punk” credentials. He noted the film was “ok,” but “neither dark or stylized, nor great, it wasn’t even super.” He acknowledged that the film’s emphasis on empathy and acts of goodness could be interpreted as a “new punk,” but ultimately didn’t feel Gunn’s vision fully captured the genre’s essence.
“Punk, in its purest definition, is about rebelling against the system, challenging what is established,” one analyst noted. However, the article points out that Superman manages to touch upon the core of punk despite not adhering to traditional codes, suggesting that rebellion doesn’t always require a loud, overt expression.
Interestingly, Kojima did find a moment of genuine punk energy in the film’s closing credits. “Punkrocker rang from Teddybears, with the voice of our own Iggy Pop, during the credits. That part was pure punk, and it was incredible,” he stated. This highlights the subjective nature of the term and the diverse ways it can manifest in art.
What’s Next for the DCU?
The discussion surrounding Superman underscores the evolving definition of “punk” in contemporary cinema. The article concludes by looking ahead to the next installment in the DC Universe, Supergirl, slated for release in cinemas on June 26, 2026, and anticipating the next iteration of cinematic rebellion.
