Metro Manila, Philippines – Manila played host to a superhero spectacle as the cast and crew of the highly anticipated 2025 Superman film launched their global press tour right here in the Philippines. As part of NewsWatch Plus, I had the privilege of joining the action, witnessing the fan frenzy firsthand, and now sharing what it was like when the Man of Steel touched down in the capital.
David Corenswet, who now wears the cape as Superman/Clark Kent, arrived alongside Rachel Brosnahan (Lois Lane), producer Peter Safran, and director James Gunn. Their first stop: the Mall of Asia (MOA) Music Hall in Pasay City, where a sea of red capes and “S” emblems welcomed them with open arms and loud cheers. The group’s visit to the Philippines is their first stop on a worldwide tour that will take them to countries like Brazil, the UK, France, the US, and China.
‘Superman’ Cast and Crew Meet the Fans
The red carpet event capped off a whirlwind day. That morning, the stars joined hundreds of fans at the Bridgetowne Open Grounds for a massive Superman-themed photo op. Then came a uniquely Filipino twist: a lumpia-making session with food content creator Abi Marquez.
By afternoon, the team boarded a custom Superman-themed jeepney and circled the MOA Globe, greeted by onlookers at every turn. A fireworks display followed, adding even more excitement before the group finally hit the red carpet. Fans had been waiting for hours, clutching posters, comic books, and action figures, hoping for signatures. James Gunn, best known for his work on Guardians of the Galaxy, was mobbed like a rock star.
Posters were signed, hands were shaken, and smiles were everywhere. You could feel the energy radiating from the crowd with every step the cast took. I managed to have a brief chat with Brosnahan (best known for her award-winning role inThe Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) and even got my poster signed.
Once on stage, the cast addressed the roaring crowd. “The Filipino fans are the best. I talk to these guys all the time online!” Gunn said, visibly thrilled. Safran added, “We’re so impressed and grateful for the fandom of DC and Superman here in the Philippines.” Brosnahan was equally moved: “This energy is the wind beneath our wings as we take these next steps on our tour.”
To end the night, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan gifted each guest with a miniature replica of the Superman jeepney. Gunn, phone in hand, captured a parting video with the crowd shouting “Superman! Superman!”
A Special Preview Screening Surprise
As if the fan event wasn't enough, a lucky group of attendees (including select members of the press) were invited to an exclusive screening of the first 30 minutes of the film. Gunn introduced the clip personally, telling us, “This is a movie about goodness and hope. This is for you, Manila.”
Corenswet, clearly moved by the crowd’s energy, shared, “To see such a great, enthusiastic group of people, some of whom have been here all day, I’m just so happy you’re going to be some of the first people that we share this movie with.”
While I can’t reveal too much without giving away spoilers, I can say that Superman’s dog Krypto, making his live-action cinematic debut, leaves a big impression—along with Nicholas Hoult’s sharp and compelling take on Lex Luthor. There’s also a playful back-and-forth between Clark and Lois that immediately sets the tone for their relationship. The film skips the usual pleasantries and origin story, jumping straight into the action with Superman already in battle. It’s a fun, energetic opening that sets the stage for what looks to be a very promising film.
What to Expect from the New Film
The next day, I was invited to a more intimate setting: a press conference with Gunn, Corenswet, and Brosnahan, where they spoke more about the film and reflected on their experience in Manila.
For context, this Superman film represents a major shift for DC. In 2022, following a string of underwhelming releases, Warner Bros. Discovery appointed James Gunn and Peter Safran as co-heads of the newly restructured DC Studios. They were tasked with rebooting the cinematic universe and setting a new creative direction. This film is the first official title to emerge from that vision.
Instead of revisiting Superman’s origin story, Gunn explained that this version begins with a fully formed character. Superman already has a job at the Daily Planet, a group of friends, and a growing relationship with Lois Lane. “It was a joy to bring Superman to the screen in this way and not change a thing about the character. We just gave him more life and ideas about who he is,” Gunn said.
A fun moment came when host Justin Quirino mentioned the Philippines’ fascination with “love teams.” Gunn looked puzzled and asked, “What are love teams?” Quirino described the local tradition of pairing actors in romantic storylines across multiple projects. Brosnahan smiled, reached out, and held Corenswet’s hand to the delight of the press.
Speaking about Lois Lane, Brosnahan said she was drawn to the character’s strength and clarity. “She’s an everyday superhero. Just like Superman, she isn’t knocked off balance easily. She’s ten steps ahead of everyone.”
Corenswet talked about the emotional depth he found in playing Superman. “He struggles with feeling lonely and isolated from the people he loves most. He wants to connect with humanity but knows he isn’t quite like them.”
When asked what it was like to see Corenswet in costume, Brosnahan said with a smile, “Every adult became a kid again. I can only hope that everybody watching gets that same experience.”
Superman Returns in July
The world tour may have just started, but Superman has already left his mark in Manila. Philippine fans won’t have to wait long—Superman hits theaters nationwide on July 9th.