XEROFORHIRE PODCAST: Superman (2025) Review Summary
In this episode, Xeroforhire offers a candid, spoiler-heavy review of the 2025 Superman film, navigating a mix of praise, critique, and cultural frustration. He describes the movie as "fine"—not great, not terrible—but loaded with contradictions. While the central theme of superhero authority and international interference is surprisingly mature, much of the film unfolds like a child’s cartoon version of reality. From cheap-looking government sets and cartoony character behavior to clashing aesthetics that mix 1980s tech with modern cell phones, the film leans into a surreal logic that only works if you’re willing to turn off your brain.
Key characters like Mr. Terrific and Guy Gardner steal the spotlight from Superman, who, despite being kind and dorky, lacks the gravitas or respect traditionally associated with the character. Mr. Terrific in particular earns audience admiration for his competence, seriousness, and commanding presence—things Superman seems to lack in this version. Supergirl, portrayed as a drunk and foul-mouthed party girl, fails to offer any aspirational qualities, adding to the host’s growing concern that these characters reflect a post-Christian cultural shift.
Ultimately, the host doesn’t hate the movie, but finds it thematically confused—oscillating between childlike wonder and adult edginess. It's not meant for little kids, nor does it offer much depth for adults. Still, if you're in the mood for a popcorn flick and can ignore the tonal whiplash, you might have a fun time.
The episode wraps with a reminder to preorder Utopia, part of The Last Day series, available July 22nd.
Here’s a timestamped summary of the XEROFORHIRE podcast episode reviewing the 2025 Superman movie, including key commentary and critiques throughout:
(00:00–01:10) – Intro & Spoiler Warning
* Host opens with mixed feelings: “Not the best, not the worst.”
* Warns of spoilers due to low audience awareness or unfair pre-judgment of the film.
* Points out many didn’t even know the movie was out.
(01:10–02:30) – General Impressions & Ticket Price Rant
* Describes the movie as “fine,” but not worth buying.
* Would rewatch at home due to high ticket prices ($40+ just for two people).
* Cost of cinema vs. real life (e.g. electricity bill) highlighted.
(02:30–04:10) – Concerns from the Trailer
* Krypton the Superdog and weird fisheye shots raised concerns pre-watch.
* Early footage made Superman look like a trauma victim, coughing up blood.
* Initially assumed the film would be an “anxiety deconstruction,” not heroic.
(04:10–05:00) – Choosing to See It Anyway
* Despite reservations, decided to go with wife for date night.
* Also wanted to compare Superman with Mars (from user’s own book Utopia).
(05:00–06:00) – Misleading Political Themes
* Film rumored to be about immigration—not true.
* Actually about international interference and superhero authority.
* A surprisingly thoughtful core theme.
(06:00–08:00) – The World Through a Child’s Eyes
* Describes the movie as what “a kid thinks the world is like.”
* Government scenes feel like Power Rangers villain rooms.
* Characters (e.g. newspaper editor) behave like cartoon tropes.
(08:00–10:00) – Cinematic Style & Time Period Confusion
* Overuse of wide-angle lenses (possibly 17mm) becomes annoying.
* Film’s tech is inconsistent: 80s phones + cell phones = “What year is this?”
* Reminiscent of Batman: The Animated Series but less grounded.
(10:00–12:30) – Embracing Cartoon Logic
* Lex Luthor’s plans, newsroom antics, and chaos are treated seriously, but feel absurd.
* Scene with people entering a spaceship without seatbelts adds to the absurdity.
(12:30–15:00) – Supporting Cast Impressions
* Guy Gardner: Ego-driven boss who’s still OP.
* Mr. Terrific: “Generic 70s black guy” meets super-genius inventor.
* Functions well within the “kid logic” of the film.
* Mr. Terrific’s gadgets and fast-talking tech skills feel cartoonish but effective.
(15:00–17:00) – Superman’s Lack of Authority
* Superman is kind, dorky, but doesn’t command respect.
* Feels like “Clark Kent in costume,” not a heroic leader.
* Critique: reflects a post-Christian world where everyone casually swears.
(17:00–18:30) – Supergirl: Party Girl Gone Wrong
* Describes Supergirl (played by “Millie What's-Her-Teeth”) as a drunk, frat-girl caricature.
* Swears like the Joker, not inspiring for young women.
* Host prefers this version over the broody, edgy one from The Flash, but still not thrilled.
(18:30–20:00) – Mr. Terrific Steals the Show
* His fight scenes are more respected than Superman’s.
* Commands authority without being a jerk.
* “I don’t do people’s emotions” line lands well.
(20:00–22:00) – More on the League
* Scene with slow garage door gag feels pulled from Aqua Teen Hunger Force.
* Green Lantern flips tanks with giant middle-finger constructs.
* Hawkgirl has zero character—just screams and charges.
(22:00–23:30) – Who This Movie Is For
* Best for people who can “turn off their brain.”
* Not suitable for very young kids (due to intense scenes and swearing).
* Not bad—but not meaningful or memorable either.
(23:30–25:00) – Final Thoughts & Cultural Critique
* Most bothersome parts reflect modern culture, not the film itself.
* Swearing Superman is a symptom of societal change.
* Puzzled by people claiming the movie is “inspiring” or “makes them want to go to church.”
* Suggests this sentiment may be a scripted PR effort.
Closing Plug:
(25:08) – Utopia drops July 22ndPre-orders now available for Kindle; paperback to follow.
“Go read the book. I think you’ll enjoy it. Stay holy. Bye.”
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