James Gunn’s Superman 2025 is already creating waves, not just for its story but also for its distinct visual style (judging by its trailer). A major contributor to this look is the choice of equipment, particularly the Leica Tri-Elmar lens. Cinematographer Henry Braham, known for his meticulous attention to detail, collaborated with Gunn to craft a visual style that stands out in the crowded world of superhero films. In this article, we delve into the technology and artistry behind the lens that gives Superman 2025 its unique aesthetic.

The V-Raptor’s large-format sensor complements the wide-angle capabilities of the lens, producing images that are both immersive and sharp. This combination has set a new standard for cinematography in superhero films, showcasing the potential of combining traditional photography lenses with cutting-edge digital cinema technology.

Why Does Superman 2025 Look Like That?

Superhero films often rely on bold visuals, but Superman 2025 opts for a fresh approach. The choice to use the Leica Tri-Elmar—a fairly obscure photography lens—is a bold move. This wide-angle lens, coupled with the large-format RED V-Raptor camera, creates a look that is expansive yet intimate, capturing both the grandeur of Superman’s world and the subtleties of character-driven moments.

The Leica Tri-Elmar: A Closer Look

The Leica Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21mm f/4 ASPH. is a uniquely versatile lens that stands out for several reasons:

Key Features:

• Three Focal Lengths in One: Seamlessly switch between 16mm, 18mm, and 21mm focal lengths without changing lenses.
• Wide Aperture Range: An aperture range of f/4 to f/22 ensures versatility in various lighting conditions.
• Advanced Optics: Two aspherical elements reduce distortion, providing clean and accurate rendering.
• Floating Elements System: Maintains high image quality even at a minimum focusing distance of 1.6′.
• Compact Design: Internal focusing keeps the lens lightweight and easy to maneuver—a critical feature for fast-paced, large-scale productions.
• Tech spec: More ‘dry’ technical details can be found in this article.

This lens is typically used for photography, but its use in a big-budget blockbuster is rare.

The RED V-Raptor: A Perfect Match

Paired with the RED V-Raptor, the Leica Tri-Elmar delivers stunning results. The V-Raptor’s large-format sensor complements the wide-angle capabilities of the lens, producing images that are both immersive and sharp. This combination has set a new standard for cinematography in superhero films, showcasing the potential of combining traditional photography lenses with cutting-edge digital cinema technology. This is in contrast to the super shallow depth of field in super fast lenses used by Snyder. 

Henry Braham and the Stabileye Nano

Henry Braham’s mastery of the craft is evident in his ability to adapt unconventional tools like the Leica Tri-Elmar for cinematic storytelling. To further enhance mobility and precision, Braham relied on the Stabileye Nano, a compact stabilization system. This allowed for fluid camera movements, capturing dynamic action sequences without compromising image quality. For more on the Stabileye Nano’s role in Superman 2025, check out this detailed exploration.

The Gunn Look vs. The Snyder Look

Gunn’s vision for Superman 2025 marks a departure from the darker, moodier tones of Zack Snyder’s Superman films. By embracing wide-angle compositions and naturalistic lighting, Gunn and Braham have crafted a brighter, more optimistic aesthetic. This difference is discussed in depth in this article: Superman Trailer Released: The Gunn Look vs. The Snyder Look.

The Rise of Wide-Angle Lenses in Blockbusters

Wide-angle lenses like the Tri-Elmar are becoming increasingly popular in big-budget films. They offer:

• Immersive Storytelling: Wide angles draw the audience into the scene, making them feel part of the action.
• Architectural Accuracy: Ideal for grand, intricate set designs.
• Naturalistic Aesthetics: Soft distortion adds a touch of realism.

Despite their growing use, seeing such a lens in a blockbuster is still a rarity. The Tri-Elmar’s inclusion in Superman 2025 is a game-changer, setting a new benchmark for superhero cinematography.

Conclusion

While the Leica Tri-Elmar lens plays a significant role in shaping the look of Superman 2025, it is just one piece of the puzzle. The film’s visuals are a result of the combined efforts of innovative tools, cutting-edge cameras like the RED V-Raptor, and the creative vision of James Gunn and Henry Braham. This collaboration showcases how thoughtful choices in equipment can enhance storytelling. The use of the Tri-Elmar, in particular, demonstrates how even unconventional tools can find a place in blockbuster filmmaking, adding a unique flair to the final product.

For more details about the Leica Tri-Elmar, check out the listing on AMAZON which offers also a more affordable Boxed version of this lens.