The recently released trailer for James Gunn’s Superman (2025) has ignited a whirlwind of discussion among fans and industry insiders alike. While the breathtaking visuals of Superman soaring through the skies have captivated many, others have taken issue with certain aesthetic choices, particularly Superman’s facial appearance during flight sequences. Gunn’s bold claim that “there is zero CGI on David Corenswet” has only fueled the debate. In this article, we’ll unpack the controversy and explain how the flying scenes were created using straightforward and primitive but efficient filmmaking techniques, as revealed by the production team.

The Debate: Practical Effects vs. CGI on Superman’s Face

The flying scenes in Superman (2025) showcase stunning visuals of the Man of Steel gliding effortlessly through Metropolis. However, many fans on platforms like Reddit and Screen Rant have voiced their opinions on Superman’s face during these sequences, describing it as “uncanny” or “overly smooth.” A Forbes article described it as “looking weird,” raising speculation about whether extensive CGI was used to enhance David Corenswet’s appearance. James Gunn, however, has firmly denied these allegations. In response to the Reddit thread, he stated that no CGI was used on Corenswet’s face, crediting the unique look to practical effects and the optical characteristics of the Leica Tri-Elmar lens used during filming. Gunn’s defense has shifted the conversation toward the cinematographic choices and tools behind the movie, offering insight into how these visuals were achieved.

How Superman’s Flying Scenes Were Shot

The production of Superman (2025) involved straightforward and primitive but efficient filmmaking techniques and meticulous planning to bring Superman’s iconic flight sequences to life. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements behind the stunning visuals:

1. RED Digital Cinema Cameras

The film’s cinematographer, Henry Braham, utilized RED Digital Cinema cameras to capture the vivid, high-resolution imagery seen in the trailer. As detailed in YM Cinema’s coverage, the RED cameras were chosen for their ability to handle dynamic lighting conditions and deliver exceptional detail, which was crucial for Superman’s high-speed aerial maneuvers. Furthermore, it’s Braham’s weapon of choice.

2. Leica Tri-Elmar Lens

The distinctive look of Superman (2025) owes much to the Leica Tri-Elmar lens, which was specifically chosen for its wide-angle capabilities and unique optical characteristics. According to YM Cinema’s analysis, this lens creates a slight distortion and a dreamlike quality, particularly in the edges of the frame. Gunn has admitted that the lens contributed to the unusual look of Superman’s face during flight, as it slightly exaggerates features depending on the camera’s angle and distance. BTW, you can buy this very special lens on AMAZON. 

Read this article to learn more about the Leica Tri-Elmar. 

3. Stabileye Nano for Smooth Movement

To achieve the fluid motion of Superman flying through the air, the production team relied on the Stabileye Nano. This compact stabilization rig allowed for precise and smooth camera movements, essential for creating the sensation of flight. By combining the Stabileye Nano with the RED cameras, the team was able to capture Superman’s aerial sequences with incredible stability and realism.

4. Rotating Rig for Rapid Turns

One of the most discussed aspects of the trailer is Superman’s rapid mid-flight turns, which were accomplished using a specialized rotating rig. This rig allowed David Corenswet to perform dynamic, in-camera movements that mimic the physics of flight. YM Cinema’s feature describes how this setup enabled seamless transitions between straight-line flying and sudden directional changes, adding to the authenticity of the action.

The Gunn Look vs. the Snyder Look

The aesthetic of Superman (2025) has also drawn comparisons to Zack Snyder’s vision of the character. Snyder’s Superman films were known for their dark, dramatic tones and extensive use of CGI. In contrast, Gunn has opted for a brighter and more vibrant look, relying heavily on practical effects and wide-angle cinematography to ground the character in a visually distinct world. As discussed in YM Cinema’s article, this shift marks a significant departure from previous iterations of the character, aiming to deliver a fresh take on Superman for a new generation of audiences.

Conclusion: A Bold Vision for Superman

Superman (2025) represents a bold new vision for the iconic superhero, blending interesting technology with distinctive cinematography. While the trailer has sparked debates about Superman’s facial appearance, it’s clear that the production team’s commitment to practical effects and innovative tools like the Leica Tri-Elmar lens, RED cameras, and Stabileye Nano has set a new standard for superhero filmmaking. As fans eagerly await the film’s release, the discussion surrounding its visual choices will undoubtedly continue to shape the narrative around this ambitious project.