Stan Lee’s Take on Superman: Why Vulnerability Matters

With a fresh face donning the cape and a new era for DC’s universe underway, audiences are once again drawn to the enduring appeal of the Kryptonian hero. David Corenswet and James Gunn have ushered in a return to classic aesthetics, a dash of nostalgia, and a journey back to the Fortress of Solitude. Yet, years ago, Stan Lee—the legendary mind behind Marvel’s most celebrated characters—shared his own thoughts on how he might have approached the Man of Steel.

Stan Lee’s Perspective on the Iconic Hero

In a 2006 conversation with Leo Bear, Lee addressed a question he often encountered:

People often ask me which of the DC characters would I have liked to have written, and it really doesn’t matter to me ’cause I like writing anything.

He went on to explain:

I think if I had done Superman I would have done him differently. I would have made him more vulnerable. I think the idea of being able to do anything makes you a little uninteresting.

Lee, who was responsible for the creation of such figures as Iron Man, Spider-Man, the X-Men, and the Hulk, was no stranger to crafting heroes with flaws. His approach to characterisation was always rooted in relatability, a trait he felt was lacking in the traditional depiction of Superman. Lee, who received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2011, passed away in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of complex, humanised heroes.

Humanity in the Man of Steel

Lee’s comments resonate with the direction taken in Zack Snyder’s 2013 film, which sought to bring a more grounded, human element to the character. While the film divided critics, it struck a chord with many viewers. Henry Cavill’s portrayal was praised not just for its physicality or action, but for the emotional depth and relatability it brought to the role.

Snyder’s interpretation presented Clark Kent as someone deeply connected to those around him, sharing more in common with ordinary people than one might expect. This sentiment was even echoed by Bruce Wayne in a memorable line:

He’s more human than I am. He lived in this world, fell in love, had a job. In spite of all that power.

Clark’s upbringing, shaped by his adoptive parents, played a crucial role in his development. His mother, Martha, was a constant presence as he grappled with his abilities, while his father, Jonathan, offered guidance:

You just have to decide what kind of a man you want to grow up to be, Clark; because whoever that man is, good character or bad, he’s… He’s gonna change the world

When faced with General Zod, Clark’s motivation to stand his ground was rooted in his concern for humanity.

James Gunn’s Challenge: Moving Beyond Perfection

James Gunn’s approach to the character has leaned towards a faithful adaptation of the source material, with a focus on comic book accuracy. Gunn himself remarked:

I think that old-fashioned is something that’s really beautiful and, in its own way, the most rebellious thing about that character.

However, this version risks feeling somewhat detached from reality, lacking the multi-dimensional qualities that made previous portrayals resonate. Snyder’s take, by contrast, confronted the character with moral dilemmas and the harshness of the world, encapsulated in the line, “no one stays good in this world,” while still holding onto hope and kindness.

As Gunn prepares to introduce his vision in the upcoming film, there is hope that he will infuse the story with greater emotional nuance. With Brainiac set as the antagonist and a partnership with Lex Luthor on the horizon, expectations are high for a more layered narrative.

Comparing Two Cinematic Visions

For those interested in the numbers, Snyder’s 2013 film was produced by Legendary Pictures, DC Entertainment, and Syncopy, earning a 7.1/10 on IMDb, 57% on Rotten Tomatoes, and grossing $670 million at the box office. Gunn’s forthcoming entry, produced by DC Studios, Troll Court Entertainment, and The Safran Company, currently holds a 7.1/10 on IMDb, 83% on Rotten Tomatoes, and has brought in $616 million so far.

Both Man of Steel and the 2025 Superman are available to stream on HBO Max.