Playing Superman is a big responsibility, as several well-known actors would tell you. Whether it was the legendary Christopher Reeves' performance that would set a new precedent for that man of tomorrow, Brandon Routh’s evocation of that inSuperman Returns, or Henry Cavill’s more subdued performance in Zack Snyder’s DCEU, there are plenty of examples of how each actor has chosen to embody such an iconic character. In the case of David Corenswet, who is set to make his debut as the character in James Gunn’sSupermanfilm, due for release in July 2025, the actor has one interesting approach to portraying the last son of Krypton.
In an interview with Esquire, Corenswet was asked if there were any times of uncertainty about playing a character as iconic as Superman. The actor replied, “In times of doubt, I’d ask myself, ‘How would Harrison Ford say this?’ It might sound like a lie, but it’s pretty useful to make important choices in my day-to-day life." This hilarious and unexpected response from Corenswet may seem odd initially, but it makes more sense when looking back at Harrison Ford’s storied and lengthy career.
James Gunn Confirms ‘Superman’ Changes After First Test Screenings
“We’ve done real screenings. Definitely learning stuff all the time.”
Having played icons such as Indiana Jones, Han Solo, and Rick Deckard,Harrison Fordhas become synonymous with the charming yet stoic leading man. Most of his well-known mannerisms are also from whenever Ford isn’t in character, as his deadpan interviews and hilarious responses about his career have also come to define the actor. That charm and straight-man line delivery may be what Corenswet is in reference to handling the pressure of playing Superman.
For ‘Superman,’ David Corenswet Has a Positive Outlook on Dealing With Criticism
Of course, when playing a character like Superman, there will also be plenty of criticisms about what was done wrong or what could have been done better.Henry Cavillwent through such experiences during his time makingMan of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, andJustice League, though he took them in stride and was still proud to portray Superman. As for Corenswet, the actor would say in the same interview, “I love to grow and improve myself through criticism. I don’t take it personally. Quite the contrary, it’s a learning experience. And every actor must accept it as it is to grow professionally.”
Corenswet is wise to look at one of the most successful leading men in Hollywood’s vast history when trying to channel his inner Superman and Clark Kent. When looking at the Superman actor’s already impressive career of 20-plus projects, it’s easy to see why James Gunn and Peter Safran ultimately cast him as one of the more prominent heroes who will undoubtedly play a big part in the new DC Universe going forward.
Superman’sJuly release date means that we won’t have to wait long to see Corenswet’s performance, and a stellar cast will also join him. With Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane,Nicholas Houltas Lex Luthor, and Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Corenswet has an impressive supporting cast that will help elevate his performance and hopefully tell a riveting story. Overall, the actor’s positive mindset on criticism and fun inspiration from Harrison Ford make it hard to root against him.
Source:Esquire
