The DCU Just Used The Death Of Superman Before His Movie Even Releases

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The DCU has introduced the acclaimed “Death of Superman” storyline in its first project, before the Superman movie has even been released. The DCU’s Superman is the first movie in James Gunn and Peter Safran’s reboot of the DC Universe. However, the iconic Man of Steel has already been established in the franchise by another DCU project which paid homage to the “Death of Superman” story: Creature Commandos.
The “Death of Superman” is one of DC’s most memorable comic book arcs, chronicling the hero’s ultimate sacrifice in a battle against the monstrous Doomsday. The image of Superman’s tattered cape flying like a flag has become a defining visual symbol of his legacy. With Creature Commandos referencing this storyline, the DCU has chosen to introduce its Superman in a highly unconventional way - not through triumphant heroism but through his absence. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of his character in the upcoming Superman (2025) film.
The DC Universe's First Release Just Introduced Superman Via Adapting The Death Of Superman Creature Commandos Featured An Homage To The Death Of Superman Close The first release in the DCU: Chapter One: Gods and Monsters is Creature Commandos, an animated series based on the antihero team of the same name. In Creature Commandos episode 4 “Chasing Squirrels,” Circe gives Amanda Waller a glimpse into a post-apocalyptic future. The vision depicts a battlefield littered with destruction, culminating in the image of Superman’s torn cape fluttering in the wind.
The imagery directly mirrors the iconic cover of “The Death of Superman,” where the tattered cape serves as a stark reminder of the hero’s fall. The rest of the scene features a lineup of heroes hanging from crosses, reminiscent of the JLA “Tower of Babel” cover. However, it’s the torn cape that steals the spotlight and delivers an emotional punch. This bold storytelling choice establishes Superman’s presence in the DCU but also underscores his importance to its universe.
By adapting such an iconic moment, the creators have made a statement: Superman’s legacy will be central to the DCU, even in his absence. This move also challenges traditional expectations, as Superman’s introduction to the franchise is not as a savior but as a symbol of loss and sacrifice. This is particularly intriguing, as Gunn previously suggested that Superman would be a bastion of hope.
Superman's Trailer Also Shows A Defeated Superman The Superman (2025) Trailer Opens With A Battered Superman

The first trailer for Superman (2025) continues the trend of portraying the Man of Steel in a vulnerable light. Opening with a striking image of Superman lying face down in a snow-covered crater, visibly injured and bleeding, the trailer immediately establishes a tone of fallibility. This depiction is far from the invincible, godlike figure audiences have come to associate with the character, contrasting with Man of Steel notably.
Instead of soaring triumphantly through the skies, Superman is grounded - literally and metaphorically. This vulnerable portrayal aligns with the imagery in Creature Commandos, creating a cohesive narrative thread that emphasizes Superman’s humanity. By presenting him as a hero who can be defeated, the DCU invites audiences to empathize with him on a deeper, more human level, setting the stage for a more emotionally resonant story.
Why DC Universe Releases Keep Showing A Defeated Superman The DCU Is Setting Up A Very Different Superman Than The DCEU

This recurring motif of a defeated Superman in the DCU’s early projects is a deliberate narrative choice that serves multiple purposes. First, it humanizes the character substantially, making him more relatable to audiences in a way that the godlike depictions sometimes can’t. Superman’s near-invincibility has often been cited as a storytelling challenge, as it can make his struggles feel less compelling. By showing him at his lowest, the DCU highlights his vulnerability, creating a hero who feels more accessible and grounded.

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