Villains Revealed: Ultraman, The Hammer of Boravia, and The Engineer in Gunn's Superman

The summer movie season is heating up, and all eyes are on James Gunn's highly anticipated Superman reboot. Warner Bros. has released a brand new trailer that not only heightens the excitement but also provides deeper insights into the plot and the evolving relationship between David Corenswet's Superman and Rachel Brosnahan's Lois Lane. However, the spotlight is undeniably on the villains, with the trailer showcasing Nicholas Hoult's Lex Luthor alongside intriguing characters like María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer, Gunn's original creation the Hammer of Boravia, and the enigmatic Ultraman. This raises the question: who is the real villain in Gunn's Superman? Is Lex Luthor taking a backseat to other DCU adversaries? Let's delve into the array of villains and how they intertwine within the narrative.

Superman: Behind the Scenes Cast and Character Images

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Who Is the Hammer of Boravia?

The latest trailer introduces a formidable new character, the Hammer of Boravia, a creation by James Gunn rather than an adaptation from DC comics. This choice is intriguing, given the extensive DC universe and the many characters yet to be explored. The Hammer of Boravia was first hinted at through a faux-Daily Planet headline, suggesting chaos in downtown Metropolis, which we witness in the trailer as the character engages Superman in combat and unleashes a powerful laser attack.

The Hammer seems to rely on advanced technology, specifically a weaponized battlesuit reminiscent of the Zaku from the Gundam series. Gunn's nod to Japanese media extends to the film's kaiju-like monsters, blending Eastern and Western elements into a unique cinematic experience. The Hammer represents Boravia, a fictional nation that has recently invaded Jarhanpur, prompting Superman's intervention and drawing the Hammer's ire upon Metropolis. This conflict highlights the global challenges Superman faces, echoing themes from Zack Snyder's Batman v Superman about the repercussions of Superman's actions beyond American borders.

María Gabriela de Faría’s Engineer

After a brief appearance in the initial teaser, María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer takes center stage in the new trailer. Her nanotech-based powers are showcased as she confronts Superman, aligning herself with Lex Luthor. This portrayal diverges from her comic book origins where she's part of The Authority, a proactive and sometimes militant superhero team. The film contrasts Superman's traditional heroism with the Engineer's more cynical approach, reflecting the tension between old and new ideals of heroism.

The trailer depicts her battling Superman in a baseball stadium and attacking his robotic allies in the Fortress of Solitude, even targeting Krypto. Her allegiance with Luthor suggests she views Superman as a threat to humanity. While Gunn had plans for an Authority spin-off, Superman seems to set the stage for her broader narrative arc in the DCU.

Is Ultraman in James Gunn’s Superman?

The Engineer's association with a mysterious, masked figure has sparked speculation about Ultraman's inclusion in the DCU. The character's large U emblem and physical prowess hint at this possibility, though the film appears to take creative liberties with the source material. Traditionally, Ultraman is an alternate version of Superman from Earth-3, leading the villainous Crime Syndicate.

Given the film's focus, it's unlikely to delve into the multiverse; instead, Ultraman may be reimagined as a genetically engineered counterpart to Superman, possibly with a dramatic reveal. Physically, Ultraman seems poised to be the primary antagonist, challenging Superman with equal strength but lacking his moral compass.

Superman vs. Kaiju

The trailer underscores the movie's epic scale, with scenes of collapsing buildings and Superman facing off against massive kaiju. These sequences evoke comparisons to Legendary's Monsterverse and Pacific Rim, raising questions about the kaiju's origins and their role in the narrative. Lex Luthor's involvement in orchestrating such chaos is a plausible theory, fitting his character's modus operandi of undermining Superman's image.

Lex Luthor: Supporting Villain?

While Superman faces a plethora of foes, the trailer suggests Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult, might not engage in direct combat. Instead, he appears to manipulate events from the shadows, aligning with characters like the Engineer and possibly Ultraman. His traditional disdain for Superman's influence over humanity is evident, as he seeks to discredit the Man of Steel and assert his own vision of leadership.

Lex's indirect approach includes potential alliances with ARGUS and even scenes of Superman imprisoned, highlighting the political and emotional stakes of their conflict. While Lex remains the thematic and emotional antagonist, Ultraman poses the physical threat, setting up a narrative where Superman must overcome both intellectual and physical challenges.

Lois Lane and Clark Kent’s Relationship

Amidst the focus on villains, the dynamic between Lois Lane and Clark Kent offers a compelling subplot. The trailer opens with Lois already aware of Clark's dual identity, reflecting her keen investigative skills and setting the stage for a relationship built on mutual respect and intellectual engagement. This dynamic is further explored through scenes that balance their professional and personal lives, culminating in a dramatic kiss that signifies their evolving relationship.

James Gunn emphasizes the complexity of their bond, positioning Lois as a formidable partner who can challenge Superman on an intellectual level, avoiding the damsel-in-distress trope often seen in past adaptations.