Superman Hasn’t Changed
But you have.
Last week, there was quite the uproar on the right when Steel’s latest film got released. Their claim? They detected a message of compassion and empathy towards immigrants in this new “Superman” movie, which, honestly, seemed to unsettle quite a few in the magazine world.
Apparently, Superman has “woken up,” they say.
But, really, that’s just… misguided.
It seems overly sensitive, harsh, and quite frankly, pretty intolerant folks feel they have the right to not only indulge in their fantasies but also to spoil them whenever they catch a glimpse of reality. That’s basically what unfolded in this Superman film.
He didn’t suddenly wake up. He hasn’t aligned himself with pro-immigrant rhetoric. He remains the same caring figure, the one saying, “We’re all human. Let’s treat each other decently.”
He hasn’t changed.
Your interpretation of his message has shifted. And somehow, you’re furious. It’s like you’re upset because the world around you hasn’t fully embraced a dark perspective.
Take a good look around. Many are cozying up to dictators and billionaires with bizarre whims. You’ve, in a way, chosen the empire’s side and sidestepped any resistance. It’s baffling how some have even turned Elon Musk into an idol, despite the fact he’s practically a movie villain— a floundering billionaire using a self-absorbed president to launch rockets and invade personal privacy.
These films, which have shaped our childhood and held our life lessons, haven’t changed. They continue to depict the battle between good and evil, celebrating the underdog and emphasizing that hard work is more heroic than penthouse living. They still convey that treating one another with respect and dignity, regardless of appearance, background, or wealth, reflects the true goodness of our world.
These are the values we all grew up with, the same ones we held dear before it was common to shame or ostracize immigrant children or elect leaders who mock those with disabilities.
While reflecting on one of those classic films, I often wonder how many viewers miss or ignore the essential messages they’ve received along the way. (I can’t help but think of this when some tie their beliefs to Christianity, even as I’ve noticed that perspective getting sidetracked lately.)
From Cinderella’s kindness and the message against judging beauty, to Wonder Woman’s and Captain America’s empathy, almost every superhero narrative has pushed forward the theme of standing up for the weak and marginalized. These films, which once taught us valuable lessons, clash with what we see today.
That’s why Superman feels particularly poignant now, especially for those who’ve blamed Hispanic immigrants who’ve made the U.S. their home. The film, almost unintentionally, holds a reflective mirror to the abhorrent behavior exhibited by many in the country.
For those who constantly grumble about an “invasion” from “pests” at the border, pretending that hardworking people from elsewhere are the true enemy, that mirror must present an uncomfortable reality. It really highlights who you are, especially when the film’s characters echo your own misdeeds.
Indeed, facing that reflection must be tough.
But just know that the rest of us have been watching for a long time.
