Chinese Media Critiques Superman Film’s Appeal
The state-run media outlet Global Times offered a harsh review of the James Gunn-directed Superman, suggesting that it doesn’t resonate with Chinese audiences due to an emphasis on “Western Individualism.” This commentary aligns with the typical stance of state newspapers, which often portray American films as inferior to domestic productions. This is particularly true when it comes to narratives that adhere strictly to Communist ideology, often leading to anti-American sentiment.
Global Times noted that the modest box office earnings for Superman in China—where it garnered just $6.6 million during its opening weekend—reflect stiff competition from local films. They suggested that these results point to a lack of global relevance for many Chinese-made movies, which frequently fail to generate significant revenue outside their domestic market.
The film debuted in the U.S. and China on July 11, achieving impressive success in the American market with $122 million in ticket sales. However, international success is crucial, especially given the reported budget for Superman could be as high as $400 million.
According to Global Times, the film missed the mark with Chinese viewers, who generally favor stories that highlight “sacrifice” rather than individual excellence. A reviewer from the outlet, Chen XI, argued that the core issue revolves around Superman’s narrative of personal heroism, rooted in Western values, contrasting sharply with China’s tradition of collective sacrifice.
Chen suggested that the film might have been more appealing if it centered on Clark Kent, Superman’s alter ego, in his more relatable and mundane struggles.
“If Superman is portrayed as a lonely, god-like figure, focusing instead on Clark Kent could create a deeper connection,” Chen stated, likening Superman’s cultural challenges to the broader complexities of globalization.
The Chinese Communist Party maintains tight control over the representation of media, with the state largely dominating the journalism landscape. While some civic journalists make attempts to report local news through highly censored platforms like WeChat and Weibo, they often face significant risks, including arrest. The Committee for Protecting Journalists has identified China as one of the world’s worst offenders when it comes to press freedom.
Global Times credited director James Gunn for showing respect to China by promoting Superman, but ultimately concluded the film would struggle in the Chinese market, where local alternatives are viewed as more relevant. The review pointed to the success of the Chinese animated film ne zha2, which has resonated with viewers due to its roots in local myths.
The state-run paper stated that while ne zha2 garnered record-breaking viewership, Western superhero movies, despite their technical sophistication, often fail to resonate in meaningful ways with Chinese audiences. Furthermore, ne zha2 hasn’t drawn much interest beyond Asia, lacking any significant impact in the American market.
In the review’s conclusion, Global Times suggested that incorporating elements from the Chinese genre of wuxia—which embodies themes of justice—could bolster Superman’s appeal. Chen argued that blending Western superhero traits with wuxia could lead to a hero more aligned with Eastern values.
Interestingly, the film also skips over Superman’s iconic motto: “Truth, Justice, and the American Way.” Gunn described Superman as being inherently political while also addressing broader themes of morality and human kindness. He believes that these narratives have become increasingly vital.
