'Superman' promo event soars into Beijing ahead of global release

"Superman" kicked off its promotional activities in China with a dazzling event at Beijing's Taikoo Li Sanlitun on July 4, ahead of the film's worldwide release on July 11. 

A promotional event for the upcoming "Superman" film at the entrance to Taikoo Li Sanlitun in Beijing, July 8, 2025. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

The entrance of the popular shopping complex was transformed into an immersive Superman experience, featuring giant LED posters, life-size cutouts and live-streamed behind-the-scenes footage. The display drew large crowds of fans and curious shoppers, many of whom posed with Superman sculptures and participated in interactive activities. 

"Superman" is directed and written by James Gunn, with Gunn and Peter Safran producing for DC Studios in association with Warner Bros. Pictures. The film is the first live-action installment of DC Studios' "Chapter One: Gods and Monsters," a new slate of movies and series intended to launch the next phase of the DC cinematic universe.

A promotional event for the upcoming "Superman" film at the entrance to Taikoo Li Sanlitun in Beijing, July 8, 2025. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

David Corenswet stars as Superman, with Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Gunn has described the movie as a story grounded in hope and kindness, highlighting Superman's immigrant roots and moral resolve.

A promotional event for the upcoming "Superman" film at the entrance to Taikoo Li Sanlitun in Beijing, July 8, 2025. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

Far from being a typical reboot, "Superman" serves as a tonal reset for the franchise, with Gunn aiming to connect with modern audiences, particularly young people seeking heroes who embody compassion and conviction.

The film launches DC Studios' ambitious new chapter, which began with the animated "Creature Commandos" in 2024 and will continue with "Supergirl" and "Clayface" in 2026.

With its global rollout, "Superman" aims to revive DC's cinematic legacy and reach new audiences around the world.