News Summary
Cleveland celebrates the premiere of the new Superman movie, directed by James Gunn, which highlights local landmarks as the fictional Metropolis. Key figures like Governor DeWine and Lt. Governor Tressel attended the festivities acknowledging Superman’s legacy and connection to Ohio. The film features various Cleveland locales and a special movie party event at Tower City. As anticipation builds, the release marks a significant moment for local pride and cinematic history.
Cleveland is buzzing with excitement as the highly anticipated new Superman movie premiered in theaters across the United States on July 11, 2025. Directed by James Gunn, this film reinvigorates the iconic superhero, showcasing multiple landmarks from Cleveland as the backdrop for the fictional city of Metropolis.
Key dignitaries, including Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, have joined TourismOhio in celebrating the significance of Superman’s return to Ohio. The legendary superhero has a deep-rooted connection to the region as he was created in the 1930s by two Cleveland teenagers, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. This connection has spurred local enthusiasm for the film, making it a moment of pride for many Ohioans.
The film showcases various notable filming locations around Cleveland, including Headlands Beach State Park, PNC Plaza, Progressive Field, The Cleveland Arcade, and Cleveland City Hall. The Cleveland Guardians’ field has been transformed into the Metropolis Meteors’ baseball stadium within the storyline, further providing authentic local flavor to the film’s setting.
As part of the festivities, a free, family-friendly Superman Movie Party is scheduled for July 12 at Tower City Center in Cleveland. The event will feature activities such as cape decorating, character meet-and-greet opportunities, and a special performance by the Cinematic Symphony Orchestra, creating a festive atmosphere for fans of all ages.
Development for the movie began under the working title “Genesis,” which received an $11 million Ohio Motion Picture Tax Credit in February 2024. Notable transformations included Cleveland’s Leader Building, which was converted into the film’s version of the Daily Planet, representing one of the last remaining historic newspaper buildings in the city.
Governor DeWine praised Superman’s significance in representing Ohio’s creative spirit, emphasizing the character’s impact on families around the world. Director James Gunn expressed his affection for Cleveland’s architectural diversity, which he believes enhanced the portrayal of Metropolis in the film. His personal enjoyment of filming in the city was apparent, as he engaged with local culture while donning Cleveland-themed apparel throughout the shoot.
The film stars key cast members David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, and Nicholas Hoult, who bring fresh energy to the beloved comic book characters. In addition to Cleveland, filming also took place in Cincinnati, with scenes shot at the Lytle Tunnel and the Cincinnati Museum Center, locations that embody elements inspired by the Hall of Justice found in DC Comics.
Residents of Cleveland have shown heightened enthusiasm over the extensive showcase of their city’s landmarks, intertwining them with the superhero’s narrative. The movie also pays homage to Superman’s origins, featuring significant locations in Deep Ohio. The premiere is anticipated to attract numerous viewers eager to experience local landmarks while reliving the storied history of the character they hold dear.
The release of this film represents a formidable union of Cleveland’s culture and the legendary figure of Superman, marking a pivotal moment in local pride and cinematic history. As screenings continue, anticipation grows amongst fans both locally and globally, heralding a joyful return of one of Ohio’s greatest creations to the big screen.
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Additional Resources
- Cleveland.com: Superman Puts Cleveland in the Spotlight
- Wikipedia: Superman
- Cleveland19: Superman Flies into Theaters
- Google Search: Superman movie 2025 Cleveland
- WKYC: Superman Movie Released with Cleveland Locations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Superman
- News 5 Cleveland: Cleveland Landmarks in New Superman Movie
- Google News: Superman Ohio 2025

Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.