The world finally knows what David Corenswet’s titular hero will look like in Superman, and the DCU’s lead-off superhero is already bucking a common super-suit trend. Ever since James Gunn announced the first few years of DC Universe projects would start on the big screen with the then-titled Superman: Legacy (now simply called Superman), debates have raged over what exactly Clark’s outfit should be. Finally, Gunn has revealed the first image of Corenswet in his full Superman outfit, which sports a mix of apparent inspirations both old and new.

While almost every superhero has an important relationship with their costume and overall visual design, few pairings inspire as heated opinions as Superman and his red and blue get-up. From the classic simpleness of Christopher Reeves’ 1978 Superman franchise to Henry Cavill’s more alien design, Superman has looked markedly different from actor to actor. However, Corenswet’s unique Superman reveal is bold and manages to avoid a frustrating trend all too common in modern superhero movies.

David’ Corenswet’s Superman Suit Looks Like Actual Clothing

Gunn posted Corenswet in his full Superman outfit on Threads and Instagram early on May 6, and while the design has been met with general positivity, there’s also been a bit of surprise and confusion about the composition of the photograph and some details of the suit itself. For lack of a better phrase, Superman’s suit looks lived in. Not only is it dirty, but it’s also not a painted-on-tight mystery of physics mysteriously clinging to Corenswet’s body.

For lack of a better phrase, Superman’s suit looks lived in.

Likely anticipating questions about the suit’s fit, Gunn clarified in his Threads post that the image is entirely “in-camera.” What this means is that everything seen by viewers is what the camera registered, devoid of touch-ups or digital alterations (the Metropolis skyline and energy blast is likely a large, wrap-around digital screen often used in film production). Corenswet’s suit has bulk and weight to it, and wrinkles adorn his arms, shoulders, and torso. The cape hangs down to the ground without billowing. The fabric actually looks real.

While the unique approach to Superman’s visual debut likely won’t be for everyone, it stands in contrast to a disappointing trend in big-budget superhero movies. While practical suits can be incredibly challenging to make and film, the over-use of CGI often detracts from the overall experience. Recently, The Flash faced criticism for its overall visual effects, but notably for the bizarre, uncanny valley effect of seeing Ezra Miller in a suit over-altered by special effects. However, the MCU has also earned notable and often justified criticism for poor CGI taking the place of more tangible feeling practical suits and sets.

James Gunn’s Superman Reveal Is Shockingly Grounded

More than just Clark’s suit, though, the entire Superman reveal is surprisingly grounded. Many likely and reasonably expected Superman’s debut image to be overly heroic. Perhaps Clark would be flying through the sky, brightly lit by the sun in front of a clear Metropolis sky. Instead, Corenswet’s Clark is shown in a surprisingly human moment, sitting down and putting on his boots.

While less action-packed or vibrant than some may like, this picture highlights the best part of Clark Kent. Despite being an alien and one of, if not the most powerful beings on the planet, he’s got the heart of a boy from Kansas and is perhaps more human than anyone. While Superman‘s official marketing materials will likely be as bombastic as other heroes’, Gunn’s first look is a great sign that he knows what makes Superman special.