Superman's immigrant backstory has ignited conflict in contemporary discussions, with conservatives criticizing it as 'woke.' The character, created by Jewish immigrants Siegel and Shuster, embodies the struggles of integration and identity. Many feel a deep connection to Superman's origins and seek to see these themes highlighted in new films. However, the character's historical portrayal has been sanitized into one that primarily supports American ideals. The recent film's return to the core narrative raises questions on how heroes are represented and who gets to define their identity.
The rebellious, radical Superman was dangerous. He could inspire. And so he had to be coopted.
Even before the latest Superman film premiered, it was already deemed controversial. A rather innocuous comment by director James Gunn referencing Superman's backstory as an immigrant sparked backlash.
Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, who created Superman in the 1930s, were both sons of Jewish immigrants and projected their experiences onto Clark Kent.
For a long time, Superman was whitewashed into a pliant superhero who worked with and represented American power.
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