The DCU Already Has Its Own Hulk (& It’s Not Who You’d Expect)

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In contrast to the DC Universe’s efforts to distinguish itself from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Superman is set in a world where metahumans are commonplace, rather than having his origin story detailed separately. The Justice League is already established and ready to lend a hand whenever it serves their interests, relieving Superman of the need to form a team. Removing excess backstory allows more room for character development. Interestingly, despite these differences, Superman subtly emulates one aspect from the MCU that’s noticeable.

In his attempt to eliminate Superman from the scene, Lex Luthor causes significant destruction. Since Superman is usually found defending Metropolis, it’s this city that suffers much of the damage. However, it’s important to note that not all chaos in the city can be attributed to Lex alone. The DC Universe’s equivalent of the Hulk also leaves a trail of devastation behind.

Krypto Is a Dog in a China Shop in Superman

In a short while, Superman quickly introduces Krypto into the storyline. The film begins immediately following Superman’s defeat by the Hammer of Boravia, leaving him wounded and in need of assistance. Krypto makes an appearance on the scene, frantically jumping around the injured Superman, worsening his condition. After recovering at the Fortress of Solitude with some Vitamin D, Superman is ready to leave but is halted when he finds the base in chaos due to Krypto’s uncontrollable behavior. The dog can’t seem to calm down, but there isn’t much time for training as Lex Luthor starts causing trouble.

In their next encounter, Krypto finds himself in a situation where Lex Luthor and his associates are attacking the Fortress of Solitude. The Engineer and Ultraman swiftly disarm Superman’s robots, then focus on Krypto. Despite putting up a good fight for a minute, Krypto struggles against the Engineer’s nanites. Eventually, Krypto succumbs to their power and is taken by Lex into his pocket universe for study. Later, Superman also finds himself surrendering to the U.S. government but forms an alliance with Element Man during his imprisonment. Once freed, Krypto seeks revenge on Lex, unleashing his hidden strength akin to the Hulk.

Lex Luthor Gets Tossed Around Like The Avengers‘ Loki

In a desperate move to trap and eliminate Superman, Lex splits Metropolis in half using his pocket universe, putting the rest of the world at risk. The Man of Steel shows up with Krypto by his side. They must fight off an Ultraman clone of Kal-El and defeat Lex’s Raptors. With the portal as their main concern, they board Lex’s ship to stop him from escaping. As Mister Terrific takes charge, Superman and Lex engage in a debate about the hero’s role. Lex feels the world doesn’t need Superman, but Superman argues that his human traits demonstrate his rightful place.

In time, Lex becomes extremely agitated and jabs Superman on his chest, causing Krypto to notice the commotion. The dog swiftly latches onto Lex with his jaw, treating him like a plaything, flinging him around the ship recklessly. Superman pleads with Krypto to release the villain, but it seems there’s no halting Krypto once he begins. When Lex recovers, he resembles Loki at the end of “The Avengers” following Hulk’s wrath. Although Krypto may not reach the importance in the DCU that Hulk holds in the MCU, Superman and the Justice League should consider having Krypto on standby, as he demonstrates an ability to tackle issues swiftly and effectively.

Superman is in theaters now.

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2025-07-14 18:09