If you love Superman, you need to watch this. This is the answer to our question of “What if he turns bad?”. Obviously based on the Man of Steel we all have known and loved, this dark multiverse of sorts explores the “what if?” we all have been asking. Directed by David Yarovesky (Nightbook 2021, The Hive 2014), we see the birth of Brightburn.

The story of Brightburn kicks off similarly as with the Kent’s (Superman’s adoptive family), a couple desperate for a child of their own. As with Supe’s original narrative, Brandon Breyer (soon to become Brightburn), fell from the skies in a spaceship—parents found him and hid the ship inside the barn under the floorboards. The main difference is that the ship influences Brandon and gives the message of “Take the World.” That pulsating red light and the mantra he was repeating over and over was a triggering factor to awaken his evil being. It was always there, lying dormant, waiting for that trigger.

Characters

• Jackson Dunn’s casting was a key role in portraying how innocent Brandon Breyer was pre-Brightburn. His face was that of an introvert and can’t do harm towards others; his overall physique was skinny and frail.
• His adoptive parents’ performance were great, played by Elizabeth Banks (mother) and David Denman (father). The two pillars of Brandon’s innocent identity. Whenever I hear Elizabeth Banks, I instantly relate her to comedy. I forget how great of an actress she really is, and Cocaine Bear (directed by) was awesome.
• The victims involved showed great fear and that was projected wonderfully. It helped the audience feel their desperation for survival. Everyone helped make this villain film a success.

The kills were brutal, for a 12 year old boy to do such acts is inconceivable, thus it weighs heavier. Though we only got to see 6 of them, they were done tastefully and the effects were amazing.

Upside down Superman

Brightburn had a very similar formula to that of Superman’s, a foster family, arriving in a spaceship, and a love interest in school. The only problem are: that the people around him wanted to kill him instead of trying to help him understand and harness his power to do good. His love interest called him a pervert. Both his foster parents, the only 2 people that keeps his human side alive, tried to kill him. And of course, the ship that triggered his dark side.

When he killed all of those who were closely related/involved with the incidents, there’s no stopping him anymore. The mother was the only one who knew of his weakness, and that is the metal component from the ship could penetrate his skin. Unfortunately he also killed her, so now, mankind has no lead whatsoever as to who he is and how to stop him.

Tone

The tone of the film was dark through and through. I love the Brightburn costume, even though it was just red rags stitched together, that torn cloth effect gives it a more edgy look, he even has a cape with the same torn cloth maroon colored material.

When he started popping up in places, specially in dark locations, and we see his red eyes glowing from afar, there’s this instant dread and fear for dear life. You know you’re fvcked when you see those eyes staring back at you.

Conclusion

Brightburn is a dark, ominous version of Superman is definitely a must-see. A complete opposite of our beloved Supe. If Superman acts for justice with a high moral compass, Brightburn doesn’t care, he will do what he wants, when he wants, regardless of who’s in the way. He shows no remorse whatsoever. The words “Take The World” has really been embedded in his mentality, and has this god complex. Definitely recommended.