From Metropolis to Manila, Superman touches down to steal Pinoy hearts
DC got it right. Kicking off the global tour of “Superman” right here in the Philippines wasn’t just a bold choice, it was a brilliant one.
In a country where fandoms run deep, passion never wavers and heroism is lived out in everyday resilience, the Man of Steel couldn’t have found a more meaningful launchpad.
This wasn’t just a red-carpet event; it was a cultural moment that throws back to the deep love of the Filipinos for Superman. The best part is it was one that placed Filipino fans front and center of a global cinematic reboot.
With director-writer James Gunn, DC Studios co-CEO Peter Safran, and stars David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan gracing the Mall of Asia red carpet, the message was clear: Manila matters. And more than that, we get Superman. His immigrant roots, his quiet strength, his dual identity — we’ve been living versions of that narrative for decades.
I was in awe of all the super fans who lined up since the wee hours of the morning hoping to see the Man of Steel. I don’t blame them. Filipinos have always seen a part of themselves in Superman. Like him, many of us live double lives, balancing dreams with duty, family with ambition. Clark Kent’s story as an outsider trying to belong, with unwavering hope and moral compass, resonates deeply in a country built on resilience and heart.
For Filipinos, Superman has always been more than just a superhero — he’s a symbol of hope. In a country that has weathered storms, both literal and personal, his story reminds us that even when the world feels heavy, we can rise above it. His unwavering belief in doing good, despite his own struggles, mirrors the quiet courage of millions of Filipinos who keep going, keep giving and keep believing.
Whether it’s an OFW sending love from afar, or a parent working overtime to provide, Superman’s greatest power — hope against all odds — is something we live every day. And so James told us, “I did not expect this kind of turnout and I do not know why I did not because Filipino fans are the best in the world!”
DC didn’t just bring the movie to Manila; they brought the spotlight to a country that’s long felt the heartbeat of the hero.
We know the Philippines doesn’t always post the biggest box-office numbers not because of a lack of love for cinema, but often due to real economic limitations. But we are the biggest entertainment fans in the world!
For many, watching a movie in theaters is a luxury, not a weekly habit. But when Filipinos do choose to spend on a film, especially one they believe in, that support becomes something powerful. It’s not just a transaction. It’s personal. It’s an investment!
When we love something, we champion it. We tell our friends. We post about it. We show up early, wear the merch, bring our families and even come back for a second or third screening. Filipino fandom is powered by word-of-mouth, deep emotion and a sense of community that turns a simple screening into a movement. That kind of engagement is rare and often underestimated.
So while the Philippines may not always top the global box-office charts, the impact we bring when we embrace a film is tenfold. From trending social media to the electric atmosphere at fan events, Filipino love doesn’t just make noise, it creates momentum. That’s why starting the “Superman” world tour here wasn’t just strategic, it was inspired. So when a film captures our hearts, it doesn’t just land — it soars. Just ask Superman. And we did, David even said in a brief chat we had, “This is amazing. I am so happy to be here.”
On a personal note, this global red-carpet fan meet was unforgettable in more ways than one. I was on assignment, but my husband, Oscar Oida, took a leave from work just to be there — not as a journalist, but as a lifelong Superman fan.
I remember when we dated and were serious 15 years ago, he was 37 at the time, his room was Superman blue with Superman toys on display and a Superman comforter! I almost walked out! That was how invested he was! But fine, I found it adorable somehow.
Fast forward to the present, during the fan event, he brought along his precious collectibles, hoping maybe he’d get one signed. By the end of the night, he walked away with signatures from all four — James Gunn, Peter Safran, David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan. He got more than what he came for, and honestly, so did I.
He even got to ask a question during the Manila press conference. Because for all the lights, lenses and deadlines, it reminded me why we do what we do: to capture moments like this where fandom and storytelling collide in the most personal way.
What happened at the “Superman” fan meet served as proof that Filipino fandom is unmatched when it comes to heart and energy. Manila wasn’t just a pit stop; it was the perfect litmus test for how powerful real audience connection can be.
From the fans who camped out early to the collectibles now signed for life, it showed that when the Philippines shows up, we show up big. “Superman” didn’t just launch a tour here, he launched a movement, fueled by fans who’ve loved him for decades, and who finally got another moment in the spotlight. I wonder when the next one would be and for which film it is.
- Latest
- Trending
