Superman has flown back to the big screen in a new film directed by James Gunn that marks the beginning of a new era for DC Studios’ cinematic universe. With a new Man of Steel donning the iconic red cape in live action comes a new musical sidekick, or perhaps fresh renditions of what came before, that capture the heroism, hope, and iconic spirit of Superman.
From the iconic John Williams theme in the original Christopher Reeve-led Superman films to the beloved theme of the Superman: The Animated Series that defined a generation of young Superman fans, it’s safe to say that Superman theme songs stood for one thing — offering a sense of hope for a better tomorrow.
To explore the themes and music that have defined the decades-long legacy of Superman, Billboard Philippines has some of the theme songs and scores that capture the iconic sound and flair of the beloved DC Comics superhero.
Theme from Superman: The Movie – John Williams
Nothing beats the classic, as they say. John Williams’ theme perfectly captures the heroic spirit and inspiration that Superman embodies. It goes hand in hand with Christopher Reeve’s iconic portrayal, which made us believe a man could fly. Every section of this piece serves a purpose in delivering some of the film’s most iconic moments, where Superman takes flight and saves the day. There’s a reason why this theme has become synonymous with the character, even after so many years.
Theme from Superman – John Murphy and David Fleming
The latest rendition of the 1978 theme by John Murphy and David Fleming perfectly honors the past while embracing the present, seamlessly blending the iconic motif of the original Superman March with modern sensibilities. This new theme for the DCU’s Superman features bold percussion that reflects both the character’s timeless strength and the fresh energy of this new chapter. As we embark on a new era of Superman, this powerful score has the potential to inspire a new generation of fans.
“Flight” from Man of Steel – Hans Zimmer
When 2013 introduced a new Superman, portrayed by Henry Cavill and directed by Zack Snyder, Man of Steel not only offered fans a glimpse of the Man of Steel in a more realistic world, but also featured a cinematic new theme by Hans Zimmer that redefined the character’s musical identity. “Flight” distances itself from Williams’ iconic theme, yet still evokes a sense of heroism that elevates the larger-than-life moments in the film. It captures Superman’s internal conflict that is shaped by alienation, identity, and the burden of protecting a complicated world.
Opening titles from Superman: The Animated Series – Shirley Walker
Superman: The Animated Series defined a generation of DC and Superman fans through its brilliance in establishing heroic, bold, and timeless iconography. Shirley Walker’s theme honors the character’s legacy while forging its own identity, blending classic orchestral elements with a sweeping melody that soars in sync with Superman’s flight. Much like her work on Batman: The Animated Series, Walker’s score elevates the animation, reinforcing not only Superman’s mythological might but also his deep humanity and relatability. It gave young viewers a sense of hope that Superman could make things better, even if only for a little while.
Theme from Superman Returns – John Ottman
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Superman’s return to the big screen was plagued by false starts and projects lost in a Phantom Zone-esque development hell. In 2006, Superman Returns finally brought the Man of Steel back for a new generation, with Brandon Routh taking on the cape. Rather than creating an entirely new theme, composer John Ottman paid tribute to Williams’ iconic score, reintroducing the original fanfare to bridge the past and present — much like the film itself, which served as a spiritual successor to the first two Christopher Reeve films.
“This Is My World” from Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice – Hans Zimmer, Junkie XL
“This Is My World” from 2016’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, serves as the emotional climax of Superman’s ongoing arc. Played during his sacrificial moment, the haunting vocals and slow-building orchestration highlight his humanity triumphing over power. The music reinforces the idea that, despite being seen as a god, Superman’s most heroic act is being human. While much can be said about how Superman’s death in only the second film of the DC Extended Universe feels abrupt and arguably unearned, there’s no doubt that the score stands as one of the film’s greatest strengths.
“Superman March” from the 1940 Max Fleischer serials – Sammy Timberg
As one of the earliest musical interpretations of the Man of Steel, the 1940 Max Fleischer animated serials still stand the test of time as animated achievements. Accompanied by “Superman March” composed by Sammy Timberg, the series perfectly captures the spirit of Golden Age Superman, one that is full of adventure and optimism. Timberg’s score lays the groundwork for the heroic musical tone that would influence future portrayals of the character and help define the sound of Superman for generations to come. It may not be as grand, instead focusing on a simple and straightforward theme that exudes hope, charm, and unwavering heroism.
“Save Me” from Smallville – Remy Zero
Not exactly an instrumental score or orchestral theme, the song used for the opening titles of the beloved live-action Superman prequel series Smallville became iconic in its own right. “Save Me” by Remy Zero captures the youthful spirit of a young Clark Kent in a coming-of-age story that gradually sets him on the path to greatness. Though it sounds very much like a product of its time, it remains an integral part of Superman’s musical legacy in media. Over ten seasons, “Save Me” was more than just a theme song; it became an anthem for a generation of fans who watched Superman discover who he was meant to be.