What to watch: Up, up and away!
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We're feeling pretty super, man.
The Man of Steel is back on movie screens, and thankfully, this one's not a sourpuss: David Corenswet takes his turn with the cape and tights in James Gunn's "Superman," an exciting intro to the rebooted DC superhero universe. The character has been a pop-culture icon for 80-plus years, so anytime there's a new one, it's a big deal. Also worth watching is "Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires," the latest in Disney's teen musical franchise with rising star Milo Manheim. And speaking of kids, yours might be watching more than usual since it's summer break, so we've got new guides for what and how much to watch.
Now on to the good stuff:
See David Corenswet as the newest Man of Steel in James Gunn's 'Superman'
I talked with a bunch of "Superman" cast members, and while they all say similarly, Rachel Brosnahan says it best about David Corenswet: "He is Superman." I had an in-depth conversation with the latest Man of Steel about bringing "dad energy" to the role as a new father and what qualities he shares with the big blue Boy Scout. "We can be a force for calm and reassurance and centeredness even in the most tumultuous times in life," Corenswet says.
And he's the main reason why "Superman" works so well. Director James Gunn has created a highly enjoyable adventure in a busy universe that feels electric and meaningful. (Peep my ★★★½ review.) Also, as part of our round-the-clock "Superman" coverage, we've got an exclusive look at the Daily Planet, a parent's guide for those with superhero-loving kids, an updated ranking of the top 50 superhero movies, plus a rundown of the best screen Supermen.
Stream Disney's 'Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires' with Milo Manheim
As the father of a tween girl, I was an early adopter of Disney's "Zombies," the 2018 fantasy musical comedy about a football-playing zombie (Milo Manheim) going to a "normal" high school and falling for cheer captain Addison (Meg Donnelly). It was a breezy and fun flick that birthed a loyal fandom, more movies and more monsters (including werewolves and aliens).
For the premiere of "Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires," Manheim stopped by our studio for a photo shoot, plus we chatted about his "weird" career and recent run as Seymour in the off-Broadway revival of "Little Shop of Horrors." Being in the show "fueled everything," he says. "It fueled my drive, my excitement, my passion. It also fueled my fear, for sure, but that's the best part of it."
"Zombies 4" is among several new movies on streaming this week, a list that also includes the thrillers "Opus" and "Drop," plus Tyler Perry's latest "Madea" comedy.
Get a handle on your kids' screen time this summer
Summertime means no school for the youngsters and more hours to watch TV and spend time on various screens and devices. TV critic Kelly Lawler talked with doctors, media experts and television creators, exploring how to navigate screen time, what children should be watching, and the things that you may want them to avoid. She's included a guide to the best TV shows for elementary-age kids, such as "Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man," "SpongeBob SquarePants" and "Percy Jackson and the Olympians."
Kelly doesn't forget the adults, though: She has a guide to all the new TV streaming this week, like the return of Michael C. Hall's fan-favorite serial killer in "Dexter: Resurrection."
Even more goodness to check out!
- Oscar winner Marlee Matlin chats about her new documentary and why "CODA" wasn't a game changer for deaf actors.
- We've got an exclusive sneak peak of Prime Video's "Upload" Season 4, which will premiere the final four episodes on Aug. 25.
- Larry David teaming with the Obamas for a new HBO show? That's pretty, pretty, pretty good.
- You watching "Love Island USA"? Cierra spilled on her abrupt exit. (Also, if like me you have no idea what the heck "love bombing" is," we have an explainer.)
- And Bono recalls having "such a bad hair day" during U2's legendary Live Aid performance in a new CNN documentary.
Got thoughts, questions, ideas, concerns, compliments or maybe even some recs for me? Email btruitt@usatoday.com and follow me on the socials: I'm @briantruitt on Bluesky, Instagram and Threads.