David Corenswet Opens Up About Constricting Superman Costume Fitting

In a recent interview, David Corenswet sheds light on the grueling process behind the iconic costume. Fans initially thought the suit looked baggy in early photos. However, Corenswet reveals it was meticulously fitted to his physique, and painfully snug.

From Screen-Test Fit to On-Set Tightness

Corenswet first tried on the Superman suit weighing around 195 pounds at his screen test. By his actual fitting, he had added about 40-45 pounds, making the costume “claustrophobic,” he told People. “It was quite snug… felt constricted in all those places at once.”

The Zipper Nightmare: No Quick Bathroom Access

The suit featured many zippers, but none for convenience. Corenswet joked it made bathroom breaks an ordeal. He credits his dresser, Scott R. Hankins, who earned the nickname “mob fixer,” for assisting him through quick changes and offering much-needed relief during long shoots.

Physical Toll on the Actor

Wearing the suit weighed him down physically. “It felt like armor,” Corenswet said, as movement became a physical challenge. Every action like walking, lifting, even turning required finesse within the tight Lycra shell. Despite this, he said the discomfort helped him embrace the character’s containment and emotional restraint.

Why Costume Precision Matters in James Gunn’s Superman

James Gunn’s upcoming Superman (2025 film) stars Corenswet as a younger Clark Kent in a reboot of the DC Universe ushering in “Gods and Monsters.” Costume designer Judianna Makovsky, returning from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, prioritized authenticity and precision. The tight fit aimed to reflect Clark’s journey, and give the actor an internal sense of Superman’s burden. According to Wikipedia, the film wrapped principal photography in July and releases July 11, 2025

Behind-the-Scenes: Crafting the S-shield Look

The creative team debated details such as the iconic red briefs and emblem placement. Makovsky collaborated closely with Corenswet to ensure the fit matched his body’s movements. The goal: a suit that looks effortless on-screen, even if it’s uncomfortable behind the scenes. This “Superman suit behind the scenes” work emphasizes how costume design can shape performance.

Corenswet’s Take on Wearing the Superman Suit

Despite the challenges, Corenswet says the tight suit grounded his portrayal. “It reminded me I’m playing someone who carries the world on his shoulders.” He added that dealing with the costume’s weight gave depth to scenes where Clark feels trapped by his role, a physical manifestation of internal conflict.

Final Thoughts: Costumes That Shape Heroes

David Corenswet’s experience highlights how essential costume design is to superhero storytelling. While fans may debate how snug the suit appears, the actor’s insider view reveals it serves a purpose. “It helps you feel the character,” he said. When Superman hits theaters in July 2025, audiences will see not just a suit, they’ll see a man shaped by it.

Source: EW