Superman Returns is a 2013 American superhero film based on the DC Comics character Superman. The film was directed by Joe Johnston, and written by Michael Dougherty and Dan Harris from a story by Johnston, Dougherty, and Harris. It is the twelfth film in the DC Cinematic Universe (DCU). The film stars Brandon Routh as Superman, Erica Durance as Lois Lane and Michael Rosenbaum as Lex Luthor, with Aaron Ashmore, Laurence Fisburne, John Schneider, Annette O'Toole, Michael Ironside, Melissa Benoist, Katie McGarth, Kristen Stewart and Charles Dance in supporting roles. In the film, Superman investigates the shocking appearance of his cousin, Kara Zor-El, and finally meets his match in Lex Luthor.
