Why Poison Ivy Outshines Superman in DC’s Upcoming 2025 Metropolis Release

In an unexpected development in DC‘s inaugural release for 2025, Superman assumes a secondary role in protecting Metropolis. As the Man of Steel prepares for a significant year ahead, director James Gunn’s forthcoming Superman film marks the introduction of David Corenswet as Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and a diverse array of heroes and villains. With this fresh slate of characters poised to contribute to the evolving narrative of the DC Universe’s Chapter One, all eyes are trained on Superman—albeit without a much-anticipated trailer dropping at the Super Bowl.

Departing from the traditional portrayal of Metropolis in the former DCEU, Gunn envisions a more stylized version of the city. His approach aligns Superman’s narrative more closely with the comic book lore than its cinematic predecessor, potentially allowing Metropolis to emerge as a character in its own right—similar to Gotham City in recent adaptations like The Batman and The Penguin. The anticipation surrounding the DCU’s next movie builds, as Metropolis takes center stage, although it’s a new force that impacts change in the city: Poison Ivy.

Poison Ivy’s 2025 Mission to Improve Metropolis Coincides with Superman’s Absence

The Man of Steel Takes a Break

The first DC installment of 2025 marks the return of a fan-favorite animated series, Max’s Harley Quinn, in its fifth season. This season brings the chaos of Harley and Poison Ivy from Gotham City to the cosmopolitan landscapes of Metropolis. The premiere episode culminates with Harley persuading Superman to take a sabbatical, urging him to seek self-discovery during a period of uncertainty, which consequently positions her and Ivy as the city’s main protectors.

Superman departs without a clear timeline for his return, leaving Harley and Ivy to fill the void. As the narrative unfolds, the prevailing theme of how their relocation to Metropolis disrupts the status quo comes to light. Notably, Poison Ivy’s arrival aligns perfectly with a strategic appointment—Lena Luthor, Lex’s sister and Bruce Wayne’s partner, designates Poison Ivy as the head of the Metropolis Green Initiative.

Why Poison Ivy’s Role Surpasses Superman’s in Harley Quinn Season 5

Divergent Roles for the Characters

In episode three of Harley Quinn’s fifth season, the narrative continues to delve into how Poison Ivy’s contributions could prove advantageous for Metropolis, particularly in contrast to Superman’s current incapacity to assist. The underlying issue leading to Superman’s withdrawal stems from his realization that crime has vastly diminished in Metropolis. This peace has been subtly orchestrated by Brainiac, who has infiltrated the city with advanced drones, ensuring an artificial sense of order that ultimately devalues Superman’s role.

On the other hand, Lena Luthor’s admiration for Ivy not only stems from her powers but also arises from Ivy’s first foray into beautifying Metropolis, injecting life into an otherwise sterile cityscape. Though technologically advanced and seemingly crime-free, Metropolis lacked vibrancy—something Lena hopes Ivy can remedy. With the right resources and initiatives, Poison Ivy is poised to revitalize the city in ways Superman cannot, underscoring her newfound importance in this narrative.

Harley Quinn Season 5: Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn as Brainiac’s New Adversaries

A Shift in Focus for Superman’s Villain

As Brainiac works to render Superman obsolete, the villain’s focus is likely to shift towards eliminating his new challengers—Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn. With the Man of Steel absent, Brainiac is left free to refocus his strategy on neutralizing the duo. Harley, having allied with the Bat-Family in the past, brings a unique perspective to heroism, positioning her and Ivy as formidable opponents in this evolving story.

Upcoming DC Movies & TV Shows in 2025
Project	Release Date
Harley Quinn Season 5	January 16, 2025
Superman	July 11, 2025
Peacemaker Season 2	August 2025

The decision to reposition Superman as absent in Harley Quinn season 5 presents a unique narrative twist. By allowing Gotham’s characters to confront unfamiliar challenges and adversaries, the storytelling can remain dynamic while heightening the sense of danger. Although Poison Ivy possesses formidable abilities, she cannot match Superman’s raw power. However, with Superman’s absence, Brainiac may hone in on Ivy and Harley, providing an opportunity to illustrate their potential for doing good amidst chaos in Harley Quinn‘s fifth season.

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