Superhero fans could have been forgiven for thinking they’d been transported to another world, as Superman was spotted soaring above London in the UK’s highest-ever public sculpture.
Anyone in the capital who glanced up at The Shard today were treated to the sight of a hyper-realistic version of the iconic superhero, perched more than 300 metres above ground atop the city’s tallest landmark.
The installation marks the first time The Shard has hosted a cinematic character in this way, with Superman gracing its spire for an entire day.
Standing at 11 feet tall and weighing over 120kg, the sculpture features a fibreglass body moulded in eco-friendly resin, supported by galvanised steel cables securely attaching it to the building.
The impressive figure took four months to create, with more than 20 people dedicating a combined 2,000 hours to ensure every detail was perfect.
David Corenswet, the actor currently playing Superman, was 3D scanned during production to capture the character’s silhouette with absolute precision.
James Gunn, writer and director of Superman and Co-Chairman of DC Studios, said of the stunt: “To see such a realistic depiction of our Superman displayed on the top of The Shard is mind-blowing.
“Bringing one of cinema’s greatest heroes to life for the new film has been the adventure of a lifetime. And it’s a real honour to see that journey continue in this way long after we wrapped, as we promote the film around the world. This will take some beating, London.”
The sculpture depicts Superman in a dynamic pose, one leg bent and head looking down, as if protectively hovering over the capital.
Londoners are being encouraged to ‘Look Up’—the tagline of the new movie—to catch a glimpse of the suspended superhero. The enormous figure will be visible, weather permitting, from up to 40 miles away, tethered to the tallest building in Western Europe.
Its welded steel framework was painstakingly assembled to mark the launch of the new movie ‘Superman’, which is released on Friday, July 11.
Daniel Fulbrook, head of marketing for Real Estate Management and asset manager of The Shard, said: “Superman has stood as a symbol of hope and heroism for generations—so it feels only fitting that he now watches over London from the top of one of its most iconic landmarks.
“To see him suspended within The Shard’s spire is truly surreal. We’re incredibly proud to help bring this legendary figure to life in such a bold and breathtaking way.”
For the best vantage points to spot Superman today (Tuesday, July 1), head to Borough Market, Sumner Street (SE1 9HZ), Southwark Bridge, or Stoney Street (SE1 9AF).