The movie opens with a newsreel from 8 months prior, showing Superman's debut in Metropolis. The world is still in shock that there is a new hero who can fly, shoot lasers from his eyes, and is impervious to bullets. Cut to present day, Clark Kent is struggling with his dual identity as a Kryptonian and a human. He speaks to his adoptive parents about feeling like he doesn't belong on Earth. His mother tells him that he may not have been born on Earth, but he was raised here and that makes him just as human as anyone else. Meanwhile, Brainiac has begun targeting major cities around the globe, trying to collect data on the world's cultures and civilizations. Clark begins to report on the attacks as a foreign correspondent, but he feels powerless as he watches so many innocent people suffer. The Eradicator, a Kryptonian A.I. humanoid, emerges to help Superman defeat Brainiac. At first, the Eradicator seems like an ally, but he clashes with Clark when it comes to protecting the civilians caught in the crossfire. The Eradicator believes that saving Krypton is the top priority and he is willing to take any measures necessary to do so, even if it means sacrificing human life. Superman realizes that he cannot let the Eradicator continue down this path of destruction, so he confronts him. In the showdown against Brainiac, Superman realizes that he needs to protect all people, not just the citizens of Metropolis, even if it means sacrificing his Kryptonian heritage. In the end, Superman gives a speech at the United Nations, declaring that he will protect all of Earth from any threats. He comes to terms with his identity as both Kryptonian and human, and pledges to be a hero for everyone. As the story concludes, Clark Kent is back at the Daily Planet, chatting with his co-workers, when he hears a cry for help from Lagos, Nigeria. He rushes out of the building as Superman to save the day once again. The movie ends on a note of excitement and hope for future adventures.