The film stars David Corenswet as the title character, and it aims to reboot the DC Universe into a more lighthearted, comic-accurate continuity.
Speaking with Raiders of the Lost Podcast, the filmmaker discussed how this is the right time for Superman to hit the big screen. He explained that “this is a time of a lot of polarization in the world," though he believes "a lot of that is more online than it is in real life." Gunn clarified that he thinks people are, generally, "much better in real life than they [are] online." Because he believes that people are better when they step out from behind their screens, the director expects Superman to click with audiences.
James Gunn Thanks Fans For Making Superman Trailer Most Watched In DC And WB History: "Krypto Really Did Take Us Home"
James Gunn took to social media to thank audiences for helping the Superman trailer rack up 250 million views and counting across all platforms.
Gunn further explains: "I think this is a movie about the values of being human, about kindness and love, and although those are some things some people… don’t like, most all of us really like do that stuff no matter what our other ideological beliefs are." Per Gunn, Superman will resonate with fans for that reason: their ideals.
What James Gunn's Superman Comments Mean
Gunn's explanation of Superman paints an optimistic portrait of the hero, calling back to the early days of his cinematic history with Kirk Alyn, George Reeves, and Christopher Reeve. The 2000s saw darker takes on the Man of Tomorrow. Superman Returns took a melancholic approach to Clark and his struggles with heroism, while Man of Steel sought to make an edgier take on the Superman mythos. As such, Gunn's attitude regarding Superman and his characterization harkens back to adaptations like Superman: The Movie.
Our Take on James Gunn's Superman Comments
James Gunn's Superman is looking like a fun ride, if the trailer is anything to go by. The director's comments indicate that he wants to make a kinder Superman who is a hero to everyone. Given recent iterations of the character focusing more on his strength and god-like qualities, a softer, down-to-earth Clark may be the right choice for the new DCU if they are keen on making a more optimistic franchise. Focusing on his kindness and humanity is a great way to achieve a more heartfelt Man of Steel because, in the words of Gunn, "that’s what Superman is.”
Superman arrives in theaters on July 11, 2025.
Superman
- Release Date
- July 11, 2025
- Director
- James Gunn
- Writers
- James Gunn, Jerry Siegel, Joe Shuster
- Producers
- Lars P. Winther, Peter Safran
- Franchise(s)
- DCU
Cast
Clark Kent / Superman / Kal-El
Rachel BrosnahanLois Lane
Nicholas HoultLex Luthor
Edi GathegiMichael Holt / Mister Terrific
Superman: This film follows Clark Kent, a cub reporter in Metropolis, as he navigates the complexities of his dual identity, struggling to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing while embracing his role as Superman.
