James Gunn changes Superman motto to the human way in the latest film, replacing the legendary phrase often tied to the Man of Steel, with reactions ranging from dismay to fierce discussion among longtime fans. The shift in Superman’s guiding principle has reignited debate over the character’s identity and the influence of current political climates on classic heroes.
Superman’s Motto Overhauled for a New Era
The now-abandoned line,
“truth, justice, and the American way,”
became part of Superman’s mythology during the 1940s radio show and was cemented further with George Reeves’s portrayal in the 1950s. Although familiar to generations of comic aficionados and mainstream audiences, this is not the first time the motto has been replaced. Notably, director Bryan Singer also omitted it in his 2006 film Superman Returns, but Gunn’s version marks a more clear-cut update for the times.
Official movie merchandise for Gunn’s upcoming Superman film, starring David Corenswet, describes a new mantra for the hero. The packaging removes “the American way” and now reads “the human way,” suggesting a more inclusive approach to Superman’s role in society. This points to a central theme in the new movie: Superman struggling to balance his Kryptonian origins with his human experience as Clark Kent.
Superman must reconcile his alien Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as reporter Clark Kent. As the embodiment of truth, justice, and the human way he soon finds himself in a world that views these as old-fashioned.
—Superman movie merchandise description
Given James Gunn’s known involvement in approving ancillary tie-in products such as toys, industry watchers believe this change comes directly from the filmmaker himself. Reports further suggest that instead of focusing solely on superhero action, Gunn’s Superman story aims to make a statement about contemporary global issues, continuing to evolve the character for the modern audience.
Political Storylines and Fan Discontent Emerge
Beyond the altered motto, fans are responding to other glimpses of Gunn’s approach. Early footage reveals Superman’s tense exchanges with Lois Lane over his involvement in politics, paired with scenes where angry Americans are seen venting their frustrations by hurling objects at the hero. The movie reportedly features plot points such as Lex Luthor leading a mutant troll monkey army designed to provoke the human populace, fake news narratives, and even inside jokes at the expense of previous DC projects like the Snyder Cut.
Some reports indicate that the inclusion of these political jabs and commentary were dialed back during production, with a recent course correction aimed at better balancing the superhero spectacle with underlying social commentary.
James Gunn, actor David Corenswet, and other figures from the cast and crew are now at the center of a discussion about whether Hollywood’s approach to updating icons like the Man of Steel will ultimately engage or alienate the franchise’s base. Warner Bros. faces high stakes as Superman returns to the big screen, with observers drawing comparisons to audience backlash seen in recent Star Wars and Marvel outings.
What to Expect as Superman Returns This July
With the release date set for July 11, all eyes are on how James Gunn and Warner Bros. will navigate these changes and whether this new direction resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers. As debate over classic versus modern storytelling intensifies, the ultimate success of shifting to “the human way” may determine if Superman’s latest incarnation can restore his role as a global symbol, or if the move sparks further discord among the character’s dedicated audience.
