Rachel Brosnahan, who will portray Lois Lane in James Gunn’s upcoming Superman film, recently addressed the topic of actors who criticize superhero sequels, sharing her perspective as someone directly involved in the genre. Her comments came during a discussion focusing on sequels and the ongoing conversation about the value of superhero movies, bringing attention to her stance on staying true to such projects and the importance of the new Superman movie.
The question of how actors approach major superhero roles has become increasingly common, given the number of sequels and reboots in Hollywood. Brosnahan’s remarks add a unique voice to the ongoing debate, particularly as anticipation builds for Gunn’s Superman, set for release in July 2025, with David Corenswet as Superman, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and an ensemble cast that includes Mister Terrific, Metamorpho, Guy Gardner, Hawkgirl, Perry White, and Rick Flag Sr.
Brosnahan Discusses Her Willingness to Return for a Superman Sequel
During a conversation with Amanda Seyfried for Interview Magazine, the two actresses discussed their recent work and shared opinions on sequels in the film industry. As Seyfried commented on her openness to returning for another installment of her own franchise, she noted,
“Mamma Mia! 3 in a heartbeat.”
—Amanda Seyfried, Actress.
When asked whether she would consider reprising her role as Lois Lane if a sequel to Gunn’s Superman were to happen, Brosnahan responded enthusiastically,
“Yeah, I’d come back. We had a great time. There’s also so many people in this cast who I didn’t get to work with.”
—Rachel Brosnahan, Actress. Her words highlight the positive experience on set and the opportunity to further develop on-screen relationships, notably with key figures such as David Corenswet and Nicholas Hoult.
Direct Criticism of Actors Who Dismiss Superhero Sequels
Brosnahan did not shy away from sharing her candid opinion on performers who agree to star in superhero movies but later distance themselves or complain about those choices. Emphasizing the importance of standing by one’s decisions, she stated,
“I don’t know why people say yes only to then turn around and complain about it. Look, I don’t want to shit on other actors, but there was a minute where it was cool to not like superhero movies and to look back on projects like this and pooh-pooh them. Do it or don’t do it, and then stand by it,”
—Rachel Brosnahan, Actress. This remark directly addresses recent trends where some actors express regret or disapproval of their involvement in popular franchises.
Debating What Defines a Superhero Movie
The exchange between Brosnahan and Seyfried also touched on whether Superman should even be considered a traditional “superhero movie.” Seyfried argued,
“It isn’t just that, and I think people are going to see that. It’s really important to have this kind superhero, this guy who’s just trying to do his best.”
—Amanda Seyfried, Actress. Brosnahan echoed this sentiment by stressing the depth of the upcoming film and shared details about what sets it apart from expectations:
“The cool thing about it is that it’s what you expect, and then there’s more. Of course, there’s great fighting and stunts and big monsters and good and evil.”
—Rachel Brosnahan, Actress. These discussions point to the evolving narrative within the DC universe, shaped by James Gunn’s creative vision.
Highlighting the Expansive Superman Cast and James Gunn’s Approach
Gunn’s Superman not only features Rachel Brosnahan and Seyfried’s insights but also includes notable performances from Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Wendell Pierce as Perry White, and Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr., offering a broad and diverse cast. The film’s logline summarizes its thematic focus:
“In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind,”
—Official Logline.
The movie is scheduled to debut in US theaters and IMAX on July 11, 2025, with an expectation to reshape perceptions of superhero films and rekindle excitement in the genre.
Significance and Industry Impact of Brosnahan’s Remarks
Rachel Brosnahan’s comments about actors who criticize superhero sequels, particularly her assertion to
“do it or don’t— and stand by it,”
reflect an honest and evolving dialogue within Hollywood about genre projects. Her involvement in Superman, under James Gunn’s direction, spotlights both commitment and optimism for a film set to challenge and expand the superhero narrative. With an impressive cast and the creative input of established talents like Nicholas Hoult and David Corenswet, the project stands poised to influence how sequels and the wider superhero genre are perceived in the future.
