In a surprising twist ahead of the 2025 release, director James Gunn made a last-minute call regarding the Superman costume, a move that has reignited conversations about the hero’s classic design. The James Gunn Superman costume decision saw the return of the famous red trunks for David Corenswet’s Man of Steel, after much debate and a push from key members of the creative team.
The Controversy Over Superman’s Iconic Look
Superman’s visual style has always been a point of contention, with fans and creators debating every detail from the ‘S’ shield to the cape and boots, and especially whether the Kryptonian hero should don red trunks over his suit. Previous iterations, like Henry Cavill’s portrayal, favored a streamlined look that omitted the trunks, a choice that altered Superman’s silhouette after decades of tradition.
Behind the Scenes: A Split Decision on the Trunks
The costume decision for the new Superman film came down to the wire. Costume designer Judianna Makovsky revealed in a recent interview with Brazilian outlet Omelete that discussions about the trunks took place every day before production. The controversial choice was not finalized until the night before the film began shooting, with even James Gunn himself conflicted over which direction to take.
“There were a lot of people who didn’t want the briefs, and a lot of people who did. And James was very divided. And I have to say, I refused to give up,”
—Judianna Makovsky, Costume Designer
Makovsky, a strong proponent of the traditional look, became a leading voice advocating for the trunks’ return. Her insistence was matched by lead actor David Corenswet’s enthusiasm for wearing the trunks as part of his portrayal of Superman. Their combined support ultimately tipped the scales and shaped the costume’s final design.
A Nod to Superman’s Silver Age Roots
The final suit worn by Corenswet draws heavily from the bold, colorful aesthetic of the Silver Age comics. It features red boots, the flowing cape, and the signature red trunks with a yellow belt—details that many fans associate with the character’s timeless appearance. By reintroducing these elements, the team aimed to capture a sense of nostalgia while connecting the hero’s past to the future vision of the DC Universe.
Initial Reactions and What Lies Ahead
Early feedback from cinemagoers has surfaced, with some describing the new DCU film’s visuals as “unique” and “damn beautiful,” promising a fresh start for Superman under Gunn’s direction. The film, starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, and Nicholas Hoult, is set to premiere in theaters on July 11, 2025. As the debates around the suit reflect broader discussions about legacy and innovation, fans eagerly await the impact this James Gunn Superman costume decision will have on the franchise and superhero cinema.
