During the production of the new DC Studios film Superman, actor David Corenswet frequently challenged director James Gunn with numerous questions about acting and character portrayal. This persistent curiosity tested Gunn’s patience to the point where he had to firmly tell Corenswet to “shut the f–k up.” This exchange highlights the intense working relationship shaped around James Gunn’s directorial working style and Corenswet’s desire to deliver a strong performance as the iconic superhero.
In a recent interview with GQ, Gunn reflected on Corenswet’s questioning approach, explaining that while many of his inquiries improved both his craft and the film, there were moments when the volume of questions became overwhelming.
Sometimes his questions are great, and I totally see where they make him better, and because they make him better, they make the movie better,
James Gunn told GQ.
But every once in a while, it’s just one question too many, and it’s like, ‘Oh, my God, just, David, stop, stop, for a minute.’ And the beautiful thing about me and David is that he knows that about himself and he knows where my limits are. And when I say, ‘David, shut the f–k up,’ David totally gets it and does not take that personally.
The Context of ‘Superman’ and Its Significance for Both Men’s Careers
The collaboration between Gunn and Corenswet comes at an important crossroads. James Gunn is tasked with rebooting the DC universe in a role comparable to Marvel’s Kevin Feige, overseeing a major franchise transformation. Meanwhile, David Corenswet is stepping into his most prominent role yet by embodying Superman, a character whose cultural relevance is challenged by recent darker adaptations and questions about audience interest in a traditionally hopeful superhero figure.
The film seeks to balance this legacy with contemporary storytelling, aiming to reconnect audiences to Superman’s hopeful nature amid changing times.
How James Gunn’s Directional Approach Shapes Actor Performances
David Corenswet described the director’s unique style during the film’s shooting, contrasting it with traditional film direction that keeps communication private and subtle between takes. Instead, Gunn offers direct, loud feedback mid-scene using a microphone, creating a raw and immediate exchange that initially unsettled Corenswet.
I think in a lot of ways, James and I are made for each other,
Corenswet explained.
James has this habit of, as you’re working on the scene, he’ll sit back by the monitors on the God mic and he’ll yell directions at you, which is not how directors generally work. You usually do the scene, they say cut, and then they come and say very privately and quietly, ‘I loved that moment where you did this. What if we tried something else in the next one?’ That is something that would throw lots of actors off, and understandably so.
For me, the second that happened, I went, ‘OK, this is going to be great because I have no idea what I’m doing,’
he continued.
I desperately need a director. I need a director who knows what they want and is willing to say it out loud without too much politeness and without beating around the bush. If I’m no good, tell me I’m no good, and then let’s work together to make me good.
The Actor’s Inquisitive Nature and Its Impact on Set
Corenswet’s continuous questions stem from his filmmaking mindset and eagerness to engage deeply, which sometimes verged on frustrating for Gunn, revealing a blend of collaboration and creative tension between them. This dynamic reflects a director known for demanding clarity and decisiveness, paired with an actor dedicated to understanding and perfecting his craft.
After we finished shooting, we were hanging out and [James] affectionately — I think — described me,
Corenswet recounted.
He said a very nice thing: ‘You’re a filmmaker, and so you want to be involved in the filmmaking and you want to help make the film as good as possible.’ Then he said, ‘I think you’re also like a kid sticking his finger in light sockets and sometimes I gotta slap you on the wrist and say stop f–king doing that.’
The Unique Trust and Respect Between Director and Lead Actor
James Gunn also noted the mutual understanding that permits frank exchanges without causing offense, emphasizing Corenswet’s resilience and openness compared to many actors who are often emotionally vulnerable on set.
We have a really, to me, beautiful relationship in that way because I’m used to being very sensitive with actors, and you have to be by default, because many actors are incredibly sensitive because they’re putting their emotions on the line onscreen,
Gunn said.
But with David, he’s not that way. He’s not sensitive like that.
These elements contribute to a strong director-actor partnership, which will be put to the test once Superman premieres in theaters on July 11, as audiences witness the result of their intense collaborative process.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?
A. Director James Gunn, known for the new Superman film, says his belief in God helped him succeed, but he thinks God doesn’t directly act in our lives.
Q. Why did James Gunn leave the MCU?
A. Alan Horn, the Chairman of The Walt Disney Studios, announced that James’ tweets were unacceptable and clashed with the studio’s principles. As a result, they ended their business ties with him.
Q. What religion is James Gunn?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and has shared that prayer is still significant to him. However, he also describes himself as somewhat anti-religion.
Q. Why is James Gunn leaving MCU?
A. Once Gunn took on the role of co-CEO at DC Studios, he committed solely to that brand. This meant he stopped working on Marvel Studios projects. He had previously developed strong connections with the cast of the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy as their writer and director.
