On the eve of the new Superman film’s release, David Corenswet shared his perspective on how James Gunn’s reimagined DC Universe (DCU) uniquely compares to other major cinematic franchises like Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Corenswet plays the iconic Man of Steel, helping usher in a fresh era for the DC brand on the big screen. This latest blockbuster from Gunn, best known for Guardians of the Galaxy, launches an interconnected DCU aimed at rivaling the Marvel Studios’ long-established universe.
While many comparisons have been drawn between the MCU and the DCU, Corenswet suggests that fans might find the new DC cinematic world to be closer in tone and structure to Star Wars. His remarks come during a recent interview, where he described James Gunn’s vision of the DCU as existing in an alternate reality rather than beginning with origin stories typical of the MCU approach.
A New Cinematic Universe in an Alternate World
David Corenswet explained that James Gunn has likened the DCU to the Star Wars universe in terms of how it immerses viewers. Instead of chronicling origins, the audience is thrown directly into the midst of the story, discovering the world and characters as the narrative unfolds.
“James has described this new DCU as feeling a little more like the Star Wars universe in the sense that it’s not our world, it’s an alternate world, and it’s not an origin story. You’re just thrown into the middle of this universe, and you learn about it as you go.”
—David Corenswet, Superman actor
The idea contrasts with the MCU’s foundation, which often begins by exploring how characters acquire their powers before gradually building toward larger, interconnected storylines.
The Role of Music in Tying Franchises Together
Corenswet also highlighted the unique link between the DCU and Star Wars through the work of composer John Williams. Williams originally scored the 1978 Superman film, and his legacy continues to influence the new DCU’s soundtrack.
“A huge part of why Star Wars has stuck in my mind for so many years is the music and John Williams’ other music has been a way that I’ve expanded out to other great films and [been] a reason that I love the other films that he scored. The most surreal thing about being in this film is now I am in a film that has John Williams theme underneath it. That’s probably the biggest ‘pinch me’ moment for me in this whole thing, and it’s a fun thing to nerd out about.”
—David Corenswet, Superman actor
Corenswet regards this musical connection as a special moment that adds legacy and gravitas to his role, reinforcing the distinct yet familiar feeling of the DCU’s new narrative approach.
James Gunn’s Vision for an Expansive and Complex Universe
This isn’t the first time James Gunn has drawn parallels between the new DCU and Star Wars. During DC’s Chapter 1 announcement earlier in 2023, Gunn described his plans for the franchise as one that spans multiple times and places, embracing a complexity found in series like Game of Thrones where characters possess more nuanced morality.
“But we’re also creating a universe that is like Star Wars where there are different times, different places, different things, [and] like ‘Game of Thrones,’ where characters are a little bit more morally complex.”
—James Gunn, DC Studios Co-CEO
This approach signals that the DCU intends to offer a broader narrative scope rather than a strictly linear storyline, allowing for stories set across different eras and locales within the DC mythos.
Introducing New and Familiar Faces in the DC Universe
Superman serves as the inaugural chapter of the DCU’s cinematic rollout after the animated Creature Commandos premiered on streaming late last year. Alongside Corenswet’s Superman, the film will feature key figures such as Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), Mister Terrific (Edi Gathegi), and a much-anticipated Kryptonian relative that’s expected to excite fans.
Following Superman, the franchise will continue expanding with sequels and spin-offs. August will bring the second season of Peacemaker on Max, extending the story from the celebrated series. Other projects in development include Lanterns, Supergirl, Clayface, and The Brave and the Bold, promising a diverse slate over the coming years.
What Sets This DC Universe Apart from the MCU
Although the MCU is often seen as the benchmark for cinematic universes, the DCU’s structure is intentionally designed to differ. Both Gunn and Corenswet emphasize that the DCU will not be rooted in origin stories, but instead will introduce audiences to different characters and storylines at various points in time.
This method means fans will experience the DCU more as a collection of distinct yet interwoven tales, similar to Star Wars’ approach of exploring myriad eras and worlds without a strict starting point.
Gunn has spoken publicly about having a “loosely mapped out” storyline for the DCU, showing willingness to adapt and integrate new ideas as they arise. This flexibility contrasts with the MCU’s tightly controlled, formula-driven narrative planning.
An example of this adaptability is seen with the upcoming Clayface film, which originated from a pitch by writer Mike Flanagan late last year. The project was swiftly approved and scheduled for production in 2025, despite not being part of the original DCU blueprint.
This readiness to embrace creative opportunities allows the DCU to feel less constrained, setting it apart from the MCU’s more calculated progression of projects.
Parallels Between the DCU and Star Wars Franchise Strategies
The DCU’s fluid approach resembles Star Wars’ post-Skywalker Saga strategy. After several failed projects, Lucasfilm has increasingly welcomed pitches from directors rather than strictly following a preset slate. This open model fosters diverse storytelling voices and unexpected directions.
Similarly, Gunn’s DCU aims to hold space for innovation, revising plans dynamically as compelling concepts arise, enhancing narrative richness and audience engagement across its diverse lineup.
Looking Ahead to the Future of the DC Universe
The release of Superman marks a decisive new chapter for the DCU, setting the foundation for a sprawling universe that embraces complexity, alternate realities, and a wide cast of characters. Fans can anticipate an evolving cinematic landscape where stories unfold across different times and settings, differentiated from the structured progression familiar to MCU viewers.
With James Gunn’s creative leadership and David Corenswet’s fresh portrayal of Superman, the DCU is poised to carve out its own identity within the superhero genre, promising to deliver a distinct experience that blends the feel of Star Wars with the iconic appeal of DC Comics’ heroes.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic home and has shared that prayer is still important to him. However, he also describes himself as “somewhat anti-religion.”
Q. Why is James Gunn leaving Marvel?
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 built strong connections with the cast of the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, which he wrote and directed.
Q. What religion is James Gunn?
A. He grew up in a Catholic family in Manchester, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis.
He has five siblings: Sean, who is an actor; Matt, who acts and writes about politics; Brian, who is a screenwriter; Patrick; and Beth.
Gunn has Irish roots, as his father’s family came from Ireland.
