Exclusive: James Gunn Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Secrets of Superman’s Dual Identity and New DC Universe

As Superman prepares to hit theaters on July 11th, fans are offered an exclusive glimpse into the creative process led by James Gunn, who is launching his new DC Universe with this first theatrical release. The film, and upcoming projects connected to it, explore fresh interpretations of the iconic hero, especially the complex relationship between Clark Kent and his Superman persona. This insight comes from the upcoming book Superman: The Art and Making of the Film, featuring comments from Gunn himself, along with David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan, who portray Clark Kent/Superman and Lois Lane, respectively.

Exploring the Complex Duality of Clark Kent and Superman

According to James Gunn, audiences will meet Superman already established as a hero several years into his career. Clark Kent is shown as a successful journalist at the Daily Planet in Metropolis, having earned his first front-page story. Gunn explains that Clark is an integral part of Superman, not simply a disguise. He shared,

“Clark is a work in the making by Superman. He doesn’t want the cat to be let out of the bag, but he’s also a very real part of Superman, who does have his failings (many of which Lois points out in their big argument),”

underscoring the human vulnerabilities embedded in the superhero’s character.

Further emphasizing the relationship between the two identities, Gunn said,

“I even say in the script, it’s commonly said that Superman is the real guy and Clark is the mask — and I think that’s true in some ways — but I think no one can truly know Superman who doesn’t know both Superman and Clark. This makes Clark and the Kents part of a very elite group.”

This statement highlights that understanding Superman fully requires recognition of both Clark Kent’s humanity and Superman’s heroic nature.

David Corenswet on Superman’s Intent Behind Maintaining an Alter Ego

Actor David Corenswet, portraying Clark Kent and Superman, offers his view on how this version of Superman differs from typical superheroes. Corenswet explains that Superman intentionally keeps his personal life separate to safeguard those he loves.

“He wants his superhero persona to be more of an abstract symbol, and he wants to keep his personal life separate so that he protects the people that he loves — because Superman isn’t omnipresent enough to be able to protect all the people he loves at the same time,”

Corenswet notes. He adds that the choice of having an alter ego stems from a deeper love of humanity, saying

“The reason that James and I have discussed for him having an alter ego in this iteration is his love of humanity, and that it’s not a character he plays, it’s the version of himself that he grew up thinking he was before he realized that he was an alien and adopted and all that stuff.”

Rachel Brosnahan Praises David Corenswet’s Portrayal of Clark Kent and Superman

Rachel Brosnahan, who plays Lois Lane, remarks on the convincing depth Corenswet brings to his dual roles. She recalls a memorable moment during testing when she saw Corenswet trying on the Superman suit and felt a strong impression. Brosnahan said,

“I’ll never forget when we were testing, right as I was leaving, I walked past this fitting room, and David was trying on a version of the suit. I didn’t know we had the job, and I just remember looking at him in the suit and being like, my god, he just is Superman, and he is Clark,”

emphasizing Corenswet’s ability to embody both characters authentically. She adds,

“There’s an earnestness to both of them that feels really unique, and it’s been awesome to watch him craft the two characters and then craft that thing in the middle.”

Retro Inspirations for Clark Kent’s Character and Costume Design

David Corenswet’s interpretation of Clark Kent draws inspiration from George Reeves, the 1950s actor who famously portrayed the character in live-action television. Reeves was known for a lighter, slightly boxy suit that gave his Clark Kent a distinct look. Costume designer Judianna Makovsky shared how this influenced the current film’s costume design. She recalled,

“The minute [David] put the double-breasted suit on, and he started playing with it and with this bag that wouldn’t stay on his shoulder, we called James, and he went, ‘This is the first time, I believe, that this is a different guy than Superman because he looks so completely different.’”

This visual differentiation helps establish Clark Kent and Superman as truly separate personas.

Anticipation and Legacy of Superman in the New DC Universe

This new Superman film marks a significant moment as James Gunn launches his broader DC Universe vision. With an emphasis on character depth and duality, the film aims to redefine how audiences perceive the superhero’s identity and connection to humanity. The upcoming book Superman: The Art and Making of the Film, available November 18, 2025, promises to provide further insights into the filmmaking process and character development. As Superman takes flight in theaters on July 11th, fans can expect a thoughtful exploration of the Man of Steel that honors his iconic legacy while introducing nuanced storytelling.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?

A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and has shared that prayer still holds significance for him. However, he also describes himself as being somewhat against organized religion.

Q. Why is James Gunn leaving Marvel?

A. Once Gunn took on the role of co-CEO at DC Studios, he committed fully to that company. This meant he stopped working on Marvel Studios projects. It’s well known that Gunn developed strong relationships with the actors in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy.

Q. What religion is James Gunn?

A. He grew up in a Catholic family in Manchester, a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. He has five siblings: Sean, an actor; Matt, who writes about politics; Brian, a screenwriter; Patrick; and Beth. His father is from an Irish immigrant family, so he has Irish roots.