James Gunn’s Superman movie spoilers reveal crucial details that are shaping the future of DC’s cinematic universe. Released in 2024, the film introduces a new phase for DC superheroes under the guidance of Gunn and Peter Safran, co-CEOs of DC Studios, marking a significant shift from the previous decade’s DC Extended Universe.
An Era Without Kryptonite Alters Superman’s Vulnerability
Early in the movie, Superman’s world is notably without kryptonite, his notorious weakness, which has vanished from Earth. To compensate, Lex Luthor imprisons Metamorpho, a character capable of turning parts of his body into kryptonite, using this ability against Superman. This absence of kryptonite raises questions about how future villains might challenge the hero. It is implied that during Superman’s three years of heroism, kryptonite was likely eliminated or removed from the planet to prevent its future misuse, potentially by Superman himself.
This plot point opens the door for adversaries beyond traditional weaknesses. For example, villains like Brainiac, a powerful foe from the comics, could emerge as threats unbound by kryptonite’s influence, potentially shaping the direction of upcoming DC films.
Superman’s Approach to Modern Fame and Scrutiny
During an interview with Lois Lane, Superman reveals he avoids social media and dismisses selfies, though he admits occasionally peeking at the online commentary, including the derogatory hashtag #SuperSpy. This detail underscores how even the most powerful hero is not immune to public scrutiny and internet trolling. It also appears to reflect James Gunn’s own complex relationship with social media, where he actively engages with fans and critics alike, balancing promotion with addressing rumors and misinformation.
Superman’s acknowledgment that he cares about public opinion humanizes him, emphasizing his vulnerability and imperfect nature despite his extraordinary abilities.
Unraveling the Controversial Message from Krypton
Lex Luthor decodes a fragmented message from Superman’s Kryptonian parents, Jor-El and Lara Lor-Van. Although the first part urges Kal-El to protect Earth, the latter half controversially suggests he should rule over humanity and build a harem of women to father many children. Lex insists he did not tamper with the message, lending it authenticity.
This revelation introduces a provocative idea that challenges established Superman lore. It conflicts with the depiction of Kryptonian reproduction seen in other media such as the Syfy series Krypton, where genesis chambers are used for non-physical conception. In contrast, Jor-El and Lara are portrayed as having conceived Kal-El naturally. The message hints at a continuation of this traditional reproductive method rather than reliance on technology or artificial means.
The Dimensional Orb and Justice Gang’s Role
An unusual orb appears outside a window in Metropolis, identified as a “dimensional imp.” Clark Kent is shown not to be concerned with the orb’s activity because the Justice Gang—comprising Guy Gardner, Hawkgirl, and Mister Terrific—is managing the situation. The term “imp” connects to magical beings in DC Comics, such as Mister Mxyzptlk and Bat-Mite, both of whom have reality-warping powers and are more powerful than Superman.
James Gunn’s fondness for Bat-Mite hints that this mention might be a setup for the character’s future appearance, although the orb seems distinct from the known imps. It could represent a new variant or simply serve as a playful tease for fans familiar with the lore, suggesting expansive narrative possibilities.
The Truth Behind Superman’s Hypnotic Glasses
After Lex Luthor captures Superman, Lois Lane seeks assistance from the Justice Gang. Guy Gardner provocatively mentions Superman’s “hypno glasses,” a reference to the comic book concept that Clark Kent’s glasses actually hypnotize people, preventing them from recognizing his dual identity. Lois confirms familiarity with the glasses, and the gang acknowledges Clark’s secret is common knowledge among them.
James Gunn revealed his struggle with the believability of Clark’s disguise, which leads to the canonical explanation that Clark mentally influences others to overlook his resemblance to Superman. This deep comic book cut offers a satisfying answer to a classic skepticism among fans, while actor David Corenswet’s performance differentiates Clark and Superman through mannerisms and subtle physical changes, including hairstyle.
Guy Gardner’s Flippant Attitude Towards His Oath
During a visit to the Hall of Justice, Guy Gardner reveals he has taken the Green Lantern Corps’ oath but exhibits a casual attitude about it. He recites the famous oath:
“In brightest day, in blackest night, no evil shall escape my sight. Let those who worship evil’s might beware my power, Green Lantern’s light!”
—Guy Gardner, Green Lantern Corps member
Despite delivering the prayer, Gardner’s demeanor implies he doesn’t take the vow seriously, offering an intriguing contrast to more disciplined Green Lanterns like Hal Jordan and John Stewart. The upcoming HBO Green Lantern series focusses on Hal and John, emphasizing a serious tone reminiscent of True Detective, which could create tension between these characters and Gardner’s more rebellious approach.
Lex Luthor’s Ambition to Ascend as a Monarch
Lois Lane and her team at The Daily Planet uncover Lex Luthor’s ultimate scheme. He has covertly supported Boravia’s invasion of Jarhanpur to claim a portion of the territory and establish himself as king. This ambition aligns with Lex’s history in the comics, where he has previously sought political power, including a presidential campaign depicted in Superman: Lex 2000 and a scenario where he is revered like a monarch on a planet renamed Lexor.
Lex’s aspiration to rule reflects his desire for complete dominance and his distrust of Superman’s intentions, assuming the Man of Steel desires similar sovereignty. This fetchingly villainous vision reinforces his rivalry with Superman, who strives to protect humanity rather than dominate it.
Introducing Ultraman: Superman’s Cloned Opponent
Superman learns that the Hammer of Boravia and Ultraman are the same entity, with Lex Luthor controlling Ultraman. Revealed to be a clone of Superman, Ultraman’s difference lies in his intellectual capacity as Lex describes him as “even stupider” than Clark Kent. Ultraman is a nod to the comic book character from the Crime Syndicate, an evil counterpart of Superman from another dimension.
This version of Ultraman in the film appears unique, blending elements from various Superman clones like Superboy, Cyborg Superman, and Nuclear Man. After being thrown into a black hole, the possibility exists for Ultraman to return transformed, potentially as Bizarro or another villainous figure in forthcoming DC stories.
The Rising Influence of Autonomous Metahumans
The film concludes with Superman thwarting Lex Luthor’s schemes and delegating the resolution of the conflict between Boravia and Jarhanpur to Hawkgirl, Guy Gardner, and Metamorpho. These heroes, once corporate-controlled, have chosen to operate independently, causing concern among government officials.
“Now they’re the ones making the rules.”
—Government Official
This statement signals a shift in power dynamics, hinting at the formation of the Justice League as independent heroes who challenge traditional authority. The film’s political themes suggest future narratives will explore government responses to uncontrolled metahuman activity, reminiscent of the storyline from the Justice League Unlimited animated series that introduced Project Cadmus as a countermeasure.
Supergirl’s Return and Future Adventures
The movie ends with an introduction to Supergirl, Kara Zor-El, who arrives unexpectedly at the Fortress of Solitude to retrieve her dog, Krypto. It is revealed that her frequent absences off-world explain why Superman has been caring for the dog. Kal-El’s comment highlights Supergirl’s penchant for partying on planets with red suns, which weaken her Kryptonian powers just enough for her to enjoy earthly pleasures like getting drunk.
“She likes to go party on other planets,”
—Kal-El
This brief yet significant cameo sets the stage for the upcoming Supergirl film, which will draw inspiration from the Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow comic. In that story, Supergirl becomes embroiled in a darker, grittier quest after an encounter on a distant world, promising a more complex, less polished portrayal shaped by the vision of James Gunn.
The DC Universe’s willingness to expand into cosmic territory with Supergirl’s storyline signals bold new directions for future installments, adding a layer of complexity and edginess to the overarching narrative.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and still finds prayer significant in his life. However, he also admits to being somewhat against organized religion.
Q. Why is James Gunn leaving Marvel?
A. When Gunn took on the role of co-CEO at DC Studios, he committed fully to that brand. This meant he would stop working on Marvel Studios projects. Gunn, who wrote and directed the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, was known for developing strong relationships with the films’ actors.
