James Gunn’s new Superman film officially launches the DC Universe reboot, but it diverges from the usual superhero formula, especially regarding its post-credits scenes. While Marvel Studios popularized credit scenes that tease upcoming projects, Gunn’s approach in Superman avoids setting up future DC Universe installments during these moments, despite having two post-credits scenes. The film, released in 2023, introduces some new elements for the franchise but chooses to focus on character moments rather than teasing upcoming films or series like the Green Lantern show Lanterns or the 2026 Supergirl movie.
Though the movie establishes several pieces of the wider DC universe, the notable introduction of Supergirl, played by Milly Alcock, happens before the credits roll. This emphasizes character development instead of promotional setups during the credits themselves. David Corenswet stars as Clark Kent/Kal-El, and the choice for the credit scenes reflects Gunn’s desire to craft meaningful moments without promising teased plotlines that might never materialize.
Details of Superman’s Post-Credits Scenes and Their Significance
The mid-credits scene features Superman holding Krypto, his super-powered dog, as they both gaze at Earth from what appears to be the moon. This intimate moment echoes an early motion poster released by DC Studios and highlights the evolving dynamic between the hero and his pet. Throughout the film, Krypto’s unruly behavior creates tension with Clark, who often scolds him, but by the time of this quiet scene, the two share a peaceful bond.
The post-credits scene is more narrative-driven and features Superman alongside Mister Terrific, played by Edi Gathegi, examining a building damaged by a dimensional rift. Though the structure has been repaired, Superman notices it still looks slightly off, prompting a lighthearted exchange that hints at their developing friendship. Despite Terrific’s frustration, this moment adds humor and emphasizes character interaction instead of teasing larger storylines or new characters.
These credit scenes serve as “button scenes” rather than setups, allowing viewers to enjoy closing moments that deepen character relationships. Mister Terrific has already been identified as a standout in critical reviews of the Superman movie, and his playful dynamic with Superman could be further explored in future DC Universe projects featuring the Justice Gang team.
James Gunn Shares Why He Avoids Using Credits Scenes To Set Up Future Projects
In an exclusive interview, James Gunn explained his approach to post-credits scenes, drawing from his experience directing Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy. He revealed that the scenes fans liked most were often the “stupid ones,” such as humorous appearances by Howard the Duck or Stan Lee. Gunn expressed concern over setting up future films or series in credit scenes that may never be followed through, stating:
“Well, I found in my time at Marvel that, first of all, the post-credit scenes of mine at Marvel that people liked the best were the stupid ones. So, with Howard the Duck at the end of Guardians and Stan Lee at the end of Guardians 2. And I really have found – and I’ve said it before – but I’ve set up things in the post-credit scenes, and Marvel has set up things in the post-credit scenes that never pay off. Unless it’s really for sure going to pay off… like if we were making – we know what the Supergirl movie is – So if it was a payoff at the end of the credits that had to do with something in the Supergirl movie, I would be open to that. We know that’s happening. But I don’t want to set up stuff just because it’s a shocking post-credit scene that we’re never going to pay off. However, I do like giving the audience something for having stuck around through the credits and seeing who all the hardworking people are on the film. And so giving them something, I think, is fun. And that’s what I did. So we put Terrific at the end.”
Gunn’s approach counters a growing frustration among audiences who grow tired of credits scenes that hype future characters or events but fail to deliver, sometimes for many years or even indefinitely. Marvel has received criticism for introducing high-profile characters in credit scenes—such as Harry Styles’ Starfox—who did not continue in the cinematic universe. DC has also experienced this problem, as seen with the teased but unfulfilled Legion of Doom storyline in Justice League and the post-credits appearance of Henry Cavill’s Superman in Black Adam before a full reboot under Gunn.
By avoiding this pitfall, Gunn aims to ensure that every setup in the new DC Universe is meaningful and eventually paid off. His careful selection for Superman’s credit scenes reflects a more responsible and audience-conscious approach to storytelling in superhero franchises.
Superman Lays Groundwork for the New DC Universe Without Relying on Credits Scenes
While the post-credits moments do not hint at specific future projects, the Superman film still plants important seeds within its narrative. The pre-credits arrival of Supergirl indicates her role in the developing DCU, and the movie also references the mysterious Gods and Monsters storyline early on. Although the details of this plot thread remain unclear, it connects to DC’s history and forthcoming plans under Warner Bros. Discovery and Gunn’s leadership.
With Superman as the first installment of DC Studios’ slate, audiences can expect the broader narrative arc, including Gods & Monsters, to unfold in subsequent films and series. This measured storytelling strategy hints at a franchise that prioritizes coherence and payoff over quick setups.
James Gunn’s openness about his intentions with the post-credits scenes underscores a thoughtful attempt to balance fan expectations while avoiding common pitfalls in superhero franchise building. His strategy allows the Superman movie itself to serve as the main foundation for the new DC Universe, leaving room for future projects to develop naturally without forced teases.
Main Cast Members of the Superman Movie
David Corenswet stars as Clark Kent, also known as Superman or Kal-El, bringing a fresh take to the iconic hero.
Rachel Brosnahan appears as Lois Lane, the renowned reporter and Superman’s key ally and love interest within the narrative.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and has shared that prayer is still significant to him. However, he also describes himself as “in some ways, against 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 company and stopped working with Marvel Studios. He had developed a strong connection with the actors from the Guardians of the Galaxy series.
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 brothers and sisters: Sean, who is an actor; Matt, who writes about politics and also works as an actor; Brian, who is a screenwriter; Patrick; and Beth. His family has Irish roots, with his father descending from Irish immigrants.
