In recent test screenings of the latest Superman film, it was confirmed that Bradley Cooper, known for his role in Guardians of the Galaxy, plays Jor-El. This casting choice was anticipated by many fans ahead of the movie’s release. Director James Gunn has dramatically reimagined Kryptonian backstory, unveiling a controversial twist in which Superman’s parents, Lara and Jor-El, sent him to Earth not simply to survive but to conquer and propagate their species by creating a harem.
James Gunn Explains Casting and Character Changes
Gunn shared insights about his decision to cast Cooper in the iconic role originally defined by Marlon Brando in the 1978 Superman film. He emphasized the need for an actor who could embody the stature and presence of Jor-El without appearing too old.
“Well, Bradley’s a friend of mine, and I needed somebody who could play Jor-El — and I don’t think this is a spoiler, everybody knows about this — who had the stature of what we imagine that character being, somebody who could walk in the footsteps of Marlon Brando.”
—James Gunn, Director
“A lot of times, Jor-El is played by a 70-year-old man, and that means he was 70 when he had a baby, so I wanted somebody that wasn’t too old. Everyone was bringing up all these actors that were too old for me. I think Bradley was perfect, he did it for me as a favor because he’s my friend, and I really appreciated him doing it.”
—James Gunn, Director
Though Cooper’s portrayal includes darker elements, there are no immediate plans to explore Jor-El as a villain further. Some comics have depicted Jor-El surviving Krypton’s destruction, but Gunn’s version focuses more on Superman’s inner conflict and ultimate choice to embrace his humanity rather than his Kryptonian legacy.
Altered Kryptonian Lore and Superman’s Human Choice
The film shifts traditional lore by suggesting that Kal-El’s parents sought not just to save their son but to claim Earth as a new home for their race. This narrative adds complexity to Superman’s identity, showing that despite his heritage and the darker intentions of his parents, he chooses to be a protector and champion of humanity.
Cut PG-13 Joke and Changes in Film Score
A test screening insider known as @ViewerAnon revealed that a joke pushing PG-13 boundaries was removed from the final cut. This deleted scene involved Guy Gardner teasing Superman with crude language after a kaiju battle, raising concerns about the film’s rating.
“So, the deleted #Superman joke I hope I haven’t oversold. After the kaiju is killed and Superman says he wishes he could have taken it to a zoo, this was the original exchange: GUY: Dude, don’t be such a pussy. SUPERMAN: Hey, there are kids around! GUY: That’s why I said DON’T!!”
—@ViewerAnon, Test Screening Insider
Additionally, a significant change occurred behind the scenes in the film’s musical score. Composer John Murphy was replaced by Dave Fleming, who reworked most of the score for reasons not yet disclosed, despite initial enthusiasm from Gunn to collaborate again with Murphy.
“Not sure about Oh Lord but Murphy was let go and most of his work was thrown out and redone by Fleming. I don’t know what the issue was.”
—@ViewerAnon, Test Screening Insider
Implications of Gunn’s Superman Reimagining
James Gunn’s take on Superman challenges long-standing perceptions by adding moral ambiguity to the character‘s origins. The casting of Bradley Cooper as a younger, more dynamic Jor-El replaces the usual older mentor archetype, offering a fresh – though unsettling – portrayal. Removing the potentially offensive joke signals a careful balance between edgy content and mainstream audience expectations. Changes in the score reflect ongoing efforts to refine the movie’s tone.
As audiences react to these bold choices, the film’s approach to humanity, legacy, and heroism suggests that the Superman franchise may explore more complex character dynamics in future works, though the dark path of Jor-El as a foe seems unlikely to return soon.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is James Gunn leaving Marvel?
A. In 2018, James Gunn lost his position with Marvel because some old tweets he wrote, which included inappropriate jokes about pedophilia, rape, and abuse, came to light, causing public anger.
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. Ozu influenced the new CGI-animated Krypto the Superdog in Gunn’s 2025 Superman movie. Gunn grew up in a Catholic setting. He still finds prayer important, despite feeling somewhat opposed to organized religion.
Q. What religion is James Gunn?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and still finds prayer significant in his life. However, he has also described himself as being somewhat against organized religion.
