James Gunn has been making waves since the release of Superman, sharing multiple insights about the future of Superman and the broader DC Universe (DCU). These revelations highlight both the creative risks taken in the film and significant developments for upcoming DC projects.
Creative Risks Behind the Lengthy Dialogue Scene in Superman
The recently released Superman movie took a surprisingly bold approach by incorporating an extended, 12-minute dialogue exchange between Lois Lane, played by Rachel Brosnahan, and Clark Kent, portrayed by David Corenswet. This scene unfolds with Superman entering Lois’s apartment for a candid conversation, capturing the uncertainty surrounding his identity and their relationship. For a superhero film, this was an unusually dialogue-heavy moment that diverged from James Gunn’s typical, more comedic style.
In his appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Gunn acknowledged that this prolonged talking scene was the biggest creative risk he took with the movie. Despite concerns, the gamble paid off, allowing the audience to engage deeply with the characters’ emotional complexities.
Choosing a Score Over Songs Created a New Atmosphere
Unlike his previous films, James Gunn opted to rely primarily on a musical score composed by John Murphy and David Fleming rather than foreground popular songs to shape the movie’s tone. Though a few tracks, like “Punkrocker” during the credits, make appearances, the film’s 129-minute runtime features very few songs.
Gunn admitted the decision to emphasize score over an extensive soundtrack was “scary,” as it was a departure from his usual method of integrating ’70s and ’80s songs. The team adjusted original scores to ensure they stayed light and aligned with the film’s mood, lending the movie a more contemplative and serious tone.
Bradley Cooper Nearly Played Lex Luthor Before Being Cast as Jor-El
Before settling on Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, James Gunn considered Bradley Cooper for the infamous villain’s role. Cooper himself expressed a preference for the Lex Luthor character to be closer in age to Superman, who is played by David Corenswet, believing that he was too old for the part. Gunn agreed with this assessment but felt Cooper
“would have been a great Lex.”
Instead, Cooper took on the role of Jor-El, Superman’s biological father, appearing through holographic messages throughout the film. His casting ensured that while he did not become Lex Luthor, he still played a pivotal role in the story’s mythology alongside Angela Sarafyan as Lara Lor-Van.
Jor-El’s Directive to Conquer Earth: A Genuine Message
A key and controversial plot element involves Jor-El’s encoded message instructing Superman to conquer Earth and transform it into a new Krypton. For much of the film, viewers are left uncertain whether this message was true or fabricated by Lex Luthor to manipulate Superman.
James Gunn clarified in his podcast appearance that the message from Jor-El and Lara Lor-Van is authentic and unaltered. This choice was purposeful, underscoring that Superman must define his own path, even when it contradicts his parents’ wishes. It highlights the character’s moral independence and the internal conflicts that drive his decisions.
David Corenswet’s Casting as Superman Overcame Initial Backlash
The introduction of David Corenswet as the new Superman sparked substantial reactions due to Henry Cavill’s exit from the role and the passionate fan base that supported Cavill’s portrayal. Initial criticism turned into acceptance as audiences grew to appreciate Corenswet’s performance after the trailer’s release and the film’s premiere.
Gunn described discovering Corenswet’s potential for the role during his viewing of the 2022 horror film Pearl, where Corenswet played a character called The Projectionist. Gunn shared,
“That guy looks like he could possibly be Superman.”
This quick realization led to Corenswet’s casting, marking a new chapter for the Man of Steel in the DCU.
Hall of Justice Hints at Justice Society of America
The film introduces three heroes known as the Justice Gang, who are bankrolled by Maxwell Lord, played by Pedro Pascal, connecting to Wonder Woman 1984. A striking piece of world-building is the depiction of an unfinished Hall of Justice featuring murals of classic heroes such as Jay Garrick (Flash), Alan Scott (Green Lantern), and Doctor Fate.
These visual clues strongly suggest the presence of the Justice Society of America within the DCU’s history, creating anticipation for future stories involving this lesser-explored group of heroes.
Possibility of Henry Cavill Returning to the DCU
Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Superman spanned three main films and a cameo in the 2022 film Black Adam. His departure from the newly launched DCU disappointed many fans, especially after his cameo ignited hope for his continued involvement.
Gunn revealed in the podcast that Cavill handled his departure professionally, requesting the announcement be left to him personally. More significantly, Gunn expressed a desire to include Cavill in some capacity within his DCU, stating,
“I would love to put Henry in something.”
Dwayne Johnson’s Black Adam as a Turning Point for the DCU
Before the DCEU was restructured, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s 2022 film Black Adam represented a final effort to reinvigorate the franchise. Though the film featured the last appearance of Cavill’s Superman, it failed critically and financially, signaling waning interest in the previous iteration of DC films.
James Gunn reflected on the situation during the podcast, noting tension between Johnson’s vision and Warner Bros. Discovery’s executive decisions. Gunn explained,
“There were other people [Johnson] that had a take on what they wanted to do at DC and were trying to force their way. And it just was never a part of the equation for David Zaslav, who was the head of WBD.”
This division ultimately paved the way for Gunn and Peter Safran to assume control of DC Studios, giving them a fresh start and the ability to build their “Gods and Monsters” vision.
Progress on The Brave and the Bold and New Batman Interpretations
While The Brave and the Bold has yet to enter active production, James Gunn is closely involved with its script development. The director confirmed that a screenwriter is currently crafting the story, though he had no further updates to share publicly.
Gunn mentioned that this film will feature Alan Ritchson as a possible Batman figure within the new DCU and clarified that Matt Reeves’ Batman exists in an “Elseworld” universe separate from their DCU continuity. He emphasized that the characters will have distinct interpretations across these cinematic realms.
“I mean, we’re working on a script. We have a screenwriter who’s hammering away at it. I’m very involved, and so, you know, we’ll see what happens next. I wish I had more news for you, but I don’t.”
James Gunn Is Developing a New Superman Project
Even though Superman continues to play in theaters worldwide, James Gunn has confirmed he is already working on another film linked to the Man of Steel. During the podcast, he described this upcoming project as
“not exactly a Superman sequel per se,”
suggesting it will explore new aspects or stories related to the iconic character.
Gunn emphasized that the film will not follow the typical Batman versus Superman or “World’s Finest” format, and promised that a project timeline will be revealed soon. This signals the DCU’s commitment to building a complex, layered mythology around Superman and other characters.
The success of the current Superman film and these insights from James Gunn indicate a reinvigorated vision for the DC Universe, blending bold storytelling risks with deep respect for its characters. As Gunn and Peter Safran guide DC Studios forward, fans can expect fresh narratives and expanding connections across the new cinematic landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic family and has talked about how prayer remains important to him. However, he also describes himself as somewhat against religion.
Q. Is James Gunn no longer with Marvel?
A. After being removed from the Guardians of the Galaxy series in 2018, the director feared his career had ended. However, in 2022, he and Peter Safran were chosen to lead DC Studios, giving him a new opportunity for a superhero project.
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. The reimagined, CGI version of Krypto the Superdog in Gunn’s 2025 Superman adaptation was influenced by Ozu. Raised in a Catholic family, Gunn says prayer is still significant in his life. However, he also describes himself as somewhat against organized religion.
