In the latest DC Universe Superman movie, filmmaker James Gunn introduced a startling plot twist that challenges previous depictions of Krypton and Kal-El’s parents. The revelation suggested that Superman’s parents, Jor-El and Lara Lor-Van, intended for him to become a tyrannical ruler on Earth rather than a heroic protector. Despite its shock value, this James Gunn Superman Krypton twist closely follows longstanding comic book themes rather than deviating from tradition.
The film opens with an injured Superman viewing a damaged recording from his parents, who express love and instruct him to “live out Krypton’s truth.” Initially, Superman assumes this means using his powers for good, but when the message is fully restored, it is clear that his parents expected him to conquer Earth and rule alongside multiple wives. Rejecting this dark inheritance, Superman embraces his human side, echoing Pa Kent’s belief that his self-interpretation defines him more than his origins.
The portrayal of Krypton as a dystopian world has a long history
Reaction to the twist has sparked controversy, with many fans accusing Gunn of altering the story merely to shock audiences. However, the concept of a corrupt Jor-El and a totalitarian Krypton is not a new invention. For example, the 1978 Superman movie portrayed Krypton as a rigid society where dissent was forbidden, and Jor-El faced banishment to the Phantom Zone for warning about the planet’s destruction. This fate was similarly imposed on General Zod and his followers after they attempted a coup.
The TV series Smallville also echoed this darker vision of Krypton’s leadership. Throughout its ten seasons, an artificial intelligence version of Jor-El in the Fortress of Solitude manipulated Clark Kent and his loved ones, portraying Kal-El’s father as cold and controlling—even if this was only a simulation, not the real Jor-El.
Comic book storylines have long depicted Krypton as a troubled society
This darker portrayal of Krypton is deeply rooted in comic book history. Traditionally, Kryptonians are shown as proud, often xenophobic, and dismissive of warnings about their planet’s fate. In the New Krypton storyline, when Clark restores the miniaturized people of Kandor to full size, they reject integration with Earth and establish a separate Krypton, eventually leading to war. Supergirl’s mother, Allura In-Ze, plays a key role in leading Krypton’s assault against Earth during this conflict.
During the DC Rebirth era, the character of Jor-El takes an even darker turn as the villain Mr. Oz. After arriving on Earth before Krypton’s destruction, Jor-El becomes disillusioned by humanity’s flaws and concludes that Earth’s people are unworthy of Superman’s protection. His response includes abducting his grandson, Jonathan Kent, trying to mold him into a harsher, more Kryptonian figure.
The deeper impact of these story elements on Superman’s character
This interpretation of Krypton and Kal-El’s lineage adds complexity to Superman’s identity, highlighting his internal struggle to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing. By rejecting his parents’ original vision of dominance, Superman affirms values of empathy and self-determination. The James Gunn Superman Krypton twist pushes audiences to question the roots of heroism and the weight of legacy in shaping one’s destiny.
Given the lineage of comic adaptations and previous media portrayals, this new twist should be seen not as an arbitrary shock but as a continuation of ongoing themes within the Superman mythos. As the DC Universe expands, future stories may further explore these moral ambiguities surrounding Krypton and Kal-El’s origins, adding richer layers to the Man of Steel’s narrative.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household, and he still finds prayer significant. However, he has also expressed being somewhat opposed to religion.
Q. Is James Gunn no longer with Marvel?
A. After being removed from the Guardians of the Galaxy series in 2018, Gunn feared his career had ended. Fortunately, he and Peter Safran were chosen to lead DC Studios in 2022. This gave him a chance to work on another superhero project. Toby Emmerich, from Warner Bros., contacted him at that time.
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. Gunn’s 2025 version of Superman features a CGI-animated Krypto the Superdog influenced by Ozu’s style.
He grew up in a Catholic home and often speaks about prayer’s significance in his life. However, he also states that he is “in some ways, against religion.”
