James Gunn has recently revealed that Mr. Handsome might be his favorite character in the entire DC Universe (DCU) movie. This insight comes as Superman, directed and written by Gunn, has started playing in theaters across the United States. The film stars David Corenswet as Superman and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, with a supporting cast that includes Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane.
Mr. Handsome is a unique figure in the movie, appearing as a humanoid creature within a pocket universe created by Lex Luthor. Gunn’s admiration for this character adds depth to the film’s story, highlighting an unexpected emotional layer tied to Lex’s character.
The Origins and Significance of Mr. Handsome According to James Gunn
James Gunn shared details about Mr. Handsome on the social platform Threads, explaining the character’s backstory and his personal connection to it. Gunn stated,
“When people ask me my favorite character from Superman, it just might be Mr. Handsome. Lex created Mr. Handsome in a Petri dish when he was 12 – he was trying to make a human. He didn’t come out so well, but he just might be the only one in the world Lex has any true sentiment for, as evidenced by the photo on his desk. Our Mr. Handsome was portrayed by the wonderful [Trevor Newlin].” —James Gunn
This insight sheds light on Lex Luthor’s complex personality, showing that despite his villainous nature, he has a rare emotional attachment represented through Mr. Handsome. The casting of Trevor Newlin in this role brings the character’s delicate, enigmatic presence to life on screen.
Extensive Ensemble Cast Brings the Superman Universe to Life
The Superman movie features a broad and diverse cast that rounds out the DCU world with familiar and new characters. Edi Gathegi portrays Michael Holt, also known as Mister Terrific, while Anthony Carrigan brings Rex Mason or Metamorpho to the screen. Nathan Fillion stars as Guy Gardner, the Green Lantern, and Isabela Merced appears as Kendra Saunders, aka Hawkgirl.
Other notable characters include Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Wendell Pierce as Perry White, Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard, Mikaela Hoover playing Cat Grant, Christopher McDonald as Ron Troupe, Pruitt Taylor Vince in the role of Jonathan Kent, Neva Howell as Martha Kent, Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher, María Gabriela de Faría as Angela Spica/The Engineer, and Frank Grillo portraying Rick Flag Sr.
Superman’s New Chapter Under James Gunn’s Direction
The film is the first feature from DC Studios to debut in theaters, setting a new tone for the franchise. Warner Bros. Pictures presents this version of Superman as one who combines epic action, humor, and heartfelt moments. According to the official synopsis,
“Superman, DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor, and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.” —Movie Synopsis
This fresh portrayal emphasizes Superman’s compassion and optimism, marking a thoughtful evolution in how the character is presented to audiences.
What Mr. Handsome Represents for the DC Universe’s Future
Mr. Handsome’s presence in the film not only reveals a softer side to Lex Luthor’s character but also introduces a fascinating concept within the DCU’s larger narrative—the pocket universe. This element may signal upcoming storylines where more unusual or overlooked characters take on prominent roles.
James Gunn’s affection for Mr. Handsome suggests that smaller, complex creations within the superhero world can hold significant emotional weight, potentially influencing how future DC films explore character backstories and relationships.
