In a rare crossover of enthusiasm between rival cinematic universes, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige expressed a desire to see the character Bizarro featured in an upcoming DC film. This revelation came amid the ongoing development of the new DC Universe (DCU), currently spearheaded by James Gunn, who is known for his work on Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. This unexpected support from Feige was shared by Gunn in a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly.
James Gunn Reveals Feige’s Wish for Bizarro’s Debut
James Gunn disclosed that Kevin Feige reached out to him with a direct request regarding a future Superman sequel. According to Gunn, Feige hopes to see Bizarro brought to life on the big screen, marking an unusual moment where a top figure from Marvel champions a notable DC character. Gunn recounted the interaction, saying,
“It’s funny, [Marvel Studios President] Kevin Feige wrote me yesterday, He says he hopes his old pal Bizarro… [Laughs] He wants to see Bizarro.” —James Gunn, Director
This endorsement highlights a growing interest in further exploring complex characters within the DCU, especially as the Superman storyline continues to develop.
The Ultraman-Bizarro Connection and Character Depth
The end of the recent Superman installment hinted at layered possibilities involving Ultraman, portrayed by David Corenswet, who plays both Superman and his twisted counterpart. Though not officially confirmed, James Gunn suggested that Ultraman could evolve into Bizarro, adding emotional complexity to the narrative. Gunn further hinted at scrapped ideas for Ultraman’s character that would have deepened this tragic dimension, explaining,
“There used to be some sadder stuff in there at some point that I got from the script that I really liked. I didn’t have time for everything. … I don’t know if you noticed…David’s got prosthetics on [as Ultraman].” —James Gunn, Director
“He’s got a chin that’s jutting out, his ears poke out, he’s got one eye kind of going in a little direction. [Luthor] took him out of the oven a little too quickly or something.” —James Gunn, Director
These physical alterations and the notion of being
“taken out of the oven a little too quickly”
align with Bizarro’s classic depiction as an imperfect clone of Superman—well-intentioned but flawed and misunderstood. Such characterization offers rich opportunities to explore identity struggles within the DCU.
Potential Impact on the DC Universe’s Storytelling
The DCU’s first chapter, “Gods and Monsters,” already introduces multifaceted characters like Eric Frankenstein and the Creature Commandos. Adding Bizarro to this lineup could intensify the emotional and psychological stakes, particularly by highlighting themes of identity and imperfection. An arc focusing on Bizarro’s painful sense of self contrasted with Superman’s idealized image promises to deepen audience engagement with the characters.
Why This Matters for Fans and the Future of the DCU
While it remains uncertain if Ultraman will transform into Bizarro, the possibility signals a dramatic narrative path that explores what it means to be flawed in a world that admires perfection. Clark Kent’s confrontation with this conflict would provide a humanizing and poignant storyline within the action-driven DCU. Kevin Feige’s surprise interest in this character shows how Bizarro’s story has the potential to resonate beyond traditional fan boundaries, drawing attention to the complex emotional terrain the DCU aims to navigate.
