Following the release of Superman (2025), James Gunn’s Superman Universe has reignited interest in the Man of Steel’s rich storytelling. Fans looking to dive deeper into the hopeful and vibrant tone that defines Gunn’s vision can explore several key DC movies and series that resonate with similar themes, characters, and emotional journeys.
Timeless Inspiration from Superman: The Movie (1978)
Richard Donner’s Superman: The Movie stands as a classic blueprint closely aligned with James Gunn’s portrayal of Superman. Both films share a sincere and optimistic spirit, blending spectacular superhero moments with touching human drama. Christopher Reeve’s performance as Clark Kent brings forth the ideal of hope without cynicism, paralleling David Corenswet’s modern take on the character. The film’s bright visuals and heartfelt romance with Lois Lane provide a nostalgic yet emotionally meaningful experience.
Gunn’s Superman pays homage to this legacy through a creative reinterpretation of John Williams’ iconic score, transforming the ”Superman Theme” into an electric guitar riff. This musical bridge highlights how both directors express Superman’s enduring ideals across different eras. Watching Donner’s version after Gunn’s reveals the timeless appeal of Superman as a symbol of light in a complex world.
Exploring Clark Kent’s Origins in Smallville
Smallville’s decade-long exploration of Clark Kent’s formative years complements the emotional core found in Gunn’s Superman. The series centers on Clark’s upbringing in Kansas, emphasizing that his greatest strength lies in his humanity rather than his powers. This mirrors the revelation at the end of the 2025 film, where Clark recognizes Jonathan and Martha Kent as his true family.
Tom Welling’s portrayal traces the young hero’s growth through challenges, relationships, and moral questions, echoing James Gunn’s focus on emotional authenticity. Smallville also presents memorable versions of iconic characters such as Lex Luthor and Lois Lane, enriching the narrative with complex dynamics. For viewers who appreciated Gunn’s heartfelt approach, Smallville offers an immersive, long-form perspective on what shapes Superman’s identity.
The Animated Optimism of My Adventures With Superman
My Adventures With Superman is an animated series that captures the hopeful energy and personal growth central to the hero’s story. The show follows Clark Kent, Lois Lane, and Jimmy Olsen as emerging journalists in Metropolis, blending action with lighthearted moments and emotional depth. Jack Quaid voices Clark Kent, portraying him as heroic yet still learning to balance his private life and responsibilities.
This focus on Clark’s life outside of his superhero persona closely aligns with the themes in James Gunn’s movie. The series also emphasizes the developing romance between Clark and Lois, a key element carried over from Gunn’s film. With its bright animation and heartfelt storytelling, My Adventures With Superman serves as a natural continuation for those eager to explore more of Superman’s hopeful world while awaiting upcoming projects in the James Gunn Superman universe.
A Definitive Animated Take: Superman: The Animated Series
Spanning from 1996 to 2000, Superman: The Animated Series remains a standout interpretation of the hero’s mythology that resonates with the hopeful tone of Gunn’s film. Tim Daly’s voice work captures Clark Kent’s calm confidence and deep compassion, while the show’s art-deco inspired visuals successfully blend classic and modern styles.
This series portrays Superman facing significant moral questions and formidable foes like Lex Luthor, Brainiac, and Darkseid — all villains reflecting ideological conflicts similar to those in Gunn’s storytelling. For those wanting a richer, extended experience of inspiring Superman tales, Superman: The Animated Series offers a well-crafted and visually enduring library that still feels relevant today.
Discovering the Quirky Depths of Creature Commandos
Creature Commandos, the DC Universe’s initial animated chapter before Gunn’s Superman, brings a unique blend of black comedy, monster action, and heartfelt moments that set the tone for the new DCU. The show introduces key characters like Amanda Waller and Rick Flag Sr., who also appear in the Superman film, and features references such as The Mighty Crabjoys, a punk rock band beloved by Superman himself.
Its eccentric storytelling and ensemble cast showcase the wider tonal range of the DC Universe that today’s Superman inhabits. Watching Creature Commandos after experiencing Gunn’s Superman reveals additional layers of context and highlights the surprising diversity and fun within the universe. The series balances outrageous action with genuine emotional beats, demonstrating the more unusual and entertaining corners of this evolving superhero world.
By revisiting these five titles, viewers can enrich their understanding and appreciation of the James Gunn Superman universe, seeing how past and present creators have shaped the optimistic, human-centered portrayal of one of DC’s most iconic heroes. These selections not only showcase different facets of Superman’s character but also help build anticipation for future stories in the expanding DCU.
