Warner Bros. is increasingly irritated by James Gunn’s conduct on social media, believing it to be more harmful than helpful to the studio’s efforts, particularly concerning the DC Universe (DCU) and the latest Superman film. This tension comes as Gunn dismissed speculation about the inclusion of Robin in Matt Reeves’ upcoming The Batman Part II, fueling further debate among fans and insiders.
James Gunn Denies Robin’s Appearance in The Batman Sequel
In response to rumors suggesting Robin would appear in the forthcoming Batman sequel, James Gunn firmly denied the claim, urging people to disregard such speculation. He emphasized that very few individuals have seen the script and insisted that no one actually knows the plot details of The Batman Part II, attempting to put the circulating reports to rest.
“Guys please stop believing this nonsense. I think six of us have read the script. No one knows anything about The Batman 2.” —James Gunn, DC Studios Boss
Entertainment Reporter Jeff Sneider Criticizes Gunn’s Credibility and Behavior
Jeff Sneider, a respected entertainment insider, challenged James Gunn’s statements and attitude during a segment on The Hot Mic podcast on YouTube. Sneider, whose sources have recently been validated, criticized Gunn’s reliability and described him as an irritating figure within Warner Bros.
“I know who my source is. I know my source has been right about a whole bunch of stories that have been confirmed this week…” —Jeff Sneider, Entertainment Reporter
“Unfortunately, James Gunn has proven himself to be about as trustworthy as Lance Armstrong in my book. I don’t believe a word out of his mouth… One of the things I was told unequivocally, Robin is in the script…” —Jeff Sneider, Entertainment Reporter
“I don’t give a f–k what James Gunn says anymore. This guy is the most annoying studio head I’ve ever heard of or met or seen, or anything. I don’t think it’s winning him any fans. I don’t think it’s winning him fans on the Warner Bros. lot, where I know people find him and his antics to be annoying.” —Jeff Sneider, Entertainment Reporter
Sneider Also Questions Gunn Over Superman’s Box Office Performance
Further expressing his frustration, Sneider criticized Gunn’s handling of Superman’s moderate box office returns. With the film expected to reach around $600 million globally, Sneider advised Gunn to focus on creating quality content rather than engaging on social media platforms like Bluesky and Threads.
“Bro, your movie is maybe, probably going to get to $600 million. Take that ‘W,’ if we want to call it [that], and shut up. Shut up. Go focus on reading scripts and making movies and TV shows, because it seems you get paid a lot of money to spend a lot of time on Bluesky and Threads.” —Jeff Sneider, Entertainment Reporter
Early Digital Release of Superman Increases Industry Tensions
Warner Bros. recently announced that Superman will be available for digital purchase just 35 days after its theatrical debut, prompting additional backlash from both theater owners and fans. This early release decision arrives amid slowing box office ticket sales, particularly internationally, and risks diminishing the film’s run in cinemas, provoking frustration within the exhibition sector and among audiences.
Many viewers online criticized the timing, arguing that it undermines the theatrical experience and could indicate problems for the DCU’s future under Gunn’s direction.
Mixed Reactions Mark the Launch of the New DC Universe
Since its release, Superman has divided audiences, with some praising the film and others expressing disappointment. The film’s box office trajectory and fan reception pose uncertain implications for the future of the DCU.
On one hand, Warner Bros. may view Superman as a foundational film akin to Iron Man’s role in establishing the Marvel Cinematic Universe or Batman Begins setting the stage for The Dark Knight trilogy.
On the other hand, Superman’s earnings lag behind those of Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy movies and fall short compared to Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, signaling possible challenges ahead.
