James Gunn’s Superman has revitalized DC Studios, becoming the highest-grossing superhero film of 2025 while introducing David Corenswet‘s optimistic and engaging portrayal of Clark Kent. Following this success, a sequel is underway, with Warner Bros. Discovery and Gunn emphasizing a broader story described as a “Superman family” movie rather than simply Superman 2.
Sequel Expected to Include Supergirl and Krypto
The upcoming DC Universe installment will not focus exclusively on Superman. Instead, the story is expected to widen its scope by including Milly Alcock’s Supergirl, who made a surprising debut as Kara Zor-El in the first film. Additionally, Krypto, Superman’s loyal canine companion, is anticipated to join the narrative, suggesting a team-up of iconic characters rather than a solo adventure.
New Teaser Reveals Brainiac as Central Villain
A behind-the-scenes glimpse from a now-private video titled Adventures in the Making of Superman reveals early storyboards featuring Superman, Supergirl, and Krypto flying together. Notably, a panel shows a bald figure with lightbulb-like nodes, a subtle but clear hint at Brainiac, a significant antagonist in Superman lore. James Gunn has acknowledged considering Brainiac for the original film before ultimately choosing Lex Luthor, portrayed by Nicholas Hoult.
Brainiac: An Iconic and Formidable Superman Adversary
Created in 1958 by Otto Binder and Al Plastino, Brainiac is one of Superman’s most enduring foes. His character has evolved between various forms, from a green alien to an advanced AI or cyborg. Brainiac is infamous for collecting knowledge and shrinking entire cities, capturing them as cosmic trophies. Among these captured cities is Kandor, the Kryptonian capital. Despite his importance, Brainiac has never appeared in a live-action Superman film until now, marking a noteworthy expansion of the villain roster.
Potential for Deep Emotional Storylines in the Sequel
The sequel may carry emotional weight, as indicated by the precedent in comics, notably the 2008 Superman: Brainiac story by Geoff Johns and Gary Frank. In that narrative, Superman and Supergirl defeat Brainiac, but not before Jonathan Kent suffers a fatal heart attack during Clark Kent’s absence. If James Gunn draws inspiration from this storyline, the new film could blend action with poignant character moments.
Release Dates and Future Expectations
Superman is now available on home media, while Supergirl is scheduled for theatrical release on June 26, 2026. The details of the sequel remain under wraps, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what direction Gunn will take with this expanded chapter of the story.
“This film not only soared to become 2025’s highest-grossing superhero movie, but it also introduced fans to David Corenswet’s charming, hopeful, and fun take on the Man of Steel.” —James Gunn
“David Zaslav referred to the next chapter as a ‘Superman family’ movie.” —David Zaslav
“A panel featuring a bald head covered in lightbulb-like nodes, a not-so-subtle tease that longtime fans will recognize as Brainiac.” —James Gunn
“Brainiac is one of Superman’s most formidable foes.” —Otto Binder
“One of those cities is the Kryptonian capital, Kandor.” —Al Plastino
“In the 2008 Superman: Brainiac comic by Geoff Johns and Gary Frank, Superman and Supergirl manage to defeat Brainiac, but not before Jonathan Kent suffers a fatal heart attack while Clark is off saving the world.” —Geoff Johns
“Lex Luthor, played by Nicholas Hoult.” —Nicholas Hoult
