James Gunn’s upcoming film, Man of Tomorrow, scheduled for release on July 9, 2027, will explore a renewed rivalry between Superman and Lex Luthor while introducing a far greater menace. Following the events of the previous reboot, which established Metropolis, the Daily Planet staff, and the Justice Gang within the DC Universe, this next installment shifts the focus to the uneasy alliance between Clark Kent and Lex Luthor as they face a formidable new adversary.
The rebooted storyline depicted Lex Luthor as the central villain, with their initial conflict unfolding amid a backdrop featuring a Kaiju and Ultraman as physical threats to the city. Although Lex’s attempt to devastate Metropolis ended with his transportation to Belle Reve, his role as Superman’s nemesis is far from over.
Superman and Lex Luthor Join Forces Against a Deadlier Enemy
Filmmaker James Gunn confirmed in a recent interview with Howard Stern that Man of Tomorrow revolves around Superman and Lex Luthor collaborating to confront a much more dangerous foe. Gunn explained,
“I am creating the Superman sequel that we’re starting to shoot in April or so. It’s a story about Lex Luthor and Superman having to work together to a certain degree against a much, much bigger threat.”
While Gunn did not explicitly name this adversary, speculation points strongly toward Brainiac, a villain long demanded by fans. The film’s title may well reference the complex relationship between Superman and Lex, with this alliance set against Brainiac’s arrival. If Brainiac features prominently in the film, it would likely connect to the broader narrative arc as Supergirl’s upcoming film is expected to further establish the foundation of the Superman Saga.
Implications for the Broader DC Universe and Filming Schedule
The Superman Saga, envisioned as a four-part series, suggests that if Brainiac and the Bottle City of Kandor are central to Man of Tomorrow, the storyline could escalate to a larger conflict, potentially involving Kryptonian forces invading Earth. This escalation would add significant stakes for the characters and the world they defend.
Notably, the production of Man of Tomorrow is slated to begin in April, coinciding with the filming of The Batman Part II. However, James Gunn and the DC Studios co-CEO have clarified that Matt Reeves’ Batman films remain distinct as Elseworlds tales, so no crossovers with Gunn’s interconnected projects are expected.
James Gunn’s Commitment to the Project and Writing Process
Gunn has taken a hands-on approach in developing the screenplay for Man of Tomorrow. When asked about his progress, he stated,
“All of it. Just in the necessary and lengthy stage or rewriting and rewriting some more. It’s been a lot of fun. Trying to get some done now before Peacemaker airs because we like to watch it as soon as it comes on.”
This dedication indicates an ongoing refinement process aimed at delivering a compelling story.
Contrary to some fan expectations, Gunn has confirmed that the official title will remain Man of Tomorrow, without the prefix “Superman,” even though he referred to it as a sequel in interviews. This choice reinforces the film’s position as a distinct chapter within the evolving Superman narrative.
What to Expect as the Story Unfolds
Man of Tomorrow promises to deepen the complex dynamic between Superman and Lex Luthor, highlighting their rivalry while forcing them into a partnership to face an unprecedented threat. Introducing Brainiac as the villain would mark a significant escalation in the stakes for the DC Universe on screen. The film is expected to lay groundwork that will influence subsequent entries, including those centered on Supergirl and even larger cosmic conflicts involving Kryptonians.
With production underway and a slate planned through the late 2020s, this installment is poised to expand the scope and emotional depth of the Superman saga, offering fans a fresh yet connected story that balances intense character drama with epic battles.
