James Gunn’s introduction to the DC Universe involved a significant and contentious alteration to Superman’s origin story, a decision he has recently affirmed will remain unchanged. In the 2025 film, the iconic hero’s origins are revisited through a new lens that challenges traditional expectations, which Gunn addressed directly in his director’s commentary.
In this version, Superman, known as Kal-El, arrives on Earth carrying a message from his Kryptonian parents, Jor-El and Lara. While Kal-El initially believes this message is to guide him as a guardian and benevolent protector of Earth, it is soon revealed that their true intention was for him to preserve Kryptonian legacy and eventually rule the planet. This revelation adds complexity to Superman’s mission and identity.
James Gunn Explains the Reasoning Behind the Change
Gunn explained that this narrative choice is not designed to undermine the essence of Superman but rather to deepen it. He emphasized maintaining Superman’s fundamental traits, including his goodness, moral code, and love for Lois Lane, alongside unique mark such as the signature curl on his forehead. According to Gunn, the question was what new elements could be introduced without altering the core character.
“Now this is probably the most controversial thing I did with Superman’s origin,”
Gunn remarked.
“I am a big Superman fan. I don’t want to change important, integral things about Superman. His goodness, his goodness of heart, the fact that he won’t kill, the fact that he’s in love with Lois Lane, even the curl on the head, all these things. I want to keep Superman Superman.”
He noted that while the comics often depict Clark’s parents as caring and benevolent, there have been canonical examples where Jor-El’s character is portrayed differently. This creative choice places the new story within a broader range of established interpretations rather than outside of them.
“So the question is, what can you add to the mythos that’s a little bit different, that doesn’t really, essentially in any way, change who the character is? And although Clark’s parents usually in the comics, are benevolent, that isn’t always the case. There have been stories in which, even in canon . . . Jor-El is not always treated as a benevolent character.”
Standing Firm on the New Narrative Direction
Despite some backlash, Gunn has made it clear that this element of Superman’s origin will not be retconned or reversed in upcoming DC Universe projects. He views this change as enhancing Clark Kent’s character arc by exploring the tension between his destined Kryptonian heritage and his chosen path as Earth’s protector.
Gunn commented on the permanence and purpose of this narrative shift:
“It is not something that is going to be retrofitted in the future,”
he said.
“It is the fact of Superman’s life. He was sent by his parents to Earth, primarily, to save, but also they helped he would continue the Kryptonian heritage and take over Earth as its ruler. And that isn’t who Superman thinks of himself as being at all.”
This approach underlines the contrast between Superman’s inherited responsibilities and his personal choices, adding depth to a character long established as a moral paragon.
Implications for Superman’s Story in the DC Universe
By cementing this controversial origin, James Gunn is reshaping the foundational narrative of Superman within the DC Universe, inviting audiences to reconsider what it means to be a hero torn between legacy and values. This reinterpretation is likely to provoke debate among fans and critics alike as the DCU continues to expand its storytelling.
As Gunn’s version of Superman unfolds in future projects, viewers can expect a more nuanced exploration of Clark Kent’s internal struggle with his dual legacy—one that challenges traditional interpretations while preserving the character’s enduring spirit.
well here it is, james talking about the jor el message twist and doubles down on the fact that he will not retcon this in the future and why this change elevates clark's character.
oh some ppl aren't gonna like this clip 😭 pic.twitter.com/pgiDPjjUbd
— juan (@JuanEditzs) September 24, 2025
