James Gunn has firmly supported his decision to alter the traditional origin story of Superman and his parents in the latest Superman film. This entry, the first in Gunn’s revamped DC Universe, stars David Corenswet as a new version of the Man of Steel and has earned critical acclaim with a Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, as well as grossing $615 million globally.
Set three years after Superman reveals his identity to the public, the film introduces an established Clark Kent with strong relationships, including those with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), and members of the Justice Gang like Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi), and Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced). Though not a conventional origin story, Gunn’s adaptation includes a significant revision of Superman’s familial backstory that has generated controversy.
A Radical Reinterpretation of Superman’s Parental Message
The movie reveals that Superman’s Kryptonian parents, Jor-El and Lara (played by Bradley Cooper and Angela Sarafyan), sent him to Earth not simply to protect humanity but with the expectation he would one day rule over it. Due to damage sustained during his journey to Earth, Clark remains unaware of this original intent. However, Lex Luthor uncovers and exposes this message to the world in an effort to turn public opinion against Superman. Mr. Terrific vouches for the authenticity of the recording despite Lex’s manipulative motives.
This revelation marks a pivotal moment in Superman’s character arc but has challenged fans accustomed to the classic narrative where Jor-El and Lara inspire their son to nurture humanity’s potential. In director’s commentary released on iTunes, James Gunn outlined his reasoning behind this shift:
“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 you know Clark’s parents usually in the comics are benevolent, that isn’t always the case. It hasn’t always been the case. There have been stories in which, even in canon, that that hasn’t been the case, and Jor-El is not always treated as a benevolent character.” – James Gunn, Director
“They’re benevolent to their son. They love their son obviously, but they aren’t necessarily benevolent in the way they think about human beings. They think of human beings as less than in this version. So that was the thing that was the twist. I think it works. It is not something that’s going to be retrofitted in the future. It is the fact of Superman’s life. He was sent by his parents to Earth to save him primarily, but also they hoped he would continue the Kryptonian heritage and sort of take over Earth as its ruler, and that isn’t who Superman thinks of himself as being at all.” – James Gunn, Director
The Impact of This New Origin on Superman’s Journey
According to Gunn, this reinterpretation of Clark Kent’s parents will remain a permanent part of Superman’s storyline within his DC Universe. The film shows Superman rejecting the idea of ruling Earth, instead embracing his humanity and choosing to make decisions aligned with compassion and justice.
The repercussions of this retcon will likely influence upcoming projects, such as the sequel Man of Tomorrow and the anticipated Supergirl film featuring Superman’s cousin Kara (Milly Alcock). How this altered origin informs their stories and character dynamics remains a key question for future installments.
Analyzing the Significance of James Gunn’s Superman Retelling
This fresh take on Superman’s origin story adds depth and complexity to a character whose mythos has long been familiar. By introducing doubt and moral ambiguity around Superman’s heritage, Gunn offers a more nuanced portrayal that challenges audiences’ perceptions while preserving Clark’s core values.
In this version, Superman’s hopeful ethos emerges not from a directive by his Kryptonian parents but from his own belief in humanity’s worth. This shift renders his heroism more deeply personal and arguably stronger, as his choices stem from conviction rather than obligation.
Fans eager to experience this interpretation can stream Superman exclusively on HBO Max, witnessing how this new backstory reshapes Clark Kent’s role in the wider DC Universe.
Main Characters Behind the Story
David Corenswet leads as Superman, portraying the iconic hero with complexity and introspection. Rachel Brosnahan plays Lois Lane, Clark’s trusted confidante and romantic interest. Supporting cast includes Nicholas Hoult as the cunning Lex Luthor, and members of the Justice Gang brought to life by Nathan Fillion, Edi Gathegi, and Isabela Merced, rounding out this bold new chapter in the Man of Steel’s saga.
