James Gunn’s Superman, released in July 2025, has garnered widespread acclaim and achieved remarkable box office success, grossing over $615 million worldwide to become the highest-grossing superhero movie of the year. The film’s faithful adaptation and respect for the source material caught the attention of many, including Grant Morrison, a renowned comic book writer and DC Studios co-CEO, who recently shared his thoughts during a Reddit AMA session.
Morrison expressed a strong endorsement of the movie, stating,
I thought it was the best Superman movie yet!
— Grant Morrison, Comic Book Writer and DC Studios Co-CEO. His high praise reflects the film’s successful portrayal of the iconic hero and its significant impact on the DC Universe.
Faithful Adaptation Reflects Comic Inspirations
Director James Gunn drew inspiration from classic Superman stories, notably Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely’s All-Star Superman, aiming to honor the character’s legacy while appealing to new audiences. Fans have passionately debated how the new film compares to earlier adaptations like Superman: The Movie and Man of Steel, but Morrison’s view highlights the film’s adherence to the comics and its positive influence on the DC brand overall.
During the Reddit AMA, Morrison also discussed DC Comics’ Absolute Universe, applauding it as a revitalization effort for longstanding characters. He remarked,
I heard the Ultimate universe was being destroyed, but the Absolute line has been a masterstroke from Scott Snyder and his collaborators,
and added,
It’s the best update on these characters since the Silver Age, I think. They feel fresh, and that’s what ancient comic book universes need.
— Grant Morrison, Comic Book Writer and DC Studios Co-CEO.
Insights on Damian Wayne and Other Comic Characters
Morrison reflected on his own creations within the DC universe, such as Damian Wayne, introduced in 2006 as Bruce Wayne and Talia al Ghul’s son who took on the role of Robin. When asked about Damian’s progression, Morrison admitted limited recent engagement with the character, saying,
I haven’t really followed what’s been happening with Damian, I don’t get comp boxes any more! I knew he’d come back to life because he’d become popular. He will always be a future version of Batman in some sliding timeline but Bruce Wayne will always be Batman so it’s hard for the sidekicks when their appeal runs dry.
He suggested that Damian might evolve into a new costumed identity, though he remains Robin in current storylines.
Grant Morrison’s Perspective on Spider-Man
Despite his extensive work on DC characters, Morrison revealed why he has never pursued writing for Spider-Man, despite having an idea involving the character’s past and present versions. He explained,
I think Spider-Man is a great character but I just bounce off him. I had one idea years ago about the skinny nerdy Ditko Spider-Man meeting the contemporary version who’s married to MJ and has a great apartment, Mysterio was the villain. I couldn’t raise the enthusiasm to write it. I don’t have any ideas for Spider-Man at all for some reason!
— Grant Morrison, Comic Book Writer and DC Studios Co-CEO.
Plot and Cast of the James Gunn Superman Film
The film follows the Man of Tomorrow as he faces challenges both domestically and internationally. His heroic choices spark controversy, enabling tech billionaire Lex Luthor to devise a plan to eliminate the Man of Steel. The story raises the question of whether Lois Lane, the intrepid reporter, and Superman’s loyal canine companion, Krypto, can intervene before it is too late.
The movie features David Corenswet portraying the dual role of Superman and Clark Kent, with Rachel Brosnahan playing Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Other cast members include Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, Skyler Gisondo, Sara Sampaio, María Gabriela de Faría, Wendell Pierce, Alan Tudyk, Pruitt Taylor Vince, Neva Howell, and Milly Alcock.
Availability and Future Prospects
James Gunn’s Superman is currently accessible on HBO Max, as well as in Digital, 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD formats. Its critical and commercial success has reinforced the vitality of the DC Universe’s cinematic offerings. Morrison’s enthusiastic endorsement and the film’s faithful approach to the comics signal promising opportunities for future projects in the DC franchise, especially as fans await further developments involving beloved characters and new storylines.
