Warner Bros. Discovery is making a strong push for James Gunn Superman Awards as it positions the summer blockbuster for recognition beyond the typical superhero genre. The studio has submitted the film for Golden Globes consideration in several drama categories, indicating an effort to elevate the DC reboot’s profile within awards season.
Golden Globes Submission Highlights and Categories
The studio’s Golden Globes entries include major drama categories such as Best Motion Picture (Drama), Best Actor (Drama) for David Corenswet, Best Supporting Actress for Rachel Brosnahan, and Best Supporting Actor for Nicholas Hoult. James Gunn is also in the running for Best Director and Best Screenplay. Additionally, the film’s original song, The Mighty Crabjoy’s Theme, co-written by Gunn, Eric Nally, and Devin Williams, is up for Best Original Song consideration.
Superman also qualifies for the Outstanding Cinematic and Box Office Achievement award, given to films surpassing $150 million worldwide gross. It currently stands as the third highest domestic grosser of 2025, behind Disney’s Lilo & Stitch and Warner Bros.’ Minecraft movie. The Golden Globe nominees are expected to be revealed on December 8.
Early Oscar Buzz Focused on Visual Effects and Technical Craft
As Warner Bros. initiates its Oscars campaign, insiders at the Academy are already discussing Superman as a strong contender for Best Visual Effects. The effects crew, including Stéphane Ceretti, Enrico Damm, Stéphane Nazé, and Guy Williams, previously worked on Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, lending credibility to their expertise. The film’s sound, makeup, and hairstyling departments are also attracting attention, with teams led by Lee Orloff, David Acord, Katy Wood, Chris Boyes, Tim Leblanc, Alexei Dmitriew, Peter Swords King, and Shane Mahan highlighted by awards watchers.
However, the film’s original score by John Murphy and David Fleming is ineligible for Oscar consideration due to its extensive references to John Williams’ iconic 1978 Superman theme. This use of material breaks the Academy’s 35% originality threshold for scoring.
Warner Bros.’ History with DC and Awards Success
Warner Bros. has previously achieved notable awards recognition with DC properties. The 2019 film Joker secured Golden Globe wins for Best Actor and Best Score, and went on to win two Oscars. James Gunn’s work on Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Volumes 2 and 3 has also earned Oscar nominations in visual effects and makeup categories, demonstrating his track record in blending blockbuster entertainment with critical acclaim.
Implications for James Gunn’s Superman Moving Forward
This focused awards campaign signals Warner Bros. Discovery’s confidence in James Gunn Superman Awards potential, aiming to establish the film as a serious contender across multiple prestigious categories. Should nominations materialize on December 8 and beyond, it would reinforce the film’s position as a key player in this year’s awards season and bolster Gunn’s reputation in both superhero and dramatic filmmaking realms.
“The Mighty Crabjoy’s Theme is in contention for Best Original Song.” – Variety
“Inside the Academy, Superman is already being talked about as an Oscar favorite for Best Visual Effects.” – Variety
“Warner Bros. has found awards success with DC before, including Joker.” – Variety
