James Gunn, the creative head at DC Studios, has revealed exclusive artwork and new high-definition imagery showcasing the official logo, motto, and emblematic portrait of a popular Superman antagonist, further expanding his vision for the DC Universe. This release comes after the recent success of the Superman reboot, solidifying the James Gunn Superman villain artwork as a focal point for fans and industry watchers alike.
Fresh Art from Gunn Spotlights Boravia’s Notorious Leader
Following the summer launch of the latest Superman film, audiences were introduced to several formidable adversaries. Among these was Vasil Ghurkos, portrayed by Zlatko Burić, the ruthless president of Boravia—a fictional nation designed to test the Man of Steel. Now, months after the film’s theatrical debut, James Gunn has turned the spotlight onto this character by sharing a series of behind-the-scenes images from the Superman set.
The newly released visuals, first shared on Gunn’s X account, show off key artistic highlights from the production. Accompanied by the caption,
“Bits and pieces from the Boravian palace,”
—James Gunn, Director—these photos give fans a closer look at the unique vision behind Boravia’s most infamous figure.
One image features Vasil Ghurkos seated confidently atop a horse, gently holding a squirrel. The portrait’s aesthetic evokes classic paintings of historical leaders, bridging fictional authority with real-world tradition.
Symbols and Slogans: The Squirrels of Boravia
Another piece in the set introduces the Boravian national crest and official slogan. The slogan, “Sciurus Non Servi,” translates from Latin as “The Squirrel Does Not Serve,” aligning with the rodent motif observed throughout Boravian iconography. The crest itself depicts two squirrels facing each other, both clutching acorns and positioned before a representation of the Boravian castle, reinforcing the film’s penchant for detailed world-building.
Expanding on these symbolic elements, the shared artwork includes a second logo for Ghurkos. Inscribed with the phrase “Domovina ujedinjena u pobjedi”—Boravia’s established motto in the comic canon, meaning “Homeland united in victory”—the logo showcases a pair of squirrels positioned back-to-back, with the country‘s crest centered below. These creative touches blend the whimsical with the formidable, contributing to the villain’s memorable presence.
An Unlikely Return: The Fate of Vasil Ghurkos
Despite the lavish attention given to his visual legacy, Vasil Ghurkos is not expected to reappear in the announced Superman sequel. The character met a definitive and dramatic end, struck down by Hawkgirl, played by Isabela Merced, during the closing moments of the Superman film.
With Boravia’s president removed from ongoing plots, the focus shifts to other surviving foes. Lex Luthor, interpreted by Nicholas Hoult, remains at large—now imprisoned but certain to play a pivotal role in upcoming stories. Although Vasil’s arc concluded swiftly, his mark on the Superman universe is undeniable, and the introduction of original iconography by Gunn further enshrines his role within the lore.
What Lies Ahead for Superman and the DCU
The rebooted Superman, starring David Corenswet as the titular hero, is now streaming on HBO Max, offering audiences another opportunity to engage with Gunn’s revitalized DC Universe. The film’s broad reception has cemented plans for a follow-up: Superman: Man of Tomorrow, written and directed by James Gunn, is on the slate for a July 9, 2027, theatrical release.
Questions remain about how the DCU will evolve from here, especially regarding team-ups and betrayals among its cast of heroes and enemies. The next film is expected to bring Superman into an uneasy alliance with Lex Luthor, with early indications suggesting the villain Brainiac may emerge as a shared adversary. The failed ambitions of Boravia and the Justice Gang’s pivotal battle in Jarhanpur are also likely to leave lasting effects across coming titles.
James Gunn’s approach signals continued exploration of deep-cut characters, unique timelines, and intricate backstories. While Vasil Ghurkos’s immediate future seems closed, the DCU’s fluid chronology leaves the door open for potential returns—in prequels or flashbacks—offering further opportunities to expand the legend of Boravia’s most notorious figure.
The presence of the James Gunn Superman villain artwork in the broader mythology not only pays homage to the creativity driving the franchise but also reinforces DC Studios’ bold direction under Gunn’s leadership, setting the stage for more surprises as the DCU unfolds.
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