Director James Gunn has shared set design images for the upcoming film Man of Tomorrow that hint at the possible inclusion of Martian Manhunter. The photos prominently feature fictional cookies named Chocos, a well-known favorite snack of the Martian Manhunter character. This subtle Easter egg suggests the character may appear in the highly anticipated Superman sequel, slated for release on July 9, 2027.
Chocos Cookies Highlight a Long-Standing Martian Manhunter Reference
The Chocos cookies shown in the set design imagery have significant ties to the Martian Manhunter lore. Originally introduced as Oreos in the comic book Justice League International #8 in 1987, they were renamed Chocos in Martian Manhunter Vol 2 #24 in 2000 due to trademark restrictions. These cookies have been closely associated with Martian Manhunter across various media adaptations over the decades, reinforcing his possible involvement in Man of Tomorrow.
“Set design in Chocos. #Superman pic.twitter.com/lvT9prU5nI”
– James Gunn, Director
Martian Manhunter’s Rich Comic and Screen History
J’onn J’onzz, better known as Martian Manhunter, was created by writer Joseph Samachson and artist Joe Certa, first appearing in Detective Comics #225 in November 1955. The character has maintained a steady presence in comics, as well as live-action and animated versions. He has appeared in the TV series Smallville and the Arrowverse, making his debut in Supergirl. Martian Manhunter has also featured in several animated projects and was part of the planned but unmade Justice League: Mortal film. Additionally, he appeared, though subtly, in the previous era’s DC films such as Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Zack Snyder’s Justice League. This longstanding presence makes his teased inclusion in Man of Tomorrow unsurprising given the character’s importance in the DC Universe.
Fast-Tracked Superman Sequel: Progress and Announcements
At the beginning of August 2025, it was confirmed that James Gunn would write and direct the next film in the Superman franchise. The project’s rapid advancement surprised many, and by September 2025, the movie title Man of Tomorrow and release date of July 9, 2027, were officially announced. Alongside these details, artwork by Jim Lee, Jorge Jimenez, and Mitch Gerads was revealed on social media accounts connected to Gunn, David Corenswet (cast as Superman), and Nicolas Hoult (cast as Lex Luthor), generating excitement about the new chapter.
Lex Luthor’s Powersuit and Title’s Comic Roots Spark Speculation
One of the notable features in the released artwork is Lex Luthor wearing a powersuit, stirring conversations about the story’s direction. The powersuit first appeared in Action Comics #544 in 1983 and has appeared irregularly throughout DC history. Originally prominent when Lex was portrayed as a villainous figure with armor, the suit faded during the late 1980s as comics shifted Lex’s image towards a ruthless businessman. Its reintroduction in Man of Tomorrow opens possibilities for exploring classic motifs of the character’s persona.
The title Man of Tomorrow itself is commonly used as a nickname for Superman and has been linked to several comics. One of the most recognized series by that name ran from 1995 to 1999, though no direct storyline connection has been confirmed for this film. A 2020 animated Superman movie also subtly used the phrase. In addition, the upcoming Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow film, scheduled for June 26, 2026, continues to build the expanding Superman family saga.
Anticipated Impact and Future Developments
The revealed Martian Manhunter Easter egg and Lex Luthor’s powersuit hint at a deepening and layered narrative for the Superman series under James Gunn’s direction. With an earlier-than-expected production timeline and significant creative talent involved, Man of Tomorrow looks positioned to refresh the DC Universe cinematic landscape. Fans and observers will likely watch closely for further announcements and trailers that may confirm more characters and plotlines inspired by DC’s rich source material.
Set design in Chocos. #Superman pic.twitter.com/lvT9prU5nI
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) January 27, 2026
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) January 27, 2026
