Grant Morrison, the writer behind All-Star Superman and an influence on the 2025 Superman movie, has shared his mixed feelings on James Gunn’s recent take on the Man of Steel. While praising the film as the best Superman adaptation to date, Morrison voiced dissatisfaction with certain creative decisions made in the movie. His observations offer insight into the challenges of reimagining such an iconic character in today’s cinematic landscape.
Specific Concerns About Superman’s Portrayal
Morrison praised the film for its close capture of the Superman experience but pointed out aspects that did not sit well with him. He highlighted James Gunn’s choice to depict Superman enduring considerable physical defeat throughout the film, suggesting it was intended to make the character more relatable. However, Morrison expressed a desire to see Superman stronger and more assertive in response to challenges.
It became the closest to capturing what Superman feels like. I had a few things I didn’t like about it,
confessed Morrison.
[James] made specific choices that I think were made for dramatic reasons that were understandable in order to make him seem more relatable, he had him getting beaten up an awful lot. I want to see him stop getting beaten up and fight back.
Disagreement Over Superman’s Heritage and Moral Foundation
Another point of contention for Morrison was the film’s portrayal of Clark Kent discovering his origin, particularly how Superman is shown dealing with his alien heritage. The approach taken, drawing inspiration from the series Invincible, depicted Superman arriving to dominate rather than protect his new home planet. Morrison preferred a different vision of Krypton, viewing it as a lost utopia brought down by its own negligence, which offered a more poignant background for the character.
I didn’t like it because I prefer it when Krypton’s this lost utopia,
Morrison explained.
I like the idea that there was something amazing, and nature just wiped it out. Their own lack of attention to detail allowed them to be wiped out. I think there’s something much more poignant about that.
This shift in the story’s foundation led Morrison to feel that Superman’s sense of morality appeared fragile and overly dependent on simplistic desires rather than deep principles.
The thing I found almost upsetting in it was that it felt like Superman’s morality was quite fragile. It was just based on this wish-fulfilment bullshit.
Final Act Redeems Superman’s Moral Strength in Morrison’s View
Despite his concerns, Morrison acknowledged that the movie’s climactic moment restored his faith in the character. Particularly, Kal-El’s speech to a defeated Lex Luthor revealed steadfastness that impressed Morrison greatly, proving that Superman had retained his inner compass.
They put him in a position where I was concerned that he would break down, lose his compass. The fact that he didn’t was just nice to see.
Looking Ahead to James Gunn’s Future with Superman and DC Universe
James Gunn’s exploration of a more vulnerable and complex Superman lays an intriguing foundation for upcoming DC projects. The next anticipated installment, Man of Tomorrow, scheduled for release on July 9, 2027, is expected to further develop this version of Superman alongside his arch-nemesis Lex Luthor, portrayed by Nicholas Hoult. The movie will also introduce the villain Brainiac, played by Lars Eidinger, promising new tensions and alliances within the DC Universe.
Gunn’s nuanced approach could redefine Superman’s role within the franchise and impact future storylines, potentially reshaping how audiences experience the iconic hero and his challenges.
