James Gunn’s Superman movie, released last year, successfully reintroduced the Man of Tomorrow with a fresh yet nostalgic approach, blending the character’s politically charged Golden Age roots with the playful tone of Silver Age comics. Set against a backdrop where Lex Luthor commands an army of online trolls and Superman challenges world leaders, the film struck a chord with both fans and critics, marking a significant milestone for the superhero genre in 2025.
The film’s commercial success was remarkable, reportedly tripling the box office earnings of Man of Steel while becoming the highest-grossing superhero release of the year. This widespread acclaim extended beyond general audiences to include former DC movie directors, among them Zack Snyder, who expressed his admiration for Gunn’s work during a recent podcast appearance.
Zack Snyder Shares Admiration for James Gunn’s Storytelling
On Josh Horowitz’s Happy Sad Confused podcast, Zack Snyder eagerly anticipated the next installment in the James Gunn Superman movie series. He praised Gunn’s unique ability to transform mythological elements and pop culture into a narrative that balances both humor and emotional depth. Snyder called Gunn
“the best at it that I can think of”
and described him as
“a great steward of that world,”
highlighting his respect for Gunn’s stewardship of the DC universe.
Friendly Relations Between Gunn and Snyder Defy Online Rivalry Theories
Contrary to some online speculation suggesting animosity between them, James Gunn and Zack Snyder maintain a positive and collegial relationship. They even appeared together on an episode of Rick and Morty, playfully teasing their own images and fandoms. Their professional history stretches back even further; James Gunn wrote the screenplay for Snyder’s debut feature, Dawn of the Dead, a project often regarded as Snyder’s strongest work.
Though it has been over a decade since Snyder’s controversial Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice launched the original DC Extended Universe, the two filmmakers remain connected. With Gunn now co-leading DC Studios, there is speculation that Snyder could return to the franchise, potentially directing a film that aligns perfectly with his creative style, such as the previously envisioned, ultra-violent R-rated Lobo movie featuring Jason Momoa.
Current Projects and Future Prospects for Both Directors
At present, Zack Snyder is immersed in developing The Last Photograph, a drama-thriller focused on an ex-federal agent searching for his missing niece and nephew, accompanied by a war photographer. Meanwhile, James Gunn is focused on expanding his Superman saga, actively working on Man of Tomorrow’s sequel, scheduled for release in 2027. Their continued creative output promises to shape the evolving landscape of the DC universe and superhero cinema.
