Zack Snyder, the director who launched the contemporary DC Extended Universe (DCEU) with 2013’s Man of Steel, recently offered his thoughts on James Gunn’s upcoming Superman project. Snyder’s reflections highlight the transition from his foundational work to Gunn and Peter Safran’s reboot at DC Studios, marking a fresh creative chapter for the iconic superhero franchise. This shift follows the closure of the original DCEU in 2023 after Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.
Snyder’s era began with Man of Steel, expanded with Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice in 2016, and culminated in the turbulent Justice League release in 2017—later corrected by Zack Snyder’s Justice League in 2021. With Gunn and Safran now building a new DC Universe, their releases include titles like Creature Commandos Season 1, the new Superman film, and Peacemaker Season 2, signaling Warner Bros.’ new direction.
Snyder’s Supportive Response to Gunn’s Superman
During a conversation with Josh Horowitz on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Snyder dismissed any notion of rivalry with James Gunn. Instead, he emphasized mutual respect and excitement for the future, acknowledging that his own three-film arc remains distinct but appreciated. Snyder openly expressed anticipation for the new Superman movie.
“I wish them all the best… it is what it is… I can’t wait to see the next movie. It’s just awesome.”
He praised Gunn’s unique storytelling style, which combines humor with emotional depth, highlighting Gunn as an excellent custodian of the DC world despite their differing creative approaches.
“James is singular in his storytelling… an iconic and very particular point of view that’s both poignant and funny… He’s a great steward of that world.”
Harmony Among Creators Amid Fan Debates
While fans of the DCEU and the new DCU sometimes clash online, the filmmakers involved consistently express respect and support for each other’s work. Snyder affirmed this collaborative spirit, underlining that differences in style do not translate into personal or professional conflict.
For viewers interested in Snyder’s contributions, Man of Steel and various Superman titles remain available on Max, offering a chance to revisit the origins of the modern DCEU as James Gunn’s Superman take begins to unfold.
