James Gunn, the head of DC Studios, has described his latest project, Superman, as the most challenging film he has ever directed. In an interview on Variety‘s Awards Circuit podcast, he explained that the film is more “comic book-driven” than any of his previous superhero films. Gunn compared the difficulty of this project to his experience with the first Guardians of the Galaxy film, saying, “This was the hardest movie I’ve ever made.”
Gunn emphasized the unique challenge of reorienting a character that audiences believe they already understand. “I was reorienting something everyone already thinks they understand,” he stated. Despite this complexity, he found the film to be deeply rooted in comic book culture. “Strangely, it’s the most comic book-driven thing I’ve ever done,” he added, highlighting his commitment to the genre.
The film features David Corenswet in the lead role as Superman, marking Gunn’s first cinematic venture within the new DC Universe (DCU). Drawing inspiration from the acclaimed comic book series All-Star Superman, the film has already garnered significant acclaim, including being named GamesRadar+‘s movie of the year for 2025.
Exploring Superman’s Duality
Gunn’s vision for Superman includes a focus on the character’s relationship with Lex Luthor, portrayed by Nicholas Hoult. He shared insights into the film’s narrative, stating, “At its core, it’s about Clark and Lex.” He expressed a personal connection to both characters, saying, “I relate to Lex’s ambition and obsession – minus the murder. And I relate to Superman’s belief in people, his Midwestern values. They’re two sides of me.”
Looking ahead, the next chapter in the DCU will feature a film centered on Supergirl, directed by Craig Gillespie, best known for his work on Cruella. Set to be released on June 26, 2025, the film will follow Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El, Superman’s cousin, as she embarks on a quest for revenge across the universe, accompanied by Krypto the Superdog.
As the DCU continues to expand, fans can look forward to more updates on upcoming movies and shows in the pipeline. Gunn’s commitment to his craft and his ability to navigate the complexities of iconic characters signal an exciting future for the franchise, as audiences await the release of both Superman and Supergirl.
