James Gunn Bracing for Specific Kind of Superman Backlash

this steel-hearted hero is seen as the personification of truth, justice, and what it means to be human.

In essence, Gunn stated to The Times (UK) that Superman symbolizes America. He’s an immigrant who settled in the nation, yet for him, it’s primarily a narrative emphasizing that fundamental human compassion is a virtue, which we seem to be lacking today.

When asked how his Superman movie might be received in a time of political unrest, and if he’s thought about its reception in democratic and republican areas, Gunn replied, “Yes, it resonates differently. However, it’s about human decency, and there will undoubtedly be some people who are simply not decent and will find it offensive just because it promotes kindness. But I don’t care about them.

In 2022, Gunn, the writer of Superman, noted that his film is timely given the current state of division in the nation. “This version of Superman appears to have arisen during a period when people are experiencing a decline in faith in others’ kindness,” Gunn explained. “I am narrating a tale about an exceptional individual who is good, and this seems relevant now because there has been a rise in cruelty, which has been fueled by cultural figures behaving unkindly online.

I echo his sentiments. I, too, am part of this endless online tumult. It leaves us questioning the authenticity, and that’s a challenging position for our minds to navigate. If there was a magic button to vanish the internet, I’d seriously consider it. Now, I don’t create films with the intention of altering the world, but if my work could inspire even a few more people to be kinder, it would bring me joy.

In the movie previews I’ve been eagerly watching, it’s clear that the storyline involves my beloved character, Superman (David Corenswet), taking on a global challenge by stepping into a conflict between fictional nations Boravia and Jarhanpur. His objective? To shield innocents from harm, regardless of their nationality. Director James Gunn emphasizes that Superman is not merely an American hero, but one for the entire world.

Gunn clarified that when he created this story, the Middle Eastern conflict wasn’t ongoing. He made attempts to distance it from real-life conflicts, but it bears no resemblance to the Middle East. Instead, it’s a tale of a powerful, tyrannical nation invading a weaker country with a troubled political past, yet lacking any means of defense. It should be clear that this is purely a work of fiction.

In the movie, an instance involving Superman prompts a 10-minute conversation between Clark Kent and Daily Planet reporter Lois Lane (portrayed by Rachel Brosnahan) about global politics and Superman’s role in society. As director James Gunn mentioned, this is one of the most unconventional scenes included in the film. Although it touches on political matters, at its core, it explores moral dilemmas. Specifically, it questions whether one should never take a life no matter the circumstances, which aligns with Superman’s beliefs, or if there should be some balance, as Lois believes. Essentially, it delves into the complexities of their relationship and how opposing viewpoints on fundamental moral principles can lead to conflict.

A portion of the discussion has migrated onto digital platforms. During the interview, when the interviewer suggested that Superman could be a divisive character in reality, Gunn highlighted that even his benevolent, blue-skinned persona has faced criticism on the internet.

According to Gunn, “The event with the movie is taking place.” He shared footage of David interacting with children who were background actors. Kids adore Superman, just as they do Santa. And David was greeting them warmly, making for a heartwarming, cute video. However, some people commented, “Oh, fantastic, we’ve got a pussy Superman.” Can you believe it? That’s something you’re going to criticize? That kids like this guy and he’s kind?

In July 11th’s theatrical release, DC Studios’ Superman features David Corenswet as both Clark Kent and Superman, with Rachel Brosnahan portraying Lois Lane, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and a star-studded cast including Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern Guy Gardner, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher, María Gabriela de Faría as the Engineer, Wendell Pierce as Perry White of The Daily Planet, Neva Howell as Ma Kent, Pruitt Taylor Vince as Pa Kent, Sean Gunn as Maxwell Lord, and Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr.

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2025-07-06 22:10