James Gunn Claims ‘Superman’ is His One True Superhero Film – Here’s Why!

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James Gunn has built a professional life around crafting films based on comic books, with many of these productions categorized as “superhero” movies. Yet, if you were to ask the director directly if he’s ever made one before, he would respond in the negative. Quite unexpectedly, James Gunn views Superman as the first genuine superhero movie that he has directed. Admittedly, this statement seems peculiar at first glance, but the filmmaker would certainly have a logical explanation for his bold claim. Considering his illustrious tenure at Marvel Studios, one might assume otherwise; however, upon careful analysis of the characters he brings to life, everything becomes clearer.

During an interview with IGN about Superman, Gunn was questioned about his earlier works, specifically his second film titled Super. Reflecting on his past projects, he admitted that it was only with Superman that he made a true superhero movie. Interestingly, despite his work with Marvel and DC involving comic book characters, none of these adaptations strictly classified as superheroes, according to the director’s explanation.

One intriguing aspect for me is that despite being known as a director of superhero films, I haven’t actually directed a traditional superhero movie in the conventional sense. For instance, Super isn’t truly a superhero – he’s more like a man in a costume who uses a wrench to fight people. Similarly, the Guardians are space explorers, the Suicide Squad are supervillains, and Peacemaker is a mentally unstable character. As for Superman, that’s my first venture into the world of traditional superheroes.

James Gunn Has Come a Long Way Since ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’

James Gunn’s trilogy of Guardians of the Galaxy, along with DC productions like The Suicide Squad and Creature Commandos, share common themes, focusing on stories about underdogs. Gunn’s fondness for characters who don’t quite fit in has played a significant role in his career as a filmmaker. However, the upcoming comic book movie that Gunn writes and directs will be different – it is Superman, a character known for his immense popularity and power within the DC Comics universe, rather than one who constantly struggles.

In essence, Gunn’s handling of Superman demonstrates the remarkable progress he’s made since his filmmaking debut in 1996. Now serving as co-chairman of DC Studios, Gunn shoulders a more substantial burden, guiding other creators to develop their own comic book adaptations within the DCU. As we await the response to Superman and the fate of the DCU, the promising box office predictions suggest a promising future.

In his debut foray into the world of superhero films, the writer and director have skillfully conveyed all that Superman symbolizes. This project, as marketed and presented in trailers, appears to be Gunn’s most daring undertaking yet. It boasts an ensemble cast of DC superheroes and serves as the inaugural film in a fresh, interconnected cinematic universe. Consequently, Gunn’s first superhero movie is also regarded as one of the most significant in recent history.

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2025-07-04 23:32