LOS ANGELES, July 6, 2025
Gunn Explores Timely Themes in New Superman Film
Director aims to balance family appeal with a message of hope.
- James Gunn’s Superman will address politics and morality.
- The film emphasizes human kindness.
- David Corenswet stars as Superman/Clark Kent.
- The movie is slated for release on July 11.
In his upcoming film, James Gunn’s Superman will tackle themes of politics and morality, emphasizing kindness and the immigrant experience, aiming to resonate with contemporary audiences.
A Story of America
Superman, long seen as an allegory for the immigrant experience, especially given the background of his creators Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, will stay true to its roots. James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, aims to keep the 1938 vision alive.
Gunn sees the character as intrinsically tied to the American story. “I mean, Superman is the story of America,” he stated. “An immigrant that came from other places and populated the country, but for me it is mostly a story that says basic human kindness is a value and is something we have lost.”
Navigating Divisive Times
**How will the new Superman movie be received in a politically divided America?** When asked about this, especially amid anti-immigrant sentiment, Gunn acknowledged the potential for varied reactions. He hopes the core message of kindness will prevail, dismissing those who might find it offensive.
“Yes, it plays differently, but it’s about human kindness and obviously there will be jerks out there who are just not kind and will take it as offensive just because it is about kindness. But screw them.”
The Man of Steel Returns
David Corenswet stars as Superman, a reporter at the Daily Planet who is dating Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan). The film sees Superman facing conflicts both at home and abroad.
Adding to the stakes, tech billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) sees an opportunity in shifting public opinion. Superman, along with his dog Krypto, must navigate these challenges.
Moral Dilemmas
Gunn also highlights the moral questions the film will explore. “Yes, it’s about politics,” Gunn said. “But on another level it’s about morality. Do you never kill no matter what — which is what Superman believes — or do you have some balance, as Lois believes? It’s really about their relationship and the way different opinions on basic moral beliefs can tear two people apart.”
A Human Story
While aiming for family appeal, the ultimate goal is to tell a relatable human story. Releasing July 11 in theaters, the Warner Bros. Pictures movie hopes to resonate with audiences seeking hope.
“This Superman does seem to come at a particular time when people are feeling a loss of hope in other people’s goodness,” Gunn reflected. “I’m telling a story about a guy who is uniquely good, and that feels needed now because there is a meanness that has emerged due to cultural figures being mean online.”
He added, “And I include myself in this. It is ad infinitum, millions of people having tantrums online. How are we supposed to get anywhere as a culture? We don’t know what’s real, and that is a really difficult place for the human brain to be. If I could press a button to make the internet disappear I’d consider it. And, no, I don’t make films to change the world, but if a few people could be just a bit nicer after this it would make me happy.”
