James Gunnis getting realaboutSuperman. With his much-anticipated reboot of DC’s most iconic hero set to arrive onJuly 11, the director and DC Studios co-head is using every opportunity to explain what his version of the Man of Steel truly represents — and it’s far from just anothersuperpowered brawl in tights.
In a candid new interview with The Times of London, Gunn didn’t shy away from politics. Instead, he leaned in, framingSupermanas not only a symbol of hope, but as a deeply personal reflection of America’s origin story.
“I mean,Supermanis the story of America. 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.”
For Gunn,Supermanisn’t just about flying or lifting buildings— it’s about being better. The story of Kal-El, a literal alien raised on a Kansas farm, is inextricably tied to themes of identity, belonging, and moral responsibility. And yes, it’s political. Gunn isn’t pretending otherwise.
“Yes, it’s about politics. 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.”
James Gunn Says “Screw Them” About People Who Take Against ‘Superman’s Themes
That dynamic betweenDavid Corenswet’sClark Kent andRachel Brosnahan’sLois Laneis a central pillar of the film, but the pair have an ethical conflict too. According to Gunn, that hint of friction helps drive the emotional engine of the story, but in today’s politically volatile climate, themes of immigration, morality, and even kindness can ignite backlash. Gunn knows that. And frankly, he doesn’t care.
“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.”
Beyond Corenswet and Brosnahan,Supermanalso starsNicholas Houltas Lex Luthor,María Gabriela de Faríaas The Engineer,Nathan Fillionas Green Lantern,Skyler Gisondoas Jimmy Olsen, andIsabela Mercedas Hawkgirl.
Supermanopens on July 11.
Source:The Times
