Why James Gunn Thinks His New Superman Is Destined for Stardom

As James Gunn walked into our interview to promote the newest "Superman," the A-list Hollywood creative didn't appear to bring any ego into the room – just, quaintly, his wife and a publicist. However, when asked about David Corenswet, the Julliard-trained actor he cast as the next Man of Steel, Gunn's confidence shone through. "Yes, I have a bit of an ego about it," Gunn said with a playful grin, referencing his knack for turning relatively unknown actors into major stars, as seen with Chris Pratt in his 2014 blockbuster "Guardians of the Galaxy." Gunn believes he has a talent for spotting future stars, and he thinks Corenswet has what it takes to become a huge star, possessing the acting chops, comedy skills, and handsome looks that make for a winning combination. Gunn's prediction for Corenswet's stardom is not just a casual comment; it's a testament to his faith in the actor and his vision for the new "Superman" film. As the co-CEO of DC Studios, Gunn has a lot riding on the success of this movie, which is set to open on July 11th. The film's performance will not only impact the Warner Bros. 2025 film slate but also determine the trajectory of the newly formed DC Studios, which is launching a new cinematic universe built on DC comics like Supergirl and Batman. Despite the pressure, Gunn remains calm and philosophical, thanks in part to his wife's calming influence. He tries to approach the situation with a stoic mindset, focusing on the creative aspect rather than the potential outcome. Gunn's passion for the "Superman" project stems from his childhood love of comics, which helped him learn to read at the age of 3. He wanted to recreate the world he discovered as a child for filmgoers everywhere, whether they're adults or children. The new film finds "Superman" in unfamiliar territory, facing scrutiny from the public as adversaries sow fear and doubt about Superman's alien origins. With social media manipulation and endless TV speculation over Superman's motives, there are parallels to today's society. Gunn's script explores the idea of what if this stuff is real, delving into the consequences of a world where superheroes are not just fictional characters but real entities with immense power and responsibility. The corporate villain, Lex Luthor, is played by Nicholas Hoult, who Gunn says was initially considered for the lead role of Superman. However, during the screen test, Gunn saw Hoult's potential as the perfect Lex Luthor, embodying the character's classic traits from the comics. Hoult's portrayal brings a modern twist to the role, with a hint of "tech bro" machismo, but Gunn insists he's not a stand-in for anyone in real life. The film also features a lighthearted and charming tone, with witty lines and a cute dog named Krypto, which Gunn based on his own chaotic canine. The inclusion of Krypto has received positive feedback, and Gunn believes it adds a fun and endearing element to the story. As Gunn looks to the future of the DC cinematic universe, he expresses his desire to explore new storylines and character dynamics. When asked about the possibility of another Batman vs. Superman film, Gunn reveals his preference for a team-up movie featuring the two superheroes as best friends, as seen in the comics. This approach would mark a departure from the darker tone of previous films and offer a fresh take on the iconic characters. With "Superman" set to hit theaters, Gunn hopes that his film will resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impression. He believes that the story of a good person in a world that isn't always good is a beautiful and powerful one, and he hopes it will speak to people as much as it speaks to him. Ultimately, Gunn's "Superman" is a labor of love, driven by his passion for comics and his desire to create a cinematic experience that will captivate audiences worldwide. With its unique blend of action, humor, and heart, the film has the potential to become a standout in the DC cinematic universe. As Gunn's childhood self has been longing to see this movie come to life, he hopes that it will inspire and entertain others, leaving a lasting impact on the world of entertainment. With its release just around the corner, fans are eagerly awaiting the chance to experience Gunn's vision for the Man of Steel, and the fate of the DC cinematic universe hangs in the balance.