James Gunn’s Insights on How DCU’s Superman Movie Will Avoid the Major Pitfalls of Henry Cavill’s Man of Steel

David Corenswet’s upcoming Superman film is poised to steer clear of the missteps associated with Henry Cavill’s portrayal of the iconic hero, creating a promising foundation for the revitalized DC Universe (DCU). The shift in direction for DC’s cinematic storytelling comes in response to the mixed reactions surrounding past installments. While not every film in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) has been regarded as poor, many have drawn considerable criticism.

One particularly polarizing film was Man of Steel, which marked the debut of Cavill’s Superman. Although I appreciated several aspects of the film, certain creative choices did not align with the traditional behaviors associated with Superman in the comics. With Cavill stepping aside, Corenswet has been cast in the role, a decision I wholeheartedly endorse after having noticed his talent since 2019’s The Politician. Given teasers from the movie and insightful remarks from director James Gunn, it seems that Corenswet’s Superman will learn from the past mistakes of the DCEU.

Controversial Decisions: Superman Killing Zod

Additional Controversial Choices in the DCEU

Released in 2013, Man of Steel marked the beginning of the DCEU timeline, yet it was fraught with creative choices that deviated from the quintessential portrayal of Superman. Director Zack Snyder’s vision aimed to depict a hero who grapples with his identity before embracing his more heroic qualities. Despite the turmoil behind the scenes that prevented the full realization of this arc, I believe the film could have successfully maintained a darker tone without resorting to a decision as drastic as Superman killing Zod.

Killing is an act that Superman should never engage in. This philosophy is well-established across numerous adaptations, both live-action and animated, and within the pages of DC Comics. Commencing a cinematic universe with a narrative that ends with Superman ending Zod’s life is counterintuitive. Alternatives, such as imprisoning Zod in the Phantom Zone—a tactic frequently employed in other DC narratives—would have aligned better with the character’s moral code.

Gunn’s Vision: A Different Superman

Corenswet’s Superman Will Embrace Life

Even before his casting, Corenswet expressed a desire for a Superman that resonates more closely with the classic, vibrant tone seen in the comics. Recently, during an interview with Fandango, James Gunn revealed that the forthcoming Superman film is committed to portraying a hero who values every life immensely. His comments emphasize a clear dedication to preventing loss of life, underscoring the moral compass that defines Superman’s character.

“He believes the sanctity of life is of the utmost importance. No matter what, you do not let anyone die, ever.”

While Gunn does not directly address the treatment of villains within his statement, it stands to reason that Superman’s principles extend to all individuals, not just allies. In light of Gunn’s insights regarding Corenswet’s interpretation of the character, it appears unlikely that this new Superman will resort to lethal methods when facing adversaries.

Positive Alternatives to Violence in the DCU

Diverse Character Options in the DCU

With Gunn’s indication that Corenswet’s Superman will not replicate the fatal choices made in Man of Steel, it’s essential to recognize that the DCU is rich with characters who can embody more violent arcs. For instance, the Creature Commandos series—an animated show centering on a band of unlikely heroes—premiered as a distinctly mature exploration of violence and heroism, aligning with audiences who crave those more intense narratives.

Moreover, a film featuring characters like Deathstroke and Bane is reportedly in development, which suggests a willingness to explore darker themes simultaneously. Although The Authority project is currently on hold, it could provide an intriguing alternative for fans who desire a more brutal Superman-like character, thus satisfying those yearning for a different narrative while keeping Corenswet’s portrayal of Superman anchored in his heroic traditions.

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