Director James Gunn says his upcoming Superman movie is not just about a superhero—it’s a reflection of America’s immigrant roots and a call for more human kindness in an increasingly divided world.
In a new interview with The Times U.K., Gunn, who is also co-CEO of DC Studios, explained that his version of the iconic hero stays true to the character’s original message from 1938.
Created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster—both children of Jewish immigrants—Superman has long been seen as a symbol of the immigrant experience.
“Superman is the story of America,” Gunn said. “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.”
The film, simply titled Superman, stars David Corenswet in the title role and opens in theaters on July 11. Corenswet plays Clark Kent as an established Daily Planet reporter in a relationship with Lois Lane (played by Rachel Brosnahan).
As Clark faces challenges at home and abroad, he must also deal with public opinion turning against him—especially as tech billionaire Lex Luthor (played by Nicholas Hoult) looks to exploit the situation.
Gunn said the story goes beyond politics.
“Yes, it’s about politics,” he admitted. “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?”
The film also features Krypto the Superdog, and while it includes action and adventure, Gunn emphasized that it’s ultimately a story about goodness.
“This Superman does seem to come at a particular time when people are feeling a loss of hope in other people’s goodness,” he said. “I’m telling a story about a guy who is uniquely good, and that feels needed now.”
He also criticized the current state of online discourse, noting the rise in negativity and personal attacks on the internet.
“It is ad infinitum, millions of people having tantrums online,” Gunn said. “If I could press a button to make the internet disappear I’d consider it.”
While he clarified that he doesn’t make movies to change the world, Gunn hopes the film may still inspire audiences in small ways.
“If a few people could be just a bit nicer after this, it would make me happy.”
