Everything We Know So Far About James Gunn’s ‘Superman’: Plot, Cast, and Release Date
Last year, Gunn and Safran introduced new plans for the “DCU,” a cinematic universe intended to replace and reboot the DCEU. The initial phase, dubbed ‘Gods & Monsters,’ encompasses animated projects and live-action shows set in Themyscira long before Wonder Woman’s era.
Although the animated series ‘Creature Commandos’ debuted first, the true kickoff of the DCU will be ‘Superman,’ a live-action film centering on a younger Superman, effectively supplanting Cavill’s established Man of Steel. While the movie is still far from release, we’ve gathered available information in this comprehensive guide. Let’s dive in!
The plot of the film remains a mystery, yet its inspiration is clear enough
At the DCU reveal, Gunn mentioned that the upcoming movie draws inspiration from ‘All-Star Superman,’ despite the costume drawing from Alex Ross’ art and the logo resembling ‘Kingdom Come’ Superman at the table reading. The movie’s brief synopsis outlines Clark Kent’s journey as he navigates his Kryptonian roots alongside his human upbringing.
Initially announced as ‘Superman: Legacy,’ Gunn clarified that the film wouldn’t be an origin story, despite casting a younger Clark Kent. Recently, Corenswet shed light on further inspirations driving the movie.
Corenswet characterized the narrative as a blend of ‘For All Seasons’ and ‘All-Star Superman,’ infused with Gunn’s unique flair.
In ‘All-Star Superman,’ the hero gains extraordinary abilities following a mission near the sun, with only a year left to live. The series delves into Superman’s quest to fulfill his remaining duties and grapple with his imminent mortality. Amidst facing adversaries like Lex Luthor and engaging in personal introspection, Superman confronts numerous challenges while reflecting on his life and impact.
‘Superman: For All Seasons,’ conversely, unfolds across four sections, each tied to a distinct season (spring, summer, fall, and winter), and offers perspectives from various characters in Superman’s life. This character-centric approach delves into Superman’s formative years, from his beginnings in Smallville to his emergence as a hero in Metropolis.
In the past year, numerous rumors about the film’s plot emerged, including a detailed one about Superman battling terrorists in the Middle East. However, Gunn himself debunked these rumors, so I don’t believe they hold any credibility. The latest update on the plot confirms Lex Luthor as the primary antagonist, despite earlier reports suggesting it would be Ultraman.
The recent unveiling of Superman’s suit sparked mixed reviews, with some claiming it’s a downgrade compared to Cavill’s suit, while others prefer it much more.
Nearly all of the ‘Superman’ cast has been revealed
The cast includes:
- David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman,
- Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane,
- Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl,
- Edi Gathegi as Michael Holt/Mister Terrific,
- Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern,
- Anthony Carrigan as Rex Mason/Metamorpho,
- María Gabriela de Faría as Angela Spica/The Engineer,
- Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher,
- Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen,
- Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor,
- Terence Rosemore as Otis,
- Wendell Pierce as Perry White,
- Pruitt Taylor Vince as Jonathan Kent, and
- Neva Howell as Martha Kent.
- Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard
- Mikaela Hoover – The Daily Planet Newsroom
- Christopher McDonald – The Daily Planet Newsroom
- Frank Grillo – Rick Flag Sr.
Furthermore, Sean Gunn is anticipated to make an appearance as Maxwell Lord, while Milly Alcock is set to portray Supergirl, though probably with a smaller role. During the 2024 Annecy Panel, it was confirmed that certain characters from ‘Creature Commandos’ will appear in the movie.
What information do we have about the film’s duration?
At this stage, we have no information whatsoever regarding the film’s runtime. There isn’t even a rumor to provide any indication. However, as the release date approaches, we may gain a clearer understanding of what to anticipate.
The release date appears to be set in stone
‘Superman’ is slated for a theatrical debut in the United States on July 11, 2025, forming a part of the DCU’s ‘Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.’
James Gunn initiated work on a potential new Superman film in August 2022. By October, he, along with producer Peter Safran, took on the co-CEO roles at DC Studios, sparking the development of a revamped DC Universe. Gunn’s involvement in scripting the new Superman project was unveiled in December. Initially titled ‘Superman: Legacy’ in January 2023, Gunn was confirmed as the director in March, with David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan joining the cast in June. The subtitle was scrapped by February 2024, coinciding with the commencement of filming in Norway. The filming is set to continue until August, spanning Trilith Studios in Atlanta and Macon, Georgia, as well as locations in Ohio.
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