Fresh New Look at Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner and Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl in ‘Superman’

Fans of DC Comics have a fresh look at two new characters in the upcoming Superman movie, directed by James Gunn, which will come out in theaters on July 11, 2025. Nathan Fillion takes on the role of Guy Gardner, a Green Lantern known for his bold personality. Isabela Merced plays Hawkgirl, a fierce warrior with wings who is part of the Justice Gang, a group of superheroes featured in the film alongside Superman.

Nathan Fillion’s version of Guy Gardner stays true to the comic books, complete with the character’s famous bowl haircut. Fillion was firm about keeping this look because it’s a key part of who Gardner is. He describes Gardner as “a fearless, overconfident jerk,” someone who speaks his mind without holding back.

To get into the character’s headspace, Fillion mentioned that he drew inspiration from Estelle Getty’s character Sophia on the TV show The Golden Girls. Fillion also shared that Gardner’s tough attitude comes after a serious event where he was hit by a bus and fell into a coma, which changed him.

Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl, also known as Kendra Saunders, has a backstory filled with reincarnation and past struggles. In the film, she carries the weight of her memories but uses humor and self-awareness to deal with it. Merced explained that the movie’s mix of action and comedy helps her character “make light of her trauma.” Her grumpy side is balanced with this wit, adding depth to Hawkgirl.

Merced also mentioned that her shorter height, just 5 feet 1 inch, makes her stand out among other heroes. Interestingly, Merced did not tell the filmmakers that she is also playing a superhero in another franchise, as she worried it might be an issue. However, she believes that experience helped prepare her for this role.

James Gunn, the director, has said he wanted to make a Superman movie that respects the character’s history but also brings something fresh. While there are several other heroes in the movie, Gunn emphasized that Superman remains the main focus. The Justice Gang, including Fillion’s and Merced’s characters, shows Superman working with other superheroes and expands the world around him.

Filming started earlier this year with locations in Georgia and Ohio. Gunn took inspiration from the All-Star Superman comic series, which influenced the film’s story and style.

The cast also includes David Corenswet as Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, along with Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. But many fans are excited to see Fillion and Merced bring these lesser-known heroes to life in a fun and new way.

This movie will be the first in the new DC Universe under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran. With its mix of classic characters and fresh faces, it promises to offer a different take on the superhero world.

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