James Gunn Explains Why His Lex Luthor Is So Angry at Superman

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James Gunn is set to bring a new vision to the Superman story with his upcoming movie, arriving in theaters on July 11, 2025. This film marks the first big-screen DC Universe release since Gunn became the director in 2022. He aims to refresh the characters, especially Superman and his well-known rival, Lex Luthor.

In a recent chat with Rolling Stone, Gunn shared that this version of Superman, played by David Corenswet, will be more vulnerable compared to previous versions like Henry Cavill’s.

Unlike the strong and nearly unbeatable Superman fans have seen before, this new Clark Kent will show more human weaknesses. Gunn also revealed that his take on Lex Luthor will be more relatable for viewers.

Traditionally, Lex Luthor is portrayed as a wealthy villain who opposes Superman, the hero everyone loves. Because Superman is the symbol of good, Lex is usually seen simply as the bad guy.

But Gunn wants to change that view. He said, “I really understand Lex. I feel like I relate to Lex way more than I wish I did. But for me, Lex looks at Superman like artists look at AI. He is the world’s greatest man in so many ways. He’s done these unparalleled things. And then you got a guy who comes in who’s done nothing to deserve the ability to fly and to smash down buildings. And he’s also extraordinarily handsome, too. And all of a sudden, that’s all the world is talking about. And that sort of obsession with being replaced, with being—with your gifts not being seen or passed over — I think is what drives Lex. I relate to everything he does. He’s just meaner than I am.”

Gunn’s explanation paints Lex as more than just a villain. He’s a person who has worked hard all his life to be the smartest and best, but feels overshadowed by Superman, who gets attention without effort. This gives Lex a more human side, showing why he is driven by frustration and jealousy.

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The new film stars David Corenswet as Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, with Nicholas Hoult playing Lex Luthor. The story will also bring in other heroes such as Mister Terrific, Metamorpho, Green Lantern, and Hawkgirl, expanding the DC Universe on screen.

Filming took place mostly in Georgia and Norway, finishing in July 2024. The movie draws inspiration from well-known comics like All-Star Superman by Grant Morrison. Alongside the main cast, actors like Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, and Sara Sampaio join the project. Newcomer Milly Alcock will play Supergirl, while Frank Grillo returns as Rick Flag Sr., linking this movie to other DC stories.

This new Superman movie aims to show a more real and imperfect hero, as well as a Lex Luthor who feels like a real person with understandable reasons behind his actions. It looks like fans will get a fresh look at both sides of this classic rivalry.

From my point of view, it’s exciting to see a more complex Lex Luthor. Making villains relatable can add depth to the story and make it more interesting. What do you think? Do you prefer heroes and villains with clear lines, or do you like when characters show more human sides? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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