The upcoming Superman film, directed by James Gunn, is set to hit theatres on July 11, 2025. Starring David Corenswet as ‘Superman’ and Rachel Brosnahan as ‘Lois Lane’, the film reboots the 2013, Man of Steel and aims to blend superhero action with deeper emotional and thematic storytelling. While fans are excited for the return of the iconic character, Gunn’s vision has already sparked widespread debate regarding what ‘Superman’ represents in today’s divided cultural landscape.
James Gunn described ‘Superman’ as an immigrant
In an interview with The Sunday Times, Gunn described ‘Superman’ as ‘the story of America,’ emphasising the character’s roots as an immigrant. Gunn’s comments sparked immediate backlash, especially among conservative commentators. His framing of ‘Superman’ as a political symbol, particularly as an immigrant, drew criticism, with some even accusing the film of pushing a left-wing agenda. He said:
“He is an immigrant who 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.”
James Gunn received backlash from conservative media
Fox News personalities were quick to condemn Gunn’s comments. Kellyanne Conway claimed that people don’t go to the movie theatre to be lectured or to have someone’s ideology imposed upon them. Fellow host, Jesse Watters mocked the film’s immigrant metaphor by making a controversial reference to the MS-13 gang.
Online, the film was quickly labelled ‘Superwoke’ by critics who argued that Hollywood is increasingly politicising beloved characters. Social media users echoed similar concerns, accusing Gunn of using ‘Superman’ as a vehicle for ideological messaging.
Cast and Crew of Superman respond to the controversy
Despite the backlash, James Gunn has not backed down. At the film’s premiere at Hollywood’s TCL Chinese Theatre, he responded by reinforcing the movie’s core message. Gunn told Variety, that he is not here to judge people, and the film’s primary plot revolves around kindness, which he believes is something everyone can relate to.
Other cast members also chimed in. Nathan Fillion, who plays ‘Green Lantern’ (also known as Guy Gardner), took a humorous approach and when asked about his opinion on the backlash he simply joked, that some people need a hug. He further emphasised that it’s just a movie.
Meanwhile, Sean Gunn, who plays ‘Maxwell Lord’ and is James Gunn’s brother, defended the immigrant theme more forcefully. He was seen saying that ‘Superman’ is, in fact, an immigrant, and if somebody doesn’t like that, they are not American. He said:
‘We support our people, you know? We love our immigrants. Yes, Superman is an immigrant, and yes, the people that we support in this country are immigrants, and if you don’t like that, you’re not American. People who say no to immigrants are against the American way.”
James Gunn emphasised that the theme of Superman is that of morality, not just politics
Gunn emphasised that the film isn’t just about politics; it’s also a moral story. Central to the plot is the ethical divide between ‘Superman’ and ‘Lois Lane’. The film explores how differing worldviews challenge relationships, even between heroes. He said:
“Do you never kill, no matter what, which is what Superman believes, or do you have some balance, as Lois believes?”
What do you think about the whole Superman controversy? Do you agree with James Gunn and his new vision for the beloved hero?
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