In A Time Where The World Is Divided, James Gunn Wants Superman To Stand For Kindness

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Ahead of the highly-awaited movie release titled “Superman” on July 11, director James Gunn remains undeterred by critics who believe his take on the Man of Steel is overly sentimental. He defiantly upholds the film’s emotional essence without any apologies.

Superman as an Antidote to Modern Cynicism

“Yes, there will be people who are offended just because this Superman is about kindness,” Gunn told The Times in a new profile. “But ***** them.”

In 2025, David Corenswet takes on the role of Superman in a significant new beginning for DC Studios’ revamped cinematic universe. Amidst increasing division in public conversations, heightened online hostility, and polarizing media stories, Gunn emphasizes that Superman’s enduring message becomes even more crucial.

As a dedicated gamer, I view this fresh take on Superman not as a political statement per se, but more like a reflection or contrast to our current cultural environment. This movie, in my opinion, embodies a timeless value – decency. A term that seems somewhat revolutionary nowadays, yet it’s at the heart of this production.

“I’m telling a story about a guy who is uniquely good,” Gunn said. “And that feels necessary now. There’s a meanness that’s emerged – particularly online – and I include myself in that. Millions of people having tantrums every day. We’ve lost touch with basic decency.”

Additionally, Gunn clarifies that the movie may not connect with everyone, and that’s perfectly fine because it wasn’t intended to. Rather, its purpose is to evoke memories of a period when superheroes motivated us not by brutal actions, but by their unyielding moral integrity.

“If a few people walk out of the theater wanting to be a little bit nicer to someone in their life, then I’ve done my job,” he said.

A Superman for a Fractured Nation

As a gamer immersed in diverse virtual worlds, I can relate to the idea that perspectives significantly differ based on geographical location and personal viewpoint. Just like how a character’s journey might feel distinct when playing in Kansas compared to New York, so too does the perception of stories and even iconic characters change across different regions within our own society, as James Gunn points out.

Nonetheless, Gunn maintains that Superman’s fundamental principles – compassion, modesty, resilience – are apolitical.

“This is the story of an immigrant, someone who comes from another place and makes a new home here,” Gunn said. “That’s the story of America. But more than that, it’s a story about how human kindness is something we’ve lost. I think it’s time we found it again.”

Internet Culture vs. Heroic Ideals

Gunn has frequently expressed concerns over the negativity found in online conversations, describing the internet as a challenging environment for the human mind. Particularly irksome for him is the fact that even an innocuous event like Superman giving high-fives to kids on set can provoke criticism.

“People were calling him weak – a ‘p****’ – because he was nice to kids. What does that say about where we are?” Gunn asked. “It was a beautiful moment. Children see Superman the way they see Santa Claus. David [Corenswet] is Superman to them.”

Even with all the criticism, the director stays unfazed, believing that the movie’s authenticity is its greatest asset.

In spite of the harsh feedback, the director stands firm, asserting that the film’s honesty is its key power.

A Home for Everyone

In an earlier release this year, the movie trailer showcases a battered Superman, pleading to his faithful canine friend, Krypto the Superdog, for help in getting back home. For director Gunn, this scene symbolizes not only healing but also the profound significance of finding one’s place – a sense of belonging.

“I live in rural Georgia. I have friends across the political spectrum,” Gunn said. “Most people are just trying to do the best they can with what they have. I think we forget that.”

In December, Gunn expressed his wish for the movie to bring fans together rather than create divisions among them. Despite the increasing uproar on the internet, he continues to harbor this optimistic expectation.

“The internet has become more polarized than real life,” he said. “People are being told they have to pick a side on everything. But most of us just want to do the right thing. Superman is about that – about doing the right thing, not because you’ll win, but because it’s right.”

The Stakes of Superman

Gunn is venturing with Superman, not on special effects or complex universes, but on the mood. He’s wagering that even in our jaded era, there’s still a place for an honest, optimistic hero.

And he’s doing it knowing full well that not everyone will appreciate it.

“Some people are going to be jerks. That’s just the world we live in,” Gunn said. “But that doesn’t mean we stop trying to be better. That’s what Superman stands for.”

It’s uncertain if the gentler, caring version of Superman will resonate with audiences. However, it’s indisputable that director James Gunn is not crafting a Superman who wins through brute force; instead, he’s creating one with compassion, and he’s standing firm by this choice.

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2025-07-08 00:09