James Gunn Admits That Superman and Lex Luthor in Man of Tomorrow Are Based on…Himself

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James Gunn leads DC Studios as co-chairman and co-CEO, where he’s in charge of planning the future of the DC Universe – Warner Bros.’ newest effort to adapt famous comic book characters for film and television. He’s also writing and directing Man of Tomorrow, a follow-up to last year’s Superman movie.

In a recent interview, James Gunn revealed he’s been vividly imagining how he would portray both Superman and Lex Luthor. He shared his detailed vision for Superman and his plans for the future of the character’s story.

According to Gunn, the heart of the story lies in the relationship between Clark and Lex. He feels a connection to both characters – he understands Lex’s drive and intense focus, though not the violent parts, and he also identifies with Superman’s optimistic view of humanity and his strong moral compass. He sees them as representing different aspects of his own personality.

Some people are questioning whether James Gunn’s vision for Superman is too personal. Superman is a long-standing cultural symbol with a rich history, and fans are wondering if they want a version of the character based on Gunn’s own experiences, or if Superman should remain something larger than any single creator’s perspective.

From Mythic Hero to “That Big Lug”

When Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster created Superman in the 1930s, they drew inspiration from many sources. Some people have pointed out similarities to the biblical story of Moses, who was hidden as a baby, raised by others, and eventually saved his people. Siegel and Shuster also said that characters like Samson and Hercules influenced their creation of a super-strong hero who fought for those in need.

Edgar Rice Burroughs’ character, John Carter, was a major inspiration. Like an early version of Superman, Carter found himself on Mars, where the lighter gravity gave him incredible strength and the ability to jump great distances. He became a hero who freed people, much like Superman. Interestingly, the initials “J.C.” hint that Burroughs might have been inspired by Jesus Christ, and later Superman writers drew on imagery associated with Jesus.

Superman has always represented hope and the best of what humanity could be. As his father, Jor-El, explains in the 1978 movie, people have the potential for greatness; they just need inspiration and guidance. That’s why he sent Superman – his son – to Earth, believing in humanity’s inherent goodness.

I’m so excited about the new Superman! James Gunn has said that this version isn’t about a flawless hero, but someone who genuinely tries his best. He’s a kind, loving person who always looks for the good in others. Gunn even calls him a ‘big lug,’ which just makes me think he’ll be a really relatable and endearing Superman!

James Gunn’s focus on Superman’s personal perspective could unintentionally weaken what has made the character so timeless. For almost a century, Superman hasn’t just been a hero, but a symbol of greater ideals – something that transcends any one person’s vision.

Grounding Superman and the DCU

In the end, by portraying Superman as simply a good person – someone James Gunn believes both he and viewers can easily relate to – he’s missing an opportunity to inspire. The stories Gunn tells in the new DC Universe might focus more on mirroring himself and his audience rather than presenting truly extraordinary, inspirational heroes. While this approach makes writing easier, it sacrifices the potential for challenging and uplifting narratives.

People flocked to see the original Superman movie in 1978 because they wanted to believe in the impossible – a man who could fly. By portraying Superman as more relatable, James Gunn might be establishing a solid foundation for the DC Universe, even if it means delaying its grand takeoff.

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2026-01-05 22:56