DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn has sparked controversy with his upcoming film Superman, which he claims keeps in tune with the original 1938 vision while emphasizing basic human kindness as a value that America seems to have lost. The movie follows Kal-El as an immigrant who becomes a reporter at the Daily Planet and navigates conflict both home and abroad.
Gunn believes the blockbuster will be perceived differently depending on whether it is released in predominantly red or blue states, with anti-immigrant sentiment prevalent in some areas. He asserts that his film aims to balance its message with fun family appeal but ultimately tells a human story about morality and kindness.
This approach has led to criticism from those who feel Superman’s identity should be rooted in the “American way,” not just “the human way.” Gunn’s decision to remove “The American Way” from Superman’s tagline has been seen as erasing America’s distinct identity, sparking debate over inclusivity and cultural relevance.
However, Gunn maintains that his goal is to promote kindness and empathy towards others, and he believes this message is crucial in today’s society. The film’s production was shot in the UK, with some critics accusing DC Studios of not paying workers in the US fair wages.
Despite the backlash, fans are still excited for the movie, with many looking forward to its release on July 11.
Source: https://deadline.com/2025/07/james-gunn-superman-immigrant-american-story-kindness-1236450534