James Gunn’s DCU “Gods & Monsters”: Superman, Lanterns, Clayface & the No-Resurrection Rule

Superman (2025) — The Emotional Anchor of the New DCU

James Gunn has made it clear that Superman (2025) will be the heart and soul of his new DC Universe. Unlike previous iterations that dwelled on Clark Kent’s origins, this film skips the familiar beats and launches us into a world where Superman already exists but hasn’t quite found his place. Starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, the movie blends traditional superhero themes with a deeper emotional journey. It’s less about flight and strength, more about identity, hope, and restraint.

This Superman doesn’t act as an all-powerful savior, but as a man navigating morality in a world that often rejects it. Gunn’s inspiration pulls heavily from All-Star Superman, but the tone is grounded—borderline Capra-esque, with bursts of humor and surprising vulnerability. While the film introduces characters like Hawkgirl and Mister Terrific, it’s crafted so newcomers aren’t overwhelmed. One of the biggest statements Gunn has made is about finality: if someone dies in this universe, they stay dead. There will be no multiverse cheats or alternate timelines to undo meaningful sacrifices.

This tonal reset not only aims to win back disenchanted fans but also establish new stakes for storytelling. That commitment—a true narrative backbone—is what could make Superman a game-changer. Its July 11 release will mark not just a new Superman film, but a new standard for the entire franchise.

James Gunn Says Infamous Superman Flying Scene Won't Be In The Movie: "I Didn't Love The Shot"

Superman fans got an unexpected update from director James Gunn regarding one of the most talked-about clips from the upcoming Superman movie. The viral flying scene, which many viewers found "goofy" and awkward, will actually not be part of the final film. Gunn openly admitted he didn’t love how the shot turned out, leading to the decision to cut it.

The scene in question showed the Man of Steel taking flight in a way that sparked widespread online discussion — and not all positive. Fans and critics alike poked fun at the moment, describing the flying pose as unnatural and somewhat laughable for a character known for his iconic and powerful flight. Given the viral nature of the clip, many assumed it would feature prominently in the film’s theatrical release.

However, James Gunn’s recent comments make it clear that this wasn’t the final vision for Superman’s flight scenes. As the director behind this new take on the legendary superhero, Gunn emphasized that he always prioritizes how shots feel visually and emotionally. His candid admission, "I didn’t love the shot,” shows a commitment to quality and a willingness to revise even after footage has been released publicly.

This revelation should reassure fans hoping for a more polished and respectful portrayal of Superman’s flight. Gunn’s direction promises a fresh yet faithful approach, aiming to avoid moments that could detract from the character’s iconic status.

While the viral clip generated buzz and memes, its exclusion from the movie reflects the creative team’s ongoing effort to deliver a Superman that meets fans’ expectations for grandeur and heroism. Fans can look forward to a more refined flying sequence when the movie finally hits theaters.

Expanding the DCU: Peacemaker 2, Lanterns & Supergirl

Following Superman, Gunn’s broader "Gods & Monsters" arc splinters into distinct tonal chapters that still orbit the same thematic core. Peacemaker 2, which resumes John Cena's beloved anti-hero role, won’t just continue the humour-heavy HBO Max series; it will intertwine directly with the new cinematic continuity. Yet, you won’t need a watchlist to follow along. Gunn insists that every project under this new banner stands alone while rewarding long-time viewers. This flexibility might be the golden formula DC fans have long craved.

The next major entry is Lanterns, which departs from bombast and delves into gritty, grounded sci-fi. With Aaron Pierre and Finn Wittrock rumored to star as John Stewart and Hal Jordan, the series will echo True Detective in tone, with earth-based mystery tied to cosmic consequences. Gunn revealed at San Diego Comic-Con that Lanterns will be key to uncovering an overarching DCU threat.

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, based on Tom King's graphic novel, introduces a fiercer and more disillusioned Kara Zor-El. She’s not the bubbly cousin to Superman we’ve seen before—she’s a survivor, raised on a chunk of Krypton watching her people die around her. Milena Tscharntke is reportedly in talks for the lead role. The tonal shift between Superman’s compassion and Supergirl’s trauma is deliberate, showing the duality of power and suffering in the DCU.

Myth, Horror, and Real Stakes — Clayface, Swamp Thing & Beyond

Not content with just heroes, Gunn is exploring DC's stranger corners, including Clayface and Swamp Thing. The upcoming Clayface film, helmed by horror director Mike Flanagan, promises to reinvent the classic villain not as a monster but as a tragic figure twisted by fame and identity. This aligns with Gunn's affection for flawed characters who wrestle with legacy, ego, and transformation.

Meanwhile, Swamp Thing will serve as the horror entry point into the DCU. Gunn said in an interview with EW that while tonally darker, Swamp Thing still exists in the same shared universe. It’s this genre-blending that makes his vision feel more cohesive yet creatively daring than previous attempts at interconnectivity.

Additionally, The Authority will explore a team of morally complex meta-humans who believe the world needs saving—even if that means breaking all the rules. Gunn teased their appearance in Superman may hint at future internal conflicts within the DCU.

By focusing on myth, consequence, and narrative clarity, Gunn is charting a course very different from the chaos of the previous DCEU. Each project introduces new shades of heroism and villainy, from earnest farm boys to tragic shapeshifters. The reset isn’t just cosmetic—it’s philosophical.

🤝 Want more no-fluff takes on superhero franchises, behind-the-scenes drama, and streaming hits?
Follow The Tipsy Critic for weekly deep dives, smart commentary, and zero sugar-coating.