James Gunn and DC Studios have officially set the next chapter in their Superman saga. The follow-up film, titled Man of Tomorrow, will release on July 9, 2027.
Man of Tomorrow. In theatres July 9, 2027. pic.twitter.com/hegJEuRMTk
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) September 3, 2025
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The announcement comes just months after Superman soared into theaters earlier this year, and it already has fans buzzing over its direction, its title, and even the surprising promotional image shared alongside the news.
Superman and Lex Luthor… Allies?
Perhaps the most intriguing element from the reveal wasn’t just the release date—it was the artwork. The image shared by Gunn and DC Studios showed David Corenswet’s Superman standing side by side with Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor. Not facing off. Not fighting. But presented as if they might share common ground. The images were illustrated by DC artists Jim Lee and Jorge Jiminez.
Artwork by Jorge Jimenez showing Superman and Lex Luthor in the Superman sequel Man of Tomorrow – X
That single visual has sparked a firestorm of speculation. Could Superman and Lex be forced into an uneasy alliance against a larger threat? Or is this marketing misdirection designed to stir up fan theories? Either way, it’s a striking choice for a franchise where the two characters are best known as mortal enemies.
Why Man of Tomorrow?
The subtitle itself has deep comic book roots. “Man of Tomorrow” has long been one of Superman’s classic monikers. But the phrasing could also suggest something broader—perhaps a film that leans into the future of DC’s new cinematic universe. Some fans even speculate this could become as much a Lex Luthor film as it is a Superman one, especially given the marketing push around Hoult’s casting.
Superman and Lex Luthor in a Jim Lee-Created teaser image for the Superman Sequel Man of Tomorrow – X, @JamesGunn
Adding to that speculation is James Gunn’s earlier commentary. In multiple interviews, he explained that the sequel would not be a straightforward “Superman 2.” Instead, it would be part of a larger arc he’s calling the “Superman Saga,” weaving Superman’s story into a tapestry that includes other heroes like Supergirl and projects such as Peacemaker and Lanterns.
Not a Traditional Sequel — Straight From Gunn
James Gunn has been upfront that Man of Tomorrow isn’t being built as a straightforward “Superman 2.” In his own words, the movie “won’t be your typical Superman 2.” He also described it as “an ensemble-led flick” and while Superman remains “an important element,” the story instead unfolds “within the group of characters we’ve already met.”
James Gunn introduces the trailer for Peacemaker Season 2 – YouTube, DC
Entertainment Weekly echoed that framing, noting Gunn has “been teasing” a film “that wasn’t quite a traditional sequel to Superman,” and that he’s now describing this interconnected arc as the Superman Saga—a slate that also includes Supergirl, dated for June 26, 2026.
Plans Could Be Evolving
Still, it’s worth noting that creative plans in Hollywood aren’t carved in stone. Gunn’s initial description of the sequel as an ensemble piece may not fully reflect where the film ultimately lands. With the project now locked to a 2027 date and titled Man of Tomorrow, the possibility remains that it will lean more heavily into Superman than previously suggested.
Lex Luthor in the trailer for James Gunn’s Superman – YouTube, DC
That kind of shift wouldn’t be unusual. Studios often adjust course after a first installment, especially if audience feedback points toward a desire for more focus on a single character. Considering the box office spotlight on Corenswet’s Superman this summer, DC may find it wise to ensure the Man of Steel takes center stage—even within a larger saga.
The Bigger Picture
What fans can count on is that Man of Tomorrow will further establish the tone and identity of Gunn’s DC Universe. With Corenswet confirmed to return as Clark Kent and Hoult reprising his role as Lex Luthor, the film is set to expand on the foundations laid in the first chapter.
David Corenswet as Superman flying in James Gunn’s “Superman” – YouTube, DC
Whether it’s an uneasy alliance between hero and villain, or a deeper dive into Superman’s place within the broader DCU, Man of Tomorrow will carry enormous weight in defining how audiences embrace this new vision for DC on the big screen.
One thing is clear: DC Studios isn’t just building sequels. They’re building a saga. And on July 9, 2027, we’ll find out just how far the Man of Tomorrow can soar.
Are you excited for Man of Tomorrow as a Superman sequel? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
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I can’t wait to see Superman further deconstructed, cucked, and beat to a pulp at every turn while Lois and, it seems, Lex + Mr. Terrific (gotta have representation!) repeatedly save Supes and save the day.