EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was originally written based on early coverage of James Gunn’s Times of London interview, including framing by Variety and others. While Gunn did say a key scene in Superman is “about politics” and used the phrase “screw them,” his tone was more reflective than confrontational, and he emphasized that the film is for everyone. We stand by our reporting but feel it’s important to clarify that some early media interpretations may have overstated the political framing of his comments.
With mere days to release, director and DC Studios co-head James Gunn has finally said the quiet part out loud: yes, the new Superman movie is about politics.
In a new interview with The Times of London, Gunn opened up about the themes at the heart of his DC Universe reboot, and he made it abundantly clear that this version of the Man of Steel won’t shy away from commentary.
Superman wounded in the snow in the trailer for James Gunn’s Superman – YouTube, DC
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“I mean, Superman is the story of America,” Gunn said. Though it should also be noted that Gunn and DC have taken extreme care to omit Superman’s classic “American Way” motto from the film’s promotion.
“(He’s) an immigrant that came from other places and populated the country, but for me it is mostly a story that says basic human kindness is a value and is something we have lost,” Gunn said.
Superman and Pa Kent in the trailer for Superman – YouTube, DC
This statement has stoked the fears of many that Superman will serve as a cultural and political progressive parable, rather than a traditional action-driven escapist superhero film. While Gunn frames the conversation between Clark and Lois from the trailer (in which they argue over Superman’s actions overseas) to be one of compassion, it’s unmistakably wrapped in the language of modern political narratives, particularly on the topic of moral standing.
Superman Politics Front and Center
The decision to frame Clark Kent’s journey as a metaphor for immigration isn’t new, but the Times interview puts Superman squarely in the crosshairs of today’s deeply divided political landscape.
When asked about how audiences might react to the film’s themes, Gunn didn’t hold back.
“Yes, it plays differently, but it’s about human kindness,” he said. “And obviously there will be jerks out there who are just not kind and will take it as offensive just because it is about kindness. But screw them.”
James Gunn attends the European Premiere of Marvel Studios’ “Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 3” in Disneyland Paris on April 22, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by StillMoving.Net for Disney)
By Gunn’s own admission, the film will explore morality, conflict, and clashing values—particularly between Superman and Lois Lane.
“Yes, it’s about politics. But on another level it’s about morality,” Gunn continued. “Do you never kill no matter what — which is what Superman believes — or do you have some balance, as Lois believes? It’s really about their relationship and the way different opinions on basic moral beliefs can tear two people apart.”
It’s a striking turn from the classically apolitical hero who once stood for “truth, justice, and the American way.” In fact, Gunn’s comments suggest a film more interested in questioning America’s identity than celebrating it—prompting some longtime fans to wonder if this Superman even stands for anything distinctly American anymore.
A Divided Reception Before Release
Gunn’s remarks will likely add fuel to an already volatile debate around Superman and politics. Critics of recent superhero films have pointed to Hollywood’s increasing tendency to inject overt political themes into beloved franchises—often at the expense of broad audience appeal. With the DC brand already struggling for box office traction following recent flops like The Flash and Blue Beetle, some fans worry that Gunn’s ideological framing might alienate more viewers than it attracts.
James Gunn and Chris Pratt attend the Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Premiere at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood CA on Thursday, April 27, 2023.
(Photo: Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)
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Gunn appears unbothered by the possibility of backlash. But with early social media chatter already pointing to concerns about tone, message, and deviation from the Superman mythos, it’s unclear whether the director’s defiance will translate into ticket sales.
The film stars David Corenswet as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, alongside a large ensemble that includes Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl. But despite the impressive cast, it may be Gunn’s vision—and his unapologetic commitment to making Superman a political statement that defines the movie’s legacy.
Superman beaten down in the trailer for James Gunn’s Superman – YouTube, DC
Whether that legacy will be seen as bold reinvention or ideological overreach remains to be seen.
Are you surprised James Gunn would reveal that his Superman movie is about politics? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
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