James Gunn, the co-CEO of DC Studios and the creative force behind the upcoming Superman film, has been tirelessly promoting his latest project, set to hit theaters on July 11, 2025. This film, starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, marks the first live-action feature in the newly rebooted DC Universe (DCU). Beyond its role as a standalone story, Gunn has emphasized that Superman is the cornerstone of a broader, interconnected universe that he and co-CEO Peter Safran have been meticulously crafting since taking the helm of DC Studios in late 2022. His vision, as shared in recent interviews and social media posts, is to create a cohesive yet diverse tapestry of stories that reintroduce iconic heroes and lesser-known characters to new generations.

The Superman film, originally titled Superman: Legacy before being streamlined to Superman, is not an origin story. Instead, it focuses on a young Clark Kent, already established as a reporter at the Daily Planet and a superhero, as he navigates his Kryptonian heritage and human upbringing in Smallville, Kansas. Gunn has described the film as a “humongous epic” that blends action, humor, and heart, drawing inspiration from comics like Grant Morrison’s All-Star Superman and Jeph Loeb’s Superman for All Seasons. The story emphasizes Superman’s compassion and kindness, qualities Gunn sees as vital in a world that often dismisses such traits as outdated. The inclusion of Krypto the Superdog, inspired by Gunn’s own pet, adds a playful element, while characters like Hawkgirl, Mister Terrific, and Green Lantern Guy Gardner hint at the DCU’s expansive scope.

Gunn’s promotional efforts have been multifaceted, from sharing behind-the-scenes insights to releasing a teaser trailer in December 2024. At events like CinemaCon, exclusive footage showcased Superman’s vulnerability, with Krypto and Fortress of Solitude robots aiding a battered Man of Steel. This humanized portrayal has sparked debate among fans, with some praising Gunn’s fresh take and others longing for a more invincible hero. Posts on X reflect this divide, with users noting Gunn’s commitment to a hopeful, grounded Superman who embodies “truth, justice, and the American way.” Gunn has also teased practical effects, such as Metamorpho’s transformation and Lex Luthor’s comic-accurate purple-and-green war suit, signaling his reverence for DC’s rich history.

Beyond Superman, Gunn’s vision for the DCU is ambitious. He and Safran have outlined Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, which began with the animated Creature Commandos in December 2024 and includes upcoming projects like Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, Lanterns, and The Brave and the Bold. Unlike the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which Gunn has likened to a single overarching story, the DCU prioritizes worldbuilding over a linear narrative, akin to Star Wars. Each project is designed to stand alone, ensuring accessibility while rewarding fans with subtle connections, such as references to Peacemaker in Superman. Gunn has confirmed that most of Peacemaker’s first season is canon, except for a Justice League cameo, as the team has yet to form in the DCU timeline.

Gunn’s approach is writer-driven, with a focus on robust scripts to avoid superhero fatigue. He has assembled a writers’ room featuring talents like Drew Goddard and Tom King to shape the DCU’s eight-to-ten-year plan, which includes a crossover event akin to Marvel’s Avengers. Recent updates indicate that Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is in production, with Milly Alcock cast as Kara Zor-El, and Lanterns is filming, featuring Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre as Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart. Gunn’s insistence on creative control and his track record with Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad inspire confidence, though some fans remain wary of the DCU’s crowded roster and the absence of Henry Cavill as Superman.

As Superman nears release, Gunn’s promotional push continues, with a second trailer expected soon. His passion for DC’s legacy and commitment to diverse storytelling suggest that Superman is not just a film but a launchpad for a universe where hope, kindness, and heroism resonate. With the DCU’s future riding on this project, Gunn’s bold vision aims to make audiences believe a man can fly—and that a new era for DC has begun.