A private screening of James Gunn’s upcoming Superman film, set for release on July 11, 2025, has sparked a firestorm among DC fans, particularly those loyal to Henry Cavill’s portrayal of the Man of Steel. Held on May 5, 2025, in Los Angeles, the exclusive event for industry insiders, critics, and select influencers showcased David Corenswet as the new Clark Kent. While many attendees praised the vibrant, comic-accurate vision, some reportedly left the screening unaware of Zack Snyder and Henry Cavill’s contributions to the character, igniting outrage among Cavill’s fanbase. The incident, amplified by posts on X, has deepened the divide between supporters of Snyder’s DCEU and Gunn’s rebooted DCU.
The screening, described as a “near-final cut” by attendees, featured Corenswet’s Superman navigating his dual life as a Daily Planet reporter and global protector, with Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Krypto the Superdog stealing scenes. Guests lauded Gunn’s hopeful tone, with one influencer calling it “a love letter to Superman’s optimism.” However, when asked about comparisons to Snyder’s darker Man of Steel (2013), several attendees reportedly shrugged, saying, “Who are Zack Snyder and Henry Cavill?” This apparent ignorance of Snyder, who directed Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Cavill, who played Superman across four DCEU films, stunned onlookers and quickly spread online.
Cavill fans, already vocal about his 2022 exit from the role, erupted in anger. On X, hashtags like #HenryCavillSuperman and #RestoreTheSnyderVerse trended as fans vented their frustration. “How do you watch a Superman film and not know Cavill? He was Superman for a decade!” wrote one user. Another fumed, “Erasing Snyder and Cavill’s legacy is disrespectful. Gunn’s DCU owes them for setting the stage.” The backlash reflects lingering resentment over Cavill’s departure, which followed a brief return in Black Adam (2022) before Gunn and co-CEO Peter Safran opted for a younger Superman. Fans argue Cavill, now 42, was unfairly sidelined despite his physicality and nuanced portrayal, which balanced hope with inner conflict.
Snyder’s DCEU, launched with Man of Steel, was divisive for its gritty tone and philosophical take on Superman. While critics often panned the darker narrative, Cavill’s casting was widely praised, earning a cult following. Gunn’s Superman, by contrast, embraces a brighter aesthetic, with Corenswet’s suit featuring the iconic red trunks Snyder famously omitted. Posts on X suggest some fans see Gunn’s approach as a deliberate rejection of Snyder’s vision, with one writing, “Gunn’s acting like Snyder’s work never existed.” Yet, others defend Gunn, noting that Cavill’s exit predated his involvement and stemmed from Warner Bros.’ mismanagement of the DCEU, which struggled with inconsistent storytelling.
The screening’s fallout highlights a broader cultural clash within DC fandom. Snyder loyalists, who campaigned for years to release Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021), feel their contributions are being erased. “Snyder built the DCEU from nothing, and Cavill embodied Superman’s heart. To hear guests dismiss them is a slap in the face,” one fan posted. Meanwhile, Gunn supporters argue the DCU needs a fresh start. “Cavill was great, but the DCEU was a mess. Gunn’s giving us the Superman comics deserve,” countered another user. Industry insiders at the screening, many unfamiliar with DC’s cinematic history, may have exacerbated tensions by overlooking the Snyder era’s impact.
Gunn has addressed the controversy indirectly, emphasizing his respect for Cavill. In a 2023 interview, he said, “I like Henry. He’s a great guy, but this story needed a different Superman.” He’s also hinted at potential DCU roles for Cavill, with some speculating about an anti-hero like Lobo. Still, these gestures haven’t quelled fan anger, especially as Cavill’s packed schedule—starring in Voltron, Highlander, and a Warhammer 40k project—makes a return unlikely. Snyder, meanwhile, has expressed support for Cavill, recently praising his Deadpool & Wolverine cameo as “fun” but remains focused on non-DC projects.
As Superman nears release, the divide between Snyder and Gunn’s visions continues to fuel debate. The screening incident underscores how deeply fans are tied to Cavill’s Superman, with some vowing to boycott the new film. Yet, early buzz suggests Gunn’s take could win over skeptics, provided it honors the character’s legacy. For now, Cavill’s fans remain a vocal force, demanding recognition for the Superman they still champion.
