James Gunn’s vision for Superman sparks political debate, cast rallies in support
TOI World Desk | TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Jul 09, 2025, 23:03 IST
( Image credit : AP, TOIGLOBAL )
James Gunn's upcoming Superman film faces pre-release controversy due to his comments framing the superhero as an immigrant symbol, sparking conservative backlash and accusations of "Superwoke." Despite the criticism, the cast defends Gunn's vision, emphasizing the film's themes of kindness and cultural integration. The movie reimagines Superman for a modern audience, highlighting compassion amidst ideological divides.
James Gunn’s highly anticipated Superman film is generating controversy ahead of its theatrical release in the U.S. this weekend. The director's recent remarks describing the superhero as a symbol of American immigration and kindness have drawn sharp criticism from conservative voices, with some labeling the movie “Superwoke.” Despite the backlash, the film’s cast and creative team have stood firmly behind Gunn, defending his message and the deeper themes behind the character.
The new installment features David Corenswet as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Written and directed by Gunn, the film marks a fresh chapter in the DC Universe, aiming to ground the character in values that resonate with today’s audiences.
In an interview with The Times U.K., Gunn described Superman as “the story of America,” comparing the character’s origins to those of many Americans who came from other lands in search of a better life. “It’s a story that says basic human kindness is a value and it’s something we’ve lost,” he said.
When asked whether reactions might differ between red and blue states, Gunn acknowledged the divide. “Yes, it plays differently,” he said. “Some people might take offense just because it’s about kindness. But screw them.”
Those remarks quickly sparked online outrage from right-leaning media outlets and commentators. Fox News labeled the movie “Superwoke,” with anchor Kellyanne Conway accusing Gunn of using the film to promote a political agenda. “We don’t go to the movie theater to be lectured,” she said.
However, the immigrant metaphor in Superman is hardly a new interpretation. Created in 1938 by two Jewish immigrants, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Superman has long been viewed as a symbol of hope and resilience, particularly through the lens of the immigrant experience in America. The character’s alien origins and adopted homeland have consistently been a metaphor for cultural integration and idealism.
Gunn has remained unbothered by the criticism. Speaking to Variety, he said, “I don’t have anything to say to anybody spreading negativity. I’m not here to judge people.” His goal, he emphasized, is to create a story that everyone can relate to—one that champions compassion.
The film’s cast has publicly supported Gunn’s vision. Actor Nathan Fillion, who portrays Guy Gardner, dismissed the outrage with humor, saying, “Aw, somebody needs a hug. Just a movie, guys.” Sean Gunn, the director’s brother and cast member playing Maxwell Lord, was more direct: “Yes, Superman is an immigrant. If you’re against immigrants, you’re not American.”
As audiences prepare to experience this reimagining of the Man of Steel, the discussion surrounding the film underscores the evolving landscape of superhero cinema—where timeless icons are being reexamined through a modern cultural and political lens. Whether Superman can bridge the ideological divide remains to be seen, but James Gunn has made his intentions clear: kindness, not controversy, is the message he hopes will take flight.
The new installment features David Corenswet as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Written and directed by Gunn, the film marks a fresh chapter in the DC Universe, aiming to ground the character in values that resonate with today’s audiences.
In an interview with The Times U.K., Gunn described Superman as “the story of America,” comparing the character’s origins to those of many Americans who came from other lands in search of a better life. “It’s a story that says basic human kindness is a value and it’s something we’ve lost,” he said.
When asked whether reactions might differ between red and blue states, Gunn acknowledged the divide. “Yes, it plays differently,” he said. “Some people might take offense just because it’s about kindness. But screw them.”
Those remarks quickly sparked online outrage from right-leaning media outlets and commentators. Fox News labeled the movie “Superwoke,” with anchor Kellyanne Conway accusing Gunn of using the film to promote a political agenda. “We don’t go to the movie theater to be lectured,” she said.
However, the immigrant metaphor in Superman is hardly a new interpretation. Created in 1938 by two Jewish immigrants, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, Superman has long been viewed as a symbol of hope and resilience, particularly through the lens of the immigrant experience in America. The character’s alien origins and adopted homeland have consistently been a metaphor for cultural integration and idealism.
Gunn has remained unbothered by the criticism. Speaking to Variety, he said, “I don’t have anything to say to anybody spreading negativity. I’m not here to judge people.” His goal, he emphasized, is to create a story that everyone can relate to—one that champions compassion.
The film’s cast has publicly supported Gunn’s vision. Actor Nathan Fillion, who portrays Guy Gardner, dismissed the outrage with humor, saying, “Aw, somebody needs a hug. Just a movie, guys.” Sean Gunn, the director’s brother and cast member playing Maxwell Lord, was more direct: “Yes, Superman is an immigrant. If you’re against immigrants, you’re not American.”
As audiences prepare to experience this reimagining of the Man of Steel, the discussion surrounding the film underscores the evolving landscape of superhero cinema—where timeless icons are being reexamined through a modern cultural and political lens. Whether Superman can bridge the ideological divide remains to be seen, but James Gunn has made his intentions clear: kindness, not controversy, is the message he hopes will take flight.