James Gunn, recognized as a leading authority on the Guardians of the Galaxy films, has detailed his commitment to preserving James Gunn Guardians character continuity across the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Speaking as co-CEO of DC Studios, Gunn reflected on how he personally corrected scripts to protect Rocket Raccoon’s portrayal, ensuring the character stayed true to his original vision throughout different projects.
Gunn’s Dedication to Rocket Raccoon’s Authenticity
Gunn, who directed all three Guardians films, took a hands-on approach regarding Rocket Raccoon’s consistency in stories outside his own directorial efforts. His efforts involved reviewing scripts and making adjustments to Rocket’s character whenever he felt the depiction was off. On the DC Studios Showcase Official Podcast, Gunn explained his process for maintaining character fidelity:
“I was like this when I worked at Marvel,”
—James Gunn, Director
He elaborated further, noting how closely he identified with Rocket:
“I would get scripts with Rocket in them that didn’t match how I understood [the character] – that character was my soul. So I would always make sure that his voice always made sense, that what he did always made sense. And I do that with the characters in DC across all the films and television shows. They’ve got to be true to the character, especially if it’s a character that I originated on film.”
—James Gunn, Director
Crossing Over to DC Studios and Maintaining Continuity
Now overseeing DC Studios, Gunn brings the same commitment to character continuity to his work on DC projects. He is currently preparing for the upcoming Superman film, set for release on July 11. The movie will debut David Corenswet as Superman (the Man of Steel), Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, signaling a new chapter for DCU fans.
Guardians Actors in Upcoming Superman Film
In a playful nod to his Marvel work, Gunn has included subtle cameos from former Guardians cast members in the new Superman film. He recently revealed details that have gone previously unpublicized:
“I will give you something that nobody knows, but Pom Klementieff is one of the robots. It’s Bradley [Cooper] and then it’s also Pom and Michael Rooker is another one of the robots,”
—James Gunn, Director
This means Bradley Cooper, who voices Rocket Raccoon, Pom Klementieff (Mantis), and Michael Rooker (Yondu) all appear as robots in the Fortress of Solitude, showing Gunn’s ongoing connection with former collaborators while working within a new universe.
Looking Ahead for Gunn and Comic Book Cinema
Gunn’s approach to script oversight and respect for original character traits stands as a model for both Marvel and DC productions, reinforcing his reputation as a creative leader invested in the authenticity of beloved heroes. As anticipation builds for Superman’s upcoming release, fans are eager to see how this ethos shapes not only the Man of Steel but the entire future slate of DC movies and shows.
