Director James Gunn has addressed recent backlash concerning the portrayal of Superman as an immigrant and a symbol of American values, amid what some critics have labeled a “superwoke” agenda. The debate surfaced after Gunn described the character as embodying kindness and rooted in the immigrant experience, sparking controversy primarily from conservative commentators. This discussion unfolds as the next Superman film, which also aims to stabilize a troubled DC Universe (DCU) production, approaches release.
In a conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Gunn admitted receiving mixed responses about the film‘s perceived political tone.
“I’ve heard people say it was woke, and then I’ve heard a lot of people say it’s not. I am curious as to what in the movie is considered woke,”
he remarked. Gunn explained that the story of Superman, created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster—both sons of immigrants—is fundamentally about kindness and humanity rather than any particular political statement.
“I’ve heard people say it was woke, and then I’ve heard a lot of people say it’s not. I am curious as to what in the movie is considered woke. I think people took something I said…The guy for the London newspaper [Jonathan Dean of The Times]. Originally, he said that [Superman comic creators] Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster were the sons of immigrants, and they wrote Superman as an immigrant story. And I said, yeah, it’s a story about an immigrant, but mostly it’s a story to me about kindness, which it is. That’s the center of the movie for me.” —James Gunn, Director
The Role of Kindness as a Core Theme in the Superman Narrative
While some commentators, including media outlets like Fox News, have used the term “Superwoke” to criticize the DCU film, Gunn maintains that kindness remains the story’s central theme, transcending political labels. The director reflected on this idea by emphasizing the historical significance of kindness as an American value, one he believes has become less apparent in contemporary society.
“That’s the thing we can all act upon, is kindness. And so what does that lead to? Well, does that lead to the way you vote? Sure. Does that lead to everything? Yeah. Does it lead to how many people are dying from road rage? Yes. All those things are affected if people just start to value kindness. I mean, people did value kindness in the past. That was an American value, was kindness, and it doesn’t necessarily seem to be that way to me anymore. So that was always the center of the movie for me, and it wasn’t about anything other than that.” —James Gunn, Director
Gunn’s comments highlight the broader societal impact of embracing kindness, suggesting that this quality influences politics, civility, and daily life behaviors. This emphasis blurs the lines of the “woke” label assigned by certain critics, as it leans more on universal human decency than political ideology.
How the Superman Debate Reflects Broader Cultural Conflicts
The controversy surrounding the film’s portrayal of Superman reflects ongoing cultural divisions in the United States, where characters and stories rooted in historical context meet modern political interpretations. The Man of Steel’s legacy spans decades of comics, television shows, and cinematic adaptations illustrating themes of hope and altruism. These enduring traits contrast starkly with the claims that the new film’s message is overly politicized.
Former Superman actor Dean Cain has also engaged with the debate, reminding audiences of the character’s longstanding role as a symbol of good, which stands apart from any politically charged readings. Despite some voices calling for a darker, more cynical hero akin to Homelander from “The Boys,” the essence of Superman as a figure of kindness and justice remains clearly articulated by Gunn and supported by many fans.
The Upcoming Superman Film and Its Place in the DC Universe
The forthcoming Superman film, starring David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, hopes to both rejuvenate the character’s cinematic legacy and stabilize a DC Universe facing production challenges. Gunn’s vision centers on reestablishing Superman not just as a superhero but as an emblem of empathy and compassion, grounded in his immigrant origins and timeless values.
As the release approaches, the dialogue surrounding the film will likely continue, fueled by political undertones and the evolving cultural landscape. Nevertheless, James Gunn’s focus remains steadfast on portraying a hero whose defining trait is kindness, underscoring its relevance amid modern societal tensions.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does James Gunn believe in God?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and has expressed that prayer still holds significance for him. However, he has also described himself as “in some ways, against religion.”
Q. Is James Gunn no longer with Marvel?
A. Gunn collaborated with Marvel Studios on the Guardians of the Galaxy series before becoming co-CEO of DC Studios in 2022. Prior to his new role, Gunn directed The Suicide Squad for DC in 2021. He took this job after being temporarily let go by Marvel, but he was later rehired for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. The newly designed CGI version of Krypto the Superdog in Gunn’s 2025 Superman film was inspired by Ozu. Although raised in a Catholic family, Gunn still values prayer. However, he has expressed being somewhat against organized religion.
