James Gunn’s recent photos from the set of the upcoming 2025 Superman film have sparked speculation about the reintroduction of a long-overlooked DC hero. These images hint at the return of Martian Manhunter, a character that fans have been eager to see more of, within the expanding DC Universe (DCU).
Clues from Metropolis Suggest Martian Manhunter’s Future Role
The latest set photos show the Chocos office building during the Hammer of Boravia’s attack on Metropolis, depicted in the film’s opening scenes. In the DC Universe, Chocos are a cookie brand similar to Oreos but carry a deeper significance tied to Martian Manhunter, whose real name is J’onn J’onzz. In the comics, Chocos are his favorite snack and something he craves intensely; when unavailable, it can lead him to lose control over his shapeshifting abilities.
This detail goes beyond world-building and acts as a subtle nod to fans, suggesting that Martian Manhunter’s character may soon make a proper return in the DCU. Such a move would be a meaningful development given the character’s limited use in previous iterations of the cinematic universe.
Martian Manhunter’s Limited Appearance in the DCEU and What’s Next
The character did appear briefly in Zack Snyder’s cut of Justice League, but this cameo was minimal and did not explore his full potential. There, Martian Manhunter warns Bruce Wayne of future threats, setting up storylines that never materialized due to changes in the franchise’s direction after the original film’s mixed reception.
Fans and critics agree that Martian Manhunter deserved a more prominent role, and with James Gunn at the helm, there is renewed hope for this. If he is indeed featured in movies like 2027’s Man of Tomorrow or other upcoming projects, it would finally provide the character with the attention he lacked previously.
For now, the presence of Chocos in the set photos serves as the initial hint of this promising future.
Key Players Involved in the Upcoming Superman Film
The new Superman movie stars David Corenswet as Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, adding fresh faces to the DC slate. Their roles will likely be central as the film explores Metropolis amidst escalating threats, including the Hammer of Boravia’s assault depicted in the photos.
As the DCU evolves under James Gunn’s creative vision, the reintroduction of heroes like Martian Manhunter could deepen the world-building and narrative possibilities, offering fans long-awaited story arcs and fresh perspectives on familiar characters.
