James Gunn is set to reimagine the Superman legacy with a major reveal, as his upcoming film will feature Ultraman introduced as the Hammer of Boravia, creating a pivotal twist for the DC Universe’s first chapter. The new Superman movie, scheduled for release on July 11, 2025, in the United States, has ignited intense speculation after promotional materials hinted at this unexpected development. Fans got their first glimpse of the armored figure, known as the Hammer of Boravia, in a short teaser and behind-the-scenes footage, setting off a fresh wave of theories about his true identity and the stakes involved.
The central mystery concerns the identity of the Hammer of Boravia. Early reactions speculated on well-known figures like Lex Luthor or even original characters, but sources and leaks now indicate that this armor-clad villain is Ultraman. For those unfamiliar, Ultraman is originally depicted in comics as Superman’s evil doppelgänger from a parallel Earth, often affiliated with criminal organizations. However, James Gunn’s interpretation marks a major departure: in this version, Ultraman is not from another world, but rather a clone of Superman himself, created by Lex Luthor as part of an elaborate scheme.
Hints about Ultraman’s presence began months before the official trailer drop. A Daily Planet newspaper clipping, featured in early promotional content, first teased the Hammer of Boravia. During Superman Day celebrations, a behind-the-scenes video captured the mysterious armored character emerging from what seemed to be a spacecraft. The speculation reached new heights with the release of a Superman activity book, which showcased clearer artwork and further details about the man in armor. Daniel Richtman, a source known for insights into the comic film industry, claimed that Hammer of Boravia’s true identity is Ultraman, setting the stage for a major villain twist within the film.
James Gunn’s decision to introduce Ultraman as the Hammer of Boravia builds psychological intrigue into the narrative. Unlike previous iterations, the Hammer of Boravia persona is a deliberate mask—Ultraman uses the suit as a means to orchestrate chaos while deflecting suspicion from himself. This calculated strategy wreaks havoc, undermines Superman’s credibility, and allows Ultraman to commit destructive acts while keeping his involvement secret. Lex Luthor, well-established as an adversary motivated by cunning and strategy, masterminds Ultraman’s existence and deployment, aligning perfectly with his goal to dismantle Superman’s reputation from within.
Preview footage offers glimpses into this high-stakes rivalry. In the brief trailer, Lex Luthor is seen lurking menacingly while Superman confronts the Hammer of Boravia in a tense standoff. The simultaneous appearance of both villains suggests a coordinated attack against Superman, both on a physical and psychological level. By leveraging Ultraman’s clone status and public confusion about his identity, Lex Luthor aims to destabilize Metropolis and break the Man of Steel far beyond surface-level battles. The film explores themes of manipulation and perception, with Gunn carefully orchestrating mind games that challenge the traditional superhero dynamic.
The choice to reinvent Ultraman as a clone, rather than a multiversal counterpart, is significant for the DCU’s evolving narrative. Instead of introducing yet another world or expanding the multiverse, James Gunn streamlines the character’s backstory while intensifying the emotional stakes. This allows for a more intimate conflict, pitting Superman against an adversary who shares his origins but lacks his sense of morality and empathy. As Ultraman manipulates public opinion and leverages his disguise, the fallout threatens not only Superman’s physical safety but also his standing as a symbol of hope.
James Gunn’s creative direction redefines expectations for DC films by taking familiar characters and reframing their stories with modern complexity and depth. Drawing on elements from classic comics and integrating new twists, the film signals a shift for the franchise with a willingness to embrace risk and innovation. The casting of Ultraman as Hammer of Boravia reflects Gunn’s intent to fuse psychological tension with blockbuster spectacle, ensuring that the narrative stays fresh and unpredictable. While the film retains legacy elements like Lex Luthor’s masterminding role, it surprises longtime fans by reshaping the hero-versus-villain paradigm.
The arrival of Ultraman as the Hammer of Boravia may mark a major inflection point not just for Superman but for the entire DC Universe. The move intensifies debate among fans and experts about the implications of doppelgängers, identity, and heroism under extreme pressure. With Gunn’s history of bold storytelling, the latest development suggests further surprises ahead and raises questions about trust, legacy, and the future of Metropolis. As the film’s release approaches, anticipation is mounting, and all eyes are on James Gunn as he guides Superman into uncharted, turbulent territory and paves the way for the next era of the DCU.
