James Gunn discusses Superman inspiration from Godzilla Minus One, highlighting how his upcoming DC film draws from the acclaimed Japanese movie. Gunn’s revelation moved Godzilla Minus One director Takashi Yamazaki, demonstrating deep creative connections between the two productions.
Superman’s Human Focus Stems from Kaiju Influence
James Gunn, now leading DC Studios, shared that his vision for Superman was shaped by the strong storytelling and emotional depth in Godzilla Minus One. Gunn has expressed admiration for how Yamazaki managed to combine the spectacle of Godzilla with significant human drama, saying,
My goal is to make a film like Godzilla Minus One, which depicted Godzilla but also had great human drama,
—James Gunn, Director
This sentiment underscores Gunn’s approach to the new Superman film, focusing on relationships at the heart of the plot. He emphasized,
At its core is a human story,
before adding,
The relationship between Clark Kent, Lois Lane, and villain Lex Luthor is at the core of the work.
—James Gunn, Director
Emotional Response from Takashi Yamazaki
After hearing of Gunn’s inspiration, Takashi Yamazaki expressed his emotions openly on social media, writing that he felt touched by the recognition. Yamazaki, who directed, wrote, and oversaw visual effects for Godzilla Minus One, acknowledged the honor in Gunn’s comments, indicating the impact his work has had outside of Japan.
Godzilla Minus One was celebrated as not only a standout entry in the Godzilla franchise but also as one of 2023’s best films, in large part because of its emphasis on personal struggle and growth. The story, centered on Kōichi Shikishima, a kamikaze pilot grappling with trauma in post-war Japan, received widespread acclaim for its portrayal of human resilience.
Cross-Industry Impact and Continuing Influence
The influence of Godzilla Minus One has not been confined to the DC Universe. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige has previously acknowledged the film’s impact, particularly its action sequences. Yamazaki shared,
The president of Marvel told me, ‘Wadatsumi!’
recalling Feige’s reference to the dramatic operation that forms a pivotal sequence in the movie. Yamazaki also noted,
He told me, ‘We’re all having meetings every day to see if we can make it happen like that,’
and eventually remarked,
I think it’s just lip service.
—Takashi Yamazaki, Director
This blend of admiration and realism highlights how Godzilla Minus One’s legacy is prompting discussions and aspirations across major studios like Marvel and DC, influencing both narrative and technical ambitions.
Anticipated Release and Broader Significance
The new Superman film directed by James Gunn, serving as the launch of DCU Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, is scheduled to be released on July 11. With this project, Gunn is set to bring his vision—deeply rooted in the kind of heartfelt drama that defined Godzilla Minus One—to the iconic superhero’s story.
As anticipation for Superman’s release builds, the creative crossover between filmmakers like Gunn, Yamazaki, and Feige illustrates the growing recognition of narrative depth in blockbuster entertainment. Such exchanges may encourage more emotionally resonant storytelling in future Hollywood productions.
