James Gunn - Softonic English

James Gunn is already working on the sequel to 'Superman', and here are 5 comics he should read before making it

Many doubted whether James Gunn, creator of such antics as Guardians of the Galaxy or The Suicide Squad, would be able to correctly bring to the big screen the greatest hero of all time: Superman (if you thought of Batman, please go back to the starting point). 615 million dollars later, there is no doubt, and Warner has given him the green light to continue exploring his universe, as long as one of the next projects to come is the sequel to Man of Steel. Gunn has already released a drawing of our hero alongside […]

Many doubted whether James Gunn, creator of hits like Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad, would be able to properly bring to the big screen the greatest hero of all time: Superman (if you thought of Batman, please go back to square one). 615 million dollars later, there is no doubt, and Warner has given him the green light to continue exploring his universe, as long as one of the next projects is the sequel to Man of Steel. Gunn has already released a drawing of our hero alongside Lex Luthor and hinted that it is a story about both, in a buddy movie style, but… What comics should one read to fully understand the complex personality of his antagonist? Don’t worry: we are going to recommend the 5 definitive comics to understand Lex Luthor. Yes, really. And along the way, a little more about Superman.

What happened to the man of tomorrow?

In 1986, Alan Moore created one of the most definitive (and defining) comics in DC history: a final story for Superman in which Lois Lane (now Lois Elliot) narrates Superman’s last days, 10 years after his death. In the adventure, Luthor, who always believes he is doing good, ends up being invaded by Brainiac and creates chaos until, in a moment of lucidity, when he becomes himself again, he asks Lana Lang to do something for him: to break his neck once and for all, a final heroic gesture that actually represents everything we need to know about the character: a villain against his will, but with inner strength and a strange sense of nobility.

John Byrne’s Superman

John Byrne forever changed Superman, especially in his early issues: he not only altered crucial parts of his past but also made Luthor his ideal antagonist. In an early story, the villain manages to guess who his enemy really is by inputting data into a computer that gives him an incredible result: Clark Kent is Superman. Luthor, filled with rage, decides to destroy the computer, believing that if it were so obvious, a mind as perfect as his would have reached that conclusion long ago. Luthor is superintelligent, yes, but also deeply selfish. By the way, you should read all of Byrne’s Superman, two fantastic and unrepeatable years.

All-Star Superman

Gunn has previously mentioned All-Star Superman as inspiration for the first movie, and it makes sense: these 12 issues written by Grant Morrison and illustrated by Frank Quitely were incredible, they renewed the character forever. Luthor finally manages to kill Superman, although that has unimaginable consequences. I won’t tell you more: it has been reprinted in a thousand and one ways, and rightly so, because it is a comic that is worth discovering without knowing much more about it.

How much can a man hate?

Mark Millar, before becoming well-known in the comic book world, wrote a few small issues seemingly aimed at children but that actually had much more philosophical depth than entire story arcs of the character. In particular, issue 27 of The Adventures of Superman features “How Much Can a Man Hate?”, a story that ends, possibly, with the two best pages in the history of their relationship. First, a flashback in which the villain says “One day, Lex Luthor is going to look down at Metropolis, and everyone will look up at me”, followed by a final page where he is in his tower, high up… watching Superman in the sky, unable to do anything to remedy it. A masterpiece.

Lex Luthor: Man of Steel

We conclude with one of the most important comics to understand this complex character: one from his point of view. Obviously, Luthor has always seen himself as the hero, and Superman is what prevents the human race from moving forward, because for him, he has always been just another extraterrestrial threat. The ending is perfect, detailing how each of the two sees themselves and their humanity, love, and defeat. A treasure to cherish.

What if 'The Peacemaker' is a key piece of the sequel to 'Superman'

The series Peacemaker, created by James Gunn, has notably evolved in the new DC universe (DCU), becoming one of its most important properties. After a complicated start due to the transition of universes, the narrative of the second season has been on the rise, leading fans to speculate that the finale of this season could introduce the main villain of the upcoming movie Man of Tomorrow. We’re flying away! James Gunn has kept the last three episodes of the second season under strict confidentiality, which were not sent to the press for review. This […]

The series Peacemaker, created by James Gunn, has evolved notably in the new DC universe (DCU), becoming one of its most important properties. After a complicated start charged by the transition of universes, the narrative of the second season has been on the rise, leading fans to speculate that the finale of this season could introduce the main villain of the upcoming movie Man of Tomorrow.

We’re flying away!

James Gunn has kept the last three episodes of the second season under strict confidentiality, which were not sent to the press for review. This decision reinforces the idea that they may contain crucial information about the future of the DCU. Gunn stated: “People who want to search can find out, but I really don’t want those episodes to leak“. The anticipation surrounding these episodes is palpable, and Gunn has even described them as some of his favorite work to date.

Regarding the movie Man of Tomorrow, Gunn has described Peacemaker as a “prequel,” suggesting that the events in the series will directly affect the story of the movie, which will focus on the relationship between Superman and Lex Luthor in the face of a new threat. It is speculated that the antagonist could be Brainiac, a villain whose presence would change the dynamic between Superman and Luthor. Additionally, there is also the possibility of an evil variant of Superman appearing, which could further enrich the narrative.

All of this information points to an intriguing future for the DCU. The combination of Gunn, Superman, and Luthor facing a great danger promises to excite fans of the franchise. One of the highlights is anticipated for 2027, with the arrival of Man of Tomorrow, leaving the audience in suspense about what fate holds for these iconic characters.

Superman has barely arrived in our lives and already has a sequel announced with a release date

The new Superman movie, titled Man of Tomorrow (presumably, The Man of Tomorrow), will hit theaters on July 9, 2027. This announcement was made by James Gunn through his social media, shortly after the notable box office success of his recent installment of the hero, which has sparked interest in future productions in the DC universe. Many details about the sequel The sequel, although it will not be a direct continuation of the story presented in the previous film, will feature Superman in a significant role. Gunn has indicated that […]

Many details about the sequel

The sequel, although it will not be a direct continuation of the story presented in the previous film, will feature Superman in a significant role. Gunn has indicated that the production of Man of Tomorrow will proceed at an accelerated pace, reflecting the studio’s confidence in the potential of this character. Additionally, other projects are on the horizon, such as Supergirl, Clayface, and the Lanterns series, scheduled to be released before the premiere of the new film.

The iconic villain Lex Luthor will return as Superman’s main antagonist, promising to generate exciting interactions between both characters. Gunn has shared suggestive images that reference comics where these heroes must collaborate, suggesting that there will be nuances in their relationship in this new installment. However, it is still unknown whether David Corenswet, the actor portraying Superman, will return definitively or if he will have cameos in other projects within the universe.

Since his debut in 1948 with the first Superman serial, the character has evolved, remaining relevant almost eight decades later. The anticipation surrounding Man of Tomorrow is a testament to Superman’s appeal, reinforcing the idea that, as always, the public remains fascinated by the possibility of a man being able to fly.

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James Gunn solves one of the biggest dilemmas for Batman fans

The DCEU is at a significant turning point as it restarts as the DCU under the direction of James Gunn. The recent release of Superman marks the first major film after this reboot, and it has received positive feedback from the audience, accompanied by notable box office figures, especially in a year that has presented challenges for superhero movies. The lord of… the party? Despite the new direction of the DCU, the sequel to The Batman, starring Robert Pattinson, is still on track with a scheduled release for October 2027. However, […]

The DCEU is at a significant turning point as it restarts as DCU under the direction of James Gunn. The recent release of Superman marks the first major film after this reboot, and it has received positive feedback from the audience, accompanied by notable box office figures, especially in a year that has presented challenges for superhero movies.

The lord of… the party?

Despite the new direction of the DCU, the sequel to The Batman, starring Robert Pattinson, is still on track with a scheduled release for October 2027. However, it is important to highlight that this continuation of the Batman universe will exist independently of the new cinematic universe proposed by Gunn, suggesting a diversified approach within the DC brand.

The future of the Dark Knight has sparked debates among fans, especially regarding who will take on the iconic role in Gunn’s new saga. Recently, James Gunn was asked about the possibility of Chris Pratt, known for his role in Guardians of the Galaxy, playing Batman. The director’s response was clear: “No,” although he expressed openness to portraying other characters if the right opportunity arises.

The news of Pratt’s possible selection as Batman was met with an overwhelming negative reaction from the public, with many indicating that he would not be a good choice for the role. However, several comments pointed out that Chris Pratt might fit better in other roles, such as Booster Gold, a character that could really take advantage of his charisma. Although speculation continues, the certainty is that Pratt will not join the Batman cast, which brings relief among fans of the character.

John Cena returns to bring to life the most unlikely superhero in the series that James Gunn has launched in the DCU

In cinema and television, some of the less famous superheroes from comics have managed to succeed. Iron Man was not among Marvel’s favorites when he took the movies by storm. Not to mention The Guardians of the Galaxy. There are exceptions, like Batman or Spider-Man, but the new wave of superheroes seems to have found more fertile ground in those superheroes who are not already endorsed by the general public. A good example is Peacemaker. The origins of the character Peacemaker are known to the public for being the character that inspired The Comedian from Watchmen of […]

In cinema and television, some of the less famous superheroes from comics have managed to succeed. Iron Man was not among Marvel’s favorites when he took the movies by storm. Not to mention the Guardians of the Galaxy. There are exceptions, like Batman or Spider-Man, but the new wave of superheroes seems to have found more fertile ground in those superheroes who are not already endorsed by the general public. A good example is The Peacemaker.

The origins of the character

The Peacemaker is known to the public as the character that inspired The Comedian from Alan Moore’s Watchmen. That is to say, he was not a well-known character at all. He was vaguely known by those familiar with Moore’s work, but very few people had a direct and close relationship with the character himself.

The character, in fact, did not become part of the DC universe until relatively recently. It would not be until the event Crisis on Infinite Earths in 1988 that he would officially become part of the DC universe, because until then the idea was for the Watchmen characters to replace them in DC. But with the not-so-friendly breakup between Moore and DC, the American company decided to take the Charlton characters, the company that originally inspired the Watchmen characters, and officially integrate them into the DC universe.

Since then, they have been characters that have rarely had weight within the DC universe. And Peacemaker in particular has been a figure with very little weight. He died in a minor event, The Janus Directive, returned to life years later as a mentor to Blue Beetle, and ended up being part of the lineup of the seventh incarnation of the Suicide Squad. This is how he appeared in the group’s movie, and during the pandemic, James Gunn decided to continue his series with an 8-episode show that was a complete success that caught everyone by surprise.

John Cena, the star of the series

The first season of the series introduces us to Peacemaker, who is forced to join A.R.G.U.S, a special operations squad that seeks to identify and eliminate parasitic creatures in the form of butterflies that hijack human bodies. This will lead him to a series of dramatic missions, filled with comedy, where he will have to face his worst enemy: his own past and the disconnection from his present. Learning that it’s not just about saving people, but also about how it’s done.

Although the series works due to Gunn’s wonderful scripts, another reason it has resonated well with the audience is the one that might be least expected at first glance. And it’s that John Cena does a spectacular job as Peacemaker.

In fairness, Cena is not a very good actor. He is too stiff, his range is not very broad, and he always ends up playing himself. This is true in WWE and not very different in Hollywood. But in The Peacemaker, he knows how to bring to life a character that is completely disconnected from the present because he is, in essence, a person with a completely military mindset who is unaware that he is a bit pathetic. Or to be fair, quite pathetic.

That’s where Cena shines as an actor. His range is limited, but he knows how to play with it as Peacemaker. He has a comedic knack, especially knowing how to be the butt of the joke, which adds depth to the character, and he has no problem showing vulnerability, even if he doesn’t have the depth of other more gifted actors, like Dave Bautista for example, without straying from wrestlers turned actors. And that makes a character like Peacemaker fit him like a glove: it feels tailor-made for him because, in many ways, it’s a continuation of what he has been doing his whole life in WWE: being a good soldier. Only now, with a character that has many more nuances than that.

A second season that we can enjoy now

With the premiere of the second season, we can expect many things, although nothing concrete. Gunn and Cena have remained secretive about the character and the future of the series, so we don’t have anything particularly relevant about it. However, we do know one thing: the character will continue to evolve.

If there is one thing that characterized the first season, it was the change of Peacemaker throughout it. Whatever threat he faces in this second season, what is to be expected is that we continue to see how he keeps changing and evolving as a person. Even if he is still going to be a jerk who, upon seeing Aquaman, brings up how true it is that he romantically likes fish. Something that no one confirms or denies.

Premiering today, August 21, on HBO Max, there is no scenario where the series could disappoint its fans. It’s Peacemaker, it’s John Cena, and it’s James Gunn. Following the story of the recent Superman, we can expect to see the future of the DCU here, and just for that, it’s worth watching. But even if it weren’t, after the first season, there are very few reasons not to continue watching this series.

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Even though your son loves 'Superman', James Gunn warns: Keep him away from 'The Peacemaker'!

In a few hours, HBO Max will welcome the first episode of the second season of Peacemaker, a series that remains one of the cornerstones of the new DC Studios universe. Starring John Cena and created by James Gunn, the series has garnered a fervent following after a first season that was very well received by both critics and fans. Do you wanna taste it? However, Gunn has been clear in warning that “Peacemaker” is not a show for kids, and the first episode of the new season will be explicit. “We are trying to […]

In just a few hours, HBO Max will welcome the first episode of the second season of Peacemaker, a series that continues to be one of the cornerstones of the new DC Studios universe. Starring John Cena and created by James Gunn, the series has garnered a fervent following after a first season that was very well received by both critics and fans.

Do you wanna taste it?

However, Gunn has been clear in warning that “Peacemaker” is not a show for children, and the first episode of the new season will be explicit. “We are trying to warn people as much as possible when they watch the episode that, even though it is a continuation of Superman, it is definitely not for kids“, the director commented in a recent interview with Interview Magazine, emphasizing the need for parents to keep their children away from this production.

This notice is particularly relevant following the great success of the movie Superman, which has sparked significant interest among young people who may be eager to see what happens next. However, it is important for parents to keep in mind that The Peacemaker continues with a tone that may be inappropriate for younger audiences. Fortunately, HBO Max offers alternatives, including the highly anticipated Supergirl series, which is scheduled to arrive in the summer of next year, and could be a suitable option for younger viewers.

With this new release, The Peacemaker reaffirms its place in the narrative of the DC universe, but with an important reminder about content rating, making it clear that its approach is much more mature and aimed at an adult audience. The series is expected to maintain the dark humor and unrestrained action that characterized the first season, promising fans equally surprising and impactful moments.

James Gunn is aware that DC's video games have a problem and has a plan to fix it

Los videojuegos de DC han enfrentado desafíos significativos en los últimos años, marcados por una serie de errores y cancelaciones de proyectos. A pesar del éxito de títulos icónicos como la serie Batman: Arkham, la oferta general de juegos basados en el universo DC ha carecido de consistencia. Esta situación es algo que James Gunn, … Continue reading “”

DC video games have faced significant challenges in recent years, marked by a series of errors and project cancellations. Despite the success of iconic titles like the Batman: Arkham series, the overall offering of games based on the DC universe has lacked consistency. This situation is something that James Gunn, co-director of DC Studios, seeks to correct as part of his long-term ten-year plan.

Un plan a largo plazo para que los videojuegos de DC sean buenos de nuevo

Desde el lanzamiento del renovado Universo DC en 2023, Gunn ha enfatizado la importancia de la narración transmedia, señalando que los actores interpretarán a sus personajes “a través de todos los medios, incluidos los videojuegos.” Aunque ha habido poco movimiento público desde esa declaración, Gunn confirmó recientemente que hay “un ligero movimiento en diferentes cosas.” Esto podría implicar un futuro donde figuras como David Corenswet den voz a personajes como Superman en películas y otros formatos, aunque Gunn no proporcionó detalles específicos sobre esto.

Gunn also highlighted the existence of several small DC games in development, as well as the possibility of more ambitious projects in the planning phase. “I’m excited about one thing in particular, but it takes time,” he said in an interview with GamesRadar. Both Gunn and Peter Safran are taking a proactive approach to shaping the future of DC video games. In previous comments, Safran mentioned that they are trying to correct the course to offer fans must-play games again.

Additionally, it has been confirmed that Rocksteady is returning to its roots with a new single-player Batman project, while WB Games centralizes its efforts on its most important franchises. Gunn warned that any major release of a new DC game will be, at least, a couple of years away, leaving fans anticipating a more promising future for the company’s video games.

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James Gunn clarifies the future of Harley Quinn after years of being a DC icon

James Gunn has kept Margot Robbie’s future as Harley Quinn in the new DC universe in suspense. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, the director of Superman was asked if Robbie would reprise her role as the iconic antiheroine in future DC projects. His response was brief and cautious: “That decision will be revealed later.” Quinn, what a queen The uncertainty about Robbie’s return has left fans of the franchise speculating about the role the actress will play in the development of the new DC cinematic universe. Since her first appearance as Harley […]

James Gunn has kept Margot Robbie’s future as Harley Quinn in the new DC universe in suspense. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, the director of Superman was asked if Robbie would reprise her role as the iconic antiheroine in future DC projects. His response was brief and cautious: “That decision will be revealed later”.

Quinn, go queen

The uncertainty about Robbie’s return has left fans of the franchise speculating about the role the actress will play in the development of the new DC cinematic universe. Since her first appearance as Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad in 2016, Robbie has been acclaimed for her portrayal of the character, which has become one of the favorites among comic book fans. However, the direction the DC universe will take under Gunn’s supervision seems to be redefining not only new stories but also the continuity of established characters.

Gunn, who took on the role of co-director of DC Studios, has been focused on revitalizing the franchise, which has led to significant changes in production plans and casting. Although it has not been confirmed whether Robbie will don the Harley Quinn suit again, her presence has left an indelible mark on the character’s perception in popular culture. The details about her continuity could be revealed sometime soon, but until then, fans will have to wait for more information.

In the current context of superhero cinema, the importance of an iconic figure like Harley Quinn cannot be underestimated. The expectation regarding the possible return of Margot Robbie is a hot topic, and rumors about her comeback persist, which could have a significant impact on the future of DC productions.

Superman is a hit in the US, but he faces a problem: the rest of the world doesn't love the character as much

The movie Superman, directed by James Gunn, has established itself as the most successful superhero film of 2025, grossing 553.2 million dollars worldwide so far. This figure positions it as the seventh highest-grossing film of the year. In the United States, it has reached 317.9 million, just 900,000 dollars away from Jurassic World: Dominion, which totals 318.8 million. A modest box office elsewhere in the world However, the global results show a different picture. Outside the United States, Superman has grossed 253.3 million, a figure that is significantly lower compared to the 449.2 million […]

A discreet box office around the rest of the planet

However, the global results show a different picture. Outside of the United States, Superman has grossed $253.3 million, a figure that is significantly lower compared to the $449.2 million of Jurassic World 4. This disparity has led Gunn to reflect on the well-known lack of familiarity with Superman in certain markets. “He is not as well-known a superhero as Batman,” the director commented in an interview. Additionally, the current anti-American sentiment seems to be influencing the film’s box office, affecting its international performance.

The movie marks the launch of a new franchise within the DC Universe, an attempt to revitalize the genre after a period of ups and downs at the box office. With David Corenswet as Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult portraying Lex Luthor, Superman lays the groundwork for future installments, including Supergirl, which is scheduled to be released on June 26, 2026.

Despite the emotional connection that many have with the character of Superman, the difference in revenue between markets highlights the need for strategies more tailored to each region. With Lilo & Stitch and a Minecraft movie dominating the box office in North America, it is clear that Superman’s success is not reflected in the same way globally.

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James Gunn said that 'Superman' would not have a direct sequel, but he just announced it

James Gunn has confirmed that he is writing a sequel to Superman, despite having previously hinted that there would not be a direct continuation. This announcement came through Threads, where he responded to fan questions about his current projects after finishing the promotion of the recent Superman movie. With renewed enthusiasm, he mentioned: “Peacemaker press! And sequel writing!” when asked about his plans. Sequel writing! The interest in this sequel is not unexpected, given that the original movie is performing well at the box office and maintains a high score […]

James Gunn has confirmed that he is writing a sequel to Superman, despite having previously hinted that there would not be a direct continuation. This announcement came through Threads, where he responded to fan questions about his current projects after finishing the promotion of the recent Superman movie. With renewed enthusiasm, he mentioned: “Peacemaker press! And sequel writing!” when asked about his plans.

Sequel Writing!

The interest in this sequel is not unexpected, given that the original movie is performing well at the box office and maintains a high score on Rotten Tomatoes. Its success has led many to wonder about the future of the Man of Steel within the new DC universe, and although Gunn had previously expressed some doubts about what Superman 2 would mean, his recent comment suggests that the project is now a reality.

In addition to the sequel, the future of the DCU includes the highly anticipated second season of Peacemaker, scheduled to launch in August. It has also been confirmed that the next film on the big screen will be Supergirl, which is set to premiere next year. There is a possibility that Superman may make an appearance in that movie, especially considering that Kara Zor-El, played by Milly Alcock, is the cousin of Clark Kent.

Although Gunn’s announcement still leaves many questions unanswered about the development and narrative of the Superman sequel, fans are eager for more details. Thus, we can anticipate that the DC universe will continue to expand, providing more content both in film and television.