James Gunn, the director behind DC’s upcoming Superman reboot, has admitted the film is intentionally political — and says he has no patience for anyone who takes offense to it.
“Superman is the story of America,” Gunn told The Times of London in an interview published Friday. “An immigrant that came from other places and populated the country.” He then added, “It’s about basic human kindness — something we’ve lost.”
Gunn openly acknowledged that the film’s themes will be interpreted through a political lens and brushed off critics who might object. “Obviously there will be jerks out there who are just not kind and will take it as offensive… But screw them.”
He confirmed the movie will tackle political and moral questions, particularly through the contrast between Superman’s rigid moral code and Lois Lane’s more pragmatic views on issues like killing. “Yes, it’s about politics,” Gunn said. “But on another level it’s about morality… It’s about how different opinions on basic moral beliefs can tear people apart.”
Gunn claimed the film is necessary in a time when “people are feeling a loss of hope in other people’s goodness,” blaming the internet and “millions of people having tantrums online.” He even suggested that if he could “press a button to make the internet disappear,” he’d consider it.
The director’s political leanings are no secret. In 2017, he compared President Donald Trump to Hitler and Putin, accusing him of waging a “full-blown attack on facts and journalism.” He also faced backlash for vulgar jokes about Trump and for suggesting obscene interview questions for potential hires.
Gunn was previously fired by Disney from the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise after disturbing old tweets surfaced — including jokes about rape, 9/11, and pedophilia. He was later rehired after issuing a public apology and going through damage control meetings.
DC’s Superman is set to premiere July 11, with David Corenswet in the lead role. Whether audiences will embrace the politically-tinged take on the iconic American hero remains to be seen.