Lines In James Gunn’s Superman That Are More Important Than You Think

Contains spoilers for “Superman”

James Gunn’s “Superman” isn’t just another movie about a comic book superhero; it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for DC superheroes on screen. With Gunn and Peter Safran now leading as co-chairmen and co-CEOs of DC Studios, they are steering the company towards fresh beginnings, leaving behind the turbulent decade-long journey of the DC Extended Universe. The newly rebranded DC Universe officially started with the Max series “Creature Commandos” in 2024, part of Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, but “Superman” is the franchise’s debut feature film. Critics have largely lauded it as an enjoyable blockbuster, according to Looper’s review of “Superman,” which describes it as “fun-filled action.

In the movie, Superman (David Corenswet) has been performing heroic deeds for several years before we meet him. However, his life takes a turn when he becomes embroiled in international affairs, which leads Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) to target him. This Superman must navigate complex moral and political landscapes while assuring the world that he means no harm. The movie isn’t just about action-packed fights and battles with monsters; it also showcases moments where characters develop and breathe, and if you pay close attention, you might catch lines that seem to have a deeper meaning. Some of these lines reference comic book history, while others hint at upcoming DC movies, ultimately enriching the overall storyline.

There’s none left on the planet

In the opening scene of “Superman,” it’s mentioned that no kryptonite remains on Earth, a substance notoriously harmful to Superman. Since Lex Luthor can’t rely on this weakness, he devises an ingenious plan: he keeps Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan) in custody so that the character can change some of his body into kryptonite to weaken Superman. This is certainly a clever solution. Yet, it raises questions about where all the kryptonite has gone and what its disappearance might imply for future “Superman” films.

At the three-year mark, the introductory section makes clear that Superman has been safeguarding people. It’s plausible that within this timeframe, someone discovered kryptonite weakens Superman, creating a motive for him to dispose of all available kryptonite. He might have devised a strategy to cast it into space, thus preventing potential future adversaries from utilizing it against him.

If a new “Superman” movie were to be made, what types of threats might be used against him since even Lex Luthor needed something extra to have a chance? It could be interesting for the director (such as James Gunn) to consider using one of Superman’s most formidable villains that has yet to appear in live-action. Brainiac, who can challenge Superman without needing glowing green rocks, might be an excellent choice for such a role.

Superman doesn’t have time for selfies

During Superman’s conversation with Lois Lane (portrayed by Rachel Brosnahan), he explains that he rarely takes time for selfies or actively uses social media. However, he occasionally checks it out, acknowledging the negative comments directed towards him using the hashtag #SuperSpy. This implies that not even the Last Son of Krypton is safe from internet bullies, and it subtly mirrors writer-director James Gunn’s personal experiences with social media.

It can be reasonably assumed that Gunn maintains a consistent online presence not merely for project promotion, but also for engaging in discussions and debunking misinformation. He is well-known for his involvement in debates and fact-checking false rumors, such as those related to Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” sequel when the information becomes excessively misleading. Given that he now shares the leadership of DC Studios, it seems unlikely that Gunn will be stepping away from social media in the near future, as he has a whole brand to safeguard.

Perhaps Superman’s sentiments in the film mirror Gunn’s personal approach to social media. It’s a thing we often try to disregard, but it’s hard not to notice the comments of strangers online. At the movie’s conclusion, Superman expresses that he’s just like any other person because he makes errors, yet he’s also human due to his inability to remain indifferent towards people’s opinions about him.

Secret harem

In simpler terms, Lex Luthor deciphers a malfunctioning part of the message sent by Superman’s parents, Jor-El (played by Bradley Cooper) and Lara Lor-Van (Angela Sarafyan). The initial part of the message is hopeful, encouraging Kal-El to protect Earth. However, the latter section seems to indicate that they want him to dominate humanity. This includes creating a group of women for him to have multiple offspring, which has become a point of interest since the revelation. Initially, it appears as though Luthor manipulated the audio, but he maintains that he didn’t alter anything, and there’s no reason not to trust him at that moment.

In the world of gaming, this plot twist sparks an amusing in-joke about a “clandestine group of admirers,” which takes on a whole new meaning when you consider how Kryptonians have been depicted reproducing in past Superman stories. For instance, in the Syfy series “Krypton,” they use genesis chambers instead of traditional methods, allowing for reproduction without any physical contact. Yet, Jor-El and Lara conceived Kal-El through natural means, going against this norm. In the upcoming film, we don’t have much insight into the new characters of Jor-El and Lara as we only see them in holographic form. However, it appears they decided to stick with the traditional approach for Kal-El instead of including a genesis chamber in the spaceship for later use.

Dimensional imp

Initial portrayal of David Corenswet as Superman drew criticism from some viewers, primarily concerning the costume design. Additionally, there were discussions about a large orb outside the window causing chaos in Metropolis, yet Clark Kent seemed unbothered and focused on something else. Interestingly, this scene is retained in the final movie, where Clark describes the entity as a “dimensional imp.” The reason for his nonchalance is that the Justice League, comprising Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), and Mister Terrific (Edi Gathegi), are handling the situation.

In this scenario, it’s intriguing to note that the term “imp” is employed, as in DC Comics, imps are depicted as humanoid creatures with magical abilities to alter reality. Notable examples of imps include Mister Mxyzptlk, who possesses powers surpassing even Superman, and Bat-Mite. Director James Gunn has expressed his affection for Bat-Mite and has suggested that he may introduce this character in future screen projects.

It’s plausible that the “imp” character is meant as a hint for Bat-Mite’s upcoming debut in the revised DC Universe, but it seems more likely that the orb contains an imp from another dimension, rather than Bat-Mite or Mister Mxyzptlk. Alternatively, Gunn might have intentionally included this reference to create confusion among the audience.

He wears hypno glasses

Following Superman’s capture by Lex Luthor, Lois Lane seeks assistance from the Justice League. In response, Guy Gardner exhibits his typical rude behavior, questioning Lois about Superman’s hypnotic glasses. She clarifies that she is indeed aware of them, and he discloses that they are all privy to the fact that he is Clark Kent. The hypnotic glasses hint at a lesser-known aspect of Superman’s history, where Clark’s eyewear significantly alter his appearance compared to Superman.

James Gunn expressed to ComicBook.com that he’s often found it hard to accept that no one recognizes Clark and Kal-El as the same person, especially since Clark wears glasses. He shared this with Tom King, a comic book writer, saying, “I’ve always struggled to make sense of the glasses in my mind because they’ve bothered me since I was a kid.” King then shared a lesser-known fact about Superman from DC comics – that he hypnotizes people, which is now an established part of the DC Universe.

Among those less deeply invested in Superman lore, it’s often remarked that it’s odd nobody notices Clark Kent bears a striking resemblance to Superman. It’s refreshing to see an explanation for this in the show. Corenswet effectively portrays distinct mannerisms for both Clark Kent and Superman, and there is a noticeable physical difference, particularly in hairstyle. However, the hypno glasses are just another detail that hardcore comic book enthusiasts might appreciate amidst the other peculiarities of “Superman.

I took a vow

During Lois’ visit to the Hall of Justice, it’s likely that Guy Gardner talks the most, which can be good or bad. This aligns with his role as the roguish Green Lantern, less noble compared to Hal Jordan and John Stewart. Unlike Hawkgirl and Mister Terrific, who don’t have their pasts discussed much, Guy brings up his vow and speaks about the Green Lantern Corps, distinguishing himself from the others.

Just as any Green Lantern, he would have recited the traditional pledge: “In days radiant with light, in nights pitch-black, no wickedness will elude my vigilance. Let those who revere darkness beware of my potency, for I am the Green Lantern’s beacon!” However, it seems that during this conversation, Guy made remarks unrelated to this oath, suggesting a somewhat lax adherence to his vow.

Translating this into a more natural and easy-to-understand language: This character could make him an interesting contrast or challenge to other Green Lanterns in the HBO series, which is similar to “True Detective” in tone and focuses on Hal (Kyle Chandler) and John (Aaron Pierre). Given that the series seems quite serious, it’s plausible that these two characters might not approve of Guy if he takes his oath so lightly.

He wants to make himself king

Lois Lane and her colleagues at The Daily Planet expose Lex Luthor’s grand scheme. He is secretly financing Boravia’s attack on Jarhanpur to gain control over a part of the country as its king, which aligns with his typical power-hungry schemes. In fact, Lex seeking rulership isn’t something new – it has occurred multiple times in the comic books.

The tale many people know is when Lex Luthor sought the presidency of the United States, starting with the comic book series “Superman: Lex 2000” #1 by Jeph Loeb, Tony Harris, and Ray Snyder. Despite winning the election in 2000, Luther’s longstanding grudge against Superman remains. His presidency crumbles as he persists in his attempts to eliminate the Man of Steel. This story arc was also loosely based on in the “Justice League Unlimited” animated show, where Lex runs for president with the intention of dismantling the Justice League.

In the storyline beginning with “Superman” #164 by Edmond Hamilton, Curt Swan, and George Klein, Lex Luthor essentially ascends to a ruler-like status. He leverages his technological prowess to modernize the planet’s irrigation systems, which earns him immense respect from the people. They construct a statue of him and even rename the world “Lexor” in his honor. Throughout various tales, Lex isn’t just satisfied with being a prosperous entrepreneur; he yearns for dominance over others. This likely fuels his disdain towards Superman. If given such power, Lex believes Superman aims to control humanity, so he assumes that’s what Superman intends to do.

He might be even stupider than you

In an unexpected twist, Superman discovers that the Hammer of Boravia and Ultraman are actually the same entity, manipulated by Lex Luthor. When this character removes his mask, it is unveiled that he’s a clone of Superman, sharing a physical resemblance with him. However, Lex Luthor mockingly remarks that this clone is “even less intelligent than you,” in comparison to Clark Kent.

In different incarnations throughout the years, Superman has had numerous copies or counterparts, but this latest one appears to be unique in its own right. To start, the name “Ultraman” holds a significant meaning; it’s a nod to Ultraman from the comics, who is an alternate version of Superman from another dimension and serves as the leader of the Crime Syndicate – an evil equivalent of the Justice League. Bizarro is another character that shares similarities with Superman, originating from the Bizarro world and using reverse speech that might seem simplistic or “unintelligent,” as Lex Luthor might describe it. However, neither Ultraman nor Bizarro are actual clones since they come from different dimensions. Superboy could be considered the closest parallel to Ultraman in terms of being a clone-like character in the world of Superman.

Essentially, Superboy is a genetic hybrid, created from Superman’s DNA mixed with Lex Luthor’s genes. Despite his questionable origins, Superboy generally leans towards good. Other clones like Cyborg Superman and Nuclear Man exist as well. For instance, Nuclear Man was introduced in “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace.” Ultraman, as portrayed by James Gunn, appears to be a new invention, drawing inspiration from various sources of the “Superman” universe. If he ends up in another dimension through a black hole, he might undergo changes and potentially become villainous. Given Lex Luthor’s comment about him being stupid, there’s a possibility that he could return as Bizarro in a future DC production.

Now they’re the ones making the rules

In a typical scenario, Superman concludes with a joyful ending, but that’s not the case when he operates within the movie’s universe under U.S. government control. Superman thwarts Lex’s plot and closes the rift. Additionally, he convinces Hawkgirl, Guy Gardner, and Metamorpho to mediate the dispute between Boravia and Jarhanpur because his attention is needed elsewhere. This situation presents a shift for the Justice League, as they are usually corporate-backed superheroes, giving an impression that they’ve deviated from the norm to do what was just. Consequently, a government representative remarks, “It appears they are now setting the rules.

It appears the movie hints at the feasibility of a Justice League in the future, as it shows that superhero metahumans generally work under some sort of direction. However, Superman’s independent nature, as he doesn’t follow a corporation or government but instead does what he thinks is right, seems to have inspired other metahumans to carve their own paths.

In the animated series “Justice League Unlimited,” the government’s constant apprehension towards the Justice League serves as a consistent theme, which ultimately led to the creation of Project Cadmus aimed at controlling metahuman activities. With an increasing number of metahumans acting on their own rather than following orders, it’s likely that future DC movies will explore government measures intended to suppress autonomous superheroes.

She likes to go party on other planets

The final scene in “Superman” hints at DC Studios’ forthcoming film, “Supergirl.” Kara Zor-El (played by Milly Alcock) shows up at the Fortress of Solitude to retrieve her pet dog, Krypto. This unexpected return explains why Superman has been caring for Krypto in his absence. Kara is now prepared to take Krypto on a new adventure, and Kal-El informs his robots that Kara enjoys partying on alien planets with red suns. These suns weaken her Kryptonian resilience, allowing her to get drunk. This background information sets up what could be the catalyst for the upcoming “Supergirl” movie, which is expected to draw inspiration from the comic series “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow,” written by Tom King and illustrated by Bilquis Evely.

Supergirl of the Future” commences with Supergirl, under the influence on an alien planet, encountering Ruthye Marye Knoll (portrayed by Eve Ridley). Ruthye seeks Supergirl’s aid in locating Krem from the Yellow Hills (played by Matthias Schoenaerts) to avenge her father’s demise. Director James Gunn hints at a grittier portrayal of Supergirl for her upcoming film, and this early appearance in “Superman” certainly suggests that tone. This Supergirl appears rougher, reflecting the DC Universe’s eagerness to delve into the cosmic aspects of the franchise promptly.

2025-07-11 03:01