10 Ways James Gunn’s Superman Sets Up The DC Universe’s Future

The tagline “It begins” on the Superman posters signifies more than just the start of a new era in Superman films; it also symbolizes that Superman is the debut movie for James Gunn and Peter Safran’s new DC Universe. This film, titled “Gods and Monsters,” encompasses the 2024 Max series “Creature Commandos,” but on the big screen, it represents the inaugural epic of Gunn and Safran’s vision for a revamped DC Comics universe. As a self-contained story, Superman stands out as an exhilarating adventure centered around Superman/Clark Kent (David Corenswet) dealing with both his human and alien identities. Yet, there are numerous hints throughout the film suggesting a promising future for this franchise that extend beyond merely spotting a Big Belly Burger billboard.

Superman paves the way for future adventures in the DC Universe by incorporating significant supporting characters such as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern and the lore they’re connected to. This new movie directed by Gunn also hints at the rich, expansive mythology of DC Comics that will be explored further in upcoming projects. New ideas introduced in this film could influence future films and TV shows from DC Studios. Notably, ‘Superman’ prioritizes immediate enjoyment over setting up endless sequels, but keen observers will notice hints about the direction the DC Universe is heading next within this thrilling superhero tale.

Meet Guy Gardner

The Green Lantern universe returns to the silver screen in 2025 with a new take on “Superman”. Unlike Hal Jordan, who was portrayed by Ryan Reynolds in 2011’s “Green Lantern”, it’s Guy Gardner (played by Nathan Fillion) who dons the Green Lantern ring this time around. Known for his brash personality and frequent disagreements with Superman, particularly regarding the ethics of not killing powerful enemies like colossal kaiju, Gardner serves as the unofficial leader of a motley crew known as the Justice League. His intelligence is often called into question, with him casually revealing Superman’s true identity to Lois Lane during their first meeting. However, he manages to save innocent civilians in the end and even welcomes Metamorpho into the ranks of the Justice League (albeit only after this outcast pays a compliment to the team’s name).

In simpler terms, Guy Gardner’s character in the “Superman” series serves as a contrast to Superman, adding humor through John Fillion’s excellent timing. However, his role is significant within the DC Universe, setting up the existence of the Green Lantern Corps. Viewers can expect to see more of Fillion’s Gardner in “Peacemaker” Season 2 and an upcoming HBO series called “Lanterns,” where John Stewart and Hal Jordan will be introduced. While he brings laughter now, Guy Gardner’s presence hints at numerous future sci-fi adventures within the DC Universe.

Enter The Engineer

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but marvel at the multitude of characters linked to the iconic Superman for years, including Lex Luthor and the superdog Krypto. However, among these long-standing figures, Angela Spica, also known as The Engineer, stands out as a more recent addition to the DC Comics scene, debuting in 1999. Regardless of her newcomer status, she’s become a pivotal character in the Superman series, often squaring off against the Man of Steel. Interestingly, despite being defeated by Superman, the storyline leaves room for speculation as Luthor’s forces confirm that The Engineer is still alive, even after fainting. The future of The Engineer within the DC Universe remains intriguing, and there’s a strong possibility we might see her again in an upcoming movie installment of this epic saga.

As a die-hard comics fan, I must share that The Engineer, who’s Angela Spica (the second character to don this name), initially made her mark as part of the morally ambiguous group known as The Authority. These characters are driven by a relentless desire to bring about good, even if it means taking extreme measures such as murder or seizing control of civilizations. In an exciting turn of events, this gritty DC Comics character was one of the very first announced for “Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.” Since then, director James Gunn has openly expressed the difficulties in crafting a satisfying script for “The Authority.” However, don’t be surprised if this film eventually comes to life, especially given Spica’s captivating performance in “Superman.” Should plans go smoothly, The Engineer promises to serve as our ticket into a twisted corner of the DC Universe.

Maxwell Lord is back on the big screen

Approximately five years after Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of Maxwell Lord was the standout character in “Wonder Woman 1984,” Maxwell Lord reappears on the big screen due to Sean Gunn making a brief appearance as the character in “Superman.” In this film, Lord’s screen time is minimal and consists solely of him appearing on a news program at the end, stating that there is universal agreement across the political spectrum that Lex Luthor is worthless. Although he is the one running the Justice Gang, he does not interact directly with Mister Terrific and Hawkgirl in “Superman.” However, Maxwell Lord will soon return to the DC Universe in “Peacemaker” Season 2, and if the show’s promotional materials are any indication, Lord will have a more active role interacting with superheroes this time around.

Based on Sean Gunn’s extensive history in James Gunn’s productions, starting with “The Specials,” it seems likely that Maxwell Lord will make multiple appearances across the DC Universe, with “Superman” being just the start. With photographers swarming him for a Luthor-related interview in “Superman,” it’s clear that he is a well-known figure in this universe, allowing him to seamlessly fit into various stories within this franchise. Maxwell Lord’s story has only just begun with his cameo in “Superman,” but let’s hope his future adventures in the DC Universe don’t mirror his exploits in “Wonder Woman 1984.

Alternate dimensions exist in the DC Universe

In the film “Superman,” it’s made clear that Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) uses a self-made pocket dimension for his sinister plans. This means he disregards the laws and boundaries of any country, enabling him to capture individuals at will, such as former lovers and characters like Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan). This pocket dimension serves to illustrate that Luthor’s wickedness transcends a single realm. For the broader DC Universe, this domain signifies that other dimensions can be incorporated within the franchise. While “Superman” isn’t a movie about a multiverse, it does feature a journey to another dimension in its storyline. In fact, characters in the first film of the DC Universe casually discuss traversing various realities.

As a devoted DC Comics fan, I can’t help but see Lex Luthor’s recent foray into pocket dimensions as a hint of things to come within the vast DC Universe. With iconic storylines like “Crisis on Infinite Earths” showcasing the intricate web of dimensions and universes, it seems that Luthor’s schemes may be laying the groundwork for future narratives diving deeper into this concept.

At present, it’s hard to predict whether upcoming DC Studios projects like “Clayface” or “Lanterns” will delve into this idea, but the potential is certainly there. The door has been flung wide open when it comes to alternate dimensions in the DC Universe, and I can’t wait for another project to step through and explore this fascinating aspect of the universe.

However, for Superman and his allies, Lex Luthor’s manipulations may only be the beginning of a much larger multi-dimensional chaos that lies ahead within the DC Universe. It’s an exciting time to be a fan!

Gotham City debuts… kind of

In Metropolis, under Lex Luthor’s unruly pocket dimension assault, citizens find themselves hastily leaving town. Prior to the intense superhero battles, the camera of Gunn captures residents fleeing by car or on foot to avoid peril. Among these hurried scenes, a group of cars can be seen traveling along a highway embellished with signs pointing to various cities nearby. One such sign is visible on the left side, guiding towards Gotham City – a subtle nod to Batman’s home city. This is an interesting twist as “Superman” subtly incorporates Bruce Wayne and his city into the storyline, much like how Wayne Enterprises satellite appeared in “Man of Steel,” hinting at their shared universe with The Caped Crusader.

On several occasions, elements connected to Batman have been introduced within the DC Universe. Previously, a glimpse of Batman was seen as a distant shadow in an episode of the television series “Creature Commandos.” Additionally, the upcoming film focusing on the sadistic villain “Clayface” will take place in Gotham City. However, this subtle reference in the movie serves as the first formal announcement that this new DC Universe accommodates Batman and the other towering citizens of Gotham City. Although it’s evident Gotham City can serve as an escape destination for Metropolis residents, the exact part Batman might play in future projects led by David Corenswet’s Superman remains unclear.

The seeds of the Justice League are sown

Following their successful defense of Metropolis against a ferocious creature, Guy Gardner, Hawkgirl, and Mister Terrific identify themselves to the appreciative citizens as “The Justice Squad.” Despite the disapproval from the latter two members, Gardner is determined to popularize

In the movie “Superman,” it’s not merely the familiar names of these three superheroes that provoke teasing when it comes to the Justice League. As the story unfolds, the supporting superheroes become increasingly proficient at working together. At first, they appear more like a group of self-centered individuals pretending to be a team, but as the story reaches its climax, they start looking more like a genuine superhero team. The concept of superhero cooperation becomes crucial, suggesting that the Justice League, as we know it, may not always consist solely of these heroes. It’s uncertain when or how the Justice League will eventually appear in the DC Universe, but it’s evident that the Justice Gang serves as the foundation for this beloved DC Comics group to grow and flourish.

Rick Flag Sr. is powerful and very frustrated

As a gaming enthusiast diving into the DC Universe, I must say, they’ve been boldly blending their movies and TV shows from the get-go. In “Superman,” a familiar face from “Creature Commandos” makes his live-action debut – Rick Flag Sr., a formidable A.R.G.U.S. official at The Pentagon, who’s always butting heads with Lex Luthor over the phone. Frank Grillo steps into the role, giving voice to Flag Sr. in this flesh-and-blood appearance. In “Superman,” we see Flag Sr.’s hostility towards metahumans, yet he seems to still hold a glimmer of understanding for them, as evident by his apologetic words to Superman after apprehending him.

Rick Flag Sr.’s role in “Superman” is primarily to portray the authority figures that Luthor needs to manipulate against Superman. This brief appearance sets the stage for the DC Universe’s plan to match voice-over actors with their live-action counterparts in this series. Additionally, introducing Rick Flag Sr. as a powerful figure in American government paves the way for his role in “Peacemaker” Season 2. In that show, he will confront John Cena’s Peacemaker, who is responsible for killing his son in “The Suicide Squad.” If Flag Sr. can apprehend Superman and team up with Ultraman, then it means that the down-to-earth vigilante Peacemaker will have a challenging time indeed. In essence, Rick Flag Sr. is now confirmed as one of the earliest significant recurring characters in this saga.

Lex Luthor’s pocket dimension

In simpler terms, Lex Luthor’s villainous schemes center around a self-made pocket dimension where he imprisoned those who have wronged him in the past and individuals who defied governments allied with Luthor. Fortunately, by the end of “Superman,” all the prisoners were freed and returned to their families. Remarkably, even the robotic monkeys captive within this pocket dimension gained their freedom too. However, it’s likely that there are still many people harboring resentment towards Luthor for incarcerating them in this prison-like space.

In simpler terms, freeing these foreign outcasts from prison will significantly change the political landscape in DC. As Superman often deals with international issues, it’s likely that other countries will be affected as well within this series. Other DC villains might learn from Lex Luthor’s plan and establish their own hidden prisons for rebellious forces. Closing Luthor’s prison is a victory, but the conflict is far from over. The impact of this place will continue to echo throughout the DC Universe for years.

The Hall of Justice is under construction

Initially, when Superman disappears, Lois Lane swiftly contacts the three members of the Justice League for help in locating him. Prior to their conversation, viewers are introduced to the Hall of Justice in live-action for the first time in a movie. Although it’s not yet fully completed, it still bears the iconic DC Comics location status. Inside, Lane’s discussions with Guy Gardner and Mr. Terrific reveal ongoing construction work, but the exterior, with its circular entrance and large “Hall of Justice” sign, confirms that this well-known DC Comics landmark is now part of Gunn’s new series.

Instead of the upcoming DC Universe movies “Supergirl” and “Clayface,” which are set in cosmic and Gotham locations respectively, it might not be ideal to return to the Hall of Justice. However, future shows within this universe such as “Booster Gold” and “Waller” could make great use of this location. Moreover, with more iconic Justice League members like Batman and Wonder Woman joining the DC Universe, the Hall of Justice is likely to play a significant role. Over time, it’s expected to appear much neater compared to its current run-down state in “Superman.” Remember, even the central hub of Justice League operations has to start somewhere!

The ending of Superman teases the plot of Supergirl

In James Gunn’s “Superman,” the story concludes with the main character returning to the Fortress of Solitude. Suddenly, there’s a massive crash heard off-screen, and Supergirl (played by Milly Alcock) enters the scene, looking for her dog, Krypto. Upon seeing her, Krypto gets overly excited and jumps on Supergirl, bringing joy to her face. “That’s exactly why he has his issues,” Superman comments as Supergirl prepares to depart for space. This lighthearted interaction, with Supergirl being a bit unruly and even cursing at her stern relative, mirrors the more intricate portrayal of Supergirl that Tom King developed in “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow.

In 2026’s “Supergirl” movie, where we’ll see a tale inspired by a comic book storyline in which Kara is drawn into a vengeful scheme after an alcohol-fueled party on another planet (starring John Bethany Alcock), Alcock’s brief cameo as Superman hints at the direction of the next DC Universe film and the unique portrayal we can expect from the “House of the Dragon” actor. Director James Gunn chose Alcock for the role of Supergirl, aiming to offer a fresh perspective on the character. Although details about this upcoming blockbuster, such as how Jason Momoa’s Lobo will appear, are still under wraps, Alcock’s performance gives us a glimpse into Supergirl’s vibrant personality. Given her party-loving and potty-mouthed nature, fans of the original “Superman” might be in for a surprise. Moreover, since she departs with Krypto, it’s likely we’ll see this scene-stealing CGI canine on the big screen again soon.

2025-07-12 01:32