James Gunn admits his favorite moment filming Superman was also the most tense in the entire shoot. David Coresnwet’s Superman is the face of the DCU’s first chapter. Besides playing the Man of Steel in James Gunn’s Superman, Corenswet also embodies many of the qualities that make his character the most iconic superhero in the DC Universe.
On X, James Gunn reveals he’s both “freaked out” and “happy” to know that his favorite day on the Superman set was filmed for the making-of “Adventures in Making Superman” feature. In it, Gunn and Corenswet discuss Superman’s speech to Luthor. Corenswet questions why Superman would voice his feelings to Lex, while Gunn argues that showing his vulnerability is exactly what makes the scene work.
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What James Gunn & David Corenswet’s Discussion Means For Superman
James Gunn’s Superman doubles down on the Man of Steel’s vulnerability, both in terms of Superman’s physical weaknesses and his personal imperfections. As James Gunn argues, Clark’s conversation with Pa Kent replenishes his hope, but it doesn’t make him unshakable. Superman still lets out his anger at Luthor, but he directs it toward teaching Luthor a lesson in humanity.
David Corenswet’s questions weren’t out of place, either. Realizing Jor-El and Lara sent Superman to Earth as a conqueror certainly changes Clark Kent’s outlook on life, so it would make sense for him to be unfazed by Lex Luthor’s words. However, Superman had to wear his heart on his sleeve during his speech in order to face Lex in this scene.
David Corenswet also admits that James Gunn’s explanation clarified the purpose of the scene. Right before Corenswet returned to the set, Gunn says, “for you to talk about how it’s okay to be vulnerable, you have to be vulnerable.” Only someone like Superman lowers his guard in order to force his enemy to do the same.
Our Take On James Gunn & David Corenswet’s Behind-The-Scenes Superman Discussion
Even when facing his greatest enemies, Superman must remain more than an indestructible force of power. By allowing himself to be open and fragile in a moment of truth, Superman reminds both Lex Luthor and the audience that his greatest strength lies in his vulnerability. Superman possesses a special ability to connect, even with the man who has tried everything he can to destroy him.
James Gunn and David Corenswet’s disagreement over Superman’s speech is a good sign for the DCU’s future, as it shows that both the director and the actor deeply care about Superman’s characterization. Creative tension, when rooted in genuine pᴀssion, often leads to stronger storytelling. After Superman‘s heartwarming ending, both Gunn and Corenswet will surely continue to explore new subtleties in the hero’s personality.