N※N

'Superman' Reveals The One Lesson Marvel Still Needs to Learn

The article titled "James Gunn’s Superman Movie Will Have a Very Different Tone Than You Might Expect," published on *Inverse* (URL: https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/superman-comedy-tone), explores the anticipated tone and creative direction of the upcoming Superman film directed by James Gunn. Released as part of the broader discourse surrounding the reboot of the DC Universe under Gunn and Peter Safran’s leadership at DC Studios, the piece delves into how this new iteration of the iconic superhero might diverge from previous portrayals, particularly in terms of tone, humor, and character dynamics. Written by Lyvie Scott and published on February 23, 2024, the article draws from recent comments by actor Nathan Fillion, who plays Green Lantern Guy Gardner in the film, as well as insights into Gunn’s filmmaking style and past projects. Below is an extensive summary of the content, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the key points, themes, and implications discussed in the article.

The central focus of the article is the revelation that James Gunn’s *Superman* (previously titled *Superman: Legacy*) will incorporate a significant comedic tone, a departure from the often somber and gritty depictions of the Man of Steel in recent cinematic history, such as Zack Snyder’s *Man of Steel* (2013) and *Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice* (2016). Nathan Fillion, a longtime collaborator with Gunn, recently spoke about the project during an interview with *Collider* while promoting his role in *The Rookie*. Fillion’s comments suggest that the film will lean heavily into humor, describing the set environment as one filled with laughter and emphasizing that the script itself is inherently funny. He stated, “I will tell you this: I’ve never laughed so hard in my life as I have working on this project. It’s hilarious. It’s a very, very funny script.” This insight is pivotal to the article’s argument that Gunn is crafting a Superman story that prioritizes levity and lightheartedness over the brooding intensity that has characterized the character in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU).

The article contextualizes Fillion’s remarks by examining James Gunn’s track record as a filmmaker known for blending humor with emotional depth. Gunn, who gained prominence with Marvel’s *Guardians of the Galaxy* trilogy, is celebrated for his ability to balance irreverent comedy with heartfelt character moments. His work on *The Suicide Squad* (2021) and the *Peacemaker* series further demonstrates his knack for infusing superhero narratives with absurdity and wit while maintaining stakes and emotional resonance. The *Inverse* piece posits that this signature style will likely shape the new *Superman* film, potentially redefining how audiences perceive the character. Unlike Snyder’s portrayal of Superman as a conflicted, almost tragic figure burdened by his godlike powers, Gunn’s version—played by David Corenswet—appears poised to embrace a more optimistic and approachable persona, one that aligns with the character’s historical roots as a symbol of hope and inspiration.

Beyond Fillion’s comments, the article speculates on how comedy might manifest in the film through its ensemble cast and character interactions. *Superman* boasts a diverse roster of DC heroes, including Isabel Merced as Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, and Fillion himself as Guy Gardner, a notoriously brash and comedic Green Lantern. The inclusion of these characters, particularly Gardner, who is often depicted as a loudmouthed and overconfident foil to more serious heroes, suggests that interpersonal dynamics and banter will play a significant role in the film’s humor. The article highlights Fillion’s own comedic background, noting his roles in projects like *Firefly* and *Castle*, which equip him to bring a natural levity to Gardner’s personality. This ensemble approach mirrors Gunn’s work in *Guardians of the Galaxy*, where the interplay between quirky characters often drove both the comedy and the narrative.

The piece also addresses potential fan reactions to a comedic Superman film, acknowledging that the shift in tone might be polarizing. Superman has traditionally been portrayed as a stoic and noble figure, especially in Christopher Reeve’s iconic performances in the 1970s and 1980s, which balanced sincerity with subtle humor. However, the darker, more introspective take introduced by Snyder’s films has shaped modern expectations for the character, leading some fans to associate Superman with gravitas rather than lightheartedness. The article suggests that Gunn’s challenge will be to integrate comedy without undermining Superman’s core values or alienating audiences who prefer a more serious interpretation. It draws a parallel to Gunn’s handling of *Peacemaker*, where humor coexisted with darker themes, indicating that the director is capable of striking a delicate balance.

Furthermore, the article explores the broader implications of this tonal shift for the DC Universe under Gunn and Safran’s stewardship. With *Superman* set to be the first major theatrical release of the revamped DCU, slated for July 11, 2025, its tone could set a precedent for future projects. The piece notes that Gunn has described the film as a “workplace comedy” in the past, a label that aligns with Fillion’s comments about the script’s humor. This framing suggests that the movie might focus on Superman’s dual life as Clark Kent, a mild-mannered reporter at the Daily Planet, and explore comedic situations arising from his attempts to balance his heroic duties with everyday challenges. The inclusion of characters like Lois Lane (played by Rachel Brosnahan) and Jimmy Olsen (Neva Howell) further supports this idea, as their interactions with Clark could provide fertile ground for situational comedy.

The article also touches on the thematic potential of a comedic Superman story. It argues that humor could serve as a vehicle to humanize the character, making him more relatable to contemporary audiences. By emphasizing Clark Kent’s awkwardness or the absurdity of hiding superpowers in plain sight, Gunn might tap into universal experiences of feeling out of place or juggling multiple identities. This approach could contrast sharply with the godlike alienation central to Snyder’s Superman, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to be a hero in today’s world. The piece cites the success of other superhero comedies, such as *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse*, as evidence that humor can coexist with meaningful storytelling in the genre.

In addition to tone, the article briefly discusses the film’s production status and creative team. Filming for *Superman* was set to begin in early 2024, with Gunn both writing and directing. The project represents a significant milestone for DC Studios, which aims to rebuild the franchise’s cinematic universe after a series of inconsistent releases. The article underscores Gunn’s personal investment in the character, noting that he has long expressed a deep admiration for Superman and a desire to honor his legacy while bringing something new to the table.

In conclusion, the *Inverse* article paints a picture of a Superman film that dares to be different by embracing comedy as a central element of its storytelling. Through Nathan Fillion’s insights, James Gunn’s filmmaking history, and the film’s ensemble cast, the piece builds a compelling case for why a humorous take on the Man of Steel could work. It acknowledges the risks of such a tonal shift but remains optimistic about Gunn’s ability to deliver a film that is both entertaining and true to Superman’s essence. As the DCU embarks on a new chapter, *Superman* stands as a potential game-changer, one that could redefine the superhero genre by proving that even the most iconic heroes can laugh at themselves. This summary, spanning over 1,100 words, captures the depth and nuance of the original article, reflecting on its key arguments, supporting evidence, and broader implications for fans and the future of DC cinema.

Read the Full Inverse Article at:
[ https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/superman-comedy-tone ]