James Gunn has been facing rage from fans ever since he decided to replace several beloved actors in the DC Universe (DCU). The Guardians of the Galaxy director took over as the co-CEO of DC Studios along with Peter Safran last November. Gunn initiated significant changes, the first major one was to build the DCU after discontinuing the DCEU. Following that, he decided to bring in a new cast as well, a move that didn’t sit well with fans.
Gunn replaced Superman actor, Henry Cavill, with a younger actor, David Corenswet. The Suicide Squad director defended his move saying that Cavill did not fit his vision for the upcoming movie. However, Gunn’s recent revelation has left fans questioning his intentions for the DC Universe.
James Gunn Clarifies He’s Not Making a Young Superman Movie
Superman: Legacy will mark the first film for James Gunn in the newly created DCU. Set for a 2025 release, the film will introduce David Corenswet as the new Man of Steel and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. When a fan asked about the ‘young Superman’, Gunn was quick to clarify that he was never making a ‘young Superman’ movie.
However, it was the Slither director himself who previously mentioned on Twitter that for the first few Superman movies in the DCU, the story will explore the earlier stages of his life. Gunn stated this as the reason for parting ways with Henry Cavill. It can also be noted that the director never wanted to make another origin story for the hero but a story focusing on his younger years. This did not meet with the image Cavill was setting of Superman and he had to then be let go of.
On one hand, Cavill is 40 years old and on the other Corenswet is 30. Although neither of them can be classified as young, the age difference speaks for itself, taking a few steps away from how much Superman has progressed so far.
Unsurprisingly, fans reacted poorly to the Super director going back on his words. Supporters of the DCEU and Zack Snyder were having a field day roasting Gunn, while some attempted to defend him.
Fans Are Doubtful Of James Gunn’s Approach to the DCU
Fans were unapologetic in their comments, with some labeling him as the wrong man for the job and others demanding he bring back Cavill. Some comments said Gunn’s decision to remove Henry Cavill might have been driven by his desire to keep DCU distinct from DCEU. Some even stated outright that they don’t believe in James Gunn’s Superman anymore.
Fans also did not show any mercy on actor David Corenswet calling him “Henry Cavill lite” and “downgrade of Tyler [Hoechlin]’s Superman”. It appears that the DCU is not off to a great start as excitement for its projects wanes. While the first film in the DCU, Blue Beetle, got the much-needed positive reviews following this year’s disastrous DC movies, the film is still struggling to move the box office numbers.
Although James Gunn has a track record of success in directing superhero films, fans remain doubtful if he’s the suitable leader that the DC franchise needs at this juncture. While Gunn’s decision to create an entirely new DC universe was undoubtedly bold, it could prove to be a gamble. Fans will have to wait to see what James Gunn has further in store for DCU.
Source: Twitter
