DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn recently addressed the ongoing backlash from fans of the SnyderVerse, emphasizing that he welcomes diverse opinions. In an interview with Rolling Stone, he noted that while some fans express negativity regarding the transition to a new DC Universe (DCU) away from Zack Snyder’s vision, he believes this mix of feedback can be beneficial.
Gunn revealed that he has an actor in the upcoming Superman movie who gets upset by online criticism but highlighted that the overwhelmingly positive initial reactions to the trailer—ranging from 97% to 98% approval—show that public sentiment can also be supportive. He acknowledged that controversy is inevitable, often arising even from minor plot details or creative decisions. “Some things get ridiculous,” Gunn said, referring to the backlash over a scene where Superman appears to be in pain, likening it to a doctor resetting a broken bone.
Despite some rumors suggesting the success of Superman is critical for the future of the DCU, Gunn clarified that he does not feel enormous pressure for the film. He stated, “I’d be very happy with a double,” referencing the less-than-perfect success of earlier superhero films like Iron Man. He stressed that while each movie contributes to the larger picture, it is not single-handedly responsible for the entire franchise’s fate.
Gunn assured fans that DC Studios is committed to the quality of its productions, citing a recent decision to cancel a project, Sgt. Rock, because the screenplay did not meet high standards. He expressed optimism about other upcoming projects, such as Supergirl and Lanterns, noting their strong scripts.
With Superman set to hit theaters on July 11, 2025, fans are hopeful that this new direction for DC will merge the legacy elements of the franchise with fresh storytelling. Gunn’s approach of embracing both criticism and praise reflects a desire to cultivate an inclusive environment for viewer engagement, setting an optimistic tone for the future of the DCU.