James Gunn, the acclaimed director of the recent superhero blockbuster “Superman,” took a moment during a July 13 interview with GQ to reflect on his remarkable journey through the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). With “Superman” achieving over $217 million globally since its July 11 release, Gunn continues to demonstrate his mastery in adapting iconic comic book characters for the big screen.
Gunn’s legacy in the MCU is largely defined by his pivotal role as the director and screenwriter of the “Guardians of the Galaxy” series, which began in 2014. The films introduced beloved characters such as Starlord, Gamora, and Drax, while also formally introducing the Infinity Stones into the MCU’s expansive narrative. Crucially, Gunn emphasized how effortlessly he integrated the Infinity Stones’ lore into the Marvel universe, revealing that it only took him a few minutes to conceptualize the significance of these powerful gems.
Originally appearing in Marvel Comics in 1972, the Infinity Stones became a cornerstone of the MCU, influencing several major storylines culminating in “Avengers: Endgame.” Gunn recalled how he was approached by Marvel executives with the task of weaving the Infinity Stones into the existing storyline, leading to pivotal revelations in “Guardians of the Galaxy,” particularly through The Collector’s explanation of their origins.
The success of the MCU continues, with Gunn now navigating new creative waters in the DC Universe while the MCU celebrates upcoming projects, including “The Thunderbolts” and “Ironheart.” The anticipation is building for “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” set to debut on July 24, 2025.
Gunn’s creative journey highlights the dynamic landscape of superhero films, where interconnected storytelling can create rich narratives that resonate with fans. It is hopeful to see how his experiences will shape future projects in both the MCU and DCU.