Guardians of the Galaxy is a beautiful movie, but does James Gunn have what it takes to create a Superman film that can compete with the visuals that Zack Snyder introduced in 2013’s Man of Steel? Fans of the superhero can definitely expect an answer for that, as the 56-year-old filmmaker and executive confirmed today that he will be directing Superman: Legacy, a new Superman film that will serve as the launchpad for the first phase of his new DC Multiverse, titled “Chapter One, Gods & Monsters.” Gunn revealed that he had been penning the script for a new Superman film back in December, and evidently, he ended up loving it so much that he’ll be taking full control of the project, which is scheduled to release on June 11, 2025. While Henry Cavill announced in December that he won’t be returning as Superman, stating that his “time to wear the cape has passed,” the hunt for a new actor is ongoing, and according to older tweets from Gunn, it’ll probably be someone on the younger side.
From the @JamesGunn account:
Yes, I’m directing Superman: Legacy to be released on July 11, 2025. My brother Matt told me when he saw the release date he started to cry. I asked him why. He said, “Dude, it’s Dad’s birthday.” I hadn’t realized.
Just because I write something doesn’t mean I feel it in my bones, visually and emotionally, enough to spend over two years directing it, especially not something of this magnitude.
But, the long and the short of it is, I love this script, and I’m incredibly excited as we begin this journey. #UpUpandAway
From a DC press release:
Kicking off their multi-platform connected DC universe – Chapter One, Gods and Monsters – DC Studios’ Co-Chairmen & CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran announced today that Gunn, who penned the screenplay, will also take the helm of the hugely anticipated Superman Legacy, with Safran producing. The all-new action adventure is set to soar into theaters worldwide on July 11, 2025.
Superman Legacy tells the story of Superman’s journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas. He is the embodiment of truth, justice and the American way, guided by human kindness in a world that sees kindness as old-fashioned.
Gunn will direct from his screenplay based on characters from DC. Superman was created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster.
Superman Legacy is the trailblazing first title in a dynamic slate of films, with writer/director Matt Reeves’ The Batman Part II hitting theaters on October 3, 2025.
Safran’s most recent film, New Line Cinema’s Shazam! Fury of the Gods, is in theaters worldwide this Friday, March 17, from Warner Bros. Pictures.
Yes, I’m directing Superman: Legacy to be released on July 11, 2025. My brother Matt told me when he saw the release date he started to cry. I asked him why. He said, “Dude, it’s Dad’s birthday.” I hadn’t realized. pic.twitter.com/ohQNV8nI4g
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) March 15, 2023
He hasn’t been cast yet.
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) February 17, 2023
Yeah but people are speculating about both ages. All I ever said was Superman was younger than in his forties and Batman MIGHT be a couple years older than Superman.
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) February 17, 2023