As Warner Bros. prepares to relaunch its DC Comics universe, director James Gunn is placing political themes at the center of its most iconic superhero.

In a recent interview with The Times of London, Gunn confirmed that his upcoming “Superman” film will explore political ideas, including U.S. immigration policy and the broader “story of America.”

James Gunn Says ‘Superman’ Is About an ‘Immigrant That Came From Other Places’ and How We’ve ‘Lost’ the Value of ‘Basic Human Kindness’: ‘Yes, it’s About Politics’ https://t.co/X3fCHq2yGc

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The film is the first major DC installment under Gunn’s leadership as co-chair of DC Studios. Gunn, known for directing Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” franchise, was brought in to reshape the direction of DC’s film universe following years of underperformance and unsuccessful reboots.

In his interview, Gunn described Superman as “the story of America,” explaining that the film is framed through the lens of an immigrant searching for a better life.

“I mean, ‘Superman’ is the story of America,” Gunn said.

“An immigrant that came from other places and populated the country, but for me it is mostly a story that says basic human kindness is a value and is something we have lost.”

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Gunn acknowledged that the film’s messaging may be interpreted differently by audiences depending on their political views, particularly in light of current debates over illegal immigration and border enforcement.

He added that he is aware some viewers may take offense at the film’s themes but said he is not concerned about that reaction.

“Yes, it plays differently, but it’s about human kindness and obviously there will be jerks out there who are just not kind and will take it as offensive just because it is about kindness. But screw them,” Gunn stated.

The comment has sparked early controversy, with critics noting that Gunn’s remarks could alienate a portion of the audience ahead of the film’s release.

The decision to publicly frame the movie as politically charged — and then dismiss any opposing viewpoints — has raised questions about the marketing strategy for a franchise that has struggled to regain footing in the superhero genre.

Gunn’s leadership at DC Studios began following a series of setbacks for Warner Bros., including the commercial and critical failures of recent DC films.

His appointment was seen as a high-stakes move to replicate the creative and financial success he achieved with Marvel.

However, Gunn is not without prior controversy. In the early 2020s, he was briefly removed from directing duties after past tweets surfaced that included offensive jokes involving child abuse.

He was later rehired after public backlash and returned to complete the “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy.

The new Superman film will be the first full reboot of the character since Henry Cavill’s portrayal in the “Man of Steel” series.

It is expected to introduce a younger version of the hero and serve as the foundation for a broader DC cinematic universe under Gunn’s vision.

The reaction to Gunn’s statements has been mixed. While some supporters on social media applauded the director’s framing of Superman as a symbol of compassion and immigration, others questioned the decision to infuse the franchise with overt political messaging.

Film analysts and political commentators have also debated whether the approach will boost interest or drive audiences away, particularly after a series of high-profile superhero box office disappointments in recent years.

The exact storyline of the film remains under wraps, and Warner Bros. has not released an official response to the interview.

As anticipation builds and reactions to Gunn’s comments continue to unfold, the studio is preparing for the film’s release later this week.

Whether the political framing helps or hinders the reboot may ultimately depend on how audiences receive the film and whether its themes resonate with the public beyond the headlines.

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