James Gunn’s Superman Soundtrack Changes His Directing Style
In a surprising but welcome twist, James Gunn‘s Superman soundtrack will mark a major shift in his usual musical style.
For years, fans have known Gunn for his pop-heavy soundtracks in Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad.
However, Superman (2025) will instead feature an orchestral and emotionally driven score.
Altogether, it’s a bold move that redefines his directing approach and sets a fresh, hopeful tone for the DC Universe.
“There are a couple of songs in Superman, but mostly it’s its score… It’s different,”
Gunn shared on the DC Studios Official Podcast.
“One way I grow as a director is by taking away things I rely on.”
This major change in James Gunn’s Superman Soundtrack signifies an evolution not just in sound design but also in the overall tone of the DC Universe’s future.
From Pop Playlists to Emotional Scores
Gone are the retro mixtapes and needle drops. Instead, Gunn is turning to composer John Murphy, who previously worked with him on The Suicide Squad, to create a powerful, thematic score.
The soundtrack will not only introduce new musical themes but also nod to John Williams’ classic Superman motif, blending nostalgia with freshness in a seamless way.
Gunn added,
“I do think I’ll incorporate more scores in future films,” suggesting this change may be permanent.
This approach allows the story — and the character of Superman — to shine without distraction.
Why James Gunn’s Superman Soundtrack Matters
Clearly, this isn’t just a musical decision. Instead, it’s a strategic creative choice that sets a new standard for the DCU. While Gunn’s Marvel films often leaned on nostalgia and humor, in contrast, Superman (2025) will focus on hope, heart, and sincerity.
As Gunn describes it, Superman is a “pure, good, beautiful guy… trying to get by in a world that isn’t those things.” By removing the usual soundtrack distractions, the film intentionally creates space for genuine emotion — a move that not only deepens the narrative but also aligns perfectly with the tone of DC Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.
A Cast Ready to Redefine Superman
Gunn’s vision will be realized through a top-tier cast:
- David Corenswet as Superman
- Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane
- Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
- With supporting roles from Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, Edi Gathegi, and Skylar Gisondo
With this ensemble and a bold new direction in both story and score, Superman (2025) is shaping up to be a game-changer.
When Can You Hear the New Sound?
Mark your calendars — Superman (2025) officially hits theaters on July 11, 2025. With that in mind, the film brings a fresh soundtrack, emotional storytelling, and a renewed focus on character-driven drama. Altogether, it promises to launch the DCU into a bold, heartfelt new era.
Ultimately, by choosing a powerful orchestral score over curated playlists, James Gunn’s Superman soundtrack reflects a deeper commitment to emotional storytelling. As a result, it breaks his old rule — and just maybe, it’s the very thing that helps Superman soar again.
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