James Gunn has shared fresh insights into Man of Tomorrow, giving fans a clearer idea of what the upcoming DCU film will explore. As co-head of DC Studios with Peter Safran, he continues to prioritize character-driven storytelling in the new DC Universe.
The DCU officially launched in December 2024 with the animated Creature Commandos series. It later expanded with Superman and Peacemaker in 2025. Meanwhile, DC Studios will release Supergirl, Lanterns, and Clayface later this year. Looking ahead, Man of Tomorrow stands as a major chapter in the franchise’s long-term plan.
Man of Tomorrow’s Role in the DCU
Directed by James Gunn, Man of Tomorrow will once again star David Corenswet as Superman/Clark Kent and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. In addition, Lars Eidinger has officially joined the cast as Brainiac, one of Superman’s most iconic and dangerous villains.
With Brainiac entering the DCU, the film will raise the stakes significantly. However, Man of Tomorrow focuses on more than large-scale action. Instead, it balances spectacle with emotional depth and philosophical conflict.
James Gunn Explains the Core Theme of Man of Tomorrow
While speaking with Variety, James Gunn explained what truly defines Man of Tomorrow:
“At its core, it’s about Clark and Lex,” Gunn said.
“I relate to both of them. I relate to Lex’s ambition and obsession — minus the murder. And I relate to Superman’s belief in people, his Midwestern values. They’re two sides of me.”
These comments reinforce the idea that the film will explore the moral and emotional contrast between Superman and Lex Luthor. Rather than presenting them as simple opposites, Man of Tomorrow aims to show how both characters reflect different responses to power, responsibility, and human nature.
Superman and Lex Luthor’s Complicated Dynamic
James Gunn has previously revealed that Man of Tomorrow will involve Superman and Lex Luthor reluctantly working together to defeat a greater threat. As a result, their uneasy alliance will drive much of the film’s tension.
At the same time, fans are curious about how the movie will connect to the wider DCU. Many are wondering whether the story will address the Peacemaker Season 2 cliffhanger involving Checkmate and Salvation. While no details have been confirmed, Frank Grillo is set to reprise his role as Rick Flag Sr., suggesting stronger continuity across projects.
Why Man of Tomorrow Could Be a Pivotal DCU Film
Because Man of Tomorrow focuses heavily on Superman and Lex Luthor, the film could redefine their relationship in the new DCU era. It may also set the tone for future Superman stories, with a stronger focus on empathy, ambition, and moral choice. By grounding its conflict in character rather than spectacle alone, the film has the potential to stand out as one of the most emotionally resonant DCU entries to date.
Man of Tomorrow is officially scheduled to arrive in theaters on July 9, 2027. Meanwhile, Superman is available to stream on HBO Max. This gives fans a chance to revisit Clark Kent’s journey before the next chapter unfolds. As anticipation builds, Man of Tomorrow is shaping up to be a defining moment for the DC Universe.
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Shobith Chandran