As excitement builds ahead of the highly anticipated release of the first teaser trailer, director James Gunn is passionately working on his new vision for DC’s Superman on set in Cleveland. In a recent interview, Gunn clarified his approach to the iconic character, focusing primarily on Superman's story without getting entangled in the broader universe that often overwhelms superhero films today.

In a bold statement, Gunn proclaimed, 'Zero,' in response to questions about the film's focus on introducing other characters or future DC projects. 'If something’s there just to set up something else, forget it,' he insisted, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in isolation. 'Everything needs to stand by itself... I don’t want somebody to have to see this movie while relying on anything else.'

This singular focus is integral to Gunn's vision for Superman. The film jumps right into the action, showcasing a well-established Superman and his relationships with key characters like Lois Lane and Lex Luthor. 'We just start in the middle of the action,' Gunn explained. 'Superman’s already existing. Lois and Clark know each other, and Lex despises Superman from the get-go.'

Gunn, known for his unique storytelling style, has drawn inspiration from various DC adaptations while also distancing himself from previous iterations. He acknowledged the influence of the original Donner film but highlighted that his take will be distinctive. A significant influence includes the comic book 'All-Star Superman,' which offers a Silver Age aesthetic and elevated sci-fi elements that will shape the film's tone.

On the action front, Gunn and his team are utilizing cutting-edge technology, employing drones to capture exhilarating aerial sequences reminiscent of the epic flights in 'Top Gun: Maverick.' These drones allow for dynamic, close-up shots as Superman interacts with his environment during intense action scenes.

While Gunn is renowned for his humor in films like 'Guardians of the Galaxy,' he asserts that 'Superman' will maintain a serious and grounded tone. 'There’s plenty of humor in it, but it’s not a comedy,' he clarified. The film aims to blend fantastical elements with a relatable story, echoing tones found in series like 'Game of Thrones.'

A much-debated choice revolving around Superman's costume—specifically whether to include the beloved classic trunks—saw Gunn initially favoring a more modern look. However, a pivotal conversation with lead actor David Corenswet shifted his perspective. 'Superman wants kids to not be afraid of him,' Gunn recalled, highlighting the character’s desire to be relatable and approachable. This realization prompted the inclusion of the iconic trunks as a symbol of that approachable heroism.

Additionally, John Murphy has been tapped to compose the film’s score, promising to pay homage to the classic Superman theme while crafting something fresh and new. 'It’s not a soundtrack, it’s much more of a score film,' Gunn noted, ensuring that the musical score plays a central role in setting the film's tone.

The casting process bore fruit early on, as Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan’s auditions landed on Gunn's desk on the very first day. Their chemistry was undeniable during tests, leading Gunn to feel optimistic about the film's potential. 'It was simple magic when the two of them came up,' he stated.

Exploring the dynamic between Clark Kent and Superman, Gunn aims to delve deeper than previous portrayals, suggesting that understanding both personas is essential to knowing the real character. He clarified, 'I don’t think anybody knows Superman unless they know both of him. And when they know both of him, they know the real guy.'

The film’s development journey has also led to a title change—moving away from 'Legacy' to reflect a forward-looking narrative rather than a retrospective one, as Gunn explained: 'This isn’t about looking back; this is about looking forward.'

Mark your calendars; 'Superman' is set for a theatrical release on July 11, 2025—the dawn of a new era for the Man of Steel that fans won't want to miss!