James Gunn is facing backlash in India ahead of his Superman movie, as comments from a recent interview sparked outrage online, with some fans calling for a boycott of the film.
What Happened
While promoting Superman, Gunn was asked how he deals with criticism on social media. He explained that he usually tunes out negativity but occasionally gets bothered by odd remarks. Gunn said, “I think I might be upset about something a 12-year-old in India is saying,” before adding that he reminds himself to “let it go.”
The comment spread quickly on social media, especially in India, as reported by India’s Financial Express, where some accused Gunn of being dismissive and racist. Critics said his remark stereotyped Indians and minimized international fans. Supporters of a boycott are now trending hashtags against Gunn and Superman on X (formerly Twitter).
Indian Fans React
Indian fans expressed frustration, calling Gunn’s comments disrespectful. Some argued that the remark reinforces negative stereotypes, while others said it was an unnecessary jab at Snyderverse fans, who make up a significant part of DC’s audience in India.
As pointed out by Financial Express, one person wrote, “People from India who are defending James Gunn… this is casual racism. What he did was wrong. He should apologize or we’re boycotting Superman and the DCU altogether.”
Others defended Gunn, saying he was making a broader point about ignoring online hate, and that India was mentioned because Snyder fans are vocal in the region. Some called the controversy overblown, noting Gunn has praised Indian cinema in the past.
Gunn’s History With Indian Films
Gunn has publicly shared his love for Indian films in multiple interviews. In 2023, he told the Hindustan Times that Bollywood’s mix of action, comedy, drama, and music inspired his Guardians of the Galaxy movies. He also said he wants Indian superheroes and filmmakers to join the DC Universe.
In a new interview published the same day as the controversy, Gunn repeated those sentiments, saying he hopes to collaborate with Indian talent and include more global representation in future DCU projects.
Why did he have to say this?pic.twitter.com/Q7rPWP2SsL
— Grummz (@Grummz) July 3, 2025
Gunn even said Bollywood inspired his Superman, stating, “Bollywood movies are the most important thing to me. That’s really where I take my inspiration for Superman.”
James Gunn says he took inspiration from Bollywood and Eastern Cinema for 'Superman'
— DCU Superman News (@DCUSuperNews) July 2, 2025
"Bollywood movies are the most important thing to me. That’s really where I take my inspiration for Superman"
(https://t.co/bBn7SDRNKc) pic.twitter.com/Z1ozXB2BsX
Will This Hurt Superman?
The backlash comes just days before the release of Superman, Gunn’s first DCU movie starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, and Nicholas Hoult. Whether the boycott calls will impact the box office remains to be seen.
Gunn has yet to publicly respond to the controversy.
Release info
Superman flies into theaters officially on July 11 and internationally on July 9.
