Reports continue to swirl around James Gunn’s Superman following claims of “goofy” humor, political jabs, and last-minute changes.
But now, insiders are pushing back, saying it’s all part of the normal post-production process, and that the studio is actually happy with what Gunn has delivered.
No Major Reshoots, But Changes Did Happen
Despite online noise, The Hollywood Reporter reports there were only three days of pickups in Atlanta, far from the claims of a full reshoot. According to THR’s e-mail newsletter, changes were made, but insiders describe them as typical of any blockbuster fine-tuning its final cut.
The site also fires back against claims of changes with the composers:
Here’s what we know: The movie had three days of picks up in Atlanta but no major reshoots. John Murphy started as the composer, providing the John Williams-inspired electric guitar riff, and David Fleming was brought in as an additional composer early on this year. Both of their music will be in the movie, as well as plenty of Williams tones.
Gunn Testing and Tinkering
The site’s sources say James Gunn isn’t afraid of making changes, and again, it’s all part of the process:
And there have been a few test screenings. “I’m no defender of Gunn, but none of this is unusual,” says one source with knowledge of the inner workings of DC. “It’s part of honing of the movie. Any movie.”
THR adds that Gunn is welcome to and isn’t afraid of feedback:
Another person close to the production echoed the sentiment. “Gunn absolutely tests, he absolutely tinkers. He’s not one of those directors who can’t take suggestions,” this person says.
Studio Appears Satisfied
Despite the social media noise, THR also says the movie is on track to lock its final cut by next Friday, five weeks ahead of release, which is usually a good sign:
Studio sources say that Gunn is due to deliver a final and locked movie next Friday. That’s five weeks before its July 11 release date and a sign of studio satisfaction.
If we go by THR’s word (no large-scale reshoots, no massive overhauls, studio still confident, final version ready soon), every movie goes through changes during development, so Superman getting tweaked shouldn’t be a surprise. The earlier report also noted that studio heads—Gunn, Safran, and Zaslav—are reportedly scrutinizing every frame to ensure Superman lands. After The Flash, Shazam 2, Blue Beetle, and Aquaman 2 all tanked, Superman is being treated as a make-or-break film for the DCU. It looks like they’re doing everything they can to get it right and properly launch the new DC universe. Cross your fingers.
Superman Hits Theaters July 11
David Corenswet leads as Superman, with Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Supporting cast includes Nathan Fillion, Isabela Merced, Anthony Carrigan, and more.
