David Corenswet, who stars in James Gunn’s upcoming Superman, addressed fan backlash in a recent interview with GQ, particularly from supporters of Zack Snyder’s darker DC Universe and Henry Cavill’s portrayal of the iconic hero. Corenswet acknowledged the controversy surrounding the film and explained his vision for a more optimistic, refreshed take on the character.
In a 2019 interview with Entertainment Weekly, Corenswet described the Superman role as a dream of his, expressing hope to see a more upbeat and throwback version of the hero. “I love the Henry Cavill dark and gritty take,” he said, “but I would love to see the next one be very bright and optimistic.”
Clarifying that earlier sentiment, Corenswet told GQ: “The one way superheroes become boring is if you just keep doing the same thing over and over again.” He added that Cavill and Snyder explored a meaningful and distinct version of Superman. Corenswet compared the evolution of superhero portrayals to Batman, noting that after Christopher Nolan’s darker trilogy and Matt Reeves’ grounded take, audiences began asking, “Where’s our funny, campy, fantastical Batman?”
Corenswet said he wanted to explore a different facet of the character, not as a rejection of the past but as a natural creative progression. He previously revealed to Heart that he reached out to Cavill after landing the role, though Cavill had “no wisdom to share.”
Gunn’s Superman represents a significant tonal shift—described as more colorful and emotionally light than its predecessor. While some Snyder fans have launched an online campaign to sabotage the film’s box office performance, Gunn told Rolling Stone he welcomes criticism and sees value in having “an opposing force.”
Despite vocal opposition, Corenswet and Gunn remain committed to delivering a bold, optimistic vision of Superman when the film opens July 11 through Warner Bros.
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