James Gunn kicks off production on new Superman sequel

James Gunn has begun production on a new Superman sequel.

Marking the next phase of DC’s cinematic relaunch of the decades-long franchise, the 59-year-old director and co-head of DC Studios has confirmed filming on Superman: Man of Tomorrow by sharing an image from the set including a chess board, a Van Kull Prison badge labelled for inmate A. Luthor and a bag of Ruffles potato chips.

The film marks a continuation of the rebooted DC Universe following the commercial success of Superman last year, which grossed more than $600 million worldwide.

It is scheduled for release on 9 July 2027, as part of a broader slate that includes Supergirl and Clayface in 2026, followed by The Batman Part II, directed by Matt Reeves and starring Robert Pattinson as the Caped Crusader.

David Corenswet returns in the title role as Superman, with Nicholas Hoult reprising his role as the alien superhero’s nemesis Lex Luthor.

The story sees Superman forced into an uneasy alliance with his adversary as they confront a larger threat in the form of Brainiac, portrayed by Lars Eidinger.

Adria Arjona has joined the cast as Maxima, an alien queen who has appeared in the comics as both antagonist and romantic interest to Superman.

The ensemble also includes Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, and Aaron Pierre as John Stewart – also known as Green Lantern.

James’ set image highlighted elements tied to the film’s narrative, including references to Lex Luthor’s incarceration and visual cues suggesting the tone of the sequel.

The production follows the re-establishment of the DC Universe under the filmmaker’s leadership, with interconnected storylines planned across multiple films.

Warner Bros., which owns DC, is backing the project as part of its ongoing strategy to rebuild its superhero franchise.

The first instalment of James’ Superman reboot marked a turning point for the studio, positioning the character at the centre of a new narrative arc.

Superman: Man of Tomorrow is one of several high-profile comic book adaptations currently in development, with DC continuing to expand its roster of characters and storylines for the coming years.