James Gunn and Peter Safran’s reimagined DC Universe kicked off with Creature Commandos, which is currently streaming on Max. Superman serves as the next major chapter in this ambitious slate, followed by projects like Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow and Lanterns, both set to begin production in 2025. However, Gunn has made it clear that his upcoming Superman movie will stand on its own rather than focus on setting up future DC Universe films.

During a Superman set visit, which Heroic Hollywood and other outlets attended, Gunn addressed the idea of using the movie to plant seeds for future stories. In response to a journalist asking how much of Superman is dedicated to setting up other characters or threads, Gunn answered unequivocally: “Zero.” He elaborated, “Zero. Zero. I mean, maybe two little things, two moments, but basically if something’s there just to set up something else, f–k it. I even say that.”

The DC Studios co-head stressed the importance of prioritizing the film’s self-contained story while talking to the press. “For all I know, those things can be cut by the time we get to the editing room because something has to exist for this movie,” he said. “And if that works in tandem with setting up characters that exist in other media, then that’s great. If this sets up stuff in Peacemaker, which it does, then that’s great. But that is never, ever, ever, with me, going to be something that’s, I’m going to sacrifice even a moment or a beat in a story for, especially a movie.”

How James Gunn’s DC Universe balances interconnectivity and independence

Gunn also acknowledged the difference between television and film when it comes to interconnectivity. “With TV, you’ve got a little bit more leniency to be able to do that,” he explained. “But in a movie, every beat has to be in there for the movie itself.”Gunn’s approach obviously ensures that Superman will be a complete and fulfilling story on its own, even as it serves as a key chapter in the larger DC Universe.

James Gunn has previously emphasized his desire to allow filmmakers to explore Elseworlds-style stories, such as Matt Reeves’ The Batman, creating space for unique, self-contained tales alongside the main DC continuity. This approach stands in stark contrast to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where interconnectivity often drives storytelling. By focusing on Superman’s individual journey rather than using the film as a vehicle for future projects, Gunn ensures that the movie is as impactful as the character it celebrates.

Superman arrives in theaters on July 11, 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on James Gunn and Peter Safran’s evolving DC Universe.