DC Studios co-chief James Gunn has addressed the online buzz surrounding Superman's flying face after a new TV spot for the upcoming Superman movie sparked debate. The 30-second clip, released over the weekend, features two new scenes: Lex Luthor disembarking from a helicopter in a snowy wilderness, possibly on a quest to find the Fortress of Solitude, and Superman performing a barrel roll as he flies over an icy landscape towards an unknown destination.
The internet was quick to comment on David Corenswet's portrayal of Superman, particularly focusing on his facial expression during the flying sequence. Some viewers felt that Superman's face appeared unnaturally still amidst the billowing of his hair and cape, leading to speculation about the use of "wonky CGI." However, Gunn took to Threads to clarify that no CGI was used on Superman's face in the shot.A fan on Threads praised the TV spot, saying, "Looks dope. Great camera angle of Superman flying! Except there's something with his face that looks a little off. I know there's plenty of time to refine the CG." Gunn responded directly, stating, "There is absolutely zero CG in his face. People’s faces can look different when you put a wide angle lens up close. The background plate in Svalbard is 100% real as is David." Svalbard, the Norwegian archipelago, served as a filming location for parts of the movie.
This clarification confirms that David Corenswet's seemingly knowing smirk while flying is entirely natural, possibly enhanced by a fan blowing on his face during filming. Despite Gunn's explanation, fans continue to discuss and compare the shot to similar scenes, such as Adam Warlock's flying sequence in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, which Gunn also wrote and directed.
The excitement for the Superman movie remains high, with its release scheduled for July 11, 2025. As the first film in the DCU's Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, it has generated significant interest. IGN provides detailed coverage, including an explainer on all the DC Heroes and Villains in the new trailer, insights from James Gunn on Krypto being a rather mischievous dog in the film, reflections on how Superman embodies hope, and more.
