Ever wonder why your favorite superhero looks different on screen than in the comics? James Gunn, the visionary behind the new DC Universe, has a perfect explanation for why pleasing everyone with character adaptations is an impossible feat. Let’s dive in!
Superhero movies spark endless debates, especially about how closely they stick to the source material – the comics. But here’s the kicker: comics and films are different animals. What works on the page doesn’t always translate flawlessly to the big screen. Sometimes, changes are not only necessary but beneficial. Think about the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). If you compare some of the heroes in the MCU to their comic book counterparts, you’ll see they’re not carbon copies. Yet, when done well, these adaptations resonate with audiences.
This discrepancy between comics and live-action often ignites passionate discussions about the ‘ideal’ version of a character – their look, their actions, and their backstory. This is why, whether it’s Marvel or DC, any superhero adaptation is guaranteed to have its detractors. James Gunn recently weighed in on this very issue.
Inspired by a YouTube video from ‘Go Read Some Comics With Jenna’ about Brainiac, Gunn took to social media to explain why it’s impossible for his vision to please everyone. He pointed out how fans often cling to the version of a character they first encountered, which can limit their enjoyment of other interpretations. For example, some fans might insist on a specific costume detail or a particular power level as the only true representation of a character.
And this is the part most people miss: Gunn knows his vision won’t connect with every single person, and neither he nor any other filmmaker should strive for that outcome. Why? Because it doesn’t lead to the best results.
Consider the MCU again. When Iron Man was announced, many questioned its potential. Marvel ignored the naysayers and showed audiences what they would love. If they had listened to the negativity, Iron Man might never have happened, and the superhero genre would look drastically different.
This is the strategy the DCU should adopt, understanding that those aggressively criticizing or opposing every decision are a minority. While these voices may be loud, superhero fandoms aren’t large enough to guarantee a project’s financial success. That comes from the general audience—the people who, for the most part, are unaware of online debates.
Ultimately, the DCU’s fate rests on the interest of general viewers, not on comments about Batman’s costume color. This doesn’t mean ignoring constructive criticism. There’s a huge difference between those who complain just to complain and those with genuine suggestions. It’s easy to tell the difference: those with legitimate thoughts will never express them maliciously.
Here’s where it gets controversial: No, the DCU won’t win everyone over, but that’s the reality for every movie franchise. James Gunn is a smart creative, and what’s particularly impressive is his ability to add oddly specific details that enhance scenes in unexpected ways.
For example, in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, a short joke about nepotism elevates the entire scene. It’s a rare skill, and examples like that are found throughout his work. Gunn is successful, and has an entire superhero universe at his disposal, one of the best storytelling playgrounds in entertainment. He shouldn’t focus on the few complaints about Superman’s costume. He can tune that out while remaining open to constructive criticism, to take the DCU to its full potential.
The next installment in the DCU, Supergirl, directed by Craig Gillespie and starring Milly Alcock, is scheduled to hit theaters on June 26, 2026.
What are your thoughts on Gunn’s perspective on adapting DC characters? Do you agree with his approach, or do you have a different take? Share your thoughts in the comments below!