James Gunn’s upcoming Superman movie is bringing back something fans have talked about for years — the red trunks! This classic part of Superman’s costume has been missing from recent films, but Gunn has decided it’s time for a return. Before making that choice, he even spoke with former DC filmmaker Zack Snyder to get his thoughts.
Zack Snyder, who directed Man of Steel (2013) with Henry Cavill as Superman, removed the red trunks from the costume to create a more modern look. Snyder told Gunn that he had tried “a billion different versions” of the suit, but none of them worked well with the red trunks. Gunn said he used to feel the same way, even though he loved the classic look growing up.
But things changed when they started costume tests with David Corenswet, the new actor playing Superman. Corenswet gave Gunn a new way to think about the suit. He said that Superman doesn’t need to look scary or tough — after all, he already has powers like flight, heat vision, and super strength. According to Corenswet, the red trunks may look a little silly, but that’s okay. They make Superman feel more human and friendly, especially to kids.
“In our version of the DC Universe, everyone already knows Superman is an alien,” said Gunn in a recent interview with Fandango. “He could be scary. But the truth is, he loves people. And he wants kids to feel safe around him.”
This idea really touched Gunn. He said the red trunks now feel like an important part of Superman’s look. Instead of being something to laugh at, they now send a message of hope and warmth. Gunn also said that trying to make Superman look too serious doesn’t really work — after all, he’s a superhero, and he should look bright, bold, and full of hope.
When the first photos of David Corenswet in costume came out, fans had a lot to say. The new Superman suit takes ideas from many different versions of the comics. The S-shield is inspired by the Kingdom Come storyline, while the collar design is similar to the New 52 era. This mix of old and new gives fans something familiar, but also something fresh.
Zack Snyder has also shown support for Gunn’s choices. Even though Snyder’s time leading the DC Universe is over, Gunn said the two filmmakers are still in touch and there are “no hard feelings” between them.
This movie, simply called Superman, is the first big chapter in the new DC Universe created by James Gunn and producer Peter Safran. The film will arrive in theaters on July 11, 2025. Along with David Corenswet as Superman, the movie stars Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor.
Fans are excited to see what this new Superman will bring — and the return of the red trunks is just the beginning.
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