James Gunn Discusses “Superman” and the Themes of Kindness and Immigration

Director James Gunn, known for his work on “Superman,” shared his thoughts on the film during a recent interview. He expressed curiosity about what audiences might find “awakened” in the movie, especially after receiving mixed reactions to some of his comments.

“I’ve heard people say they’ve woken up, and then I’ve heard a lot of people say it’s not,” he noted, reflecting on the diverse range of responses. He seemed genuinely intrigued by the different interpretations people have about his film.

In an earlier conversation with a newspaper, Gunn reiterated his belief that “Superman” tells an American story—not just about a hero, but about immigrants who come to the country. He emphasized how the character’s origin is simply rooted in the human experience of seeking a better life.

The original “Superman” actor remarked that the characters in the story should help “restore the way of life in America.” It’s a sentiment that resonates with many, especially when considering the current climate around immigration and national identity.

Gunn pointed out that a reporter brought up how Superman’s co-creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, were sons of immigrants, and that the characters were inherently tied to immigrant narratives. “I said, yeah, it’s a story about immigration, but it’s a story about kindness for me. That’s the heart of the film,” he explained.

He further elaborated that kindness is a universal theme that anyone can embrace. “What does that lead to? Does it lead to the way you vote? It was at the heart of the film for me, and it wasn’t anything else,” he added, indicating the deeper moral questions embedded within the narrative.

Since the character’s debut in 1938, “Superman” has been a symbol of hope and perseverance. Created by Siegel and Shuster, the story of a being sent from the dying planet Krypton to Earth, embodies themes of survival and new beginnings.

Despite the challenges faced, including pushback against his earlier comments during a time of national debate over immigration, Gunn stood firm on the idea that his film focuses on kindness and morality, perhaps more than on politics. He acknowledged that some criticisms might stem from a misunderstanding of his intentions, stating, “And obviously there is a jerk who attacks as being offensive just because it is about kindness.”