(Image Source: DC)
Speculation has run wild since James Gunn confirmed there was one role yet to be cast in the upcoming DC Universe movie Man of Tomorrow, both in regards to what the role is and which actors might play it. Some outlets began reporting that the role was for the Superman antagonist Maxima, and though Gunn was quick to deny the the casting rumors and the role, the alien warrior queen would be an eclectic choice that fits Gunn’s history of adapting obscure comic book characters.
Who is Maxima in DC Comics?
Created by Roger Stern and George Perez, Maxima first appeared in 1989’s Action Comics #645. She was queen of the intergalactic empire of Almerac, which had an ancient culture where rulership was based on combat prowess. As such, she sought a worthy man to father her heir. When she heard tales of Superman and determined she was genetically compatible with a Kryptonian, she traveled to Earth to seek him out. Unfortunately for her, Superman had little interest in being the consort of a tyrant queen.
(Image Source: DC)
This led Maxima to team up with Brainiac after he destroyed her home planet. This was partly to protect what remained of her empire and partly to get revenge on Superman. However, she betrayed Brainiac and lobotomized him when Earth’s heroes challenged him.
Despite her arrogance and ruthlessness, Maxima was allowed to join the Justice League. She did this hoping to impress Superman by proving she could do good as he did. In time, however, she came to appreciate doing good on its own merits. She ultimately sacrificed herself to stop a revived Brainiac from destroying the universe during the 2001 Our Worlds at War event.
(Image Source: DC)
How Maxima could win over DCU fans
While Gunn has not confirmed Maxima is in Man of Tomorrow, the idea makes sense on several levels. Gunn’s previous DC Comics adaptations drew heavily off of the Post-Crisis era when Maxima was introduced. Also, Gunn has a fondness for anti-heroes like Maxima. Her redemption arc seems like the sort of story he would redevelop for the DCU with a favorite actor like Adria Arjona.
Another point is that Man of Tomorrow will feature Brainiac as the main villain. The Superman storyline Panic in the Sky, where Maxima and Brainiac joined forces, would make a good movie. The event also featured multiple heroes, including Guy Gardner and the Justice League. With or without Maxima, it would be an ideal basis for another ensemble-driven superhero movie like 2025’s Superman.
(Image Source: DC)
Beyond Gunn’s inclinations, there is much Maxima has to offer as a character that could win over audiences. If her stalker tendencies were tempered, she could be a different sort of romantic rival to Lois Lane than Lana Lang. Her temper and total lack of humor would make her an ideal foil to more comedic DCU characters, akin to Drax from Guardians of the Galaxy. She would also make for an interesting contrast to the more compassionate Wonder Woman when she is introduced into the DCU.
