Photo Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures / DC Studios
James Gunn addressed the backlash surrounding new footage of David Corenswet in the latest TV spot for Superman. The scene, featuring Superman flying over icy terrains, sparked debates among fans regarding the visual effects. Gunn responded by clarifying aspects of the filmmaking process, emphasizing the use of practical techniques and real locations.
Fans compare David Corenswet’s flying shot with past Superman actors
The release of a new TV spot for James Gunn’s Superman, featuring David Corenswet as the titular hero in flight, has ignited comparisons among fans. One user remarked, “Man of Steel was over 10 years ago and it still looks light years better than JG’s Superman!”
Man of Steel was over 10 years ago and it still Looks light years better than JG’s Superman! This downgrade is diabolical! ? pic.twitter.com/XcPFlSDexw— CINEHOUSE ? (@itscinehouse) January 27, 2025
Another post stated, “The downgrade is insane.” Some fans even compared the visuals unfavorably to the CW’s Superman & Lois, with one user writing, “Getting mogged by a Superman CW show with 1/20 the budget.”
The downgrade is insane ? #Superman pic.twitter.com/Js3uldLUcp— themarvelousmarc (@marvelousmarc96) January 26, 2025
Getting mogged by a Superman CW show with 1/20 the budget btw https://t.co/Nn4ITslSlh pic.twitter.com/PAbLrONII9— Forgive Me Father, For I Have Zyn’d (@MartyMcTweet) January 26, 2025
Fan discussions have focused on side-by-side videos of Corenswet’s Superman flying alongside footage of Henry Cavill’s Superman in Man of Steel and Tyler Hoechlin’s in Superman & Lois.
If you want recent examples, pick any flight scene from Superman & Lois. Despite them working with a much smaller budget compared to this movie, the showrunners still delivered on the quality pic.twitter.com/wpPXi8cJXs— Enlightenment Artist #ArtistryAndCinema ?? ? (@VenganceArtist_) January 27, 2025
The debates primarily center on Gunn’s stylistic choices, with critics pointing to a reliance on brighter visuals and CGI. Positive reactions have surfaced, but critics continue to question whether this new vision lives up to previous adaptations.
I’m not going to lie his face looks a little wonky but I know CGI always gets 10x better the closer we get to the movie. But as far as Tv spots goes David Corenswet looks great, Also Lex looks bad ass I’m obsessed. Nothing can stop me from seeing #SUPERMAN July 11!! pic.twitter.com/7Xlr3tKWGi— Bella ?? (@BellaLoveNote) January 26, 2025
pic.twitter.com/eJQeNuXdZj— MyTimeToShineHello (@MyTimeToShineH) January 27, 2025
James Gunn says no CGI was used in David Corenswet’s new Superman shot
James Gunn addressed fan criticisms regarding the flight scene, particularly claims that CGI was used to alter Corenswet’s face. “There is absolutely zero CG in his face,” Gunn stated on Threads. “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.”
This is another instance of Gunn clarifying technical details about the film. He previously addressed debates over color palettes and lens choices in the trailer. Gunn combines practical effects with stylistic flourishes to present Superman’s world in a fresh, immersive way.
Despite his clarifications, the flight scene remains a focal point of discussion. Anticipation for the July 11, 2025, release of Superman continues to grow.
