James Gunn’s Superman is going to exist in a world that is already populated by heroes and villains. Unlike Iron Man and the MCU, the DCU is already going to start out with superheroes as an active part of public life. A large part of the thesis of Superman would be what it means to be a superhero. The rumored plot for Superman would see the character inspiring others to be like him, to work towards the greater good, rather than self-interest.
The New Gods, especially Darkseid, has been a huge part of Superman’s mythos, and while he might not be the first film material, it’s only a matter of time before the character appears in his full glory. Given the universe that James Gunn is trying to set up, and the characters in the story arc he is setting up for Superman, it would make sense this version of the DCU is populated with Superman analogs that DC owns, such as Orion.
While Superman sets an example for the heroes of Earth, Orion can serve as a dark reflection of Superman
Orion was the child of Darkseid who was raised by the Highfather, as a part of a peace treaty between the warring worlds of New Genesis and Apokolips. Orion would come to blows with his father multiple times, having strength that could rival Superman and Wonder Woman. The character has always been portrayed as an intergalactic soldier, serving as a testament to what Superman would have been, had he been a part of the warring culture of Krypton during its last days.
While Superman inspires hope in the people of Earth, Orion, while heroic, could serve as a reminder of the character of his past, and how much of who he is is because of Ma and Pa Kent, and not his Kyptonian heritage. James Gunn could bring Orion into the DCU as not only a cautionary tale for other heroes but also possibly to fuel paranoia about Superman in the likes of Batman (not that he needs a reason).
However, given the approach the DCU is taking with its worldbuilding, the franchise, and Gunn, have the opportunity to introduce other Superman analogs that can make the Man of Steel stand out among a sea of heroes and ant-heroes.
While Superman sets an example for heroes, another film could show audiences what makes Superman, Superman
DC has a wealth of characters that are directly or indirectly inspired by Superman. As James Gunn tries to reestablish what it means to be a superhero with Superman, the director could also work towards distinguishing Superman in its follow-up. It is imperative that the character is defined among a cast of peers such as Icon, Captain Comet, Martian Manhunter, Shazam, Apollo, and Orion.
These characters have similar powers to Superman and serve as expys of him for other companies that DC eventually bought out. However, each of these characters has a flaw that, despite their comparable power to Superman, causes them to fall short of the monicker.
James Gunn could follow up his alleged treatise on superhero fiction with a nuanced take on Superman, explored with fan favorite and niche characters, which the director is very good at keeping authentic while also making them palatable for mainstream audiences.
Superman is set to debut in theatres on July 11, 2025
