Playing a superhero means skyrocketing to fame, but these days, it’s not just the actors who are stealing the spotlight. Directors are getting a lot more recognition too, earning praise and landing new deals for multiple projects in the MCU and DCU.
However, it’s a whole different level when someone manages to direct for both franchises. James Gunn knows this best. Not only did he direct the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, but he also just wrapped up filming the new Superman. Proudly, he took to social media to celebrate both achievements.
James Gunn Celebrates Guardians Of The Galaxy And Superman
James Gunn was already a well-known name in the industry, but he gained even more prominence by directing the Guardians of the Galaxy films in the MCU. The trilogy was highly praised, taking its time to develop the story of the group of intergalactic outlaws.
Just as Avengers: Endgame took about ten years to hit theaters, Gunn’s project also benefited from a long development period. Even though it’s a series of films, it shows that when Marvel invests so much time into something, the outcome is usually impressive. Plus, having a skilled director and screenwriter like Gunn raises the bar even higher.
He is one of the few directors who has had the opportunity to create and lead an independent trilogy within the MCU, which is a very big deal. With such dedication to the first two films, the result in the cinema may have been what attracted Warner Bros. to call him to direct The Suicide Squad. And that’s when everything changed.
The relationship Gunn started with DC paid off, eventually leading him to become one of the studio’s CEOs. The new Superman film marks the start of a new era, part of Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. Gunn explained that it was a long and challenging process, with this being the longest production schedule he’s ever had for a movie.
To mark the end of filming Superman, the director also took the chance to highlight the 10-year anniversary of the Marvel trilogy he helmed. Guardians of the Galaxy represents the peak of his decade-long work with Marvel. Despite his conflicts with the studio, he proudly showcases his achievements with them:
Now with his name leading the new lineup of productions from DC, it’s clear that audiences are about to experience a major fresh start for the studio.
What Guardians Of The Galaxy Meant For The MCU
It’s widely known that the MCU is meticulously planned and structured, but some specific projects play a crucial role in shaping the entire universe. Guardians of the Galaxy was one of those key projects, which makes it more fitting than ever to celebrate the full journey of its three films.
For those who may not remember, two significant new characters were introduced in the last film, and are expected to play key roles in Marvel’s new phase.
The High Evolutionary is a powerful character known for his high-tech suit that helps him heal and his telekinetic abilities. In the comics, he’s linked to other MCU characters, like the X-Men, in some pretty interesting ways.
Meanwhile, Adam Warlock has something to do with Thanos. Although the Infinity Gems and the Avengers’ villain may not make a return, their stories are still deeply connected in the original material. Given the post-credits scene in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, it’s likely that the new character will also join Rocket and Groot in a new lineup of the Guardians.
In addition, a solo project for Peter Quill was something James Gunn had even considered in the past. With his departure from Marvel, there’s no concrete plan yet, but it could be a future possibility given the character’s conclusion.
Plus, with two Avengers films on the horizon and the Guardians playing a key role in Infinity War and Endgame, there’s much to look forward to. For now, it’s a matter of waiting to see what happens.
Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy is available to stream on Disney+. Superman is scheduled to premiere on July 11, 2025 in theaters.
