DC Studios co-chief James Gunn has addressed the online buzz surrounding Superman's flying face after a new TV spot for the upcoming Superman movie sparked debate.
Over the weekend, DC Studios unveiled a fresh TV spot for the much-anticipated Superman film, and fans were quick to comment on David Corenswet's portrayal of Superman in flight.
The 30-second clip features two new scenes: Lex Luthor exiting a helicopter in a snowy wilderness, likely on a quest for the Fortress of Solitude, and Superman executing a barrel roll over an icy terrain as he races towards an unknown destination.
Some viewers pointed out that Superman's face seemed oddly static while his hair and cape fluttered in the wind, attributing it to "wonky CGI." However, Gunn set the record straight on Threads, responding to a fan who praised the spot but critiqued the CGI on Superman's face."Looks dope," the Threads user commented. "Great camera angle of Superman flying! Except there's something with his face that looks a little off. I know there's plenty of time to refine the CG."
Gunn clarified, "There is absolutely zero CG in his face. 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." Svalbard, the Norwegian archipelago, served as a filming location for parts of the movie.
Thus, it's confirmed that Superman's flying face is entirely natural, showcasing David Corenswet's genuine expression as he flies towards the camera—or perhaps as a fan blew air on his face during filming.
Despite Gunn's explanation, fans continue to discuss and compare the shot to Adam Warlock's flying scenes in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, another project penned and directed by Gunn. Alongside this short clip, excitement for the Superman movie remains high. Set to premiere on July 11, 2025, it marks the inaugural film of the DCU's Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. For more insights, check out IGN's explainer on all the DC Heroes and Villains in the new trailer, Gunn's comments on Krypto being a pretty terrible dog in the movie, reflections on how Superman embodies hope, and more.