James Gunn Reveals How Superman’s Most Criticized Shot Was Filmed

James Gunn Reveals How Superman’s Most Criticized Shot Was Filmed

James Gunn has pulled again the curtain on one in all Superman‘s most debated moments, revealing precisely how the movie’s controversial barrel roll flight sequence was completed. In a brand new behind-the-scenes video shared on his Instagram account, the director reveals star David Corenswet strapped right into a sensible rig on a studio stage at Trilith Studios, being bodily spun by a crew member to create the dynamic flying movement. This whole setup is positioned between huge LED screens projecting the snowy mountain panorama that was filmed on location in Svalbard, Norway. The reveal demonstrates a mix of sensible efficiency and cutting-edge digital environments, immediately refuting earlier fan theories that the shot was completely computer-generated.

“On the stage at Trilith taking pictures the barrel roll by means of the mountains. All of the plates have been shot beforehand in Svalbard. 7.26.24,” Gunn wrote within the publish’s caption. The brand new video presents a transparent rationalization for a shot that turned a flashpoint for debate when it first appeared in a Superman TV spot in early 2025. On the time, a section of the viewers criticized the look of the scene, with some calling the visible impact unconvincing and making unfavorable comparisons to flight sequences in earlier variations like Man of Metal and The CW’s Superman & Lois. Probably the most outstanding criticism centered on the assumption that Corenswet’s face was a CGI creation.

Even again then, Gunn addressed the criticism immediately on social media, aiming to debunk the misinformation. “There may be completely zero CG in his face,” he said in a publish on the time. “Folks’s faces can look completely different while you put a wide-angle lens up shut. The background plate in Svalbard is 100% actual, as is David.” With the discharge of this new behind-the-scenes video, Gunn has now offered the visible proof to help his earlier assertion, giving followers a clear take a look at the sensible effort and expertise that introduced Superman’s flight to life.

Superman‘s Success Launches a New DC Universe

David Corenswet as Superman
Picture courtesy of DC Studios

Whereas many doubted DC Studios’ potential to construct a brand new interconnected universe, Superman’s monumental success has shifted the narrative completely. The film has been a field workplace juggernaut, hovering previous $400 million worldwide in two weeks and incomes widespread acclaim from critics and audiences, evidenced by its A- CinemaScore and 92% viewers rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This efficiency not solely vindicates the movie’s particular artistic decisions however, extra importantly, supplies a secure launchpad for your complete DC Universe. The success proves that the brand new management at DC Studios can ship a certifiable blockbuster that connects with a mass viewers, constructing important belief and business momentum for the bold slate of initiatives that may observe.

The following DCU undertaking, Peacemaker Season 2, has been confirmed by Gunn to be a “direct follow-up” to the occasions of Superman, that includes returning characters and persevering with the world-building established within the movie. The anticipation for that collection is now amplified, as will probably be the primary alternative for audiences to see the quick penalties and enlargement of Gunn’s new universe. Past that, the trail is paved for main theatrical releases like Supergirl in June 2026 and Clayface in September 2026, which might now be developed with the arrogance that comes from a profitable flagship title. Whereas a direct Superman sequel has not but been formally introduced, the movie’s important and monetary triumphs make it a digital certainty. The overwhelmingly constructive reception to Corenswet’s portrayal and the story’s world ensures that DC Studios has each purpose to proceed Clark Kent’s journey, with the liberty to discover this new mythology for years to come back.

Superman is now taking part in in theaters.

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