James Gunn Clarifies: No CG Used on Superman's Face in Flying Scenes

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 discussions. Released over the weekend, the 30-second clip features two new scenes: Lex Luthor disembarking from a helicopter in a snowy wilderness, possibly in search of the Fortress of Solitude, and Superman performing a barrel roll as he flies over an icy landscape towards an unknown destination.

Viewers quickly took to social media to discuss the shot of Superman in flight, with some pointing out that his face appeared unnaturally still despite his hair and cape billowing in the wind. Speculations about "wonky CGI" were rife until Gunn responded on Threads to a fan's comment about the CGI needing refinement. He 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.

This revelation means that the expression on David Corenswet's face, which some have described as a knowing smirk, was captured naturally as he flew towards the camera, possibly aided by a powerful fan.

Despite Gunn's explanation, fans continue to debate the aesthetics of the shot, drawing comparisons to the flying Adam Warlock from Gunn's Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Amidst the discussion, there remains high anticipation for the Superman movie, set to premiere on July 11, 2025, as the inaugural film in the DCU's Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. IGN offers detailed insights into the new trailer, featuring all the DC Heroes and Villains, James Gunn's take on Krypto's less-than-ideal behavior, the theme of hope in Superman, and more.