James Gunn Confirms 'Absolutely Zero CG' in Superman’s Flying Face After TV Spot Raises Eyebrows

DC Studios co-chief James Gunn addressed online criticism regarding Superman's facial expression in a recent TV spot. The 30-second spot featured new footage: Lex Luthor exiting a helicopter in a snowy wilderness, and Superman performing a barrel roll while flying over an icy landscape.

One Threads user commented on the spot's "dope" visuals, specifically praising the Superman flight angle, but noted a slight oddity with his facial expression. Gunn's response directly addressed this, emphasizing the absence of CGI and explaining the effect of the wide-angle lens. He stated, "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.”

Despite the clarification, discussion continues, with comparisons drawn to the flying Adam Warlock scene in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, also directed by Gunn. The Superman film, releasing July 11, 2025, is the inaugural film of the DCU's Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. For further information, IGN offers details on the DC heroes and villains in the trailer, James Gunn's comments on Krypto's canine temperament, the film's thematic focus on hope, and more.