James Gunn Drops Full 'Superman' Script Online, Surprising Fans
James Gunn has made the entire script for his 'Superman' film available online, giving fans a rare look at the story, including scenes that were cut and deeper character moments.
Seven months after the movie hit theaters, James Gunn has taken to social media to announce that the complete script for his Superman film is now available online. As the first entry in DC Studios’ new lineup, this film lays the groundwork for the Gods and Monsters saga—a sweeping narrative Gunn and his co-chair Peter Safran plan to unfold across multiple movies and TV series. With the animated Creature Commandos series already out, Superman has set the tone for this fresh universe, one where metahumans have long been part of everyday life.
Gunn has a history of sharing his scripts with the public, previously posting the screenplays for his Guardians of the Galaxy movies. He’s always emphasized that the story comes first in any production, making sure the script is locked before moving forward with pre-production. Now, fans can see exactly how Gunn crafted the first chapter of the new DCU, including a scene featuring Krypto that didn’t make the final cut. In this moment, which Gunn had mentioned before, Superman scolds Krypto for attacking Abominable Snowmen living near the Fortress of Solitude. These creatures are described as “gigantic white kaijus covered in fur,” adding a fantastical element to the new universe. This approach stands in contrast to the more grounded beginnings of the MCU and DCEU, where new heroes were introduced gradually. Gunn’s script isn’t shy about throwing new characters into the mix, letting viewers get swept up in the world without heavy-handed explanations.
Unseen Scenes and Character Focus
With the script now public, there’s a wealth of new material for fans to dig into and analyze. The screenplay highlights Gunn’s ability to blend genuine emotion with humor, and his focus on character arcs over world-building is especially clear. One standout section is the extended interview between Lois Lane and Superman early in the script, which reveals just how much Gunn wanted to spotlight Clark’s core beliefs and his dynamic with Lois.
The script also gives a glimpse at what was left on the cutting room floor. An earlier draft, previously posted to the WB Awards site, features a different pace—especially in the third act’s action sequences with Superman and Ultraman. These scenes ramp up the tension in Jarhanpur and even have Anthony Carrigan’s Metamorpho making a solo appearance. For fans, it ’s a rare chance to see how the story evolved before reaching the big screen.
Behind the Scenes of the Writing Process
Getting a look at the scriptwriting process and how a film comes together is always fascinating. By releasing his screenplay, Gunn offers fans a behind-the-scenes peek at the creative journey, from early drafts to the finished product. It’s a move that not only deepens appreciation for the film but also builds excitement for what’s next in the DCU, especially with Man of Tomorrow on the horizon.