Stan Lee Wanted a More Human Superman—Here’s How DC Responded

With a fresh face stepping into the iconic red and blue suit, the DC Universe is entering a new chapter. David Corenswet and James Gunn have brought back a classic look, a sense of nostalgia, and a return to the Fortress of Solitude. Years ago, Stan Lee, the legendary Marvel creator, shared his thoughts on how he would have approached the Kryptonian hero if he’d been given the chance.

Stan Lee’s Take on Superman’s Character

In a 2006 interview, Lee addressed a question he often received:

People often ask me which of the DC characters would I have liked to have written, and it really doesn’t matter to me ’cause I like writing anything.

He went on to explain his unique perspective:

I think if I had done Superman I would have done him differently. I would have made him more vulnerable. I think the idea of being able to do anything makes you a little uninteresting.

Lee, the creative force behind Marvel’s most beloved heroes, believed that flaws and weaknesses make characters compelling. His approach to storytelling helped shape icons like Iron Man, Spider-Man, the X-Men, and the Hulk. Lee’s legacy continues to influence the way we see superheroes today.

How Zack Snyder’s Vision Echoed Lee’s Ideas

Lee’s thoughts on vulnerability found a parallel in Zack Snyder’s 2013 film, Man of Steel. While the movie didn’t win over every critic, it struck a chord with audiences. Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Clark Kent resonated not just for the action or the visuals, but for the emotional depth and relatability of the character.

Snyder’s version of the hero was grounded, approachable, and deeply connected to humanity. Even Bruce Wayne, in Justice League, remarked:

He’s more human than I am. He lived in this world, fell in love, had a job. In spite of all that power.

Clark’s upbringing on Earth, guided by Martha and Jonathan Kent, shaped his sense of responsibility and empathy. When faced with threats like General Zod, his motivation was always rooted in protecting the people around him.

James Gunn’s Challenge: Moving Beyond the Flawless Hero

James Gunn is steering the DC Universe toward a more comic-accurate direction, aiming to capture the spirit of the original stories. He once said:

I think that old-fashioned is something that’s really beautiful and, in its own way, the most rebellious thing about that character.

However, some fans feel that this approach risks making the hero feel distant and one-dimensional. Unlike Snyder’s take, which forced the character to confront real-world dilemmas, Gunn’s version could benefit from a more nuanced, human touch. With Brainiac set as the next villain and a partnership with Lex Luthor on the horizon, there’s hope for deeper storytelling ahead.

Comparing the Modern Superman Films

Here’s a quick look at how the recent films stack up:

Man of Steel (2013) was directed by Zack Snyder and produced by Legendary Pictures, DC Entertainment, and Syncopy. It earned a 7.1/10 on IMDb, 57% on Rotten Tomatoes, and grossed $670 million at the box office.

Superman (2025), directed by James Gunn and produced by DC Studios, Troll Court Entertainment, and The Safran Company, also holds a 7.1/10 on IMDb, but boasts an 83% on Rotten Tomatoes and brought in $616 million.

Both Man of Steel and the 2025 Superman are available to stream on HBO Max.