DC Studios’ Superman director swiftly counters reports of extensive additional photography, clarifying the limited scope of upcoming production plans. Following test screenings of DC’s highly anticipated Superman reboot, speculation emerged about potential reshoots for the film, prompting director James Gunn to provide more details about the actual scale of additional filming. When asked on Threads about the truth of the rumors of reshoots surrounding the film, Gunn replied: “Sort of. Not a few days. We’re doing a day and a half of pickup shots. No scenes. No reshoots. Just a handful of individual shots to enhance the film.”
Videos by ComicBook.com
The Hollywood Reporter’s Heat Vision Newsletter initially reported that the movie would undergo additional shooting in Los Angeles following recent test screenings with Gunn’s “close-knit crew of people.” However, this timeline appears to have been overstated, according to Gunn’s response.
Such minimal additional photography is considerably restrained for a blockbuster of this magnitude, particularly in comparison to other recent superhero projects like Captain America: Brave New World. Filmmakers turn to additional filming for several vital reasons: polishing scenes based on test viewer feedback, bridging story gaps found in the editing room, correcting technical flaws from the main shoot, and creating better integration points for special effects.
Gunn’s filmography supports his measured approach to additional filming. Earlier this year, he noted having completed “a total of one day of reshoots on my past two films combined,” demonstrating his efficiency in initial production phases. This efficiency aligns with Gunn’s recent successes with both Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and The Suicide Squad showed off his ability to deliver compelling superhero narratives with minimal post-production adjustments. Guardians Vol. 3 particularly showcased his skill at balancing emotional depth with spectacular action, earning critical acclaim and box office success while requiring barely any additional filming.
[Related: When to Expect the First Superman Trailer]
This news takes on special significance given Superman’s role in DC Studios’ future. As the cornerstone of the reimagined DC Universe, the film carries the weight of establishing both tone and quality standards for the studio’s new direction. Gunn’s history of executing clearly with few alterations suggests Superman is in steady hands.
The contrast between Gunn’s approach and typical superhero movie production is striking. While many comic book films undergo weeks or even months of reshoots, Gunn’s precise methodology points to thorough pre-production planning and confident execution. This efficiency not only streamlines the creative process but often results in more cohesive final products that maintain their original vision.
Superman, scheduled for release on July 11, 2025, features an ensemble cast led by David Corenswet (Pearl) as Superman/Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) as Lois Lane. DC Studios co-CEO Peter Safran previously revealed that while not an origin story, the narrative will explore “Superman balancing his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing. Superman represents truth, justice and the American way. He is kindness in a world that thinks of kindness as old fashioned.”
The limited scope of additional filming suggests confidence in the existing footage, particularly following recent test screenings conducted with Gunn’s trusted associates. As the film progresses through post-production, anticipation builds for the first glimpse of footage, with industry insiders speculating about a potential teaser trailer release before year’s end. Given Gunn’s proven track record and methodical approach, these minimal pickup shots may be all that’s needed to ready Superman for his highly anticipated flight back to theaters.
