James Gunn emphasizes kindness in 'Superman' amid immigration controversy

In the United States, 'Superman' director James Gunn faced significant backlash for comments he made regarding the immigrant narrative woven into the superhero's story. In an interview prior to the movie's release on July 11, 2025, Gunn remarked that Superman's origins reflect the story of immigrants to America, highlighting values of kindness and morality. His statements ignited criticism, especially among right-wing commentators who viewed his remarks as politically charged amidst heightened discussions around immigration policy in the country. Notably, Dean Cain, a former Superman actor, publicly disapproved of Gunn's perspective, suggesting that it was a misstep to connect Superman's immigration story to contemporary issues. In response to the backlash, Gunn clarified that his film aims to spotlight kindness as a core human value, indicating the need for a societal shift towards compassion. He believes that conversations about immigration are essential, especially in light of ongoing national discussions about immigration raids. The creative origins of Superman trace back to Jewish immigrant creators Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, which adds historical context to the character’s immigrant metaphor. Despite the divisive reactions, the themes of kindness and morality remain central to Gunn's vision for the film, inviting audiences to re-evaluate their perspectives on both Superman and American values.