James Gunn: No CG Used in Superman's Flying Face, TV Spot Clarified

DC Studios co-chief James Gunn has addressed the online buzz surrounding Superman's flying face after a new TV spot for the upcoming Superman movie sparked widespread discussion.

Over the weekend, DC Studios unveiled a fresh 30-second TV spot that included two previously unreleased scenes: one featuring Lex Luthor disembarking from a helicopter in a snowy wilderness, potentially on a quest to locate the Fortress of Solitude, and another showcasing Superman performing a barrel roll as he soars over an icy terrain towards an undisclosed location.

A fan on Threads remarked, "Looks dope. Great camera angle of Superman flying! Except there's something with his face that looks a little off. I know there's plenty of time to refine the CG."

Gunn responded directly, stating, "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." Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago, served as a filming location for parts of the Superman movie.

This confirms that the facial expression—seemingly a knowing smirk as Superman speeds toward the camera—was captured naturally, possibly with the aid of a fan blowing on actor David Corenswet's face.

Despite Gunn's clarification, fans continue to discuss and compare the shot to scenes featuring Adam Warlock flying in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, another film written and directed by Gunn. Amidst this debate, there remains high anticipation for the Superman movie, which is set to premiere on July 11, 2025, marking the inaugural film of the DCU's Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. IGN provides comprehensive coverage, including insights into the DC Heroes and Villains featured in the new trailer, Gunn's comments on Krypto's less-than-ideal behavior in the film, reflections on the theme of hope in Superman, and more.