James Gunn: No CG Used on Superman’s Flying Face in TV Spot

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 debate over the weekend. The 30-second video showcased two new scenes: Lex Luthor disembarking from a helicopter in a snowy wilderness, possibly in search of the Fortress of Solitude, and Superman performing a barrel roll as he flies over an icy landscape towards an unknown destination.

The internet was quick to comment on David Corenswet's portrayal of Superman, particularly focusing on his facial expression during the flying sequence. Some viewers felt that Superman's face appeared unnaturally still, especially with his hair and cape billowing in the wind, leading to speculation about "wonky CGI." However, Gunn took to Threads to clarify that no CGI was used on Superman's face in the shot. Responding to a fan who praised the TV spot but noted a slight oddity in Superman's face, Gunn stated, "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, the Norwegian archipelago, served as a filming location for parts of the movie.

This revelation confirms that David Corenswet's seemingly knowing smirk while flying towards the camera is entirely natural, possibly enhanced by a fan blowing on his face during filming. Despite Gunn's clarification, fans continue to discuss and compare the shot to similar scenes, such as Adam Warlock's flying sequence in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, which was also written and directed by Gunn.

The excitement for the Superman movie remains high, with its release scheduled for July 11, 2025. As the first film in the DCU's Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, it has generated significant interest. IGN provides comprehensive coverage, including an explainer on all the DC Heroes and Villains in the new trailer, insights from James Gunn on Krypto being a rather mischievous dog in the film, discussions on how Superman embodies hope, and more.