James Gunn Responds to MAGA Backlash Over Superman Comments

The new Superman movie hasn’t even hit theaters yet, but it’s already stirring up strong reactions—not just because of the action scenes. Director James Gunn recently described the superhero as “an immigrant that came from other places,” sparking backlash online, especially from some conservative circles.

The comment came from an interview in The Times of London, where Gunn discussed the themes behind the film, calling it “the story of America” and explaining that, at its core, Superman is about someone trying to find a new life and hold on to simple human kindness.

That was enough to light a fire. Fox News ran with it. Kellyanne Conway accused Gunn of using the movie to push ideology, stating that people “don’t go to the movie theater to be lectured.” Jesse Watters took it further with a snide remark that Superman’s cape might as well read “MS13”—a reference meant to stir up fear rather than foster discussion.

But the cast and crew aren’t backing down. At the film’s premiere in Hollywood, Gunn stood by his comments. When asked about the controversy, he kept it short:

“I don’t have anything to say to anybody spreading hate.”

He wasn’t defensive, just firm. He explained that Superman is for everyone and called it a movie about kindness, something he believes everyone can connect with.

“I’m not here to judge people,” he told Variety. “I think this is a movie about kindness, and I think that’s something everyone can relate to.”

"Somebody needs a hug. It's just a movie, guys."

Actor Nathan Fillion, who plays Guy Gardner (a version of Green Lantern in the film), brushed off the drama with humor.

“Aw, somebody needs a hug,” he joked, then added, “Just a movie, guys.”

Sean Gunn, James’s brother, was more direct. He plays Maxwell Lord in the film and used the moment to underline a point he believes in.

“My reaction to [the backlash] is that it is exactly what the movie is about,” he said. “We support our people, you know? We love our immigrants. Yes, Superman is an immigrant, and yes, the people that we support in this country are immigrants, and if you don’t like that, you’re not American.”

He didn’t mince words. According to him, opposing immigrants goes against the very idea of America and, by extension, against what Superman stands for.

Understanding the Psychology Behind Backlash

The backlash towards James Gunn's comments can be viewed through the lens of Social Identity Theory, which posits that individuals derive self-esteem from their group memberships. Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist, notes, "When individuals feel their identity is threatened, they often react defensively, which can lead to backlash against those perceived as challenging their beliefs" (Dr. Ramani Durvasula). In this case, those who identify strongly with conservative values may feel their identity threatened by Gunn's portrayal of Superman as an immigrant.

"People who say no to immigrants are against the American way."

The pushback likely stems from the idea that superhero movies shouldn’t be “political,” though that argument often falls apart upon closer inspection. Superman has always had political undertones.

He was created by two Jewish teenagers during a time of rising fascism, originally standing for “truth and justice” long before “the American way” was tacked on. His origin story—crashing to Earth as a baby from a doomed planet, raised by humble farmers, and becoming a force for good—is a classic immigrant narrative. Gunn didn’t invent that; he’s just choosing to say it out loud.

What’s striking is how the backlash seems more like an allergic reaction to the idea of empathy. Gunn’s take on Superman isn’t some radical reinterpretation; it’s rooted in the character’s DNA.

But even framing kindness as a core value is now seen by some as “woke.” So yes, the new Superman movie touches on big ideas: identity, belonging, and hope.

That’s not new. What’s new is how controversial it’s suddenly become to say that an alien from Krypton represents the best of what it means to be human. And if that bothers people, maybe the issue isn’t the movie.

People are also more likely to react negatively if they perceive a message to be going against their worldview, a concept known as worldview defense. Dr. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist, explains, "When people feel their beliefs are threatened, they often respond with defensiveness rather than openness." This could explain why Gunn's comments sparked such a divisive reaction. Dr. Jonathan Haidt

What Research Shows About Media Influence

Media has a powerful influence on shaping public opinion, as noted by Dr. Robert Cialdini, a renowned influence researcher, who states, "The way information is presented can significantly alter perceptions and behaviors." By framing Superman as an immigrant, Gunn has the potential to shift viewers' perceptions of immigration, which may be perceived as threatening by those with opposing views. For more insights on the impact of media framing, visit Dr. Robert Cialdini's website.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In conclusion, the backlash towards James Gunn's comments about Superman can be understood through the lens of social identity theory, worldview defense, and the influence of media on public opinion. As noted by Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, "Our identities are deeply intertwined with the narratives we consume, and when these narratives are challenged, it can lead to significant emotional responses." This demonstrates the power of media in shaping our identities and worldviews, and the potential for conflict when these are challenged. For more insights, visit Dr. Susan David's website.