James Gunn Drops Full 'Superman' Script Online, Surprising Fans

Seven months after the much-anticipated release, James Gunn has surprised fans by sharing the complete script for his Superman film online. As the first entry in DC Studios’ new line-up, this film lays the groundwork for the Gods and Monsters saga, a sweeping narrative Gunn and Peter Safran are set to explore across a string of films and telly series. With the animated Creature Commandos already out, Superman has given punters a clearer idea of what’s in store for this fresh universe—one where metahumans have been around for ages, not just popping up overnight.

Gunn’s no stranger to putting his scripts out there for the public. He’s previously shared the screenplays for his Guardians of the Galaxy flicks, making it clear he reckons the story should always come first in any production. He’s a stickler for having a finished script before moving on to anything else in pre-production. Now, fans can see exactly how Gunn penned the first chapter of the new DCU, including a scene with Krypto that never made it to the big screen. In this cut bit, which Gunn has mentioned before, Superman gives Krypto a stern talking-to, telling him to stop taking out Abominable Snowmen living near the Fortress of Solitude. These creatures are described as

‘gigantic white kaijus covered in fur’

, adding a wild, fantastical edge to the new DCU. It’s a far cry from the early days of the MCU and DCEU, which took a more grounded approach and introduced heroes at a slower pace. Gunn’s script isn’t shy about throwing new faces into the mix, letting the audience get swept up in the world without bogging things down with too much explanation.

Behind the Scenes: Deleted Moments and Character Focus

With the script now out in the open, there’s heaps for fans to pick apart and discuss, from the way Gunn balances heartfelt moments with a bit of cheek, to the focus on character over world-building. One standout is just how much of the script is dedicated to Lois Lane’s early interview with Superman. It’s clear Gunn wanted to shine a light on Clark’s core values and his dynamic with Lois, rather than just setting up the next big action sequence.

The script also gives a glimpse at what ended up on the cutting room floor. There’s an earlier draft, once posted to the WB Awards site, that features a different rhythm, especially in the third act’s big punch-ups between Superman and Ultraman. This version ramps up the tension in the Jarhanpur scenes and even has Anthony Carrigan’s Metamorpho making a solo appearance. It’s a fascinating look at how scripts evolve before hitting the screen.

Opening Up the Creative Process

Getting a look at the full script offers a rare window into the creative process behind a blockbuster. For fans, it’s a chance to see how a story takes shape, what gets left behind, and how filmmakers like Gunn weave together emotion and spectacle. By putting his screenplay out there, Gunn not only gives fans more to chew on, but also stirs up excitement for what’s next in the saga—especially with Man of Tomorrow on the horizon.