James Gunn was initially against Superman’s Red Trunks until David Corenswet sold him

When the first set photos were published James Gunn’S Superman leaked, one detail has dominated fan conversations… the return of Superman’s red trunks.

For years the logs have disappeared, and have been scrapped along the way Henry Cavillit’s the era of Zack Snyder in an attempt to modernize the character’s aesthetic. Gunn also initially resisted bringing them back. But that all changed thanks to an introduction from the Superman star David Corenswet.

While speaking on the set of Superman Earlier this year, Gunn admitted, “I was part of the no trunks team for a long time.” The director initially explored both looks, testing various costume designs with and without shorts. But it was Corenswet who offered a new perspective that changed Gunn’s mind.

Gunn explained: “David said something that really struck me. He said that Superman wants children not to be afraid of him. He is an alien with incredible powers: he shoots beams from his eyes and can do things that could terrify people.

“But it’s not meant to be scary. It wants to be a symbol of hope and positivity. So he dresses like a professional wrestler, in a way that makes people not afraid of him. This worked for me.

Corenswet’s interpretation of the trunks highlighted a fun and interesting philosophy about the character. For Superman to embody hope, his costume had to embrace his colorful and vibrant origins.

Gunn continued: “Trying to pretend that Superman’s costume doesn’t have some underlying frivolity is silly. He’s the first superhero, brightly colored, and that’s what he is.

While some fans may still debate whether the red trunks are too campy, Gunn stands by the choice. He sees him as a reflection of Superman’s essence and a beacon of optimism and warmth.

We’ll see Superman in action wearing his red shorts in the film’s first trailer, which debuts tomorrow.

Superman will be released in theaters on July 11, 2025.

through: Gizmodo