James Gunn’s ‘Superman: Legacy’ Takes an Unexpected Turn with the Inclusion of The Authority.

From the get-go, James Gunn has been candid about how his upcoming DC film will feature a more upbeat tone, akin to his previous comic book endeavours (though there has been promise of the tone not treading as far). However, a new detail that emerged a while back [seemingly] corroborates the claim, whilst hinting at the tonal direction for Superman: Legacy.

James Gunn has spoken about how the Chris Reeves’ Superman films have [sort of] been a major inspiration for his budding Superman: Legacy feature film. This points to favouring more lightheartedness in his interpretation of the character when compared to Zack Snyder’s take on the character in the DCEU.

Although, it seems all won’t be all fun and games as the presence of The Authority could pivot things toward a darker stance. Basically, The Authority are a group of superheroes who favour the use of force and extremity when saving the day, as opposed to the usual ‘kill ’em with kindness’ trope we’ve come to expect from major superhero ideologies; especially that of Superman’s. This will no doubt put both parties at odds, if they were to come in contact with each other — a premise that 2022’s Black Adam also played with.

As this faction of superheroes are also set to get their own feature film in DCU’s future, one can expect their extremity that could potentially be showcased in Superman: Legacy to be apmed up, to say the least. However, the conflict between The Authority and Superman in the latter’s feature film could boil down to just how involved they are with the story and plot. Hence, if their appearance only exist to set up their upcoming feature, then the lighthearted nature of Superman: Legacy could stay intact all the way; but if their appearance goes beyond just a cameo, then a [necessary] tonal shift could occur. And such could be the case since this movie while a reboot, isn’t an origin story. As it has been confirmed that the character of Superman will acknowledge the existence of other heroic entities within the world of DCU.

Then there’s also the comic side of things to consider, which follows the story of a morally grey Superman who decides to solicit help [with saving the world] from The Authority. Of course, that comic series features a more aged Superman, who happens to be losing his powers as well. But since that is far from the case with the hero in the upcoming feature. The former opinion seems to hold more credence.

Though recently, James Gunn seemingly debunked claims of The Authority appearing in the feature. But that hasn’t quelled the ongoing hype surrounding the possibility as it will be something to look out for. Something that could in fact begin giving context to the connectivity of the DCU.

Superman: Legacy is set to release in Cinemas, July 11, 2025.