5 comic books to read to get ready for James Gunn’s Superman 

Superman (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)
Superman (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)

James Gunn's Superman is the latest DC movie that hopes to reshape the universe. With its recently released teaser, the film has already started smashing records. The excitement doesn't seem surprising considering the amount of surprises it offers to the studio fanbase. Besides David Corenswet taking over the role of caped hero, there are many new faces that the teaser promises us. Rachel Brosnahan stars as Lois Lane while Nicholas Hault as Lex Luthor. However, there were a few surprises as well.

As expected, the teaser showed the LuthorCorp building, but it also offered a glimpse of the Stagg industries. There are a few more characters and places from the superhero's lore that end up in the teaser. While the teaser is out, the film is slated to premiere on July 11, 2025. So, there is enough time for people to prepare themselves for the big-screen experience and to ensure that they're not missing out on anything. If you're wondering which comics you can read for this purpose, we've got you covered! Here's your reading guide for the James Gunn film.


Here are the best comics to read before going to watch James Gunn's Superman:

1. All-Star Superman

All-Star Superman (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)
All-Star Superman (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)

James Gunn noted Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely's 'All-Star Superman' as a key inspiration for the tone of his new film. He mentioned that the film won't be the comic's adaptation but will be rather similar to the version presented in these comics. David Corenswet also spoke about reading this comic series on Gunn's suggestion to prepare for his new film. It is particularly helpful for fans who want to understand the emotional core behind Kal-El's story and the sacrifices he makes on his journey.


2. Superman for All Seasons

Clark & Pa Kent (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)
Clark & Pa Kent (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)

Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale's 'Superman for All Seasons' (Vol. 1) can be an important point of reference for fans who wish to understand the superhero as a human being. It also features drawings resembling a frame in the teaser where Clark sits next to Pa Kent. Besides everything else, it offers an insight into how people around Clark looked at him.


3. Dark Nights: Death Metal The Secret Origin

Krypto next to the Man of Steel (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)
Krypto next to the Man of Steel (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)

The adorable Krypto briefly appears in the new teaser and offers a look into his close relationship with the caped hero. He swiftly reaches up to his friend, who's wounded and likely unable to move, and offers him comfort. If you want to learn why the dog is important in the DC hero's universe, you should read 'Dark Nights: Death Metal The Secret Origin' (Vol. 1). Krypto is the soul of the comic, who becomes the beacon of warmth in the hero's challenging times.

On another note, you should also check out 'The Coming of Atlas, Part 4 - Man of Yore, Dog of Tomorrow' if you want to know more about Krypto as the Superdog.


4. Justice League International

Guy Gardner (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)
Guy Gardner (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)

The new Superman film shows a few other heroes and his adversaries. One of them happens to be Green Lantern Corps member Guy Gardner. Unlike Hal Jordan, who's possibly the most recognized Green Lantern, Guy Gardner has many negative qualities. He has a hard time with being a team member and following orders. 'Justice League International' is a good starting point to learn about this arrogant character before the movie's release.


5. Hawkgirl

Hawkgirl (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)
Hawkgirl (Image via YouTube/@dcofficial)

The teaser for the new James Gunn movie shows Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, flying in the sky with her weapon. Even though she appears for a brief moment, she creates the necessary intrigue for this character. The comics explore her rich backstory that offers a closer look into her powers. If any fans want to know more about this female hero, the six-issue series of 'Hawkgirl' (Vol 2) can be helpful.


Also Read: 7 easter eggs you might have missed from the new Superman trailer, explored

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Edited by Sarah Nazamuddin Harniswala