James Gunn debunks a major claim on the new Superman flying scene 

James Gunn recently addressed a major claim regarding the flying scenes in his upcoming Superman film, featuring David Corenswet. Some audiences suspected that CGI may have dominated these scenes, especially in the use of David Corenswet's facial likenesses. However, Gunn clarified in a Threads post, saying,

"There is absolutely zero CG in his face. People’s faces can look different when you put a wide angle lens up close. The background plate in Svalbard is 100% real as is David."

Furthermore, he emphasized that the background footage shot in Svalbard is all real, as is the actor himself. It is in this context that clarity has emerged as the director in question prepares to revisit and redefine Superman's screen presence.

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The inspiration behind Superman's flying scenes

James Gunn cites Top Gun: Maverick, an excellent film, as one of the inspirations for Superman, according to Screen Rant and has implemented the influence he sensed in how scenes depicting Superman's flying have been done. He explained that drones were used to better capture the sensation of Superman's flight.

With this method, dynamic aerial shots are possible for capturing the movement of the character and interactions with elements in the air. According to Gunn, filming aerial action scenes is difficult but using drones could make the idea of flight come out more effectively than it otherwise would.

The new footage depicts Superman flying through jagged ice formations, capturing the front and back perspectives of his flight. This method is meant to give a better view to the audience so they can feel the scale and agility of Superman as he passes through complicated settings.

The use of drones adds to the visual storytelling but is also in line with the contemporary filmmaking technique that focuses on realism and engagement.

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Audience response and anticipation

The recent teaser featuring Superman's flying scenes has drawn mixed reactions from viewers. While some fans seemed to be thrilled by the visual and the scene depicting flight, others did not feel so excited.

The comments on social media ranged from some viewers feeling that some parts of the flying looked "weird" or that the power associated with Superman was lacking.

For example, one critic said that the last shot lacked the pace or the precision the audience would have wanted to see in an iconic character.

Many fans, however still believe in the direction Gunn gives Superman. This film has come with so much hype as a new start of the character under a rebooted DC Universe.

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Gunn's vision for Superman

Gunn's approach to Superman is not a mere imitation of the past but something that can make it feel unique for old fans and new viewers. He takes influences from other DC media, but at the same time, emphasizes that his version will be different from the earlier adaptations.

This includes developing characters and action sequences that are fresh yet familiar.

In interviews, Gunn has outlined his philosophy for action scenes: he wants them to feel alive both in the air and on the ground. He has carefully planned these sequences but kept open to spontaneous moments during filming—an approach he believes can lead to unexpected magic on set.

As excitement builds toward its release on July 11, 2025, audiences are eager to see how this blend of tradition and innovation unfolds on screen.

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In a nutshell, James Gunn has clarified misconceptions about the use of CGI in Superman, saying that practical effects dominate key scenes. He is inspired by Top Gun: Maverick and uses drones to add realism to the flight sequences.