James Gunn Clarifies: No CG Used in Superman's Flying Face in TV Spot

DC Studios co-chief James Gunn has addressed the online buzz surrounding Superman's flying face after a new TV spot for the upcoming Superman movie sparked debate over the weekend. The 30-second video features two new clips: Lex Luthor disembarking from a helicopter in a snowy wilderness, possibly on a quest to find the Fortress of Solitude, and Superman executing a barrel roll as he flies over an icy landscape towards an unknown destination.

The internet was quick to comment on David Corenswet's portrayal of Superman, particularly focusing on his face during the flying sequence. Some viewers felt that Superman's face appeared unnaturally still while his hair and cape were billowing in the wind, leading to speculation about "wonky CGI." However, Gunn took to Threads to clarify that no CGI was used on Superman's face in the shot. Responding to a fan who praised the TV spot but noted something off about Superman's face, Gunn stated, "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." Svalbard, the Norwegian archipelago, served as a filming location for parts of the movie.

This revelation confirms that David Corenswet's seemingly knowing smirk as he speeds towards the camera—or perhaps while a large fan was blowing on his face—is entirely natural. Despite Gunn's clarification, fans continue to discuss and compare the shot to the flying scenes of Adam Warlock in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, another film written and directed by Gunn.

The excitement for the Superman movie remains high, with its release scheduled for July 11, 2025. As the first film in the DCU's Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, it has generated significant interest. IGN provides detailed coverage, including an explainer on all the DC Heroes and Villains in the new trailer, insights from James Gunn on Krypto being a rather terrible dog in the movie, discussions on how Superman embodies hope, and more.