James Gunn Doesn't Like "Cameo Porn" In Superhero Movies

DCU boss James Gunn criticized what he calls "cameo porn" in superhero films on Threads, stating that such appearances should contribute meaningfully to the overall narrative. Responding to a fan praising his approach of treating superheroes as developed characters rather than fan-service tools, Gunn writes, "If a character is in a film, they have to have a reason to be there story-wise."

The director acknowledged that minor appearances are acceptable as long as they do not disrupt the narrative flow. "I don't mind actual cameos--if it's a glimpse or a moment, an Easter egg," Gunn explained. "What bothers me is when they mangle an elegant story by shoehorning characters in. They aren't there because the story calls for it, but for some other reason."

The upcoming DCU film, Superman: Legacy, features an ensemble cast with David Corenset as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and characters including The Engineer, Mister Terrific, and Hawkgirl.

The DC Studios co-CEO confirmed on Threads that other characters are yet to be revealed, and asked: "What single-protagonist movie doesn't have more than ten speaking roles?" Comparing Superman: Legacy to Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer, Gunn highlighted the film's complexity and the variety of characters woven into a single protagonist's story.

Superman: Legacy is scheduled to premiere on July 11, 2025, kicking off the rebooted DCU. The film, directed and written by James Gunn, will explore Superman's attempt to balance his Kryptonian and Kansan heritage. Gunn assured fans that the movie will not follow the traditional young Superman narrative.