Director James Gunn’s highly anticipated “Superman” film, now in cinemas, is packed with DC Comics references and surprise cameos, a treat for avid fans and a hallmark of Gunn’s directorial style.
The film, which showcases Gunn’s deep love for comic books, features everything from subtle “Easter egg” nods like a road sign pointing to Gotham City to impactful and often emotional cameo appearances. Many of these familiar faces are actors who have previously collaborated with Gunn across his filmography.
Cameos Range from Legendary to Heartfelt
Filling the iconic role of Superman’s Kryptonian father, Jor-El, Bradley Cooper appears in a prerecorded message from the icy Fortress of Solitude.
Cooper, a frequent Gunn collaborator who voiced Rocket Raccoon in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, takes on a role famously played by Marlon Brando in the 1978 “Superman.” Angela Sarafyan (from TV’s “Westworld”) portrays Lara, Superman’s mother.
In a particularly poignant cameo, Will Reeve, son of the late Christopher Reeve (who famously portrayed Superman), appears as an on-the-ground reporter. Born after his father’s “Superman” films and only 12 when his father passed away, Will’s appearance is a fitting tribute to his father’s enduring legacy.
Gunn’s Regulars and DC Universe Connections
Adding a lighter touch, John Cena makes a surprise appearance as his “Peacemaker” character during a playful sequence.
Cena’s Peacemaker, a morally ambiguous and humorous figure, appears on a news show while Clark Kent and Lois Lane share a heartfelt moment, with an interdimensional battle humorously unfolding in the background.
The “Peacemaker” series, which was an unexpected hit for Gunn’s DC tenure in 2022, is set for a second season next month.
Gunn’s penchant for working with a familiar cast extends to his family, with his brother Sean Gunn making a brief appearance as Maxwell Lord, a threatening DC character previously portrayed by Pedro Pascal.
Sean Gunn is a staple in James Gunn’s films, having played Kraglin and the on-set Rocket in “Guardians” and Weasel and Calendar Man in “The Suicide Squad.”
The film also features more of Gunn’s “Guardians” cast, including Michael Rooker and Pom Klementieff as robots in the Fortress of Solitude. Klementieff is known for her role as Mantis, while Rooker’s collaborations with Gunn span back to his 2006 horror film “Slither,” which also featured “Superman” co-star Nathan Fillion. Other returning Gunn regulars include Mikaela Hoover and Stephen Blackehart.
Towards the end of the film, Superman is visited by his Kryptonian cousin, Supergirl, portrayed by Milly Alcock (from Netflix’s “Sirens”).
Her brief, “wild” cameo reveals she is the true owner of the beloved, albeit unruly, Krypto the Superdog. Alcock is set to reprise her role in next year’s “Supergirl” movie.
Even CNN anchor Jake Tapper makes a background appearance as a news correspondent, though his dialogue was ultimately cut for time.