James Gunn’s recent take on Superman, starring David Corenswet, has breathed new life into the iconic character by focusing on Clark Kent’s human upbringing and his role as an active member of society. Unlike previous portrayals—such as Henry Cavill’s godlike Superman—this version embraces Clark as a relatable reporter at the Daily Planet, grounding the superhero mythos in a more accessible setting. While this fresh perspective has been widely praised, especially the nuanced romance between Clark and Lois Lane (played by Rachel Brosnahan) and the spotlight on Jimmy Olsen (Skyler Gisondo), the film ultimately leaves untapped potential in the wider Daily Planet ensemble and its narrative possibilities.
The Daily Planet: An Underutilized Powerhouse
Gunn’s Superman noticeably elevates the significance of the Daily Planet compared to earlier films. The news outlet’s investigations and journalism are pivotal in exposing Lex Luthor’s (Nicholas Hoult) conspiracies, illustrating the press’s power to shape public perception and challenge villainy. Yet, beyond Perry White (Wendell Pierce), Lois, and Jimmy, many prominent staff members such as Steve Lombard (Beck Bennett), Cat Grant (Mikaela Hoover), and Ron Troupe (Christopher McDonald) remain underdeveloped, their rich histories and personalities sidelined.
Given that the movie also introduces new Justice Gang characters and high-stakes threats like the black hole apocalypse, it’s understandable that screen time was limited. However, this creative choice opens the door for DC Studios to explore deeper storytelling in a different medium—particularly television—focusing on the Daily Planet newsroom. Such a series could dive into the professional and personal arcs of these supporting players, expanding the DC Universe’s narrative beyond the traditional superhero lens.
A Journalistic Perspective Opens New Avenues for the DCU
The revelation that Earth has been aware of metahumans for decades in this universe establishes a unique journalistic environment at the Daily Planet. How reporters adapt their coverage of extraterrestrial and supernatural events, especially politically sensitive conflicts like the Jarhanpur-Boravian war, presents fertile ground for nuanced storytelling. The Daily Planet’s willingness to challenge mainstream political alliances underscores the paper’s commitment to truth, making it an excellent narrative vehicle to explore contemporary themes through a fictional lens.
Moreover, a Daily Planet-centric show could introduce audiences to lesser-known characters and weave in cameos from the broader DCU. The brief, humorous appearances of Peacemaker (John Cena) and Maxwell Lord (Sean Gunn) in Superman hint at the entertainment potential such interconnectivity offers. The newsroom staff could serve as audience stand-ins, discovering new layers of the DC Universe alongside viewers, creating an immersive experience that gradually enriches the franchise’s complex mythology.
Skyler Gisondo and the Promise of the Supporting Cast
Skyler Gisondo’s portrayal of Jimmy Olsen demonstrates how effectively secondary characters can enrich the main storyline. Known for his television work, notably on “The Righteous Gemstones,” Gisondo brings a youthful energy and cleverness that, if expanded upon, could deepen the narrative fabric of the DCU. A television series would also provide a platform to showcase his talents alongside other supporting cast members, allowing their characters to develop meaningful arcs that resonate with fans.
James Gunn and DC Studios have laid a strong foundation with their fresh, geek-friendly Superman, unapologetically embracing the source material’s eccentricities. While it would be challenging to encapsulate the entire DC Comics history in a sequel movie, a spin-off focused on the Daily Planet would gradually introduce audiences to the expansive DC mythos.
Conclusion
James Gunn’s Superman has begun a promising chapter in the DCU by humanizing Clark Kent and foregrounding the role of journalism in a world of metahumans. However, the film’s underexplored Daily Planet staff represent a vibrant opportunity for DC Studios to expand storytelling through a dedicated series. By unleashing the full potential of characters like Jimmy Olsen (Skyler Gisondo) and others, DC can enrich its universe with fresh perspectives, political intrigue, and grounded heroism, ultimately revitalizing Superman’s legacy for the modern age.
