James Gunn Drops First MAN OF TOMORROW Set Photo and Fans Think a Superman vs. Luthor Mind Game Is Coming
James Gunn just confirmed that cameras are rolling on Man of Tomorrow, the follow-up to Superman, and along with that announcement came a simple but intriguing first set photo. It doesn’t show any characters, explosions, or costumes… but it might be hinting at something even more interesting.
Gunn shared the update with a short message, “From the set of #ManofTomorrow. Shooting now,” but the image itself has sparked a wave of speculation.
Sitting on a table is a chessboard, placed next to a visitor badge tied to the VanKull Department of Corrections. That little detail suggests that Lex Luthor is behind bars when this story kicks off. But the real question is… who’s sitting across from him?
The chessboard is what’s really grabbing attention. Fans are already connecting the dots and wondering if Superman himself might be paying Luthor a visit. Not for a fight, but for something more strategic. A battle of intellect instead of fists.
That kind of face-off has roots in the comics, including Superman: Son of Kal-El Annual #1, which featured a similar setup between the two characters.
That issue even included a memorable exchange that feels very in line with what Gunn could be setting up here: “Imagine what we could have done as a team, Lex.”
“I’d be lying if I said the thought hadn’t crossed my mind. Lex Luthor and Superman. Together. An infinite mind and an infinite reach.”
It’s easy to imagine a scene like that playing out in Man of Tomorrow, especially if Luthor is operating from a prison cell while still pulling strings.
This next chapter in the DCU isn’t being labeled as a straight-up sequel, and Gunn has been clear about that from the start. Instead, it’s a continuation that expands the scope of the world.
Man of Tomorrow brings back David Corenswet as Kal-El and Nicholas Hoult as Luthor, while introducing a much bigger threat in the form of Brainiac, played by Lars Eidinger.
Brainiac’s arrival marks his first appearance on the big screen, and his connection to Krypton could have massive consequences for the DCU. His history with the destruction of Superman’s home world, along with the Bottle City of Kandor, opens the door for deeper cosmic storytelling.
It also puts other characters into play. Milly Alcock’s Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, could be directly impacted given her past with Krypton. On top of that, Aaron Pierre is set to return as John Stewart, tying into the upcoming Lanterns series and expanding the universe even further.
There’s also a wildcard casting that has fans guessing. Adria Arjona has joined the film, and it set to take on the role of Maxima.
The film is set to be released on July 9, 2027.