James Gunn Explains Why Superman and Brainiac “Have Beef,” and It Could Reveal the Core Conflict of MAN OF TOMORROW
As we wait for Supergirl to hit theaters, DC Studios looking ahead to Man of Tomorrow, and James Gunn has offered a simple but revealing explanation for why Superman and Brainiac are destined to clash. In the process, he may have also teased one of the sequel’s biggest themes.
Brainiac is set to serve as the primary villain in Man of Tomorrow. The film will also feature an alliance between Superman and his greatest enemy, Lex Luthor, as the two are forced to work together against a threat neither can handle alone.
On social media, Gunn reflected on Brainiac’s comic book debut and shared his thoughts on what makes the character such a natural opponent for the Man of Steel.
"Brainiac is what happens when intelligence loses ALL connection to humanity. And Superman is as human as anyone, so… I get why they have beef. Brainiac made his comic debut on this day in ACTION COMICS #242."
It’s a short explanation, but it says a lot about how Gunn views both characters. One of the key moments at the end of Superman involves Clark Kent delivering a passionate speech to Lex Luthor about his humanity.
While Superman’s alien origins have always been a major part of his story, Gunn’s version of the character places equal importance on the human values that define him.
That makes Brainiac a fascinating counterpoint. If Superman represents compassion, empathy, and connection, Brainiac appears to be the complete opposite of pure intellect stripped of any emotional understanding.
Based on Gunn’s comments, that philosophical conflict could be just as important as any super-powered battle in Man of Tomorrow.
The dynamic also raises an interesting question about Lex Luthor’s role in the story. If Superman and Brainiac represent opposite ends of the humanity spectrum, where does Lex fit in? After being forced to work alongside Superman, will Lex finally recognize the humanity in the hero he despises? That's something we’ll have to wait and see.
Gunn has previously explained that his approach to Brainiac draws from a wide range of comic book stories rather than a single source. When asked if the classic Panic in the Sky storyline would serve as the basis for the movie, he clarified:
"Fun story but not really, no. More specifically: I read almost every Brainiac story to put Brainiac in MoT together and used bits and pieces I thought worked best. But PitS wasn't a key influence on the story."
That approach should be encouraging for DC fans. Instead of adapting one comic arc directly, Gunn seems to be building a version of Brainiac by pulling together the elements he feels work best from across the character’s long history.
The cast for Man of Tomorrow is packed with familiar faces and a few intriguing additions. David Corenswet returns as Superman alongside Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, while Lars Eidinger takes on the role of Brainiac.
The film also stars Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El, Aaron Pierre as Jon Stewart, and Matthew Lillard in a mystery role that remains under wraps.
It looks like the film will continue exploring what makes Superman who he is, and why his humanity may be his greatest strength. That idea could end up being exactly what puts him on a collision course with Brainiac.
Man of Tomorrow flies into theaters on July 9, 2027.
Brainiac is what happens when intelligence loses ALL connection to humanity. And Superman is as human as anyone, so… I get why they have beef. Brainiac made his comic debut on this day in ACTION COMICS #242. pic.twitter.com/1kPdbWULL6
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) May 29, 2026