What Will Man Of Tomorrow (2027) Bring? Decoding James Gunn’s Superman Sequel

James Gunn’s Man Of Tomorrow (2027) has sparked intense excitement with its recent announcement, promising a bold new chapter in the DC Universe’s Superman saga.

Set to hit theaters on July 9, 2027, this follow-up to 2025’s Superman isn’t being called a direct sequel by Gunn, but it’s clear it will expand on the Man of Steel’s story.

Accompanied by striking concept art shared by Gunn and stars David Corenswet, Nicholas Hoult, and Isabela Merced, the film teases an unexpected dynamic between Superman and Lex Luthor. Here’s a deep dive into what we know, what the art suggests, and what fans can speculate about this highly anticipated release.

Highlights:

• Release Date: Man Of Tomorrow arrives in theaters on July 9, 2027.

• Confirmed Cast: David Corenswet as Superman, Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl.

• Concept Art Insight: Artwork by Jim Lee, Mitch Gerads, and Jorge Jiménez hints at a Superman-Lex Luthor team-up and a battle-ready Lex in his iconic War Suit.

• Director: James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, helms the project.

• Plot Tease: The story may explore an uneasy alliance between Superman and Lex Luthor, diverging from their traditional rivalry.

What Does the Concept Art Reveal About the Plot?

The concept art shared by James Gunn and the cast offers tantalizing clues about Man Of Tomorrow. Jim Lee’s illustration, posted by Gunn, depicts Superman casually leaning against Lex Luthor, who is suited up in a green and purple War Suit, with Superman holding a screwdriver, suggesting he may have helped build it.

This image, coupled with Mitch Gerads’ artwork shared by Nicholas Hoult, showing the two locked in battle, paints a complex picture. Jorge Jiménez’s piece, posted by David Corenswet, further emphasizes their dynamic, hinting at both conflict and cooperation.

This juxtaposition suggests a narrative where Superman and Lex Luthor, traditionally archenemies, might form an uneasy alliance.

In the comics, Lex has occasionally joined forces with heroes, such as when he donned a War Suit to fight alongside the Justice League.

The screwdriver in Superman’s hand could imply a shared project or a moment of trust, setting the stage for a story that challenges their iconic rivalry.

Who Are the Confirmed Stars Returning?

The cast announcements confirm that Man Of Tomorrow will see David Corenswet reprising his role as Superman, following his acclaimed debut in 2025’s Superman.

Nicholas Hoult returns as Lex Luthor, with concept art indicating a more physically imposing version of the villain, thanks to his War Suit.

Isabela Merced, who played Hawkgirl in Superman, also confirmed her involvement by sharing Gunn’s post with a cryptic “see you soon,” suggesting a larger role for her character.

While other characters from Superman—like Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane or Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner—haven’t been confirmed yet, their presence in the broader DC Universe makes cameos or supporting roles plausible.

The focus, however, seems squarely on the Superman-Lex-Hawkgirl trio for now.

Could Lex Luthor Become a Hero?

One of the most intriguing possibilities raised by the concept art is Lex Luthor’s potential shift from villain to anti-hero. In the comics, Lex has worn his War Suit as both a weapon against Superman and, at times, a tool for good, such as when he briefly joined the Justice League.

Gunn’s caption and the relaxed pose of Superman in Lee’s artwork suggest Lex might be inspired by Superman’s heroism, perhaps influenced by the events of the 2025 film.However, Gerads’ battle imagery reminds us that trust between these two is fragile.

The plot could involve a larger threat—like a cosmic villain such as Brainiac or Darkseid—forcing Superman and Lex to work together, only for their alliance to fray under the weight of Lex’s ambitions or moral conflicts.

How Does This Fit Into the DC Universe?

Man Of Tomorrow is the fourth feature film in Gunn’s DC Universe, following Superman (2025), Supergirl (June 26, 2026), and Clayface (September 11, 2026). Its July 2027 release also aligns it closely with The Batman Part II in October 2027, marking a historic year for DC with standalone films for both icons.

The film’s connection to Peacemaker Season 2, which Gunn called a “prequel” to Man Of Tomorrow, suggests narrative threads involving the broader DC Universe, potentially setting up crossovers or shared conflicts.

The title Man Of Tomorrow evokes Superman’s forward-looking idealism, but it may also hint at Lex Luthor’s vision of humanity’s future, creating a thematic tension. The 2020 animated film Superman: Man of Tomorrow explored Clark Kent’s early days, but Gunn’s version appears to be a unique story, possibly inspired by the 2003 Superman: Birthright miniseries, which reimagined Superman’s origin with modern stakes.

What Challenges Will Superman Face?

The concept art’s focus on Lex’s War Suit, a comic staple never seen in live-action, suggests high-stakes action. This suit, designed to match Superman’s strength, could level the playing field, leading to epic confrontations. However, the hinted team-up raises questions about the true antagonist.

Speculation points to a larger threat, such as Brainiac, who could challenge both Superman’s brawn and Lex’s intellect, forcing them to unite.Alternatively, the story might explore internal conflicts, with Lex’s motives—whether redemptive or manipulative—driving the drama.

Hawkgirl’s role adds another layer, as her warrior background could either stabilize or complicate the Superman-Lex dynamic, especially if she’s caught between their ideologies.

Why Is This Film Generating So Much Buzz?

Gunn’s track record with Superman, which earned an 83% critics’ score and over $600 million at the box office, has fans eager for more. His ability to blend heart, humor, and spectacle, combined with the surprising Superman-Lex team-up teased in the art, makes Man Of Tomorrow a must-watch.

The involvement of top-tier artists like Jim Lee and the confirmed cast adds credibility, while the mystery surrounding the plot fuels speculation across fan communities.

The film’s place in the DC Universe’s ambitious slate, alongside projects like Lanterns and Peacemaker Season 2, positions it as a pivotal chapter.

Fans are already dissecting every detail of the artwork, from Superman’s smirk to Lex’s imposing suit, for clues about Gunn’s vision.

Some Closing Thoughts: A New Era for the Man of Steel

Man Of Tomorrow promises to redefine Superman’s journey, blending classic comic elements with Gunn’s innovative storytelling.

The concept art hints at a bold narrative where enemies become allies, and the stakes push Superman to new heights.

As the DC Universe expands, this film could set the tone for future crossovers and conflicts, making July 9, 2027, a date DC fans won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned for more updates as production ramps up, and get ready for a Superman story unlike any other.