Superman’s James Gunn Teases ‘Masterpiece’ Elseworlds Project With a Famous Actor

Superman director James Gunn recently revealed that a major Hollywood actor pitched an Elseworlds project for DCU. In a new interview, he shared details about the meeting, the conditions he set for moving forward, and how the pitch fits into his broader vision for DC’s storytelling strategy.

James Gunn told a movie star his DCU Elseworlds script has to be a ‘masterpiece’

James Gunn revealed that a well-known movie star pitched an Elseworlds project to DCU. “It was a very, very, very famous movie actor,” Gunn told Entertainment Weekly, adding, “I said, ‘It depends on how the screenplay comes out… If it’s a masterpiece, I’ll make it, but it has to be a masterpiece.’” The actor reportedly responded, “I don’t know if it’s a masterpiece,” but is still working on the script.

Elseworlds titles operate outside the DC Universe continuity, offering creators freedom with alternative interpretations. Gunn confirmed the studio is open to these standalone stories but maintains strict quality control. “We’re not going to make it unless we like the script,” he said. He emphasized that while the DCU focuses on cohesion, Elseworlds projects remain part of the slate for unique ideas.

Gunn refused to name the actor or provide specifics about the project. However, speculation has linked this pitch to Tom Cruise, who signed a strategic deal with Warner Bros. in January 2024.

Under the agreement, Cruise and the Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group are developing theatrical films together, including franchise properties. Cruise now maintains an office at Warner Bros. Discovery’s Burbank lot. While Gunn has not confirmed Cruise’s involvement, the timing and nature of the Elseworlds pitch align with the Warner Bros.-Cruise partnership announcement.

Aside from this unnamed film, Gunn said his “favorite” DC project has yet to be announced. “There was one thing that I knew about from the very beginning… I felt like it was too easy to rip off by another company,” he said. This unannounced movie remains under wraps for strategic reason.

Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on SuperHeroHype.

Source: Comingsoon.net