James Gunn’s Superman has sparked extensive discussion online, especially as it achieves remarkable box office success. This film underwent significant revisions right up to its release, showcasing the delicate balance of storytelling.
What Extremely Dark Scene Did James Gunn Cut Out of ‘Superman’?
James Gunn’s Superman has become a hot topic online, especially as it reaches impressive domestic box office numbers. This film underwent numerous tweaks right up to its theatrical release.
What stands out is its heartfelt essence. Viewers can truly empathize with the characters, sharing in their laughter and tears through the ups and downs.
To maintain this delicate balance, tough decisions must be made, including cutting scenes that may disrupt the overall tone. Gunn almost made a significant misstep but recognized it just in time. What was this scene, and why was it deemed too dark for the film?
Let’s delve deeper.
The Superman Scene That Went Too Far
During a recent episode of the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Gunn revealed a chilling moment that was left on the cutting room floor, a moment that could have escalated the film’s disturbing elements.
To set the context, Lex Luthor has a bizarre prison in an alternate dimension, where he confines anyone who has wronged him in glass cubes. Anthony Carrigan’s Metamorpho is imprisoned there, tasked with creating Kryptonite to weaken Superman, in exchange for Luthor’s promise to save his infant son.
This already sets a tense atmosphere for the film.
However, the script delivers a shocking twist. To demonstrate his power to Superman, Lex shoots a hapless falafel vendor named Malik right in front of him. Supes is powerless to intervene.
Gunn makes a clever directorial choice here, opting for a wide shot that captures the horror of the act without dwelling on graphic details. This approach is efficient and brutal, maintaining the film’s tone while pushing it to the edge.
But the scene becomes even more intriguing for writers and directors.
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In the original cut, after Malik’s execution, Lex orders another prisoner, Boravian President Vasil Ghurkos, to soak up the blood to avoid staining his shoes.
This moment transcends mere violence, veering into sadistic psychological torture. While it sounds compelling, Gunn wisely decided it was excessive for this film.
It exemplifies a creator’s understanding of boundaries.
Gunn elaborated on his choices during the podcast, explaining that the shooting was framed in a wide shot to avoid graphic content. He described how, after Malik falls, blood spills onto the platform, and Lex, concerned about his shoes, orders Ghurkos to “get down on the ground and soak up the blood,” which the president initially refuses.
Gunn noted the delivery was humorous yet unsettling, as Ghurkos reluctantly complies, lying down to soak up the blood, and then telling Superman, “I’ll see you tomorrow” before they drive away.
This scene never made it to the final cut, thanks to test screenings and Gunn’s realization that it crossed a line into darkness that didn’t fit the vibrant world of Superman.
What are your thoughts on this cut scene? Share in the comments.
