JAMES GUNN: Taking Over DC, Legacy of GOTG & The Future of Lex Luthor

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James Gunn (Co-CEO of DC Studios) returns to the pod this week to talk about his takeover of the new DC content slate, the differences between DC and Marvel, and all the pressure that comes with creating a new Superman film.
James goes back and discusses the impact that creating Guardians of the Galaxy had on his career and how ‘allowing himself to give a s***’ was a large catalyst to its success.
We also talk about embarrassing Chris Pratt moments, whether or not there are too many superhero films, and the future of Superman’s bald headed villain.
Timecodes:
0:00 - Intro
3:40 - James Gunn
6:20 - That’s a Rosenbaum song
10:20 - GOTG script ‘no no’
13:40 - Trusting others’ opinions
20:49 - Audience testing
23:45 - Taking over DC Studios
32:50 - Landing GOTG
39:45 - Taking on the Superman legacy
43:30 - Loving the work
49:55 - Chris Pratt speech
53:10 - Land of misfit toys
56:00 - Revisiting Disney situation
1:02:45 - Unified teamwork
1:06:30 - The new Superman
1:12:24 - Differences between Marvel and DC
1:17:00 - ShitTalkin
1:25:35 - Outro
1:31:33 - Couldn’t do it without you
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JAMES GUNN: Taking Over DC, Legacy of GOTG & The Future of Lex Luthor #insideofyou #jamesgunn #dcstudios #superman

[@jeffersonmiller]

It is so refreshing to listen to a filmmaker, and even more surprisingly a studio head, talk about how storytelling is the most important aspect of filmmaking.

[@jorahkai]

Exactly!

[@mexreax4493]

the stories are already there. People have rejected his story telling. Look at how horrible flash is doing

[@vonpoevii]

That's all Snyder did, what are you talking about lol

[@imjusttoogoodlmao8281]

@@mexreax4493James Gunn had nothing to do with The Flash. When the Script was developed and etc he wasn‘t even head of DCEU. He‘s the head of DCU. major difference, why are people like you acting like he‘s a bad comic book movie director? i beg of u. his comic book movies are fucking great. he understands and he will make good movies here in the dcu. Zack snyder will never come back, stop meatriding a dead thing

[@imjusttoogoodlmao8281]

@@vonpoeviiyeah sure, thats why superman was such a wholesome hero! saving people, letting thousands die while fighting! wow man, that just lights my heart up! that moron snyder tried to approach the realism way with man of steel. he copied marvel. even back when there were not allot of em. snyder is a joke and his new movie that drops at the end of year is so ass holy shit

[@NeoComicus]

James Gunn *is* a kind person, and I saw it happen once. He was at DragonCon one year, I believe soon after GOTG was a hit. He was scheduled to show up to greet fans one day, and the crowd was huge, including my daughter who wanted to see him. Well, as it happens, he was two or three hours late for a variety of reasons that were not his fault. When he *did* show up, he stayed till he had talked to everyone in that huge line, showing everyone respect and was the nicest, most energetic "celeb" there. I stood off to the side watching the room, and it was obvious that everyone there to see him mattered to him. Incredible, and humbling. I marvel at that to this day.

[@zactionfigures]

I was there that weekend too! Such a great guy, signed free autographs 😊

[@j0hn00]

He really is one of the most down-to-earth "big" movie makers out there. I guess he wasn't a huge movie maker at the time he did Guardians, but I really respect that after being shot to stardom and essentially staying there for a decade now, he's still just the same dude. He didn't let it all go to his head

[@hemanabanana6906]

I wouldn't let that fkr anywhere near my kids .

[@connorsheridan3755]

A true chad

[@valentinesolko4039]

He's a pedophile but okay

[@netzach21]

Finally, a creator that understand that superman is not a perfect god, he has flaws

[@PreacHDefiant]

What? The most popular thing to do with Superman is explore the Evil Superman themes. Most directors look for his flaws

[@netzach21]

And they look in the wrong places because most directors, like the general audience, only know the character from the Christopher Reeve movies, and now the Syner movies. And there are a lot of very good modern stories of Superman in the comics, but people in general don't know them

[@Lt.Lickit]

@@PreacHDefiantnot necessarily. He can have “flaws” that he can learn from. Having a flaw while trying to be a hero is way more important than just evil. Since the hero has to focus on how he can do good without causing some type of harm. And since the hero is also trying to prove that people can be better. Where as an evil Superman most likely will not think twice before doing something he thinks is right. The problem with that is that he is an evil Superman that has to be taken down by other more than a hero does and most people see his ways as well, evil. Which will make it much harder for people to accept him. Evil Superman doesn’t learn, he realizes at the end when the damage is done. Hero Superman learns along the way and doesn’t cause as much damage as an evil Superman would. And with him having flaws that he conquered, he will have a much easier time getting people to accept him.

[@jonsilvidi1398]

He’s so confident in his super man script and that excites the hell out of me. Can’t wait!

[@somersfamily]

😂😂

[@JohnDavidSullivan]

you might be one of the few

[@MalamuteMan1]

🤡

[@megatronsroyalemissary382]

@@MalamuteMan1🤓

[@aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh6424]

@@JohnDavidSullivan Nah, he's one of the many

[@dynaguy3]

I love that he understands there is a difference between DC and Marvel characters. DC has the fictional cities that could never exist in the real world. The heroes have strict moral codes and are more inspirational than relatable. The secret identities are another huge distinction

[@tylerdurdensmayhem]

Nah dc is more relatable

[@seanleon2766]

@@tylerdurdensmayhem Because their characters exist in fictional cities?

[@tweeks9896]

@@seanleon2766 way more weight to their personal lives compared to marvel characters

[@JadedMax]

Exactly, there's no point in trying to capy each other

[@dynaguy3]

They’re still relatable. Superman has a day job. Batman trained like any person hypothetically could. But when you see the Justice League lineup (especially in the intro of the animated show) it’s like looking at the gods of Olympus

[@mAdCapper]

They need a Lex with the same gravitas as how Kingpin was played in Netflix daredevil. The way Vince played him should be a masterclass for actors. Your Lex felt more like that than any other I believe.

[@MikeySkywalker]

Make Vincent D’Onofrio Lex! 😂

[@talon3684]

Well said 💯

[@crashingcoyote]

Apparently James Gunn wants Bradley cooper to be Lex Luthor (the voice of rocket raccoon) plus him & James love working together

[@doc8013]

He was good in Daredevil but it def wasn't a masterclass lol. Still, it was really solid performance.

[@talon3684]

@@doc8013 I disagree with you. Vince was phenomenal. It was a masterclass in my book.

[@julianserna7763]

Shoutout to Rosenbaum for asking the character of Lex to be methodical and serious and not goofy or crazy. Luthor is a presence when he enters a space and is someone who always has to be the smartest in the room. As far as films go, no one has nailed Luthor

[@chaost4544]

Agreed. All the live action Lex Luthor's have been "crazy rich guy doing stuff because of reasons". Rosenbaum's performance gave reason to Lex Luthor's actions. The most formidable villain of the most powerful thing in humanity should be a complex character instead of one note.

[@clayongayle8870]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6O6kGBme7-Gr9E

[@kal-eljordan8329]

Lex plays 3D chess while everyone elese is opening the box of checkers! That is how he should be portrayed. And keep his prority in doing the things he does because he believes Superman, and other Metas will be the downfall of humanity. Love to see a live action Red Son!

[@SilverAlaunt]

@@chaost4544 Yup. Personally, when I look back and remember his version of Lex Luthor, I see a character that finally found a friend only to see that friend get all the attention from his father that he wanted and that festered resentment. So, the relationship between the two was them navigating that minefield (that was filled with other hurdles and issues) and ultimately finding that while they would never truly be friends (as it first seemed like they might be) there was at least respect that developed between the two.

[@carlgriffiths5108]

If they could get a person like Bryan Cranston's Walter White as a Lex Luthor character, that would be the template for a great Lex Luthor. The smartest man in the room, three steps ahead in every way, not afraid to do what needs to be done to get his plan done and that ego that knowing he is the only person who can truly be equal in villainy as Superman is a hero would be great to see. Or just get Bryan Cranston....

[@garethrhodes7340]

Gunn's love for Superman 78 gives me great hope for what he'll do with his film.

[@catobaskerville5980]

Singer loved Superman 78 as well

[@DanielBeadle511]

Michael GETS Lex Luthor. I'm so glad he mentioned (at 1:11:46) that we need a serious, authentic take on the character in a live-action movie, where Luthor is both charismatic and terrifying. Please James Gunn, make it happen!

[@dynaguy3]

Funny how they trashed Jesse Eisenberg’s Luthor

[@Ishai1]

@@dynaguy3 He wasn't wrong though, those were some odd choices for the character when you compare to other iterations and Michael picked the right word there, gravitas.

[@pkrmkn31]

@@Ishai1 no they wasnt, he was ripped straight from the golden age version of lex luthor, who did look and act different and over time has evolved into the character we know today, which is what snyder was planning to do, but you pribably wouldnt know that because you knew nothing about comics until the MCU got popular. nah here you go just have perfect lex straight away from the start just doing evil villain things hehe . snyder didn't understand the characters and gunn does? come on you cant be serious.

[@Ryan_Wayne]

Funny reference considering that Gunn is basically poster boy for goofy movies and characters.

[@jazzman7320]

@@pkrmkn31nyder very clearly didn’t understand the characters. Just as he didn’t understand Watchmen. The entire comic was against the fetishisation of superheroes, about how they’re all fucked up and do terrible things, and Snyder filled that movie with epic shots glorifying every single character. Granted, he did show some horrific things being done by them, but seeing as all the horrific moments he chose were integral to moving the plot forward, it’s hard to give him too much credit there. I’d recommend watching Patrick H Willems video on Snyder if you finally want to see his filmography a bit clearer!

[@Len0Grady]

I’ve worked in comics for 27 years, and James’ throwaway line about so few people reading comics was a kidney punch. Knowing you’ve put your life into an art form that’s withering away by inches is one thing; having the head of DC Studios say it is the kind of affirmation that’s soul crushing.

[@SPREET5454]

Yeah. Unfortunately Print media as a whole is going away. Comics are still fun! Manga/Manhwa just seems to be a lot more popular at the moment.

[@scienceByV]

Having picked comic books after becoming an adult, let me tell you comics are amazing and they have helped so many people

[@frostyrose6597]

Don't give up! There are still people out there that care for this art form and you never know, there may be a renaissance for it.💗

[@mj-hn5jx]

Take pride in the fact that while not many people read there is still so many fans out there that enjoy this beatiful art form. The art, the paneling, the dialogue the potential for greatness in this medium is infinite and there s a reason why directors like snyder sometimes copy them page by page in their films.

[@ComicBookGuy420]

They'd be a lot more of substance if they didn't keep making movies that change everything about them The stories and characters are iconic for a reason, very few changes required

[@TJBeyonder2814]

James seems like the right person to be running the DCU

[@Jjw338]

Superman Legacy is definitely one of the most anticipated movies of this decade for me. I really hope Gunn nails it.

[@moleedaboi]

He'll nail it easily.

[@ajuuvex4132]

1 things for sure is that Gunn Supes movies will not as good as ZS /MOS its might be goofy childish movies like GOTG

[@Wolfhunter5607]

@@ajuuvex4132it definitely can be better than MoS if u said action wise then id understand

[@romesrepublic]

With the way he's talking about it, I'm sure he will. He actually reads comics for fun. His Superman will be the most accurate we've ever seen.

[@romesrepublic]

​​@@ajuuvex4132 Man of Steel is overrated AF. The only thing Zack got right was casting Cavil for the part. That's about it. I was looking at my wrist for a watch that wasn't there about halfway through that movie. Having a young inexperienced Superman go up against evil Kryptonians in his first movie couldn't have been a more bone headed move. Making him kill the first real threat he's ever faced was also dumb. Pa Kent taking issue with Clark saving his peers in the bus accident goes totally against Pa Kents' character. Zack had no clue what he was doing with Superman, and it shows. He read a couple of elsewhere stories and haphazardly slapped them together. Like he did with all of his DC movies. Elsewhere stories are great because of how different they are from the Canon. But you have to build a proper foundation for them to make sense. Zack is great a directing action and creating cool visuals. But his storytelling skills have always been weak.

[@deathst3v3n]

10/10 podcast episode, so much gems dropped into this one episode. I truly understand why james can portray these outcast characters so god damn well on the big screen. Michael your portrayal of Lex is one for the books some true Oscar level stuff.

[@Largentina.]

"so much gems"

[@guyverxx]

🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂

[@ndo533]

He writes all his characters as if they're juvenile idiots. How yall find that appealing is beyond me

[@Jrod859]

Oscars are for movies. Emmys are for television

[@hamzalambarki6705]

James Gunn is such a perfect choice for a Superman film that even his hair looks like the Fortress of Solitude

[@joshve87]

I want to tell you, I really appreciated the work that went into Smallville. I was born in 1987 and in highschool I dealt with depression and Smallville was one of my favorite escapes from my life. Thank you for all you have done. ❤

[@3031mane]

9/5/87, we in the house👍🏿🤙🏿!!!

[@amarcellus1714]

@@3031mane 11/09/87 Long live KIDS WB, FOX KIDS, WB 11, Cartoon Network, Toonami etc 🤗🤟

[@romesrepublic]

I already had a lot of confidence in Gunn's vision for the DCU, but now I'm totally sold. He just gets superheroes. The man wanted to be a comic book writer, telling stories is in his blood. And that's what DC is known for, great stories. The games, comics, and animated series have a reputation for great storytelling. It's about time someone brings that great storytelling to the big screen. Make the movies for the fans, and you'll win most of the non comic book fans. Because you'll show them what they've been missing out on. It has never been a better time for a DC live action movie Renaissance since Disney has been releasing bomb after bomb the last couple of years. It's DC's time to shine again. Gunn mentioning creating a DCU bible for the rules of DCU like he did with Guardians was music to my ears. We will potentially witness cohesion in a movie universe, the likes of which we have never seen. Marvel did an amazing job all the way up to Spiderman NWH, but then dropped the ball and hasn't been able to get it back since. But maybe. Just maybe. DC can pick up that ball and run with it. Now that they have Gunn and his team leading the charge. However, I do think Blue Beetle, being the first character in the new DCU, is an unnecessarily risky move. Gun had no hand in that, that i know of. Therefore, it shouldn't be a part of the new DCU.

[@BestOneEver247]

like most of your comment.. BUT i disagree strongly with your *Blue Beetle* statement

[@romesrepublic]

@Bycet3000 And why is that? Blue Beetle is the last remnant of the old regime. It should be thrown out with the rest. A clean slate is what the new DCEU needs. They're already marketing that movie wrong. The trailers have given almost everything away.

[@domferretti]

Holy moly. Hearing the head of a studio talk honestly about the current superhero movie landscape was amazing.

[@mudiametokunboh2370]

Facts

[@barry2349]

Timestamp?

[@kevinkzt]

@@barry2349 44:00

[@StopReadingMyNameOrElse]

James, if you're reading this, just wanted to say thanks for all of the laughs and pure emotions you make us feel watching your movies. Will be there day 1 for Superman, and can't wait to see what comes next for the DCU.

[@kiko1935]

Man, Michael has gotten REALLY good at getting unique and genuine responses from guests. Howard Stern could take a page out of his book.

[@MrHeart12]

one thing that kinda gets me annoyed with him is that he puts a lot of sentences in the guests mouths. I guess Stern actually does the same thing. It kinda leads them in a way. Sometimes, I think in a negative way. It also causes guests to say "no, its more like X" which can ruin the flow in my opinion. Just listen to this interview and notice how often he speaks for Gunn and Gunn corrects him. It might be a tactic to get certain responses from guests but I think its kind of annoying.

[@jayguero2123]

@@MrHeart1247:20

[@M613M]

@@MrHeart12 Yeah I've noticed that too. Hes gotten better but I remember in past episodes he'd drop a lot of random F bombs too, like to force emotion into the already forced sentences hes putting into their mouths.

[@MrHeart12]

@M613M I think its just a way he communicates. I dont think he means anything by it. The guests like Gunn that already know him probably know that's how he talks to people and they are probably used to it. But it would annoy the shit out of me that he doesn't at least phrase it as a question.

[@datboibaz147]

Or stern could jump into the Grand Canyon head first

[@hudsonnorton5678]

I’m 15 and aspire to be a filmmaker and this whole thing inspired me so much. James Gunn makes me feel so happy to love superheroes and I pray, if I ever can make movies, I wanna make a movie or something for the DCU. This sounds almost too good to be true.

[@HealthHorror]

Best advice from my experience, have fun with it and make projects with anyone you can near you. Make many short films until you are ready to make a longer movie. Don't focus on getting fame and popularity. Always keep focus on why you want to tell stories and have fun with it. This helps you be more creative and different. Striving for the fame and power will just make you like everyone else.

[@andremachado3831]

Nice bro. Just please work hard at it. If you at least push a little bit everyday, who knows what could happen? The world needs more people who actually care about movies.

[@HealthHorror]

@@andremachado3831 Yep. I grew up studying people who lived and died for their filmmaking and their stories were great. Then I made it to film school in 2012 and quickly realized it was now a trendy thing to do and became superficial. And now you see what happens when we make something lose it's depth. Movies no longer have heart or soul.

[@I-speak-U-shut-it]

Nice Hungry short film😊New sub😊

[@filipratkovic5561]

Just make stuff, no matter how tough it sometimes is. Can't wait to buy a ticket for your movie

[@lokey834]

I can’t help but think of that one shot fight scene for Guardians 3 towards the ending. Fcking brilliant. Gunn is an amazing director/writer, and he always has been, but that shot made me super hyped for not only DC, but for the Superman movie he’s doing. I’m all ears for what he has to offer for DC.

[@kenxyooj2684]

Agreed. I may be asking a bit much since he’s a busy guy, especially as the head of DC. But I hope gets a chance to direct and/or write a Justice League movie (or movies) in the future. I think he’d do great considering what he did with the three GoTG movies.

[@CheebsCheeby]

I told my daughter that that scene was one of the best/coolest fight scenes I've seen. Very stylish.

[@Ay3shizzle]

@@CheebsCheeby it’s definitely a huge testament of how far Gunn has come as a filmmaker and especially with action scenes.

[@chunky_mustard5312]

I'm probably the only one that wasn't mind blown by that scene. I feel like James and other Superhero movies have made better fight scenes

[@Ay3shizzle]

@@chunky_mustard5312 yeah that’s just your minority opinion

[@MrJDadBlack]

Listening to James Gunn talk about how he operates in his creative process gave me a great sense of how positive things are and can be no matter what passion or profession you do. I really needed to hear someone say these words today, just wow… really helped me over a lot of stumbling blocks, thanks for having this podcast!! It truly leaves me feeling better about myself and my environment! 🤯😮🤔😌

[@RadicalValkyrie]

Im SO excited for a creative like James Gunn in the DC leadership. Loved what he said in regards to too many super hero movies being made. His reasons are spot on. He respects story and character. Knowing James Gunn scribbles boards and visuals with his scripts, has made me like him more as a creative and filmmaker. This is why he respects animation too. Can't wait to see his DC slates.

[@JordanNMovies]

Nothing better than a studio head being a fan of the source material

[@MusicLover-my6fo]

I always love hearing James Gunn talk about things and learning a little bit more about how someone as creative as himself works. He seems like a very interesting man and hearing his real feelings about chasing love based on fame and external accomplishments was an empty fleeting feeling and how he finally felt real love after being deconstructed and (wrongfully) fired by Disney in 2018 was some real shit. I really like how he talked about success as a gradual thing and as someone who seeks something akin to this myself, hearing it from someone I greatly admire was really insightful and impactful.

[@guyverxx]

Wow 🤣

[@HealthHorror]

Gunn has such an intriguing story. He went from Slither and Super to Guardians and now head of DC. HOW does something like this even happen?

[@iambuhlockay8007]

He’s just that talented

[@dcmastermindfirst9418]

Gunn is a genius

[@aroccoification]

Only people who dont read comics think superman is a God. Supermans humanity and relatability are what people read superman for

[@angelgustavoulloagalvez3366]

James Gunn seems like a really great person to be around 😊

[@MrJDadBlack]

Also, Michael Rosenbaum‘s Lex Luther IS the best Lex Luthor, for real tho. I’ll keep saying it from pure desperation of wanting to see him come back as Lex!!! 😂 truly the best character development, dynamics, and acting done for Lex Luthor!

[@rrkkmindsvids8774]

damn right he is!

[@TheI.M.R]

But let's be honest the ending ruined his character

[@jedsithor]

He's good but Clancy Brown was the best Lex.

[@smittygaming5322]

Michael was the best lex ever and his chemistry with Tom was unmatched

[@TheGenXer]

Clancy is Lex. Everyone else is second.

[@davegranger9402]

Michael I promise you ARE the best Lex. Not just for me. I see it on all my social medias. You captivated it in such way that in my humble opinion was better than Hackmans. By miles. You made a character that was supposed to be hated so so loved. I rewatch Smallville every year and I just can’t help but love and hate Lex. I love him because I know he needs it and that’s all he wants is love but I hate him for how he goes about things. You brought that to life. And I’m definitely fanboying here, but even my wife says that you’re the best of that entire series. Any other Lex that isn’t you is really just an imposter. Obviously I’ll give whoever James casts a chance but for me you are the definitive Lex Luthor. You have no idea the amount of people that truly love you as Lex. Okay that’s enough fanboying for now. Keep up the good work man.

[@bobertgallardo2029]

Definitely. He conveyed "layers" to the character as apposed to the generic "bad guy" we've seen before smallville. I'll be it a reason the layers were able to flourish is because being able to translate that over seasons instead of a 1hr30mn-2hr movie.

[@karnsingh3768]

Rosenbaum’s Lex was an awesome, and ultimately critical addition, to the superman legacy

[@grrayfox2300]

Nah he was better as Wally West. The definitive Lex Luthor was the animated character played by Clancy Brown

[@cowabungadoug]

@@grrayfox2300 yup.Clancy Brown is Lex just like Mark Hamil is the Joker. Both completely redefined the character with their voice as the template.

[@annoyedtorchic8270]

this is for real, as of today he still is, no one played Lex Luthor like he did

[@DylanWolf_entertainment]

So glad we finally have a person in charge of the DCU who really understands us as fans

[@isaacomdoisas]

Love to see the close friendship these two have, made the episode that much more entertaining.

[@Robotman4108]

Great to hear that Blue Beetle has a chance of continuing as he’s the “first DCU character”.

[@CheebsCheeby]

I hope it's good. The trailer gives good vibes but who knows...

[@Sanandresfault]

I’m pretty sure it will. Early testing screenings say it’s a good movie

[@jedijones]

@@CheebsCheeby The trailer is a steaming pile and the movie is going to be the latest DC flop produced by Peter Safran.

[@Jjw338]

I don’t think it’s gonna be a hit. Looks very Disney channel type summer movie.

[@ethankleinman1067]

​@@jedijones *in your opinion

[@riendetout8812]

I agree - Michael here is the best Lex and the best Flash :) I really liked hearing Gunn describe how he's always asking for ideas and feedback. No ego, just looking for the good ideas and to try to make something good. And then not taking it personally when people don't like something - it only means they didn't like that thing, not that he's a failure or they didn't like him. It can be really difficult to separate something you made from your own identity and self-worth.

[@jpmorgansnose]

That story about him feeling loved after Disney fired him really got me man. Great stuff. PS every one of your posters on the wall are movies I grew up loving.

[@guycoburn1633]

That was a terrific episode. It is great to see a more personal view of Mr. Gunn and his creative motivations.

[@orbchords533]

Would have enjoyed the announcement of Michael's return to his Lex role. Best depiction to date

[@MikeySkywalker]

It’s not the right tone. It would be cool to have Smallville do a an Elseworld show with a modern budget though.

[@orbchords533]

@@MikeySkywalker I think he could pull off any 'tone'

[@MikeySkywalker]

@@orbchords533 Okay, but you specified his particular depiction. That's the only reason I said that.

[@NeedMorePlebs]

​@@MikeySkywalker how do you know what the right tone is?

[@MikeySkywalker]

@@NeedMorePlebs I didn't say I did. Lol. James did.

[@Deretich]

James when you got fired it effected me greatly. To see everything that you had built get taken away hurt. It was horrifying to know that that the growth you have experienced in your life meant nothing because of things you said when you were in a different place. For whatever reason I have always felt connected to the type of person you are. So I just want to say I appreciate you being the person you are and how you handled yourself with love. Us fans see that in the people you surround yourself with and the story’s you tell. So dude genuinely thank you for helping us feel something and being a terrifically flawed human being.

[@EuroNation]

Lmao cry a river brother

[@ArmandE]

Being in a very low point in my life right now, with a sick child and a broken relationship, this video really-if briefly-helped me realize the good old resilience idea that 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger' (from 56:00). So, I guess, thank you James & Michael.

[@Eserr7856]

I am really sorry you are at a painful low point in your life, I pray for peace and blessings for you and your sick child 🙏 ❤

[@Pray4Cilley]

Hang in there man 💪

[@steewith2ees14]

same love from me as the other respondents ArmandE hope ur young angel gets better as soon as is possible xx

[@albertmas3752]

Great episode! I didn't expect James answering DC questions so openly, obviously you are a smart guy and didn't ask questions you already knew he couldn't answer but anyways both of you took a few risks and spoke more than one could ever imagine without disclosing any secrets. Great one Mr. Rosenbaum.

[@DangeistYT]

THE SUICIDE SQUAD was so underrated , that movie is EPIC!

[@georgepitcher136]

Great interview Mike! And just to be perfectly clear - James was right - you were the best Lex. I loved Hackman - he was perfect for Superman The Movie, and I liked Spacey for Superman Returns he carried that tradition forward. But your performance as Lex, week after week - brought the weight, gravitas and intensity to the role that Lex should always have. If they did bring any one back for Lex - I would hope you'd at least get a call to read - you nailed it. So glad to hear Jame's take on everything - couldn't agree more. James - can't wait to see what you bring to the DCU.

[@domingorubies656]

Him and Clancy Brown , Animated Series

[@grrayfox2300]

Clancy Brown is the best

[@solidrobb5522]

Did he just say that The Flash is one of the greatest movies ever made!? Now I'm worried for his future movies.

[@metaldragmire8539]

Head of DC remember? Can’t go around talking trash about a movie that the studio you lead made. Criticism is fine, but calling it outright garbage might not be the smartest move.

[@matejspark8102]

I'm on season 6 of Smallville, started rewatching because of Talkville, and your Lex is so cold and ruthless now, that it is heartwarming to see you on this podcast and Talkville as the nice and wholesome person you are. Love what you do and love Gunn's laughter at the episode start.

[@clayongayle8870]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6O6kGBme7-Gr9E

[@JoJo-so1qy]

Michael Rosenbaum in DC Studios is something I NEED to happen. Preferably as Captain Cold, 'cuz Lenny's one of the best characters ever made and Michael would nail it as part of the Rogues™ in Flash mythos!

[@ToeTag1968]

I was wondering where Michael would fit in the DCU. If Brosnan wasn't already cast, I thought he could have been a good Dr. Fate. Gunn definitely needs to cast his friend.

[@jamesanderson1139]

He'd be a great Leonard, I wonder if he can act as crabby/crusty as comics Cold

[@talon3684]

Rosey in DC feels inevitable. Has to get the right role

[@ALEXCLOCKWORKORANGE1]

James is right about emotional connection. Every one of Gunn’s movies tend to make my eyes water. Especially at the end

[@Wes_7569]

re-watched Justice League and Unlimited, and this show with James Gunn reminded me of one of the episodes. It was where Lex Luthor and Brainiac combined with that nanotechnology, and after flash defeats him by going faster than he ever has before, he starts to fade into the Speed Force. And then it is the most overly corny dialogue imaginable, The Flash says that he has to go now as he talks to Diana, she does the emotional no scream, and then Martian Manhunter is doing the clothes dies of his hand out saying that he could still feel your presence and that you're not gone. The way it was all put together just makes me laugh every time with how classically corny it is

[@I-speak-U-shut-it]

The way Lex's body was being transformed into Brainiac scared the crap outta me 😊But yeah. I love that episode 😅

[@BeatAces]

With gunn mentioning that so many production people don't get brought up enough I'd love to see the upcoming DC movies use the old style of credits that play over the opening, encourages people to actually take in those names rather than idly waiting though the end credits so they can look back up once the after credits scene plays

[@ElGuantanamera]

I love how Gunn just casually dropped that Blue Beele IS INDEED the first character in the DCU!!! Hell yes!!!!!!! Can't wait for that film!!

[@freebird6591]

I wonder if that implies that the xurrent flash at the end of the flash film might not technically be considered as going into the new dcu?

[@TheWisestWizards]

Such a great laid back interview. I could have listened to this for hours and hours.

[@emotionseyefilms9361]

Wow, I loved this! I am a fan of Snyder's DC, but I'm very excited to see what Gunn does with his vision for DC.

[@timrush9779]

I'm very optimistic after GOTG 3 and Peacemaker. GOTG3 really hit me, (spoiler) he showed you can have the most heartbreaking (yet positive) trilogy ending without killing the leads off. I really hope that his Superman is one for the history books. Also - yes Michael is the best Lex, this shouldn't even be a discussion. Yes Hackman and Brown did their thing, but Michael had the benefit of many years to develop him and IMHO owns it (in my head cannon Clancy Brown is just playing Michael as a man in his 40s or so....)

[@ben_jamin197]

It'll be shit.

[@TSF15152]

We already had him with Henry now he will turn DC into a comedy movie with terrible boomer jokes every 5 minutes

[@guyverxx]

😂 fuqin normie

[@aegnor2102]

​@@TSF15152 so you understand nothing about Gunn DCU. He already explained many time that there is going to have movies and series from many genre. Swamp Thing will be horror, Supergirl will be a violent SF movie, Booster Gold will be a comedy, Paradise Lost will be a politic/game of thrones style show, Waller will be a dark TV show, Creatures Commandos will be in The Suice Squad style... Nothing like a humor dictature like you're saying

[@thedarkknight6969]

Love how Rosenbaum did a slight roast on batman v superman Lex Luthor lol

[@MrAsmontero]

Worst Luthor ever

[@I-speak-U-shut-it]

​@@MrAsmonteroFAAAAAACTS Zack Snyder. As a crappy storyteller that he is. Should've never brought it Lex Luthor. He should've just cast another Zod 2.O. Another alien. Like Parasite, Lobo... Zack Snyder did an amazing job with man of steel in terms of bringing in alien fights. One or two on one fight against Superman. Lex Luthor is a character that requires good storytelling and Snyder sucks at that lol

[@kevinkzt]

I think they went overboard. Michael Rosenbaum shouldnt just say that obvious like that

[@user-he3op5pi6i]

phuku @@I-speak-U-shut-it

[@chrisburton4581]

I truly hope Gunn does DC justice he made the best movies in MCU and peacemaker was a fantastic show !

[@midnightxtale]

MCU is the worst

[@arthur_scuba]

Loved it, I have a lot of respect for Mr. James G. after this interview. Can't wait to see his take on the DC 😉 Thank You very much Michael 💪🏼 Amazing work!!!

[@mikefreidel9861]

So thankful james took over DC. It deserves better then what has been the status quo

[@glennwelsh9784]

I think something that a lot of live-action interpretations (particularly in film) that they miss about Lex Luthor is that he resents Superman for what he represents to humanity and how he's idealized. He believes that humanity should not put its faith, trust, and hope in this incredibly powerful alien from another planet. They should rely on themselves to solve their own problems and lift up their own species to achieve its true potential, and holding up this extraterrestrial on a pedestal as an ideal for humanity to strive toward hinders that. Lex himself is a successful executive and is an extremely intelligent human, so he sees himself as an example of the potential that humanity as a whole should strive to achieve, so there's a personal resentment that this alien is being put on that pedestal when he believes that he, as a paragon of intelligence, ingenuity, and success, belongs there more.

[@troillandford7679]

When you put it that way, lex has a very logical world view

[@adrianarcega4058]

@@troillandford7679 Which is why Lex done properly would make for a compelling villain. That anyone of us can easily buy into Lex Luthor's ideology. Kevin Spacey *almost* touched on that.

[@clayongayle8870]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6O6kGBme7-Gr9E

[@ssjcosty]

As a humanist, I also believe that us humans should rely on our own capabilities to solve our problems and improve our societies, and not just put someone on a pedestal just because they have massive power. "Might makes right" is a morally bankrupt idea. That said, Superman can help, especially in emergency situations. Yes, humans can and should improve things, but ultimately that shouldn't mean you just let someone die in an accident when in that moment you have the option to save their life. People don't appreciate Superman just because he has tremendous power, but because he offers help, he saves lives. Lex believes that he belongs on that pedestal more than Superman, but he is wrong. He is rich and powerful, but doesn't act for the betterment of society, nor does he seem to care for the well-being of people. He sees people as disposable tools that he can use to achieve personal power. Someone who really cared about people's well-being wouldn't commit the atrocities and criminal activities that he does on a regular basis. Lex is a corrupt businessman and at times politician, who doesn't care about things like fairness, human rights etc., and whose purposes seem to be to have power, rule others, and humiliate anyone who he sees as a potential threat to his status.

[@kyleshea384]

@@adrianarcega4058Kevin Spacey touched a lotta things

[@HarlanGreenborough]

The last few shows have been incredible. Great guests, great energy, you guys are firing on all cylinders! I'm still hoping you continue the Star Trek run and do a Poolhall Junkies reunion with Anson Mount!!

[@xREAVERx]

Didn't think I could love James Gunn any more but he's so fantastic. I love his absolute love for making movies and doing it right

[@xREAVERx]

@alex cris he made a poor judgment joke well more than 10 years ago. We've all made mistakes, he's learned from his and never repeated, it's called growth

[@fredsorre6605]

The way they danced around Jesse Eisenberg's Lex Luther is priceless and the way they called out all of the criticisms on Snyder's Superman was spot on as well they don't want a character to be portrayed like another character and a grumpy Superman was never gonna work for many poeple.

[@MrFonseca75]

All of these interviews are down to earth and relatable.

[@darthwatson8274]

It’s pretty funny when you realise the poster that is behind James Gunn.

[@mmills5965]

The moment I realised I was really and truly loved was when I was diagnosed with leukaemia and my friends told me the things about me and the things I'd done that made me special to them. Acts of kindness that I had done and forgotten about but meant the world to them at the time for example. It was so humbling... as Mr Gunn implied being kind matters and in your darkness moments you are repaid with love and support

[@77pearcearrow]

I'm not a film maker or in the industry, just a working musician. But man I would love to hang out with James Gunn, he is so intuitive and focused on creating a cohesive form of art.

[@clauderain4888]

I cannot wait to see him take on Superman! I also love Gunns movie "Super" waaay underrated.

[@spiceweasle3945]

"Super" is so good!!!!!

[@Koluvuma]

Finally!!! Someone that understands DC !! A proper comic book fan. I’ve always been a fan of James. I’m so happy that DC is under someone like him. This DCU will be like the DCAU and Young Justice

[@SamRodrigues77]

Amazing. Thank you to everyone involved in making this interview happen. I liked.

[@rucas79]

Very interesting interview with lots of questions I had about James answered. Great episode Michael

[@bensneb360]

I’m very happy for James success, I love how down to earth and casual this conversation was, and I hope Michael Rosenbaum has the opportunity for a significant role in the new DCU, because it’s always great to see Michael show up in movies and TV shows

[@rafaelogusuku]

Michael Rosenbaum should be the DCU's Lex. His role in Smallville as Lex has always been the best version of Luthor outside of comics. Imagine that in a movie made by James Gunn.

[@jedijones]

LMAO, imagining that makes me sick to my stomach. Great way to turn a movie into nothing but a cheesy TV show that doesn't belong on the big screen.

[@ethankleinman1067]

@@jedijones lol nah

[@I-speak-U-shut-it]

​@@jedijonessucks to be you lol

[@RobSajous]

This was a great interview. One of the best I’ve seen and every inspirational. Thanks guys!!!

[@fearthedragonhand]

literally the only podcast i watch/listen to, always a great job!!!

[@johngallagher1402]

Great interview! Was great to hear James Gunn talk about when he was let go by Disney and all the support he got. Looking forward to his next project.

[@carlosss.13]

I was excited for the DCU before this interview... After watching this I am even more excited and hopeful that James Gunn will do the characters of DC justice.

[@TheEvanBennett]

This is a legendary interview and I love it! Thanks for putting it out and asking great questions. Nothing better than a conversation with two olds friends, it just so happens yours runs all of DC lol.

[@douglassimon1103]

I've watched several James Gunn interviews the last several weeks, and hands down this was the best by far.

[@MegaSpideyman]

Getting to talk to James Gunn is certainly a big get! Michael Rosenbaum, Lex Luthor in Smallville and The Flash in the DCAU, chatting to the Guardians trilogy director and DC Studios co-head - what a combination!

[@theresemarkham9387]

This episode was awesome! I am looking forward to see what James has planned for the future of DC. I enjoyed hearing about his creative process. His view of fame is so true. I definitely agree that you are the best Lex ever!! I enjoyed this episode immensely!

[@comfortscalling]

You’re the only subscription I allow notifications for. Thanks Lex and love ya.

[@m.magnus9368]

This was a great interview. It’s always good to hear JG, but even more so on a personal level and some of the behind the scenes stuff that we don’t hear about

[@alexsutton8025]

James, I could not be HAPPIER that you are taking over DC. You are going to do incredible things! I would love to see a live-action "Kingdom Come" with Michael playing the Speed-Force version of Wally West. I would really enjoy seeing Rosie suit up as the Scarlet Speedster at least once in live-action

[@gdog5798]

How can you watch this and not be excited for the dcu, he knows his shit, he not only delves in marvel and dc but other comics as well, so you know he’s a fan, unlike snyder who I love but just doesn’t have that comic book feel to his movies, snyder feels like that jock who read a comic and just was inspired by the visuals of the art but not of the story. James does emotion and dealing with loss really well, something that the old Dceu lacked.

[@thatepicwizardguy]

I totally relate to that whole experience of knowing people love me but not really feeling it. Haven't heard many people say that in my life so that's comforting to hear.

[@jon_little]

It was very enjoyable listening to friends talk. You have talented friends, but those friends also seem to be good people that love and appreciate each other. You are very fortunate to realize it and work to keep the friendships going.

[@Maul_Crawler]

This interview really shed a new light on James for me. I was incredibly disgruntled over his DC decisions. This definitely changed my mind. This was 10/10 interview

[@Eserr7856]

Hes a genuine storyteller first who cares deeply about the characters, doesn't matter if it's Superman or batmite, he focuses on quality over quantity ($$$) , and it gives me alot of confidence in him leading DC studios

[@lobobobo8471]

What DC decisions are you disgruntled about?

[@kevinkzt]

@@namgge2612 Im sure if dcu is successful there is a chance for Henry Cavill to return as in like Crisis On Infinite Earths if many fans demand it

[@jettisonedguy257]

I heard rumblings of James working on a new superman (mainly from this podcast) and as sad as I was to hear it will be re-cast. It's great to hear that James is bothered by some of the real problems that are arising in the Superhero movie business especially story wise. Superman matters, and It's great to hear him chat about his approach to the idea and what makes the story important and that DC will be taking a quality vs quantity approach. Can't wait to see what James / DC does for Superman.

[@Ay3shizzle]

Dude he may as well give us the best Superman film in a long time that’ll help make Superman popular again.

[@matthewmartin4394]

Not rumblings. He wrote the script, is close to casting Clark/Supes (possibly David Corenswet), & it already has a release date.

[@CleansHaven]

You heard rumblings? It's been announced by him and extensively reported on. It's called Superman: Legacy

[@JohnWick-yw4oo]

I heard he was going to cast Bradley Cooper as Clark’s father. I don’t know if that’s Jor-El or Jonathan Kent. I’m thinking it might be Jonathan Kent though.

[@jettisonedguy257]

@@CleansHaven Yeah I'm a slow learner

[@rakdok900]

James Gunn just saying Blüdhaven gets me stupidly excited

[@Luckeydogs]

Love this interview. Love how personal it gets!!

[@SantoTapatio]

Back in my senior year maybe a little after I graduated I heard rumblings of James Gunn working on a marvel movie and it was GOTG and I was so excited because I was a film nerd who loved Slither and Super so I was hyped at this. Well time had passed and I enlisted to the Navy. I timed my basic training to end so when I got out GOTG was opening for its first week. So once you graduate you get a day out with your family and I spent my day with my parents in Chicago at the theaters to see the movie I was so hyped to see. It was a motivator for what I was going to do when basic was over. Now I’m out and I’m going to college and starting my film making journey. I’ve got a long way to go before I have any business trying to manifest this but I do have a dream of working with James Gunn at some point even if it’s just plugging in lights.

[@patricktuorto]

I knew who James Gunn "the Director" was before this interview, but now I have a better understanding who James Gunn the man is after the interview. Looking forward to his Superman movie now more than ever. Great interview!

[@teddng1828]

42:00 Omg he literally quoted Nora Allen from Flashpoint Paradox 😂❤

[@navid7491]

Thank you!!! This was one of the chillest and nicest podcasts ive heard in a while. I thoroughly enjoyed it. James Gunn is amazing.

[@quiiquee]

Bro, the flash telling Gunn telling him not to screw up Lex Luthor was awesome

[@jazzman7320]

Flash AND Lex telling the studio head and director of the next goddamn Superman movie not to screw up Lex. Seriously, this is too beautiful. What a full circle moment for both!

[@I-speak-U-shut-it]

I wish Michael would get Zack Snyder on his podcast just to rant on him about screwing up the Lex Luthor character 😂

[@abhinavcky8513]

Happy to hear that Blue Beetle is first dcu character. Very much excited for the future of DCU.

[@Goblinmoon]

Wonderful interview Rosie! It was great to see the two of you interacting. Really can see the friendship you have. I cheered when you were in GotG 3. Tell James, he needs to let you actually be seen!

[@jtprx7589]

Great interview! Loved the vibe!

[@raimiallpowerful2020]

I'm really looking forward to his DCU. I love all his work and he seems like a true lover and someone who understands comic books. I want my guy superman to be back full glory. can't believe it's ten years since the last.

[@xxtextraextrathirsty8119]

you are the best Lex Luthor

[@bryanbucco9252]

If you are a fan of filmmaking, I recommend a book James co-wrote early in his career titled "All I need to know about filmmaking I learned from The Toxic Avenger." I used to intern at Troma and it was a damaged copy so they let me keep it lol A super fun read and little tips/tricks for low budget filmmaking.

[@nickhydier1201]

Love seeing James Gunn on here.The new head of DC. Such interesting stuff shared. Really enjoying James' candor and way of explaining things.😀😀