James Gunn’s Superman Sparks New Interest in the Comic Books. Why are Readers Excited About the Source?
James Gunn’s Superman is a massive hit with both critics and audiences, showing that the flying man in the cape is still cool. However, the movie is achieving something else that’s worth celebrating: something most other superhero movies fail to do. James Gunn’s Superman is regenerating interest in the original comics.
How James Gunn’s Superman is Igniting Interest in Comics
According to MSN, a post by Jetpack Comics was retweeted by James Gunn. The tweet read:
“We’ve had billion dollar comic movies drop and didn’t see a soul in here looking for comics to go along with it. But since @JamesGunn‘s Superman dropped, it’s been non-stop. Single issues, collected editions, action figures. You name it. Superman is cool again.”
So Why is This Happening?
Of course, Hollywood puts out no shortage of superhero movies, but ironically, few movie fans seek out the comics after seeing the movies. There are plenty of fans who know every Marvel Cinematic Universe film and TV show, but have never picked up a Marvel comic. So, why is this the movie that has fans flocking to comic stores and giving them a much-needed boost in sales?
For one thing, Gunn’s movie represents a return to Superman’s roots. After Man of Steel, Batman v Superman, and Justice League gave us a rendition of the character that broods enough to make Batman proud, Gunn’s version of Clark Kent is human and vulnerable, but he also stands by his ideals. He is genuinely nice and compassionate, which is what people need in today’s increasingly divisive world. Perhaps audiences find themselves wanting more of that kind of superhero after they watch the movie, so they’re turning to the comics for the character’s roots.
In addition, some fans might be craving a tangible experience in today’s scrolling, phone-addicted world. The mere sensation of holding a paper comic book in your hands can be refreshing after hours in front of a screen.
What Comics Inspired James Gunn’s Superman?
The movie was obviously inspired by several comics, but it took special inspiration from All-Star Superman, which, like the Gunn movie itself, attempted to take the character back to his roots. In the comic, an encounter with solar radiation causes Clark’s body to deteriorate, motivating him to do as much good before he dies. He reveals his secret identity to Lois Lane and sets out to help the planet as much as he can. In the Gunn movie, Lois already knows Clark’s secret identity, and Superman stretches himself thin trying to protect everyone, even a giant mutant creature he’s forced to fight. Both the movie and the comic focus on hope, which is what Superman is all about.
