James Gunn Fires Back At Doubters Over Future Wonder Woman…

Summary

James Gunn and Peter Safran run DC Studios, focusing on interconnected projects like Marvel, such as recasting Superman.
Gunn explained his reluctance towards open casting calls despite fan inquiries about Wonder Woman's casting.
Gunn, known for unconventional casting choices, is trusted for his ability to find the best actors to lead his projects.

James Gunn subtly talked about Wonder Woma n on social media. The filmmaker addressed the casting concerns some fans brought to his attention, but Gunn had no intention of changing his process.

Gunn and Peter Safran were appointed as the co-CEO and co-chairman of DC Studios, giving them creative control over DC Universe (DCU). The duo is creating creative, cohesive, and interconnected films, TV series, and animated projects similar to what Marvel Studios has done with the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). They have already recast Superman, with David Corenswet headlining Superman: Legacy in 2025. One fan recently asked about Wonder Woman's casting, and Gunn addressed it.

James Gunn Pulls Back The Curtain On His Version of Lex Luthor

James Gunn shared the story behind his depiction of Nicholas Hoult's Lex Luthor in the upcoming Superman movie.

Posts 1

By Catherine Armecin Martin

One took to Thread and asked if Gunn does casting calls. The comic nerd said it was "a very limiting viewpoint on casting" if they would only accept "accomplished stars." The same social media user pointed out that Gal Gadot wasn't famous when she got the role. "I'm not sure what you're talking about," Gunn replied on Threads. "I only have hired the best actors for the role. But no I don't do open casting calls. If you go back my old threads I explain why (they don't work except in rare situations)." In another discussion on Threads in January 2024, the director explained that he had open casting before and stopped doing so. "I've done open casting calls & they're difficult because you get thousands upon thousands of people auditioning & less than 0.1% of them are as good as the average actor who comes through the door with an agent," he explained. However, the screenwriter, director and producer said he was still open to it and might do so when "auditioning someone of a very specific type."

Another DC fan also asked Gunn about the difference in height between the DC superheroes. Based on the text accompanying the artwork, Wonder Woman should be taller than Superman and the latter should be taller than Batman. "How do you feel about this?" The social media user asked. "Not good," Gunn commented. "I don't know where I'd find an accomplished and talented actress 6'5" or over." Gadot is 5'10" and her portrayal of Wonder Woman has been well-received. She has the charisma and physical presence, giving the film a critical success. Gadot's Wonder Woman was considered a symbol of hope and strength, empowering women and young children.

Making the next Wonder Woman taller than Superman is probably a challenge because the current Superman, Corenswet, is 6' 3". So, Gunn was right not to take the superheroes' height seriously. As for the open casting, Gunn's reason was acceptable. Of course, it isn't easy dealing with thousands of auditions. Anyone will likely take their shot at landing a breakout role. Gunn does his thing well. He is a talented filmmaker, and many love his work because he effectively blends humor, action, and heart in his projects in surprising ways.

For sure, Gunn knows what he is doing because he made brilliant casting choices before. For instance, casting Dave Bautista as Drax in Guardians of the Galaxy was unexpected but was well-received. Additionally, many were skeptical when he chose Chris Pratt as Star-Lord. Pratt was known for playing comedic roles, including playing Andrew Maxwell "Andy" Dwyer in the sitcom Parks and Recreation. The role was a temporary character, but Pratt's portrayal was so likable that producers asked him back. Gunn saw Pratt's charisma and how he could blend it well with his humor to pull off the role. Pratt has since become one of the breakout stars in the MCU. So, it's best to leave Gunn alone in how he approaches casting for Wonder Woman and other DCU movies because it's one of the things he does best.