James Gunn’s First Superman Film Debuts on Netflix Today
James Gunn’s first Superman film made its debut recently. However, before this significant release, Gunn was involved in a unique project titled Brightburn. This film, which recently became available on Netflix, presents a dark twist on the Superman narrative.
Brightburn’s Streaming Release
Brightburn premiered on Netflix on December 1, 2025, as part of the platform’s new arrivals that month. The film, directed by David Yarovesky, was produced on a modest budget of $6 million. Despite its low production costs, it managed to gross approximately $33 million at the box office.
Plot Overview
Brightburn explores the story of Brandon Breyer, a young boy with extraterrestrial origins. He is raised by caring adoptive parents in a small American town. As Brandon approaches puberty, sinister abilities begin to emerge, leading him to use his powers for malevolent purposes.
The Distinct Tone of Brightburn
- Unlike traditional superhero films, Brightburn delves into horror.
- The narrative reimagines the Superman origin story through an unsettling lens.
- Brightburn portrays a character who embodies an anti-Superman archetype.
Jackson A. Dunn delivers a striking performance as the young titular character. His portrayal emphasizes the chilling transformation from a seemingly innocent child to a threatening figure, showcasing a complete lack of restraint in his newfound powers. This leads to frightening consequences for those around him.
Critical Reception and Genre
The film received a mixed review, earning a 57% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers noted its brutal approach and effective use of horror elements, allowing it to stand out in the superhero genre.
Future of Brightburn and Superman
As of now, Gunn has not revisited the idea of a sequel to Brightburn. He mentioned on Threads last year that the prospects of Brightburn 2 are slim. However, his recent Superman film has opened a new chapter in his career. A follow-up project, titled Man of Tomorrow, is set for release on July 9, 2027.
What Else is New on Netflix?
Alongside Brightburn, Netflix introduced other films on December 1st. Notable titles include:
- A League of Their Own
- Cheaper by the Dozen
- The first three Kung Fu Panda movies
- Pulp Fiction
- Zero Dark Thirty
Upcoming titles on Netflix include The Northman on December 3rd, Cast Away on December 7th, and Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery on December 12th.
Brightburn’s introduction to Netflix provides a chilling alternative to the typical superhero narrative. Its unique take on the genre continues to spark discussions among audiences and critics alike.
