‘Superman: Legacy’ Brief Issue – James Gunn and Team Underestimate Underwear Incorporation on New Costume After 100s of Designs

James Gunn and the design team of 'Superman: Legacy' are wrestling with the challenge of incorporating Superman's iconic red trunks into the modern design of the costume
Superman: Legacy

The Man of Steel’s iconic red trunks have been a subject of debate and discussion among fans and creators alike. In the upcoming film Superman: Legacy, directed by James Gunn, the team is grappling with the challenge of incorporating the classic trunks into the modern design of Superman’s costume.

Superman: Legacy Will Be the Base of the DCU

Superman: Legacy

Superman: Legacy will explores Superman’s journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas. The film emphasizes the values of truth, justice, and kindness in a world that often sees these virtues as old-fashioned.

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The cast of the film includes David Corenswet as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner, and Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho.

The Brief Challange of the Man of Steel’s Briefs

Superman

When DC Comics rebooted the DC Universe in 2011 with “The New 52,” Superman’s red trunks were removed from his costume. They were also absent in Zack Snyder’s 2013 Man of Steel and have only appeared in brief flashbacks in The CW’s Superman & Lois.

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James Gunn, the writer and director of the film, has revealed that the design team has created “hundreds of designs” for Superman’s costume, suggesting that they are struggling to find the right balance with the trunks. Responding to a fan on Threads who argued that the trunks “work best,” Gunn stated, “As we’ve done hundreds of designs, it is most definitely not that simple.”

Superman: Legacy James Gunn

The challenge lies in the fact that while the trunks are a recognizable and nostalgic element of The Last Son of Krypton’s appearance, they can also appear outdated or even silly to modern audiences. The task of integrating them into a contemporary design that resonates with today’s viewers is not an easy one.

Possible Solutions and Speculations

superman - george newbern

While Gunn has not committed to a final decision regarding the trunks, there may be ways to incorporate the red color into a newly designed suit. The team is likely exploring various options to pay homage to the classic look while also creating a fresh and appealing design for the 2025 release.

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Fans may need to prepare for the possibility that the trunks may be completely absent from the final design. The focus seems to be on creating a costume that aligns with the film’s narrative and the character’s evolution.

The design of everyone’s favorite boy scout is a reflection of the ongoing conversation about how to honor the past while embracing the present and future. Whether or not the iconic trunks make an appearance, the film promises to deliver a fresh take on the beloved hero.

Superman: Legacy is set to be released in theaters on July 11, 2025.

*Editor’s Note: Title is strictly for alliteration/underwear theme

About Superman: Legacy

Superman: Legacy

Release Date: July 11, 2025 (USA)
Director: James Gunn
Writer: James Gunn
Production: DC Studios
Distribution: Warner Bros.
Cast: David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Isabela Merced, Edi Gathegi, Nathan Fillion, and Anthony Carrigan

Synopsis
Superman: Legacy tells the story of Superman’s journey to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent of Smallville, Kansas. He is the embodiment of truth, justice, and the American way, guided by human kindness in a world that sees kindness as old-fashioned.  

What are your thoughts on the inclusion of Supe’s iconic trunks in the new design? Do you think they should be kept or modernized? Share your opinions and join the conversation on social media!

Source: James Gunn

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Kevin Fenix

Professional Nerd | Amateur Human | Creative/Content Director The best way to describe Kevin Fenix is the kid you never tell what the buttons do in video games so you have a chance to win. Being 6’ 4” and Asian, he never really fit in, so he got comfortable standing out. Not only is it easy to find him in crowds, he dabbles in the culinary arts, does a little stand up and improv, and can honestly say Spider-Man is the Jesus-like influence of his life. Kevin Fenix loves dogs, movies, television, comics, comedy, and to shoot people… with video.