James Gunn and Dwayne Johnson, both well-known figures in the world of DC Comics, are teaming up for an upcoming three-part documentary titled “Superpowered: The DC Story.” This documentary, set to premiere on HBO Max on July 20th, delves into the journey of DC Comics and its rise to prominence in the comic book industry, fueled by iconic creations such as Wonder Woman, Superman, Batman, Watchmen, and The Green Lantern.
In the recently unveiled trailer for “Superpowered,” James Gunn shares his perspective on heroism, stating, “Heroism is just very simple—any time somebody uses courage when they’re afraid in the name of something good.” Patty Jenkins, the director of Wonder Woman, emphasizes the enduring significance of superheroes, noting that throughout history, mythic characters have captivated audiences, with DC Comics serving as the grand stage for these extraordinary individuals.
The documentary features appearances from Dwayne Johnson, Michael Uslan (producer of Batman films), renowned comic book writer Mark Waid, and Damon Lindelof (creator of Watchmen). Together, they contribute their insights and experiences to offer a comprehensive exploration of DC Comics’ impact on popular culture.
In a recent interview on the Inside of You podcast, James Gunn expressed his strong opinions on the state of superhero cinema. He criticized the trend of lazily churning out superhero films without considering the unique qualities and underlying stories that make each character special. Gunn emphasized the importance of creating narratives that stand apart from others, filling a genuine need for audiences and delivering compelling storytelling.
With the combination of James Gunn’s directorial prowess, Dwayne Johnson’s on-screen charisma, and an array of industry experts, “Superpowered: The DC Story” promises to be a captivating exploration of DC Comics’ legacy and its enduring influence on the superhero genre.
