How a Squirrel Almost Killed Superman’s Big Moment

James Gunn’s “Superman” film centers on kindness and love, which he has highlighted in several interviews about the latest release. The director, who leads creative work on the DC Universe, focused on showing a more compassionate version of the Man of Steel. Recently, Gunn recently told Rolling Stone that one of the film’s most important scenes nearly did not make it into the final cut because test audiences reacted negatively. Some viewers and crew members called the scene unnecessary or foolish. However, Superman fans and Gunn himself consider the moment vital and were surprised to learn it almost got removed.

Known for his work on “Guardians of the Galaxy,” Gunn has often been praised for his storytelling. He dropped a darker opening scene involving Superman’s dog, Krypto, after test screenings. But he stood firm on keeping a brief but key scene where Superman rescues a squirrel during a battle. When interviewer Brian Hiatt asked about the importance of this scene, Gunn said it caused debate. He explained, “Yeah, although it was probably the second- or third-most hotly debated moment in the movie. Because we showed it to test audiences and some people did not like the squirrel. They’re like, ‘Why the fuck is he saving a squirrel? Why is he taking time out, saving a squirrel?’ There was a cut where I cut it out and I’m like, ‘I really miss the squirrel. He’s gotta save the squirrel.’ In addition, there were also some geographic problems with where he ended up if I didn’t have him fly over with the squirrel. So I put the squirrel back in despite the protestations of some of my people on my crew.”

The decision to keep the squirrel rescue had a clear impact. It reminded viewers of the classic kind-hearted Superman many fans admire. This moment shows how well Gunn understands what Superman audiences want.

Fans of the DC Universe can expect surprises in Gunn’s next projects. Audiences have praised the characters Mr. Terrific, played by Edi Gathegi, and Krypto. When asked if fan reactions would influence his future work, Gunn said he pays attention. “I think people like Superman because it’s unexpected in certain respects, and I think that what we do next is gonna be unexpected. I just follow that. Listen, do I notice that people love Mr. Terrific and they love Krypto? Yes. I notice those things.”

Gunn is not revealing his plans just yet. Still, fans are encouraged by his recognition of what audiences enjoy. Whether that means more screen time for Mr. Terrific and Krypto remains to be seen.

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