James Gunn Casually Confirms Brainiac As Superman 2 Villain In Man Of Tomorrow

Lex Luthor and Superman will be a team when Nicholas Hoult and David Corenswet return as their DC Universe characters in Man of Tomorrow. As reports have been surfacing on the Man of Tomorrow movie, one of the biggest mysteries about the sequel has seemingly finally been answered.

Following the Brainiac casting rumors that Gunn debunked, a user on Threads asked, "QQ, why do you address these rumors straight on? Isn't better marketing letting people speculate and gossip? Big fan BTW." The Man of Tomorrow director stated, "There are numerous reasons. I said why I addressed this one in the post. Dave is a friend. I don't need a bunch of stories out there about why he didn't get the job or whatever when someone else is eventually cast."

However, when another user followed up by asking, "James did you just confirm Brainiac," Gunn replied with, "Eventually." Check out the full exchange below:

The original Brainiac casting rumors that the filmmaker had addressed were that Dave Bautista was seemingly a frontrunner for the iconic DC villain. The two worked together on the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy during Gunn's time with Marvel Studios.

With the Brainiac casting process basically underway, it remains to be seen if DC Studios will have a deal finalized with an actor before the year is over, or if there will be an announcement arriving in early 2026. Whoever lands the role will be the first star to ever portray the famous Superman foe on the big screen.

Man of Tomorrow filming is set to begin next year, with the DCU entry being one of the big superhero films coming out in 2027 from DC Studios. While not part of Gunn's universe, The Batman Part II will be going into production next May.

It was initially reported by The Wrap in November 2025 that Brainiac is the villain in Man of Tomorrow, as the major DC villain has been highly requested by many audience members for the last couple of years. Other key players returning for the continuation include Lois Lane and Rick Flag Sr.

Man of Tomorrow is set for July 9, 2027.

This team up marks a sharp turn for the story of both men. Lex Luthor has long stood as Superman’s main human rival, built on pride, power, and a belief that no one should stand above the law, not even a hero. Putting Luthor and Superman on the same side hints at a threat so large that old grudges must pause. For viewers, it opens the door to tense scenes where trust is thin, plans clash, and each move is watched. Hoult and Corenswet sharing that space could give the film its emotional core, not just its action.

Gunn’s open replies also show how the studio is shaping the conversation around the movie. Instead of letting rumors grow into false stories, he chose to speak early, clear the air, and protect people linked to the project. That tone suggests a film made with care for the cast and for fans who follow every update. It also frames the Brainiac talk as part of a bigger build, one that rewards patience without spoiling the journey. The short “Eventually” answer keeps interest high while avoiding promises that could box the team in.

If Brainiac is indeed the main foe, the choice fits the idea of Luthor and Superman standing together. Brainiac is not just a physical threat but a cold mind that values control over life. Facing an enemy like that would test both men in different ways. Superman would meet a force that cannot be moved by hope alone, while Luthor would confront an intellect that rivals his own without his human limits. For longtime fans, this matchup carries weight, and for new viewers, it offers a clear, high stakes entry into the DCU.

The stage is set for defining chapter.

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Man of Tomorrow, Superman, Lex Luthor, James Gunn, Brainiac, DCU, DC Studios, Nicholas Hoult, David Corenswet, Superhero Movies, Comic Book Films, Upcoming Movies, Film News, Casting Rumors, DC Films