Superman: New DCU Art Shows David Corenswet’s Suit Without Trunks

Some newly released behind-the-scenes artwork is giving fans a look at David Corenswet’s Superman costume in an unusual form—without the classic red trunks.

A Fresh Look at the Man of Steel

Superman hit U.S. theaters last month, marking the first feature film in the DCU under James Gunn’s leadership. Written and directed by Gunn, the movie stars Corenswet as the titular superhero, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor.

While audiences have already seen the final version of the suit on the big screen—complete with its traditional design—this new artwork shows an alternate concept that strips away one of Superman’s most recognizable features.

The Trunkless Superman Design

On Instagram, graphic and surface designer Maybelle Pineda shared several behind-the-scenes images showcasing the detailed surface design work for Superman. Among them is a striking all-blue, trunkless version of Corenswet’s costume. Without the red trunks breaking up the color scheme, the suit has a sleeker, more modern silhouette, though it also loses some of its vintage comic book charm.

The Trunks Debate: Gunn, Snyder, and Corenswet

James Gunn has been candid about his internal debate over whether Superman should wear trunks in this new iteration. The red trunks have been part of the character’s design for decades, but they’ve also been divisive among fans and filmmakers. Gunn even consulted Man of Steel director Zack Snyder for his thoughts.

Ultimately, it was David Corenswet himself who swayed the decision. According to Gunn, Corenswet made a compelling case that Superman needed to embrace his classic look—including the trunks—as part of the character’s hopeful, timeless identity.

Official Synopsis and Tone

The official synopsis for Superman reads:

“Superman, DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor, and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.”

That “humor and heart” element is part of why Gunn felt it was important to lean into the brighter, more optimistic visual style for Superman—trunks and all—rather than the darker, armored look of some recent adaptations.

A Star-Studded Supporting Cast

The movie’s ensemble is stacked with familiar faces and deep-cut DC characters. Alongside Corenswet, Brosnahan, and Hoult, the cast includes:

• Edi Gathegi as Michael Holt/Mister Terrific
• Anthony Carrigan as Rex Mason/Metamorpho
• Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern
• Isabela Merced as Kendra Saunders/Hawkgirl
• Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen
• Wendell Pierce as Perry White
• Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard
• Mikaela Hoover as Cat Grant
• Christopher McDonald as Ron Troupe
• Pruitt Taylor Vince as Jonathan Kent
• Neva Howell as Martha Kent
• Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher
• María Gabriela de Faría as Angela Spica/The Engineer

It’s a lineup that not only grounds Superman in his iconic supporting cast but also plants seeds for future DCU projects.

Why This Alternate Suit Matters

Concept art like this gives fans a peek into the creative decision-making that shapes these massive productions. The trunkless suit may not have made it into the film, but its existence highlights the balancing act between modernizing a superhero’s look and staying true to what makes them iconic.

For decades, debates over Superman’s trunks have reflected larger conversations about comic book authenticity versus cinematic realism. Gunn’s final choice shows a clear preference for leaning into Superman’s hopeful, colorful roots—something that sets the tone for the DCU’s future.

Where to See It Now

Superman is currently playing in theaters nationwide. For fans curious about the design process, Maybelle Pineda’s behind-the-scenes images offer a rare look at what might have been—and a reminder that even the smallest costume details can spark big discussions in the superhero world.