James Gunn’s Superman is setting the stage for an exciting new era in the DC movie universe. With its sequel, Man of Tomorrow, slated for a 2027 release, anticipation is soaring as reports suggest Superman will join forces with Lex Luthor to confront one of DC Comics’ most iconic villains.
According to The Wrap, Brainiac is poised to be the central antagonist, prompting the unlikely alliance between Lex Luthor—recently imprisoned at the end of Superman—and the Man of Steel. Lex, now enjoying a more lenient confinement alongside Rick Flag, Sr., will have to put past grievances aside to face this formidable foe. Brainiac, first appearing in 1958’s Action Comics #242, is a hyper-intelligent green-skinned alien from the Coluan race, well known for his sinister practice of shrinking and capturing entire cities for his collection.
The character has undergone numerous transformations since his debut, evolving into a complex antagonist within the Superman universe and beyond, yet he has yet to make a significant live-action appearance in DC films.
As Gunn works on defining Brainiac as a central villain, it aligns with his vision for the fresh DC cinematic landscape. Gunn has indicated a desire to steer away from previous arcs involving Darkseid, allowing room for new adversaries like Brainiac to arise. This speculation gained traction when Gunn teased an anatomical cross-section of a human brain in the movie’s screenplay on social media, prompting fans to connect the dots.
#MoT 7.9.27 pic.twitter.com/aIKSFpaHff
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) September 22, 2025
Production for Man of Tomorrow is expected to begin in spring next year, with a release date set for July 9, 2027. Fans are eager to see how this new dynamic between Superman and Lex Luthor will play out against the backdrop of Brainiac’s threat.
What is the storyline for Man of Tomorrow? The film is set to explore the relationship dynamic between Superman and Lex Luthor, pushing both characters to confront their past and work together against Brainiac.
Who is Brainiac in the DC Comics universe? Brainiac is depicted as a highly intelligent alien who possesses technology that enables him to shrink and capture cities, including Krypton’s capital, Kandor. He is often portrayed as one of Superman’s most dangerous adversaries.
What role will Lex Luthor play in the new film? Lex Luthor will transition from villain to reluctant ally as he joins forces with Superman to combat the overwhelming threat posed by Brainiac, set against a backdrop of previous animosities.
Why hasn’t Brainiac appeared in live-action films before? Despite his importance in the comics, Brainiac’s complex character and the intricacies of his storyline have posed challenges for adaptation into the live-action realm until now.
With Man of Tomorrow on the horizon, there’s much to look forward to for DC fans. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting chapter in the DC Universe. For further insights and news on your favorite franchises, continue exploring related content at Moyens I/O.