James Gunn's latest tease for Superman: Legacy has ignited speculation about a potential logo alteration for the Man of Steel in the forthcoming film. Gunn, who is both writing and directing the movie, has cast David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan as Superman and Lois Lane, respectively. As a reboot of the iconic superhero and his ensemble, Gunn and Peter Safran's new DC Universe will introduce several modifications, one of which is suggested by Gunn's cryptic hint.
Via Bluesky (courtesy of @therealsupes), Gunn unveiled an image of Superman from the classic Fleischer cartoons, prompting fans to theorize that the hero's animated attire may find its way into Superman: Legacy.
The Fleischer Superman cartoons, spanning from 1941 to 1943, comprise a collection of 17 shorts. Opting for the Fleischer Superman suit would serve as a commendable method to highlight the contrasting portrayals of Superman by Corenswet and Henry Cavill.
Superman Legacy’s Fleischer Influence Could Be Huge
From September 1941 to July 1943, the Fleischer cartoons captivated audiences as short films shown before major movies. During this period, Superman, who was introduced in 1938, had not yet achieved the level of fame he enjoys today. Consequently, these cartoons provided many with their first glimpse of Clark Kent and his alter ego. Additionally, it was the Fleischer Superman cartoons that bestowed upon the character the remarkable ability to fly.
The upcoming film, Superman: Legacy, will delve into various aspects of the character's extensive history. After Zack Snyder's departure from the traditional portrayal of Superman in the DCEU, Gunn aims to restore the character to his optimistic self in the new DC Universe. Incorporating the iconic Fleischer Superman cartoons' suit in the film would effectively emphasize this goal.
Superman and Lois successfully translated the beloved Fleischer Superman suit into live-action, as Tyler Hoechlin's Superman reveals that his mom handcrafted the costume for him while saving a child. The Fleischer Superman suit truly embodies the essence of a benevolent Superman, making it a significant aspect of Superman: Legacy, which aims to bring the character back to his core principles. Since the Fleischer cartoons played a pivotal role in introducing Superman to the general audience, featuring the animated suit in Superman: Legacy would perfectly complement the film's youthful interpretation of the hero.
Source: James Gunn/Bluesky via @therealsupes/Twitter