In crafting the upcoming Superman film, director James Gunn has carefully balanced nostalgia with innovation, including the film’s music. During a press Q&A, Gunn revealed how the score plays a pivotal role in connecting the film’s legacy to its fresh vision.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
Gunn acknowledged the iconic status of John Williams’ original Superman theme, calling it “one of my favorite soundtracks of all time.” Reflecting on its impact, he shared, “When I was a kid, the thing I loved most about the movie was the music. That was what stayed with me more than anything else.”
However, the goal for this new film was to strike a balance. “We’re doing something that harks back to the past but also looks forward to the future,” Gunn explained.
A Unique Take with John Murphy
To bring this vision to life, Gunn turned to composer John Murphy, with whom he has collaborated before. Murphy began working on the music even before the script was finalized, a testament to the importance of the score in shaping the film’s tone and atmosphere.
“I told John, ‘I want to use a version of the Williams theme, but I want to do our own version of it,’” Gunn said. The result is a score that intertwines Williams’ iconic melody with Murphy’s original compositions, creating a dynamic soundscape that evolves throughout the movie.
Music on Set
Gunn is known for integrating music into the filmmaking process, and this project was no exception. “I write the basic elements of the score beforehand. We play those on set while we’re shooting,” he explained. This approach helped establish the emotional beats of the film during production and ensured the music felt integral to the story.
A Labor of Love
Murphy’s dedication to the project has been evident, with the composer working “nonstop for the past almost two years” to craft the score. The music transitions seamlessly between callbacks to Williams’ classic theme and entirely new compositions, reflecting the dual nature of the film as both a homage and a reinvention.
Also Check Out: James Gunn Talks Superman Ahead Of Trailer Tomorrow
Finding the Balance
Ultimately, Gunn sees the score as emblematic of the film’s overall mission: blending the novel with the traditional. “It’s about finding that balance and accepting both of those things,” he said.
With the teaser trailer already showcasing a glimpse of this musical vision, fans can expect the score to play a powerful role in reintroducing Superman to a new generation while honoring the character’s rich legacy.
