The live-action world of DC comics is forever going to change, or so the fans believe, after James Gunn took over the reins of the DC franchise. Earlier steered by Zack Snyder, fans are excited to see more ‘comic-book accurate’ versions of their favorite characters and stories in live-action.
One of these many characters is Superman’s best pal, Jimmy Olsen. While Gunn recently revealed his version of the character, several DC fans looked back at Snyder’s version of the character and yet again refused to support his decision and berated him for his controversial choices.
Fans Favor James Gunn’s Version of Jimmy Olsen Over Zack Snyder’s Vision
The DC Universe, particularly live-action, has brought several iconic characters from DC Comics. From the many famous characters to the ones who remain in the shadows, even Zack Snyder did justice to a lot of these famous comic-book characters by bringing them into his live-action world.
However, the filmmaker failed to give proper treatment to Jimmy Olsen (played by Michael Cassidy), a good pal of Superman and Lois Lane and a Daily Planet photojournalist. Spotted in a small cameo in Henry Cavill‘s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Olsen was instead featured as a CIA operative who ends up being killed before he could make an impact.
Over the years, this controversial decision has garnered a lot of hate and backlash from fans, who wanted to see the trio similar to their relationship in the comics. This hate, recently re-emerged after James Gunn revealed his version of Olsen from his upcoming film, Superman.
Through a post on the social media app Threads, Gunn revealed that the character will be portrayed by Skyler Gisondo in his upcoming film. As the filmmaker’s revelation went viral on social media, many praised him for his casting choice while others berated Snyder’s version.
Fans in Awe of James Gunn’s Version of Superman’s Best Pal
James Gunn, on a number of occasions, has stated that he hopes to make his DC franchise as comic-accurate as possible. And after casting David Corenswet as Superman in a suit that looks more like the comics, fans believe Gunn has finally done Jimmy Olsen justice after Snyder treated him with ‘no dignity.’
After Gunn revealed Olsen’s casting and inclusion in Superman, social media was full of praise of the filmmaker, while many looked back at Zack Snyder’s take on the character and criticized him once again.
When i saw gunns pick for jimmy olsen…i was happy.
After seeing the righteous gemstones and his role in that….I am beyond happy with that pick.
Because good lord we might get 'adventure hijinks' jimmy olsen in an adaptation. Finally it might happen! pic.twitter.com/n9iiwxb8t4
— Fonzy (@FonzyLopez1) August 26, 2024
Gunn is fixing Snyder’s fuck ups.
— Brandon Network (@BrandonTheSonic) August 26, 2024
Now, now, that's not fair…
In the first picture, Jimmy should be dead, since getting killed was the whole reason Snyder even put him in. 🙄
— Jamie Kelley❤️💥 (@JamieAKelley) August 26, 2024
While the many passionate responses from fans reflect the significance of staying true to comic book characters in live-action adaptations, these responses also highlight why James Gunn is the number one choice to kickstart a new DCU.
From his commitment to portraying characters like Jimmy Olsen in a more faithful light to bringing characters that fans have always wanted to see in live-action, Gunn’s efforts have sparked renewed enthusiasm and anticipation for his upcoming film, Superman.
Superman is set to release on July 11, 2025.