If you're curious about how different James Gunn's version of Superman will be compared to Zack Snyder's DCEU-launching iteration or any other interpretation of the character, one major new addition is on the horizon: Krypto The Superdog. David Corenswet's Kal-El will have a loyal canine companion, marking a first in live-action big-screen adaptations, as confirmed by Gunn.
On Twitter, Gunn elaborated that this iteration of Krypto was influenced by his own rescue dog, Ozu. The filmmaker shared, "Krypto was inspired by our dog Ozu, whom we adopted shortly after I began working on Superman." Gunn recounted, "Ozu, who originated from a hoarding situation alongside 60 other dogs and had no previous interaction with humans, presented numerous challenges. Upon arrival, he wreaked havoc in our home, chewing our belongings, furniture, and even consuming my laptop. It took considerable time before he allowed us to approach him. I pondered, 'Imagine the challenges if Ozu possessed superpowers?' – and thus, Krypto was woven into the narrative, mirroring the transformation Ozu brought into my life." Gunn also added, "By the way, Ozu is now quite often a very good boy."
Accompanied by a video showing Corenswet’s Supes with Krypto by his side, Gunn also posted an image of Superman and Krypto on the moon from Grant Morrison’s All-Star Superman series - a work that the writer-director has confirmed as a significant influence on his movie. Additionally, there is a picture of Gunn and Ozu included for good measure.
What will be the ultimate role of Krypto, the good boy? How does he fit into Gunn’s interpretation of Superman? And could the power dynamics in the DCU be on the verge of a transformation? All will be revealed when Superman arrives in theaters on July 11, 2025.