“Superman” Star David Corenswet Reveals His Disagreement with Director James Gunn Over Movie’s Big Kiss Scene

Superman star David Corenswet recently opened up about a disagreement he had with director James Gunn regarding a pivotal kiss scene in the superhero film. In an interview with Jonathan Bailey for Variety’s “Actors on Actors” series, Corenswet shared insights into his role as Clark Kent aka Superman, particularly focusing on the emotional mid-air kiss with Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane.

Corenswet revealed that Gunn initially wanted the kiss scene to have a solemn tone, but the actor believed that Superman’s reaction to Lois Lane’s declaration of love needed a touch of amusement. Despite Gunn’s initial reservations, Corenswet advocated for Superman’s chuckle and grin to be included in the scene, emphasizing the character’s awareness of Lois Lane’s feelings. Eventually, Gunn agreed with Corenswet’s perspective, acknowledging the authenticity that the chuckle brought to the moment.

The chemistry between Corenswet and Brosnahan in the kiss scene garnered attention following the film’s release. Notably, two kissing scenes were reportedly removed by India’s Central Board of Film Certification for being deemed “overly sensual.” This highlights the impact and controversy that intimate scenes can have in the portrayal of iconic characters like Superman and Lois Lane.

In a light-hearted exchange with Bailey, Corenswet reflected on the challenges of filming mid-air kiss scenes, comparing his experience in Superman to Bailey’s role in Wicked: For Good alongside Cynthia Erivo. Acknowledging Bailey as People’s Sexiest Man Alive, Corenswet commended his co-star for maintaining his masculinity and presence while filming levitating kiss scenes. The camaraderie between the two actors added a playful touch to their discussion about the nuances of on-screen romance.

Variety’s “Actors on Actors” series has provided a platform for actors like Corenswet and Bailey to share their experiences and insights into the entertainment industry. The candid conversations offer a glimpse into the creative processes and challenges faced by performers in bringing iconic characters to life on the big screen. By engaging in discussions about their craft, actors shed light on the complexities of portraying beloved characters and navigating the expectations of audiences and filmmakers.

The dynamic between directors and actors, as exemplified by Corenswet’s interaction with James Gunn, showcases the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Through disagreements and discussions, creatives like Corenswet and Gunn work towards crafting authentic and engaging performances that resonate with audiences. The behind-the-scenes anecdotes shared by actors provide a fascinating glimpse into the intricacies of character development and storytelling in the realm of superhero films.

As audiences continue to embrace superhero narratives and the enduring appeal of characters like Superman, insights from actors like David Corenswet offer a fresh perspective on the creative decisions that shape these iconic stories. By delving into the process of bringing characters to life, actors elevate the cinematic experience and enhance our appreciation for the artistry and dedication involved in portraying legendary heroes on the silver screen.