One of the most interesting things about James Gunn‘s new DCU is that its biggest theme might not be about superheroes at all. Beneath the powers, costumes and larger-than-life villains, several of its stories have explored something much more relatable: how much our parents shape the people we become.
DCU Keeps Exploring How Parents Shape the Heroes We Become
‘Superman’, ‘Supergirl’, ‘Peacemaker’ and ‘Lanterns’ have all approached that idea differently. Some characters inherit love and guidance from their parents, while others spend years trying to escape the damage their families left behind. And the important part is that these stories don’t necessarily suggest that parents completely determine their children’s futures.
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‘Superman’ is perhaps the clearest example. Clark’s Kryptonian origins and the values taught by the Kents both influence him, but neither completely defines him. He ultimately has to decide what kind of person he wants to be.
‘Supergirl’ explores the idea from a much messier direction. Kara’s relationship with Krypton, her family and the expectations surrounding her become a part of the conflict between who she was raised to be and who she chooses to become.
Then there’s ‘Peacemaker’, where the influence is considerably darker. Christopher Smith spends much of his life carrying the beliefs and cruelty inherited from his father. His journey becomes partly about realizing that his father’s worldview doesn’t have to become his own.
‘Lanterns’ continues that conversation through John Stewart and Hal Jordan, particularly as their personal histories collide with the responsibilities they’ve inherited.
‘Clayface’ Could Take The Theme Somewhere New
That makes ‘Clayface’ especially interesting. The upcoming DCU movie could continue this family-focused theme, but potentially through a character whose identity is already complicated by transformation. If the story explores where a person’s sense of self comes from, the question of parental influence could become even more fascinating.
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After all, being shaped by your parents doesn’t mean being trapped by them. That’s what makes this theme feel so human. These characters can fly, fight aliens and wield impossible powers, but they still have to deal with the same uncomfortable question ordinary people face. For a superhero universe, that’s surprisingly grounded.
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