The DC Universe created by James Gunn is accelerating, and ‘Man of Tomorrow’ is shaping up to be one of its most intriguing curveballs yet. Although the obvious headline is the return of Superman in 2027, the real surprise lies with his greatest enemy.
New behind-the-scenes shots show Nicholas Hoult literally adding pounds of muscle to his comeback as Lex Luthor, and that physical transformation hints at a major shift in how the iconic villain will be used going forward. This is not Lex plotting in the background anymore. This time, he is getting into the ring.
‘Man Of Tomorrow’ Is Rewriting The Superman–Lex Luthor Dynamic
Hoult’s transformation has fans buzzing because it signals intent. Lex Luthor has always been depicted as a brainy threat; he is dangerous due to his intelligence, wealth, and manipulation rather than his physical strength.
However, ‘Man of Tomorrow’ seems to be willing to defy that anticipation. As the production approaches, Hoult’s training indicates a more active and perhaps more hands-on Lex when the chaos erupts.
Related: A Hidden ‘Superman’ Easter Egg Could Be Setting Up A Major DCU Return
That makes sense given the film’s central premise: Superman and Lex are forced into an uneasy alliance. When the threat is Brainiac, now officially confirmed as the villain, brains alone won’t cut it.
This version of Lex is a survivor. A man who has learnt from his own mistakes, who has changed and hardened himself to a world that is growing larger and more hostile. It is not about making him a superhero. It is about making it believable when he is standing beside one.
‘Man Of Tomorrow’ Sets Up An Unlikely Alliance at the Heart of the DCU
The concept of Superman and Lex Luthor collaborating is uncomfortable in itself, and that is precisely what makes it work. The entry of Brainiac increases the stakes to a level of ideology and ego. It is a threat of cosmic scale that compels even arch-rivals to collaborate.
The appearance of returning characters such as Lois Lane, Hawkgirl, Isabela Merced, and Rick Flag Sr. confirms that ‘Man of Tomorrow’ is not a reset, but a continuation.
In case you missed it: DC Unveils A Surprising New Member Of The Batman Family
The gap between Lex and Superman was bridged by his brief appearance in ‘Peacemaker’ season 2, which reveals how much he has evolved. James Gunn has already affirmed that there will be no Batman and Wonder Woman, keeping the focus narrow and intimate.
The mystery surrounding an unannounced female character only adds to the intrigue, suggesting emotional or strategic complications yet to be revealed.
You might like to read: Jason Momoa’s Lobo Could Be DCU’s Biggest Breakout Character
