James Gunn has officially confirmed that Sam McCurdy, known for his acclaimed work on Game of Thrones and Shōgun, will be the cinematographer for the upcoming DC film Man of Tomorrow. This announcement confirms recent fan speculation and follows Gunn’s direct confirmation on social media. McCurdy takes over from Henry Braham, who worked with Gunn on multiple previous films including Superman and the Guardians of the Galaxy movies. The move signals a distinct visual direction for this next chapter in the DC Universe’s Super-Family saga.
James Gunn’s Official Confirmation of the New Cinematographer
The confirmation came directly from writer and director James Gunn in a recent online conversation. When a fan specifically asked if the reports about Sam McCurdy being the cinematographer were correct, Gunn replied, “Yes, Sam is our cinematographer.” He then confirmed this was for Man of Tomorrow. This direct statement from the filmmaker puts an end to any rumors and solidifies the key behind-the-scenes team for the highly awaited movie.
McCurdy is not a new collaborator for Gunn. The two previously worked together on the DC series Peacemaker, for which McCurdy served as the cinematographer. This existing professional relationship likely contributed to the decision. McCurdy replaces Henry Braham, who had been Gunn’s cinematographer on four prior films: Superman (2025), Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, and The Suicide Squad. The change suggests Gunn is seeking a different visual style for this sequel.
Sam McCurdy’s Acclaimed Career in Film and Television
Sam McCurdy brings an impressive and varied resume to Man of Tomorrow. He is widely recognized for his work as a director of photography on major television productions. His credits include the landmark fantasy series Game of Thrones, where he was responsible for the visual look of several episodes.
Most recently, McCurdy worked on the critically praised historical drama Shōgun, which has been celebrated for its cinematic quality and visual storytelling. His film work also includes the horror movie The Descent. This range of experience, from epic fantasy and intimate historical drama to superhero action, provides a strong foundation for tackling the world of Superman and Lex Luthor.
The Developing Story of Man of Tomorrow
Man of Tomorrow is scheduled for release on July 9, 2027. It is the narrative follow-up to 2025’s Superman and continues the story from the second season of Peacemaker. James Gunn has described the film in a unique way, stating it is “as much a Lex movie as it is a Superman movie.” He has explained that the plot will involve Superman and Lex Luthor forming an uneasy alliance to face a much larger threat.
The confirmed villain for the film is Brainiac, who will be played by German actor Lars Eidinger. The core cast from Superman is set to return, including David Corenswet as Superman/Clark Kent and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Rachel Brosnahan is also expected to return as reporter Lois Lane. Other confirmed returning characters include Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl and Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen.
Gunn Addresses Other Rumors and Casting News
In the same discussion where he confirmed McCurdy’s role, James Gunn also took time to shut down other persistent rumors surrounding the production. He directly addressed speculation about new actors joining the DC Universe to play iconic roles. Gunn stated clearly, “No. All these rumors of Batman and Wonder Woman auditions are false.”.
He indicated that the major casting news for the film had already been revealed with the announcement of Lars Eidinger as Brainiac. Gunn noted that most of the sizable roles in Man of Tomorrow involve characters who have already been introduced in previous DCU projects. He added that “smaller roles are being cast now,” suggesting that while the main heroes and villains are set, some supporting parts are still being filled.
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