Superman fans believe film subtly criticises Israel’s violence in Gaza

James Gunn’s latest Superman film stirred online discussion, not just for its storyline or visuals, but for what many fans perceive as a subtle reflection of Palestinian suffering and Israeli aggression.

Several viewers have pointed out that certain scenes in the film appear to mirror the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

One such scene shows a military force attacking innocent civilians from across a border, with children among the victims, a depiction that strongly resonates with the Israeli military’s ongoing offensive in Gaza.

Superman fans on X, were flooded with reactions, with many expressing surprise that a film centered on an “American hero” would include scenes that seemingly echo current geopolitical realities.

Read: New ‘freedom flotilla’ departs for Gaza despite Israeli attacks on earlier missions

Some users praised the film for its underlying message of resistance and solidarity with the oppressed.

Director James Gunn responded to the buzz by clarifying that the film was not intended to convey a political message. However, he acknowledged that the story was rooted in the immigrant experience.

One emotional scene that drew particular attention featured a distressed child waving a Superman flag and calling out for help. Commenting on this moment.

An X user named Katie wrote, "The point of this scene is that Superman not only inspires hope in people but that he inspires other people to do the right thing, he's the reason those other heroes act and it's better that he's not the only person they have to rely on now."

The point of this scene is that Superman not only inspires hope in people but that he inspires other people to do the right thing, he's the reason those other heroes act and it's better that he's not the only person they have to rely on now. Thought that was really clear and- https://t.co/j6GPIbBzQX

— katie!! (@Takoberu2002) July 11, 2025

Go Watch Superman - James Gunn did us Justice pic.twitter.com/cvlAXP9ibM

— Ryan Rozbiani (@RyanRozbiani) July 14, 2025

The Superman movie literally showing Gaza, that is why Zionists are going crazy right now pic.twitter.com/oArWmz9A5a

— Furkan Gözükara (@GozukaraFurkan) July 12, 2025

I can't believe James Gunn managed to give a wave of literal middle fingers to Israel in a Superman movie. It was so unafraid and in your face with its messaging I couldn't help but smile the entire time pic.twitter.com/60YVDQBVOu

— Oblivious (@oblivibum) July 12, 2025

At first during Superman I was like “this can’t be about Palestine” until it was revealed the invading country is a US ally receiving billions in weapons sales from Lex Luthor and the ending resembles the 2018 Gaza border protests

Go see this movie. It is SO good 🙂‍↕️ pic.twitter.com/UsBP01qRg0

— gregor samsung 𖢥 (@slimjosa) July 13, 2025

shit made me cry cause in real life no one is coming to save you. those poor kids in gaza being massacred with no hope in sight. I still can’t believe he made a superman movie about palestine https://t.co/ERpVGskplc

— arima (@RengokusFlames) July 11, 2025

Guys I'm being serious when I say ever since I saw Superman I haven't felt depressed even once, I've been smiling for 2 days now, I think Superman might've cured my depression. all I feel is happiness and hope now pic.twitter.com/gpdbg5sL5g

— Ripley 🏳️‍⚧️ (@Bleached_Melon) July 13, 2025

Superman was created in 1938, during the Nazi Holocaust - 10 years before the creation of Israel

Given that Israel is committing genocide in 2025, it is only natural that Israel is the villain

Also Jewish doesn’t = Israel, no matter how times you say it https://t.co/FVawAbfoCs

— Remi Kanazi (@Remroum) July 10, 2025