Movies

7 Superman Easter eggs and references you will have missed

BBG News

The tale of Superman resonates universally. Although he’s widely acclaimed and prosperous, this Last Son of Krypton represents an outsider striving to understand and contribute positively to society with compassion. Thus, the fresh interpretation of Clark Kent by James Gunn aligns with a narrative that we could all benefit from experiencing at present.

However, Superman is not just a tale for casual viewers; it also caters to comic book enthusiasts who have cherished his exploits over the years beyond the screen. Across 86 years of DC Comics, a wealth of history and lore has been amassed, and Gunn’s movie isn’t shy about delving into these rich depths, providing delightful Easter eggs that only dedicated fans might recognize.

Some Easter eggs serve merely as playful references to the original content, while others will significantly impact the future of the DC universe. Dive in with us at Digital Spy as we explore some of the most significant and intriguing Easter eggs that may have slipped your notice.

What to Read Next

1. Maxwell Lord

In Gunn’s version of the DC universe, it isn’t just Lex Luthor’s LuthorCorp competing for power. The omnipresent LordTech brand, visible on structures and devices like Jimmy Olsen’s computer, is another significant player. This company, a sponsor of the Justice Gang, is owned by Maxwell Lord, a formidable antagonist from the comics with mind-controlling abilities.

In the movie “Wonder Woman 1984,” Pedro Pascal initially played a business magnate who made his appearance only recently. However, in this context, it is Sean Gunn, the sibling of director James Gunn known for writing and directing Superman films, who takes on that role.

In the final scene of the film, he makes a fleeting appearance, but his character is expected to assume a more significant position in Peacemaker season two. This development follows John Cena’s brief cameo as Peacemaker during a news report in Superman.

2. Justice Society of America

Following Superman’s abduction into Lex Luthor’s personal dimension, Lois Lane turns to the Justice League, who just happen to be gathered at – you guessed it – the Hall of Justice, for assistance.

Originating from the 1970s cartoon “Super Friends,” this well-known location has long been the base for the Justice League in both comic books and numerous television series, such as “Young Justice” and those within the Arrowverse.

An intriguing detail is the towering mural hidden in the backdrop. If you look closely, you’ll find that it features DC superheroes who were prominently linked to the Justice Society, a forerunner of the Justice League. In Gunn’s version of the DC universe, meta-humans have been around for ages, which explains the presence of heroes even before Superman.

Regrettably, we were so engrossed by Guy Gardner’s bowl cut that we missed some heroes in the quick-as-a-blink shot, but it’s clear that Wildcat, Ted Grant’s hero, is present there. Previously, Wildcat has made brief appearances on screen in an episode of Smallville and Arrow, as well as Stargirl, where he had a more recurring role.

3. Mr Mxyzptlk

In the scene where Superman unveiled his costume several months ago, you might recall the swirling purple and green orb that was present in the background. This very same energy ball has since joined forces with the Justice League, becoming an active participant in their battles. As Clark Kent and Lois Lane converse over a warm mug of cocoa, this event unfolds before them.

In the comics, colors often symbolize Lex Luthor, but the monster’s likeness is closer to Solaris, a self-aware solar entity significant in the “All-Star Superman” comics, which served as inspiration for this movie. However, there’s a line that makes us suspect this antagonist may originate from DC’s past rather than being a future character like Tyrant Sun.

In a casual remark, Superman casually labels the creature as a dimensional troll, evoking memories of the timeless villain Mr Mxyzptlk. This trickster capable of manipulating reality has been causing trouble for Superman since his initial appearance in comic books back in 1944, frequently appearing in Metropolis from his home in the fifth dimension.

In a slightly different phrasing: This tiny, peculiar creature typically manifests in human form, but is more commonly linked with shades of purple and orange rather than green and purple. It’s interesting to note that by using the term “imp,” Gunn seems to be subtly hinting at something familiar to comic book enthusiasts.

4. A Better World

Discussing the villains that rule over reality, it’s worth noting that during the animated two-part series of Justice League, titled ‘A Better World’, Lex Luthor served as President. This is hinted at by a book with the same name seen briefly in his office, according to his book.

Back in 2003, I stumbled upon two thrilling episodes that presented an intriguing twist to the usual narrative. They introduced a parallel universe where Superman, of all heroes, took Lex’s life at the White House. In this world, grief and power led the Justice League to transform into the ruthless Justice Lords. It was our team who were tasked with standing against them, making for an epic battle between good and tyranny.

It makes perfect sense that such a book about Lex Luthor’s ascent to power would bear the title reflecting his greatest fear and the main cause of his resistance against metahumans.

It’s possible that he might find time to compose another piece while in Belle Reve, the facility where he’s been transferred following The Daily Planet exposing his plans. Interestingly, this is also the location of Amanda Waller and her Suicide Squad.

5. Simon Stagg

Apart from Lex Luthor and Maxwell Lord, another malevolent billionaire is causing trouble within the DC universe. Unlike them, however, Simon Stagg does not physically appear yet; for now, he operates behind the scenes.

Stagg Industries, his business, is frequently referenced in the backdrop, and this is before delving into his relationship with Metamorpho. To clarify, he’s the unusual-looking character known for having Kryptonite fingers.

In the comic books, Simon’s daughter Sapphire developed feelings for Rex Mason. Interestingly, it was Simon who gave Rex his powers, turning him into Metamorpho. As a result, the child that Lex exploits, Joey, is actually Sapphire’s son, which makes Simon his grandfather.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but feel excited about Metamorpho’s addition to the Justice Gang and his rise into the limelight. However, I have a sneaking suspicion that Dr. Stagg won’t stay idle for long. Prepare yourselves for some major trouble brewing in the near future, specifically directed at our beloved hero who relies on chemistry for his powers.

6. Super roundup

Here’s a different way to phrase it:

There are numerous hidden background details that deserve recognition, so I’ve compiled a short list for you:

1. I can’t help but notice all the Big Belly Burger ads scattered around, a clear nod to the McDonalds-like fast food chain of the DC Universe that I adore!

2. Here’s a shout out to Jitters, the Central City coffee shop chain that’s inseparable from The Flash comics.

3. Early on, street signs for ‘Ross’ and ‘Waid’ catch my eye, paying tribute to superstar artist Alex Ross and longtime DC writer Mark Waid.

4. During the evacuation scene, a sign directing to Gotham City, Batman’s hometown, is hard to miss!

5. Intriguingly, the Mighty Crab Boys, Clark’s favorite band, make an appearance in the Peacemaker season 2 trailer. It’s no surprise that even Frankenstein from Creature Commandos is a fan, as evidenced by his shirt sporting their logo during the show’s first season.

6. The Comet Trailways bus company is a clever nod to Supergirl’s horse named Comet in the comics, and it’s heartwarming to see them pay tribute to the unique relationship she had with him at one point.

7. Lastly, I found it touching to spot Michael and James Larson, two of Superman co-creator Jerry Siegel’s grandsons, in the background of one scene at the Daily Planet. It’s a small but meaningful tribute to the man who brought the Man of Steel to life.

7. Guardians of the Fortress of Solitude

In Superman’s Fortress of Solitude, the robots exhibit a great deal of character, which is partly because well-known voice actors provide their voices.

As a gamer, I find myself immersed in the freshly-named DC universe of James Gunn, where I lend my voice to four unique characters. Specifically, I’m Robot #4, but this isn’t my first rodeo in this universe; I’ve already given life to Doctor Phosphorus and Clayface in the Creature Commandos series that sets the stage for the upcoming Superman.

He is accompanied by frequent collaborators of James Gunn, such as Pom Klementieff and Michael Rooker (known for their roles as Mantis and Yondu from the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy), along with Bradley Cooper, who previously appeared in the film as Clark’s father on a hologram.

Superman is out now in cinemas.

The latest print edition from Digital Spy is available! You can grab a copy of “Oasis – Live in ’25” at your local newsstand or online, currently selling for only £8.99.

Read More

2025-07-11 14:21

Previous post I Cried Harder Watching Ratatouille as an Adult—Here’s Why It Hit Me Like a Ton of Bricks
Next post EastEnders star James Bye’s son, two, is rushed to hospital ‘screaming in pain’ after eating poisonous garden plant