A shift in casting for the DCU movie Man of Tomorrow has surprised many observers. German actor Lars Eidinger has been chosen for the role of Brainiac, a decision that defied some early expectations since he was not among the names most often discussed for the part. James Gunn, who oversees casting, explained on social media why he did not rely on an A-list celebrity for the villain.
Gunn noted that the choice was not about fame but about fit. He said he would not exclude other actors who had auditioned, emphasizing that the best performer for the role is the priority, even if that path involves auditions. He named several actors who were part of the process but did not become part of the final decision, adding that the goal is to find the right talent regardless of status.
Reports from various social media accounts had circulated about a large number of stars reportedly auditioning or being on a near-certain shortlist. Gunn responded by stating that those rumors were inaccurate, asserting that actors such as Matt Smith, Claes Bang, and Sam Rockwell never screened for the part and did not audition.
The announcement of Man of Tomorrow came as a surprise to some fans. The film follows a Lex Luthor and Superman-centered project released in the summer, but Man of Tomorrow was not initially listed on Gunn’s public slate. The plot remains largely under wraps, with a 2027 release date confirmed. It is described as featuring Brainiac, an ultra-smart android, in a clash with Superman, played by David Corenswet, and Luthor, portrayed by Nicholas Hoult, who team up under certain circumstances.
Early reporting suggests potential appearances by other familiar faces in the DCU, including Rachel Brosnahan as a Superman ally, and members of the Justice Gang such as Nathan Fillion’s Guy Gardner and Isabela Merced’s Hawkgirl. Details about these roles have not been fully disclosed, and casting remains progressive as the production unfolds.
Analysts note that Gunn’s approach appears to keep the DCU centered on Superman themes through the initial slate, with Batman not yet appearing in the early lineups. Whether a broader shift will occur after the initial Superman-focused entries is uncertain, but for now the emphasis seems to remain on the Man of Steel’s ongoing prominence in the franchise.
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