How are Metamorpho's powers shown in James Gunn’s Superman? Details revealed 

Metamorpho in DCU (Image via X/ @DCU_Direct)
Metamorpho in DCU (Image via X/ @DCU_Direct)

James Gunn’s new Superman reboot is going to re-introduce not just the Man of Steel, but also a whole new lineup of DC heroes- including Metamorpho, played by Anthony Carrigan. Metamorpho, who can transform into a variety of elements and has an extremely tragic backstory, is getting a grounded, gritty take in the new DCU. Not to mention that everything will be using practical effects, comic-accurate elements, and more than anything, Anthony will be playing Rex Mason (Metamorpho) with respect to both science and emotion, which makes him one of the characters to watch out for in the new DC film.

Talking on the DC Studios Showcase Official Podcast, the actor revealed a few details on how Metamorpho will be shown on screen, as he said,

“[It is] a wonderful collaboration between getting everything ready in terms of what I’m supposed to do and what’s on the page, but then working with James specifically on the day and finding these fun things to do. And James is so game to make something fun. So if you have an idea about something, he’ll be like, ‘Do it. Let’s try it. Let’s go.’ And so I think a lot was born of that in terms of, ‘He’s the Element Man, so what if we do this?’ And James would always be like, ‘Let’s try it.’ And to be in that kind of environment was outstanding.”

Metamorpho is known for his unique ability to transmute his body into various chemical elements, allowing him to adapt to different forms and functions, and his powers will get an appropriate portrayal, as stated by Carrigan, as we see him on screen for the first time. Further sharing his excitement on the project, the actor continued,

“It’s incredible. I mean, just to know they’re getting little glimpses, I love that. It’s just the tip of the iceberg. There’s so much more that I get to do in this movie, and it’s such fun stuff. Just to tease it out little by little is my favorite.”

More details on Metamorpho's appearance in Superman

A24's "Death Of A Unicorn" New York Screening - Source: Getty
A24's "Death Of A Unicorn" New York Screening - Source: Getty

James Gunn had already revealed last year that in contrary to what many are guessing, Metamorpho will be portrayed through practical costumes and not just CGI. Obviously, Gunn and Carrigan are paying close attention to the character and will give him full justice on screen, along with other characters from Justice League.

This was reflected in Carrigan's comments on playing Metamorpho, as he said during the podcast,

“It was really important to me — and I think it was also one of the reasons James hired me — is because this character in particular has this real kind of pathos to him. And unlike a lot of superheroes, he’s not crazy about the fact that he’s a superhero. He feels cursed by what he has. And so I really kind of bring something to that, and it really lit a fire.”

In terms of appearance, Metamorpho's design in the film stays true to his comic book origins, featuring his iconic white, ribbed face and a body with purple and orange hues. However, there are updates to his costume, such as the addition of large, baggy shorts, offering a modern twist to his classic look.

Superman is releasing on 11 July 2025.

Love movies? Try our Box Office Game and Movie Grid Game to test your film knowledge and have some fun!

Quick Links

Edited by Sohini Biswas