Most Innovative Companies Inside Superman: How do you make another superhero movie stand out?
Jul 30, 2025
Beth Mickle, a talented production designer known for her work on the latest Superman film, joins the discussion. She shares her creative collaboration with director James Gunn to develop a fresh aesthetic for the film, emphasizing the use of practical effects for an authentic feel. They dive into the challenges of reviving iconic elements while infusing vibrant colors to evoke nostalgia. Additionally, the conversation touches on the balance between traditional film design and the growing influence of technology, highlighting the importance of human creativity in storytelling.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Comic Book Aesthetic Revived
- The new Superman film aims to visually bring a comic book to life, inspired by All-Star Superman's bright and graphic style.
- Bright, vivid colors and geometric shapes evoke optimism, spirit, and a joyful, energetic experience for audiences.
Building The Fortress Practically
- The Fortress of Solitude was built with practical resin crystals after 12 weeks of R&D to achieve the right translucency and strength.
- Crews crafted 242 crystals by molding foam sculptures and joining halves internally, creating a tactile set that impressed the production team.
Embrace AI As A Creative Tool
- Treat AI as a creative tool that helps develop ideas rather than a threat to jobs.
- Be adaptable to technology changes while valuing original, handcrafted work to maintain audience engagement.
