Fans of director James Gunn have reason to celebrate as his 2019 film, Brightburn, will be available for streaming on Netflix starting December 1. This movie offers a darker and more violent interpretation of the superhero narrative, particularly reminiscent of the iconic Man of Steel, but with a chilling twist.
Released in the interim between Gunn’s work on Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 2 and The Suicide Squad, Brightburn marks Gunn’s return to the horror genre, a style he had mastered before his tenure with Marvel. It debuted just months ahead of another unconventional superhero portrayal, Amazon’s The Boys. Brightburn, directed by David Yarovesky and penned by Gunn’s brothers, Brian and Mark Gunn, received mixed reviews, with a score of 57% on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite this lukewarm reception, the film grossed $33 million against a modest budget of $6 million, amassing a devoted fanbase and remaining a topic of conversation for its potential universe-building elements.
Plot Overview and Unique Approach
Brightburn centers around Tori and Kyle Breyer, a childless couple in rural Kansas who discover a spacecraft containing a baby after it crash-lands on their farm. They name the child Brandon and raise him in a seemingly normal environment. However, at the age of twelve, Brandon’s life takes a dark turn when he discovers his extraordinary powers. Instead of becoming a hero, he succumbs to darker impulses, culminating in violent outbursts.
The film skillfully subverts the traditional superhero origin story, presenting Brandon’s transformation into the sinister entity known as “Brightburn.” The narrative critiques the classic portrayal of superheroes, transforming the familiar Clark Kent mythos into a haunting tale reminiscent of horror classics like The Omen. The film’s aesthetic choices, such as Brandon’s outfit resembling that of a serial killer rather than a conventional superhero, further emphasize its departure from genre norms.
Supporting characters, portrayed by Elizabeth Banks and David Denman, add complexity to the narrative. Denman’s Kyle Breyer is depicted as a father who struggles to control Brandon’s violent tendencies, while Banks’s Tori remains oblivious to the true nature of her son’s malevolence. This approach offers a refreshing take in an era where superhero films often adhere strictly to formula.
Future of the Brightburn Franchise
Following the release of Brightburn, discussions regarding a sequel emerged, particularly due to the film’s mid-credit sequence that hinted at other twisted interpretations of popular DC characters. Director David Yarovesky discussed potential future installments, suggesting a stealthy approach akin to the Cloverfield franchise. He stated, “If we were to expand the Brightburn universe in other installments… we would probably be doing it in total secrecy.”
Since Brightburn’s initial launch, James Gunn has become the co-CEO of DC Studios, focusing on revitalizing the DC brand. He is set to direct David Corenswet as the new Clark Kent/Superman in the upcoming reboot slated for 2025. Amid these extensive responsibilities, Gunn has indicated that there are currently “no plans at all” for sequels or spin-offs related to Brightburn, as the rights remain in legal limbo.
As Brightburn arrives on Netflix, audiences will have the opportunity to experience this unique take on the superhero genre once again. With its blend of horror and dark comedy, the film stands as an intriguing alternative to the conventional superhero narrative, inviting viewers to reconsider the implications of power and morality in a world of extraordinary abilities.
