Why James Gunn Isn’t Interested in Making ‘Prestige’ Movies

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I recently heard James Gunn on the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast, and he really got to the heart of why he does what he does. He talked about his core motivation for making movies, and it’s honestly really inspiring. It’s not about awards or even box office numbers for him – he just genuinely loves telling stories!

The interview took place during a really unusual time in Hollywood. Just two hours afterward, Netflix announced it was buying Warner Bros. for a huge $82 billion. This deal highlighted how quickly the entertainment industry is evolving, and it puts a lot of responsibility on James Gunn, who’s now in charge of the future of DC Comics movies and shows.

Throughout the discussion, Gunn emphasized that he isn’t motivated by awards or recognition. He stated directly that he doesn’t focus on winning trophies or gaining status within the industry.

Honestly, it would be amazing to get recognized with a Best Director nomination, but it’s not something I actively worry about. I do sometimes daydream about doing smaller, more personal films, but I really love making big, mainstream movies. I genuinely enjoy creating the kind of popular, crowd-pleasing cinema that I do – it’s what I’m passionate about.

What I really appreciate about James Gunn’s approach is that he doesn’t let the scale of these big blockbusters get in the way of genuine emotional connection. He’s said himself that his aim isn’t just spectacle, but to truly move audiences. As he put it, if he can tap into something deeper, something that resonates on a spiritual level, even within these massive worlds, then he’s achieved something truly special. It’s about heart, even in a superhero movie, and that’s something I always look for.

He cited strong emotional responses to films like “Superman” and “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” as evidence that major blockbuster movies can still have a significant impact on viewers.

He shared what he loves about directing big movies. It’s not just the look or the people on screen, but the entire creative process. He described it as an art form, a natural flow of ideas. He also enjoys the challenge of taking many complex parts and building them into one cohesive experience, something that will truly connect with the audience and evoke an emotional response.

Gunn believes the true joy of filmmaking comes from the audience’s emotional response – whether it’s laughter, sadness, or excitement. He doesn’t focus on awards or recognition; instead, he aims to create a connection with viewers and give them a meaningful experience in the theater.

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2026-01-03 18:14