James Gunn Celebrated as Comic Book Champion at San Diego Comic-Con

The recent San Diego Comic-Con was a triumph for filmmaker and DC Studios co-head James Gunn. Gunn, whose film 'Superman' was a box office hit, was warmly welcomed by the geek community at the convention.

At the panel for his HBO Max series 'Peacemaker', Gunn received a standing ovation from the packed 6,500-seat Hall H. Later, he surprised guests at the Jim Lee & Friends panel, where he was again greeted with enthusiastic applause.

But Gunn's passion for comics shone through the most when he choked up discussing the art and story of the 'Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow' mini-series, which is the basis for the next DC Studios movie. Gunn expressed his deep respect and love for the work of the comic book creators, saying their art "touches me so deeply."

Gunn also made a point to thank the comic book fans specifically at the Lee panel, calling them the "real fans." He recounted how his father had taken him to a comic convention in Chicago years ago, a formative experience that shaped his love of the medium.

The 'Peacemaker' cast portrayed Gunn as a leader you willingly follow into the comic book world. Actor Frank Grillo praised Gunn's passion, saying when he calls, "there's no question I'm going to do this." Gunn also hyped up the growth of lead actor John Cena as a performer.

Through it all, Gunn remained humble, even allowing himself to be the butt of a joke about naming his favorite episodes of 'Peacemaker' - the ones he had directed himself.