Overview

• The squirrel-rescue beat ranked among the second- or third-most hotly debated moments in production after test audiences objected to a rodent cameo.
• Test viewers questioned why Superman would pause a kaiju battle to save a squirrel, prompting its initial removal.
• Gunn cut the sequence but reinstated it after finding its absence disrupted the fight’s editing continuity and geography.
• The moment underscores the hero’s universal empathy and aligns with Gunn’s broader thematic goal of valuing every life.
• Superman has grossed nearly $500 million worldwide and holds an 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes as Gunn discusses the decision.