James Gunn has no issues naming his buddy as the best-ever version of a DC icon

Despite being the creative head of DC Studios these days, James Gunn is much more forthcoming with his opinions on superhero movies than his counterpart over at Marvel, Kevin Feige. For instance, he’s happy to discuss his favorite comic book films of all time (which, perhaps tellingly, don’t include recent MCU outings among their number) and, as it turns out, even give his hot takes on his own franchise. Including shamelessly naming one of his closest friends as the best incarnation of an iconic DC villain.

For those looking to keep on top of every scrap of new info Gunn hands out about his plans for the DCU, the filmmaker and producer helpfully took to Twitter to share his appearance on Michael Rosenbaum’s Inside of You podcast — a 95-minute treasure trove in which Gunn discusses everything from why he initially turned down the DC head honcho gig to teasing a shocking absence in Superman: Legacy.

Of course, the reason he decided to do the podcast is likely because Rosenbaum is a close friend of his, having cast him as Martinex in the Guardians of the Galaxy films. The actor is most famous to superhero fans, though, for his unbeatable turn as Lex Luthor in Smallville. And that’s an opinion Gunn himself shares, and was not afraid to make clear to the masses. As Gunn admitted while promoting the podcast: “yes I think he was the best Lex Luthor.”

Gunn’s comment referred to an open admission he made in conversation with Rosenbaum, stressing “You were the best Lex!” While this is a widely held opinion by the fandom, it’s maybe surprising to hear it come from a Superman: The Movie fanboy like Gunn, who you might expect to prefer Gene Hackman. Although, on the other hand, maybe we shouldn’t be shocked, given how Gunn always puts his friends first. Which either demonstrates admirable loyalty or blinkered favoristism, depending on your point of view.