James Gunn’s much-anticipated Superman reboot is set to hit theaters on July 11, but the buzz leading up to the release has taken a political turn. In a recent interview, Gunn described Superman as “an immigrant’s immigrant,” reinforcing the character’s longstanding metaphor for hope, kindness, and the American dream. But this framing hasn’t sat well with everyone.

Right-wing commentators and political figures have criticized the film for what they perceive as a “woke” reinterpretation of the superhero. Among them, Fox News contributors and conservative commentators have taken aim at the film, calling it overly ideological. Former Trump advisor Kellyanne Conway even predicted it would “bomb worse than Snow White did,” referencing the poorly received Disney remake.

Despite the backlash, Gunn remains firm in his creative direction. “This film is for everyone,” he said, “and it’s about kindness—not politics.” His brother, actor Sean Gunn, also defended the vision, explaining that the film’s message aligns with Superman’s origins as an alien finding belonging on Earth—a narrative deeply rooted in immigration and acceptance.

Early screenings have reportedly received positive feedback, especially for David Corenswet’s performance as Clark Kent and Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane. Whether the film will rise above the political noise remains to be seen, but it’s clear that Gunn’s Superman is already a cultural flashpoint before its official release.

Veteran actor Michael Madsen, renowned for his gritty performances in films like Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill Vol. 2, has passed away at the age of 67. His manager, Ron Smith, confirmed that the actor died of heart failure on July 3, 2025, at his home in Malibu, California. Longstanding health issues, including heart disease and a history of alcoholism, were cited as contributing factors. Authorities confirmed that no foul play was involved, and an autopsy was not performed.

Madsen, whose filmography spans over three decades, was known for playing tough, unpredictable characters with a unique emotional depth. His portrayal of Mr. Blonde in Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs became an instant cult favorite and cemented his place in Hollywood’s hall of fame for antiheroes.

In the wake of his death, colleagues and fans alike have poured out tributes. Rob Zombie, who directed Madsen in CSI: Miami, praised his dedication and raw talent, noting that while Madsen had a reputation for being intense, he always delivered on screen. His sister, actress Virginia Madsen, described him as “a poetic soul in a fighter’s body.”

Beyond acting, Madsen was also a published poet and had been working on a reflective book titled Tears for My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems. His passing marks the end of an era for a generation of cinema that thrived on raw, unfiltered performances.

Lena Dunham, the creator and star of Girls, has spoken out about the harsh scrutiny she’s faced throughout her career, calling the body-shaming in Hollywood “merciless.” In a candid interview with Variety, Dunham reflected on how the criticism persisted no matter what size she was — whether thinner due to illness or simply aging naturally.

“Whether I was a size 4 or a size 16, there were always opinions about my body,” she shared. “Hollywood remains merciless toward body image.”

Dunham revealed that part of her decision to step away from acting was influenced by the toll this scrutiny took on her mental health. While the body positivity movement once gained momentum, she believes it has lost visibility in recent years.

Currently, Dunham is focused on her new series Too Much, where she serves as showrunner and mentor to rising star Megan Stalter. She says protecting her cast from the kind of criticism she endured is a top priority.

“I can handle people coming for me, but I won’t stay quiet when they come for someone just trying to do their job,” she added.

Her words come at a time when Hollywood is again being called to reflect on its standards, its messaging, and how it treats women of all sizes — especially those behind the scenes and in positions of creative power.