* This article contains spoilers

Easter eggs are hidden messages creators place in software, video games, films, and music. These details are often humorous, referencing other works or hinting at future installments.

Like many superhero films, "Superman" contains several easter eggs expanding the DC Universe (DCU). ScreenRant has identified approximately 75 easter eggs within the film for astute viewers and longtime DCU fans to discover.

Gotham City

During the chaotic scene in Metropolis where Superman (David Corenswet) confronts Lex Luthor, viewers can spot a highway sign pointing towards Gotham City. Though brief, this detail confirms Gotham's existence within the DCU. Its proximity to Metropolis sets the stage for future encounters between superheroes.

Fifth-dimensional beings

Superman and the fifth-dimensional being in "Superman." Photo: DC Studios

After uncovering the truth about Krypton's origins, Superman returns to his apartment with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), while the Justice Gang (Green Lantern, Mr. Terrific, and Hawkgirl) battles a kaiju monster from the fifth dimension. This alludes to Mr. Mxyzptll, a fifth-dimensional being known for tormenting Superman in the comics, and Bat-Mite (from James Gunn's "Peacemaker" series). This suggests these beings may be further explored in future DCU films.

DCU's original superhero team

Members of the Justice Society of America. Photo: DC/ScreenRant

In the comics, the Justice Society of America (JSA) is the DCU's first superhero team, featuring veterans like Hawkman, Doctor Fate, Jay Garrick (the original Flash), and Alan Scott (the original Green Lantern). In the film, their sculpted portraits appear in the Hall of Justice, currently under construction.

Within the DCU timeline, these heroes existed centuries ago. James Gunn's inclusion of the JSA opens possibilities for storylines parallel to the Justice League, enriching the superhero world.

Belle Reeve prison

Belle Reeve prison in "Superman." Photo: DC Studios

Belle Reeve, known as a place darker than Arkham Asylum, houses the world's most dangerous criminals. The film reveals Lex Luthor will serve his sentence there. In other DCU films, villains like Harley Quinn, Rick Flag, and Bloodsport are recruited for suicide missions by ARGUS, forming Task Force X, also known as the Suicide Squad. In exchange, they receive reduced sentences. Belle Reve's mention in "Superman" hints at the return of characters associated with this infamous task force.

Supergirl

Milly Alcock as Supergirl. Photo: DC Studios

According to ScreenRant, one of the most exciting details is Kara Zor-El's (Milly Alcock) appearance. Superman's cousin appears at the Fortress of Solitude as he recovers from battle. Humorously, it's revealed Krypto the dog is actually Kara's pet, not Superman's. This sets the stage for Supergirl's development in the DCU before her solo film in 2026.

Maxwell Lord

Sean Gunn as Maxwell Lord in "Superman." Photo: DC Studios

Though a minor cameo, Maxwell Lord is crucial for the DCU's future. In the comics, he's a wealthy businessman who becomes a villain, abusing his power and manipulating superheroes. In James Gunn's film, Maxwell Lord (Sean Gunn) appears briefly in an interview regarding Lex Luthor. Introduced as the sole sponsor of the Justice Gang and the Hall of Justice, his role in the superhero world is established. If the DCU develops his character's complexity as in the comics, viewers can anticipate compelling twists in future films.

Peacemaker

John Cena as Peacemaker. Photo: HBO

John Cena's Peacemaker returns after his 2022 series. He appears in a television interview, sporting his signature chrome-domed helmet and red muscle shirt, denouncing Superman as evil and untrustworthy.

Bradley Cooper's appearance

Director James Gunn (left) and actor Bradley Cooper. Photo: Just Jared

Bradley Cooper plays Jor-El, Superman's father, appearing in scenes at the Fortress of Solitude. According to Deadline, Cooper took the role due to his friendship with James Gunn. The two previously collaborated on "Guardians of the Galaxy," with Cooper voicing Rocket. The film also features Angela Sarafyan as Superman's mother, and Alan Tudyk, Pom Klementieff, and Michael Rooker voicing supporting robots.

Lex Luthor's monkey army

Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Photo: DC Studios

Within Lex Luthor's created micro-universe, monkeys use social media to attack Superman with negative hashtags. GameRant suggests this is satirical, reflecting the debate between fans of the old DC Extended Universe (DCEU) and supporters of James Gunn and Peter Safran's new DCU. This scene humorously depicts some DCEU fans reacting negatively to changes involving Superman, reflecting the fan base divisions that often arise when filmmakers alter approaches to pop culture icons.

Cat Tien (via ScreenRant, GameRant)