IMDb, the world’s most popular and authoritative source for information on movies, TV shows, and celebrities, today presented its first-ever “Fan Favorite Filmmaker” Award to James Gunn. This new category reflects the growing interest of global audiences in the visionaries behind the camera, expanding the prestigious IMDb STARmeter Award program to celebrate the creators who shape entertainment. The award is determined by IMDbPro MOVIEmeter rankings, which track page views from the global audience of hundreds of millions on IMDb. These rankings provide unique insights into audience interests and industry trends, supporting filmmakers throughout their careers.
“This is so cool. I’m honored by this recognition from IMDb, which celebrates the connection between storytellers and fans,” said Gunn. “This is truly an award for the passionate audience members who have supported me and my films over the years. So this belongs to them. Except I’m keeping it in my office.”
IMDbPro MOVIEmeter data shows “Superman”, written, directed and produced by Gunn, is the most anticipated movie of 2025. Gunn’s work also includes “Peacemaker”, “Guardians of the Galaxy”, and “The Suicide Squad” (the #2 most popular movie of 2021 on IMDb). As co-CEO and Chairman of DC Studios alongside Peter Safran, Gunn pioneers the next generation of DC entertainment, including upcoming projects “Supergirl” and “Lanterns”.
“IMDbPro data shows James Gunn’s projects consistently drive extraordinary audience engagement,” said Nikki Santoro, CEO of IMDb. “As a director, writer, producer, and studio executive, Gunn embodies the modern filmmaker. He’s the ideal first recipient of our new award celebrating the connection between fans and the creators who inspire them.”
The IMDb STARmeter Award program also includes “Fan Favorite,” “Breakout,” “Icon,” and “Fan Favorite Ensemble” award categories. Previous recipients of these prestigious awards over the last decade include the cast and creators of “The Studio”, Sydney Sweeney, Ayo Edebiri, and Peter Dinklage. Learn more about IMDb STARmeter Awards.
