James Gunn recently updated reporters on the DC Universe's status at a DC Studios presentation. He revealed he's already scripting his next DCU film after Superman. Gunn remained tight-lipped about the project, likely delaying an announcement until after Superman's July release. However, several franchises and characters seem well-suited to Gunn's distinctive style, making them ideal candidates for his next directorial effort within this burgeoning shared universe.
DC Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show
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Batman: The Brave and the Bold
Despite Batman's frequent big-screen appearances, Batman: The Brave and the Bold generates considerable excitement. This film reboots Batman, introducing the DCU's Caped Crusader. Unlike previous iterations, it focuses on the Bat-family, including Bruce Wayne's son, Damian. While Batman is a Hollywood staple, The Brave and the Bold faces uncertainty. Development seems slow, and Andy Muschietti's directorial involvement remains questionable. The film also presents the challenge of introducing a second cinematic Batman alongside Robert Pattinson's version. The DCU needs a compelling Batman; if Muschietti departs, Gunn's involvement could ensure the project's success, potentially leveraging his expertise in father-son dynamics, as seen in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, to explore Bruce and Damian's relationship.
The Flash
The Flash is crucial to any DC Universe, a Justice League cornerstone and a key figure in multiverse narratives. However, the character's live-action history is turbulent. The CW series showcases a successful ensemble approach (despite its later decline), while Ezra Miller's DCEU portrayal and the subsequent film's box office failure left the character's cinematic future uncertain. The Flash needs a fresh perspective, avoiding overused storylines like Flashpoint, and focusing on Barry Allen (and/or Wally West) rather than overshadowing Batman. Gunn's dynamic action sequences and ability to connect audiences with characters would be valuable assets for a Flash film.
The Authority
Gunn openly discussed the challenges of adapting The Authority, noting difficulties in finding a unique angle that differentiates it from The Boys and similar projects. He stated that it's currently on the back burner due to the shifting overall story and the need to get it right in a crowded landscape. The Authority is vital to the expanding DCU, originally announced alongside other projects, with María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer appearing in Superman. The film will likely explore the contrast between optimistic heroes like Superman and the cynical approach of The Authority. Gunn's talent for portraying misfit heroes and crafting engaging dialogue makes him well-suited for this project.
Amanda Waller/ARGUS Movie
Gunn acknowledged setbacks for the planned Waller series. This isn't surprising given his commitments to Superman, Peacemaker: Season 2, and Creature Commandos. As his workload eases, prioritizing Waller, potentially as a feature film instead of a series, might be beneficial. Waller and ARGUS are essential to the DCU's foundation, appearing in Superman and Peacemaker: Season 2. Focusing on this aspect of the universe and its central figure makes strategic sense.
Batman & Superman: World's Finest
Batman v Superman (2016), while respectable, fell short of expectations, highlighting audience fatigue with dark, brooding tones. A team-up film showcasing Batman and Superman as allies would be a welcome change. Gunn's expertise would be invaluable in creating such a film. Instead of solely focusing on The Brave and the Bold, combining Gunn's Superman with the new Batman could be a major success for the DCU.
Titans
The Teen Titans boast a significant fanbase from comics and animated series. While Max's Titans series had its flaws, it demonstrated the characters' live-action potential. A live-action Titans film offers a compelling alternative to a Justice League movie, highlighting the team's dysfunctional family dynamic. Gunn's success with the Guardians suggests he could effectively portray the Titans' unique dynamic.
Justice League Dark
The DCU's "Gods and Monsters" phase, featuring projects like Swamp Thing and Creature Commandos, emphasizes the supernatural. Establishing a supernatural Justice League counterpart is logical. Justice League Dark offers a platform for magical heroes like Zatanna, Etrigan, Deadman, Swamp Thing, and John Constantine, potentially incorporating characters like Batman or Wonder Woman to broaden appeal.
AnswerSee ResultsFor more on the future of all things DC, check out what to expect from DC in 2025 and see every DC movie and series in development.
