James Gunn recently updated reporters on the DC Universe's status at a DC Studios presentation. Among other announcements, Gunn revealed he's already scripting his next DCU film after Superman. He's certainly busy!
While Gunn remained tight-lipped about his next project—likely waiting until after Superman's July release—we've got some ideas for his next DCU endeavor. Which franchises and characters best suit his unique style? Which films should be prioritized as Gunn and Peter Safran build this new shared universe? Here are our top picks:
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 significant buzz. This film reboots Batman, introducing the DCU's Caped Crusader. Unlike recent 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. Progress seems slow, and Andy Muschietti's involvement remains questionable. Introducing a second cinematic Batman alongside Robert Pattinson's presents a challenge.
The DCU needs a strong Batman. He's crucial, and getting this right is paramount. If Muschietti departs, Gunn stepping in ensures the project's success (a possibility already being discussed). Gunn's Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy showcases his skill in crafting emotional father-son stories; imagine his take on Bruce and Damian.
The Flash
The Flash is essential to any DC Universe. A Justice League cornerstone, he's central to multiverse stories. However, his live-action history is rocky. The CW series demonstrates effective ensemble storytelling, while Ezra Miller's DCEU Flash faltered, resulting in a box-office flop.
The Flash needs a fresh start, avoiding clichés like Flashpoint. The film should focus on Barry Allen (and/or Wally West), not overshadowing Batman.
Gunn's dynamic action sequences (seen in the Guardians films) would translate well to a Flash movie. His ability to connect audiences with characters would make the man under the mask relatable.
The Authority
Gunn frankly discussed The Authority's challenges, noting difficulties in finding a unique angle that differentiates it from The Boys and similar projects.
"Honestly, Authority's been the hardest, due to the shifting story and finding the right approach in a world with The Boys and similar projects," Gunn stated. "We also have characters we love, already filmed, whose stories we want to continue." He admitted it's currently on the back burner.
The Authority is crucial to the expanding DCU. It was among the initially announced projects, and María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer appears in Superman. The DCU will likely explore the contrast between heroes like Superman and The Authority's cynicism. This film's success is important.
Fortunately, The Authority aligns well with Gunn's style. He excels with misfit heroes and engaging team dynamics. While challenging, Gunn could succeed.
Amanda Waller/ARGUS Movie
Gunn acknowledged setbacks for the planned Waller series, stating it "has had a couple of setbacks." This isn't surprising, given his commitments to Superman, Peacemaker: Season 2, and Creature Commandos. As these commitments lessen, prioritizing Waller—perhaps as a film—makes sense.
Waller and ARGUS are the DCU's connective tissue. This universe began with Creature Commandos, led by Waller. ARGUS appears in Superman, and Rick Flag, Sr. appears in both Superman and Peacemaker: Season 2. Focusing on this aspect of the DC Universe, and the puppet master pulling the strings, is logical. If the series isn't working, a film might be the solution.
Batman & Superman: World's Finest
Batman v Superman (2016), while respectable, fell short of expectations. Audiences tired of the dark tone.
That film didn't capture the desired team-up. Too much fighting, not enough heroism. Batman and Superman deserve a film portraying them as friends and allies. Gunn could excel at this crossover.
Instead of focusing solely on The Brave and the Bold, Gunn could unite his Superman with The Brave and the Bold's Batman. The DCU needs surefire hits, and a Gunn-directed Batman/Superman film is a strong contender.
Titans
The Teen Titans franchise boasts a large fanbase. The comics, animated series, and Teen Titans Go! have all garnered significant popularity.
Introducing the Titans to the DCU is crucial. A large fanbase exists, and rich comic history provides ample source material. While Max's Titans series had flaws, it proved these characters work in live-action.
A live-action Titans movie is appealing. Their dysfunctional family dynamic differs from the Justice League. Gunn's success with the Guardians suggests he could transform the Titans into a compelling family unit.
Justice League Dark
The DCU's first phase, "Gods and Monsters," and projects like Swamp Thing and Creature Commandos, indicate a focus on the supernatural. Establishing a supernatural counterpart to the Justice League makes sense.
Justice League Dark features magical heroes like Zatanna, Etrigan, Deadman, Swamp Thing, and John Constantine, battling threats beyond the traditional Justice League's capabilities. The team's dysfunction aligns with Gunn's storytelling. Including characters like Batman or Wonder Woman could attract a wider audience.
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