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, keeping incredibly busy.
While Gunn remained tight-lipped about the project—an announcement likely post-Superman's July release—we've got some ideas for his next endeavor. Which franchises and characters best suit his unique style? What 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 cinematic familiarity, Batman: The Brave and the Bold generates significant buzz. 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.
Uncertainty surrounds The Brave and the Bold. Progress seems slow, and Andy Muschietti's directorial involvement remains questionable post-presentation. Introducing a second cinematic Batman alongside Robert Pattinson's presents a challenge.
The DCU needs a Batman. He's pivotal, and this iteration needs to be successful. If Muschietti departs, Gunn stepping in ensures quality (a possibility already suggested). Gunn's Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy showcases his skill in emotional father-son narratives; imagine his take on Bruce and Damian.
The Flash
The Flash is crucial to any DC Universe, a Justice League cornerstone and a multiverse figure. However, his live-action history is rocky. The CW series offers a strong ensemble example (despite its later decline), while Ezra Miller's DCEU Flash and the film flopped.
The Flash needs a fresh approach, avoiding overused storylines like Flashpoint. The film should center Barry Allen (and/or Wally West), not Batman.
Gunn's dynamic action and ability to connect audiences with characters (seen in Guardians) would benefit a Flash film immensely.
The Authority
Gunn candidly discussed The Authority's challenges, noting difficulty in finding a unique angle distinct 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 its influences," Gunn stated. "And we have characters we love, already filmed, whose stories we want to continue and see interact. So, it's currently on the back burner."
The Authority is key to the expanding DCU. It was among the initial announcements, and María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer appears in Superman. The DCU will likely explore the clash between optimistic heroes (like Superman) and the cynical Authority. This film's success is vital.
The Authority fits Gunn's style—misfit heroes and engaging banter. It's challenging, but Gunn could succeed.
Amanda Waller/ARGUS Movie
Gunn admitted the planned Waller series faced setbacks. This isn't surprising, given his commitments to Superman, Peacemaker: Season 2, and Creature Commandos. As these commitments ease, prioritizing Waller, perhaps as a feature film, makes sense.
Waller and ARGUS are the DCU's connective tissue. ARGUS appears in Superman, and Rick Flag, Sr. (Frank Grillo) is in Superman and Peacemaker: Season 2. Focusing on this aspect of the DCU 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. The dark tone alienated many. Batman and Superman deserve a film portraying them as allies.
Gunn could excel at this crossover. Instead of solely focusing on The Brave and the Bold, combining his Superman with that film's Batman could be his next project. The DCU needs reliable hits, and a Gunn-directed Batman/Superman film is a safe bet.
Titans
The Teen Titans franchise boasts a large fanbase. The comics and animated series have garnered immense popularity. While Max's Titans series had flaws, it proved live-action viability.
A live-action Titans film is appealing. Their dysfunctional family dynamic contrasts with 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 "Gods and Monsters" phase, featuring Swamp Thing and Creature Commandos, emphasizes the supernatural. Establishing a supernatural Justice League counterpart makes sense.
Justice League Dark allows magical heroes (Zatanna, Etrigan, Deadman, Swamp Thing, Constantine) to combat threats beyond the Justice League's capabilities. This team's inherent dysfunction aligns with Gunn's storytelling. Including Batman or Wonder Woman could attract a wider audience.
Which DC film should Gunn tackle after Superman? Vote in our poll and comment below.
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For more on the future of DC, see what to expect in 2025 and all DC movies and series in development.
