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!
Gunn remained tight-lipped about the project, likely delaying any announcement until after Superman's July release. However, several DC franchises and characters seem perfectly suited to Gunn's unique style. Considering the need to prioritize projects as Gunn and Peter Safran build this new shared universe, here are some strong contenders for his next directorial effort.
DC Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show
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Batman: The Brave and the Bold
While Batman is a cinematic staple, Batman: The Brave and the Bold generates considerable 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.
Despite Batman's proven box office success, The Brave and the Bold faces uncertainty. Development seems slow, and Andy Muschietti's involvement remains questionable. The challenge of introducing a second cinematic Batman alongside Robert Pattinson's version adds further complexity.
The DCU needs a strong Batman. He's pivotal, and getting this right is crucial. If Muschietti departs, Gunn stepping in ensures the project's success (a possibility already being discussed). Gunn's Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy demonstrates his skill in crafting emotional father-son narratives, making him ideally suited for the Bruce and Damian dynamic.
The Flash
The Flash is essential to any DC shared universe, a core Justice League member often central to multiverse stories. However, his live-action history is rocky. The CW series showcased a successful ensemble approach (despite later waning), while Ezra Miller's DCEU portrayal and the subsequent film's box office failure left the character tarnished.
The Flash needs a fresh start, avoiding overused narratives like Flashpoint. The focus should remain on Barry Allen (and/or Wally West), rather than overshadowing him with Batman.
Gunn's Guardians films showcase dynamic action and emotional depth, perfectly transferable to a Flash movie. His ability to connect audiences with the hero beneath the mask is undeniable.
The Authority
Gunn openly discussed the challenges of adapting The Authority, noting difficulties 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. "We also have characters we love, already filmed, whose stories we want to continue and see intersect. So, 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 clash between the optimism of heroes like Superman and the cynicism of The Authority is a key narrative element.
Gunn's expertise with misfit heroes and engaging team dynamics makes him well-suited for this project. The Authority presents a challenge, but Gunn's capabilities are undeniable.
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. However, as these commitments lessen, prioritizing Waller, perhaps as a feature film instead of a series, might be beneficial.
Waller and ARGUS are the DCU's connective tissue. Creature Commandos featured them prominently, 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 its central figure makes strategic sense. If the series format proves problematic, a film might be a more effective approach.
Batman & Superman: World's Finest
Batman v Superman (2016), while respectable, fell short of expectations. Its dark tone alienated many. Batman and Superman deserve a film portraying their friendship and collaboration against overwhelming threats. This is a crossover Gunn could excel at.
Instead of solely focusing on The Brave and the Bold, combining Gunn's Superman with that film's Batman in a single movie could be highly effective. The DCU needs reliable successes for growth, and a Gunn-directed Batman/Superman film is a strong contender.
Titans
The Teen Titans boast a massive fanbase, stemming from the success of various comic runs and animated series. While Max's Titans series had flaws, it demonstrated the characters' live-action potential.
A live-action Titans film is arguably more appealing than a new Justice League film. The Titans' dysfunctional family dynamic sets them apart from the League. Gunn's transformation of the Guardians into a cohesive unit makes him an ideal choice for this iconic team.
Justice League Dark
The DCU's "Gods and Monsters" phase, featuring Swamp Thing and Creature Commandos, highlights the supernatural element. Establishing a supernatural Justice League counterpart is logical.
Justice League Dark allows magical heroes like Zatanna, Etrigan, Deadman, Swamp Thing, and John Constantine to unite against threats beyond the traditional Justice League's capabilities. The inherent dysfunction within this team aligns perfectly with Gunn's storytelling style. Including characters like Batman or Wonder Woman broadens the appeal and introduces audiences to the DCU's supernatural side.
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For more on the future of DC, see what to expect in 2025 and explore every DC movie and series in development.
