James Gunn recently provided an update on the DCU at a DC Studios presentation, revealing that he's already hard at work on the script for his next directorial project following Superman. Gunn's dedication to the DCU is evident, as he continues to shape the future of the franchise.
While Gunn hasn't disclosed details about his upcoming film, it's likely he'll hold off on any announcements until after Superman premieres in July. However, we have some thoughts on which DC projects would best suit his distinctive style and meet the needs of the evolving DCU. Here are our suggestions for what Gunn might tackle next.
DC Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show
39 Images
Batman: The Brave and the Bold
Despite Batman's frequent appearances on the big screen, Batman: The Brave and the Bold has generated significant interest. This film promises to reboot the Batman saga, introducing the DCU's version of the Caped Crusader with a focus on the broader Bat-family, particularly Bruce Wayne's son, Damian. The project's progress has been slow, and there's uncertainty about whether Andy Muschietti will remain as director. Given the importance of Batman within the DC Universe, it's crucial that this film is executed flawlessly. If Muschietti steps away, Gunn might be the ideal choice to ensure the film's success, especially considering his talent for crafting emotional father-son narratives, as demonstrated in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy.
The Flash
The Flash is a cornerstone of the DCU, central to both the Justice League and multiverse stories. However, the character's live-action portrayal has faced challenges, with the recent Flash movie underperforming at the box office. A fresh approach is needed—one that highlights Barry Allen or Wally West without overshadowing them with other heroes like Batman. Gunn's knack for dynamic action and character development, as seen in the Guardians films, could provide the revitalization the Flash needs in the DCU.
The Authority
During the presentation, Gunn candidly discussed the challenges of developing The Authority, citing the need to differentiate it from similar projects like The Boys. He noted that the film is on the back burner due to its complexity and the need to integrate it into the broader DCU narrative. Despite these hurdles, The Authority is poised to play a significant role in expanding the DCU's scope, especially with characters like María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer already appearing in Superman. Gunn's ability to handle misfit heroes and team dynamics makes him a fitting director for this ambitious project.
Amanda Waller/ARGUS Movie
The planned Waller series has faced setbacks, but as Gunn's commitments to other projects like Superman and Peacemaker: Season 2 ease, focusing on Waller could be a strategic move. Given her pivotal role in the DCU, transforming the series into a feature film might be the best way to showcase her influence and the workings of ARGUS. This could serve as a bridge connecting various elements of the DCU.
Batman & Superman: World’s Finest
The 2016 film Batman v Superman didn't meet fan expectations, focusing too much on conflict rather than collaboration. A new film that celebrates the friendship and alliance between Batman and Superman could be a surefire hit for the DCU. Gunn's ability to write and direct a film that brings these iconic characters together in a positive light could be a game-changer for the franchise.
Titans
The Teen Titans franchise has a rich history and a dedicated fanbase, making it a prime candidate for a DCU introduction. The dysfunctional yet loving family dynamic of the Titans could be a perfect fit for Gunn's storytelling style, which has successfully turned the Guardians of the Galaxy into a beloved family unit. A live-action Titans movie could be more appealing than another Justice League film, offering a fresh take on superhero teamwork.
Justice League Dark
With the DCU's first phase titled "Gods and Monsters," and projects like Swamp Thing and Creature Commandos already in the works, the supernatural elements of the DC Universe are set to play a significant role. Justice League Dark could serve as the perfect counterpart to the traditional Justice League, featuring magical heroes like Zatanna, Etrigan, and John Constantine. Gunn's flair for handling unconventional teams could make this film a standout in the DCU, potentially drawing in new audiences with the inclusion of familiar characters like Batman or Wonder Woman.
Which DC movie do you want to see Gunn tackle after Superman? Cast your vote in our poll and let us know in the comments below.
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.
