James Gunn's Next DCU Film: Our Suggestions

James Gunn recently provided an update on the DCU during a presentation to a group of reporters, revealing that he's already busy scripting his next directorial venture after the upcoming Superman film. While the exact nature of his next project remains under wraps, it's likely that Gunn won't share any details until well after Superman premieres in July. However, fans and analysts have been speculating on which DC franchises and characters might best suit Gunn's distinctive storytelling style as he and Peter Safran continue to develop the new shared universe. Here are some top picks for what Gunn might consider directing next.

DC Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show

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Batman: The Brave and the Bold

Despite the Dark Knight's frequent appearances on the big screen, there's significant buzz around Batman: The Brave and the Bold. This project aims to reboot Batman, introducing the DCU's version of the iconic hero and focusing on the broader Bat-family, including Bruce Wayne's son, Damian. The film's development has been slow, with uncertainties about whether Andy Muschietti will remain its director. Introducing a new Batman to coexist with Robert Pattinson's portrayal presents a unique challenge. Given the character's pivotal role in the DC Universe, it's crucial to get this right. Gunn's expertise in crafting emotional father-son narratives, as seen in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, could be a perfect fit for exploring the dynamics between Bruce and Damian.

The Flash

The Flash is a cornerstone of the DC Universe, central to the Justice League and often involved in multiverse storylines. However, the character's live-action adaptations have been uneven, with Ezra Miller's portrayal in the DCEU leading to a poorly received film. Despite this, The Flash remains a vital character for the DCU, needing a fresh, dynamic approach that focuses on Barry Allen or Wally West without being overshadowed by other heroes like Batman. Gunn's knack for engaging action and character development could bring a much-needed revitalization to the character.

The Authority

Gunn candidly discussed the challenges of developing The Authority, noting the difficulty in finding a unique angle that differentiates it from projects like Prime Video's The Boys. He emphasized the need to balance the film's tone with other ongoing DCU stories and characters. Despite its current back-burner status, The Authority is crucial for exploring the contrasting themes of hope and cynicism within the DCU. Gunn's skill in handling misfit heroes and team dynamics makes him an ideal candidate to bring this complex project to life.

Amanda Waller/ARGUS Movie

The planned Waller series has faced setbacks, which is understandable given Gunn's commitments to other projects like Superman, Peacemaker: Season 2, and Creature Commandos. As these commitments lessen, focusing on Waller could be a wise move, potentially shifting the series to a feature film. Waller and ARGUS are integral to the DCU's narrative framework, appearing in multiple projects. Transforming the series into a movie could provide a cohesive exploration of this influential character and her organization.

Batman & Superman: World’s Finest

The 2016 Batman v Superman film, while successful, did not meet the high expectations set for a crossover of such iconic heroes. Fans were disappointed by the film's dark tone and the focus on conflict rather than collaboration. A new team-up movie that showcases Batman and Superman as allies tackling formidable threats could be a surefire hit. Gunn's ability to craft compelling narratives around superhero partnerships could make Batman & Superman: World’s Finest a standout project in the DCU.

Titans

The Teen Titans have a storied history in comics and animation, with a strong fanbase ready for a live-action adaptation. While the Max series had its challenges, it demonstrated the potential for these characters on screen. A live-action Titans movie could explore the unique, familial dynamics of the team, distinct from the more formal structure of the Justice League. Gunn's success in turning the Guardians into a cohesive family could translate well to the Titans, making this a promising project.

Justice League Dark

Given the "Gods and Monsters" theme of the DCU's first phase and the inclusion of supernatural projects like Swamp Thing and Creature Commandos, a focus on the magical side of the DC Universe seems imminent. Justice League Dark could serve as the supernatural counterpart to the traditional Justice League, featuring characters like Zatanna, Etrigan, Deadman, and John Constantine. Gunn's flair for dysfunctional teams could make this an engaging entry point for audiences into the weirder aspects of the DCU.

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.