James Gunn's Next DCU Film: Our Suggestions

James Gunn, the creative force behind the upcoming DCU, recently provided a status update to reporters at a DC Studios presentation. Amidst a flurry of announcements, Gunn confirmed he's already scripting his next directorial venture post-Superman, keeping his schedule packed and his focus sharp.

While Gunn kept the details of his new project under wraps, it's clear he won't be spilling the beans until Superman premieres in July. However, the anticipation is high, and speculation is rife about which DCU project could best showcase Gunn's distinctive storytelling style. As Gunn and his partner Peter Safran work to expand this new shared universe, selecting the right projects is crucial. Here’s a look at some of the most promising options for Gunn's next venture.

DC Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show

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Batman: The Brave and the Bold

The Dark Knight's cinematic presence is undeniable, yet Batman: The Brave and the Bold has stirred considerable interest. This reboot introduces the DCU’s take on Batman, focusing not just on the Caped Crusader but also on the broader Bat-family, including Bruce Wayne's son, Damian. Despite Batman's box office reliability, The Brave and the Bold faces uncertainty, with slow progress and questions about director Andy Muschietti’s involvement.

Batman remains a cornerstone of the DCU, essential for its success. If Muschietti steps away, Gunn stepping in could ensure the project's success, leveraging his expertise in crafting emotional father-son narratives, as seen in the Guardians of the Galaxy series. Gunn’s touch could bring a fresh, heartfelt dynamic to Bruce and Damian's story.

The Flash

The Flash is integral to the DCU, a key member of the Justice League and a central figure in multiverse tales. Yet, recent live-action attempts have been turbulent. The CW's series offered a solid foundation for an ensemble story, but Ezra Miller's portrayal in the DCEU led to a disappointing box office performance.

Despite this, The Flash is a character ripe for reinvention. Gunn's knack for dynamic action and character depth, evident in the Guardians films, could rejuvenate The Flash's narrative, focusing on Barry Allen or Wally West and avoiding overused plots like Flashpoint.

The Authority

Gunn candidly shared the challenges of developing The Authority, citing the need to differentiate it from similar projects like The Boys. He admitted the project is on the back burner as they refine the overall DCU narrative.

Yet, The Authority remains a vital piece of the DCU puzzle, especially with its ties to Superman and its exploration of contrasting themes of hope and cynicism. Gunn’s skill in handling misfit heroes and crafting engaging team dynamics makes him an ideal fit to tackle this complex film.

Amanda Waller/ARGUS Movie

The planned Waller series has faced setbacks, but as Gunn's other commitments like Superman and Peacemaker: Season 2 progress, shifting focus to Waller could be beneficial. Transforming the series into a feature film might be the answer, given Waller's pivotal role in connecting the DCU's narrative threads through ARGUS.

Batman & Superman: World’s Finest

The 2016 Batman v Superman film aimed high but fell short of expectations, partly due to its dark tone. A new team-up movie focusing on the friendship and collaboration between Batman and Superman could be the blockbuster the DCU needs. Gunn could seamlessly blend his new Superman and The Brave and the Bold Batman in a film that celebrates their alliance against formidable foes.

Titans

The Titans have a storied history in comics and animation, with a dedicated fanbase. A live-action Titans movie could capture the unique family dynamic of these young heroes. Gunn’s success in transforming the Guardians into a cohesive family unit suggests he could bring a similar magic to the Titans, making them a standout in the DCU.

Justice League Dark

With the DCU's first phase titled "Gods and Monsters," the supernatural elements are set to play a significant role. Justice League Dark could introduce magical heroes like Zatanna and John Constantine, offering a darker, more mysterious counterpart to the traditional Justice League. Gunn's ability to handle dysfunctional yet compelling teams could make this film a gateway to the DCU's more eccentric side.

Which DC movie do you want to see Gunn tackle after Superman? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Which DC movie do you want to see James Gunn direct after Superman? -------------------------------------------------------------------

Batman: The Brave and the BoldThe FlashThe AuthorityAn Amanda Waller/ARGUS MovieBatman & Superman: World's FinestTitansJustice League DarkOther (let us know in the comments)

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.