DCU Film The Authority 'On the Back Burner,' as James Gunn Points to Difficulty 'Getting It Right in a World With The Boys'

DC's upcoming film adaptation of The Authority faces production hurdles, according to DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn. Initially announced as a major project within the "Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters" reboot, its development has proven challenging.

Gunn cited the project's complex narrative and the existing landscape of similar superhero shows, specifically mentioning Amazon's The Boys, as contributing factors to the delays. He stated that integrating The Authority's storyline with other established DCU characters and ongoing projects has presented significant obstacles. As a result, the film is currently on the back burner.

Despite the setbacks, one Authority member, the Engineer/Angela Spica, is slated to appear in the upcoming Superman: Legacy. The Engineer, known for her immense power, self-duplication abilities, and technological prowess, is a key figure within the team. (For more information on The Authority, see IGN's article: Who Are the Authority: The WildStorm DCU Characters Explained.)

Other projects within the "Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters" slate have also encountered difficulties. Waller, a spin-off of Peacemaker, has experienced production delays. However, Booster Gold is progressing smoothly, and Paradise Lost remains a high priority, with its pilot script currently in development. Swamp Thing, while not crucial to the overarching narrative, is on hold pending the availability of director James Mangold.

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The challenges faced by The Authority highlight the complexities of launching a large-scale cinematic universe, particularly when integrating pre-existing properties and navigating a competitive market.