Gunn's Next DCU Film: Our Top Picks

James Gunn recently updated reporters on the DC Universe's status at a DC Studios presentation. Among other announcements, he revealed he's already writing the script for his next DCU film after Superman. He's certainly busy!

While Gunn remained tight-lipped about the project, likely saving the announcement for after Superman's July release, we've got some ideas for his next DCU endeavor. Which franchises and characters best suit his unique style? Which films should be prioritized as Gunn and Peter Safran build this new shared universe? Here are our top picks:

DC Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show

39 Images

Batman: The Brave and the Bold

Despite Batman's frequent big-screen appearances, Batman: The Brave and the Bold generates significant 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.

While Batman is a Hollywood staple, The Brave and the Bold faces uncertainty. Development seems slow, and Andy Muschietti's directorial involvement remains questionable. Introducing a second cinematic Batman alongside Robert Pattinson's presents a challenge.

The DCU needs a Batman. He's crucial, and getting this right is vital. If Muschietti departs, Gunn stepping in ensures the project's success (a possibility already suggested). Gunn's Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy showcased his skill in crafting emotional father-son stories; imagine his take on Bruce and Damian.

The Flash

The Flash is another DCU cornerstone, a Justice League member central to multiverse stories. However, his live-action history is rocky. The CW series demonstrated ensemble storytelling (despite later waning), while Ezra Miller's DCEU Flash flopped, resulting in a box-office failure.

The Flash needs a fresh start, avoiding clichés like Flashpoint. The film should center Barry Allen (and/or Wally West), not Batman.

Gunn's dynamic action sequences (seen in Guardians) would translate well to a Flash film. He excels at connecting audiences with heroes, making him ideal for this project.

The Authority

Gunn openly discussed The Authority's challenges, noting difficulty finding an angle distinct from The Boys and similar projects.

"Honestly, Authority's been the hardest, due to the shifting story and getting it right in a world with The Boys and its influences," Gunn stated. "And having characters we love, already filmed, whose stories we want to continue. So, it's on the back burner."

The Authority is key to the expanding DCU. It was among the initially announced projects, and María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer appears in Superman. The DCU will likely explore the contrast between heroes like Superman and The Authority's cynicism, making this film crucial.

The Authority aligns with Gunn's style, his expertise in misfit heroes and engaging team dynamics. It's challenging, but Gunn could succeed.

Amanda Waller/ARGUS Movie

Gunn acknowledged setbacks for the 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. As these commitments ease, prioritizing Waller, potentially as a film instead of a series, makes sense.

Waller and ARGUS are the DCU's glue. This universe began with Creature Commandos, a Waller-led team. ARGUS appears in Superman, and Frank Grillo's Rick Flag, Sr. appears in both Superman and Peacemaker: Season 2. Focusing on this aspect of the DC Universe, and the puppet master pulling the strings, is logical. If the series isn't working, a film might be the solution.

Batman & Superman: World's Finest

Batman v Superman (2016), while respectable, fell short of expectations. Audiences tired of the dark tone.

Batman v Superman wasn't what many wanted. Too much fighting, not enough heroism. Batman and Superman deserve a team-up showcasing their friendship and alliance against overwhelming threats. Gunn could excel at this.

Instead of solely focusing on The Brave and the Bold, Gunn could unite his Superman with The Brave and the Bold's Batman. The new DCU needs surefire hits, and a Gunn-directed Batman/Superman film is a safe bet.

Titans

The Teen Titans franchise boasts a massive fanbase. The comics, animated series, and Teen Titans Go! have garnered significant popularity.

Introducing the Titans to the DCU is vital. A large fanbase exists, and rich comic history provides ample source material. While Max's Titans series had flaws, it proved these characters work in live-action.

A live-action Titans film is appealing. Their dysfunctional family dynamic differs from the Justice League. Gunn's success with the Guardians suggests he could transform the Titans into a compelling family unit.

Justice League Dark

The DCU's first phase, "Gods and Monsters," and projects like Swamp Thing and Creature Commandos indicate a supernatural focus. Establishing the supernatural counterpart to the Justice League is logical.

Justice League Dark features magical heroes like Zatanna, Etrigan, Deadman, Swamp Thing, and John Constantine, combating threats beyond the Justice League's capabilities. The team's dysfunction aligns with Gunn's storytelling. Including characters like Batman or Wonder Woman broadens appeal, introducing audiences to the DCU's supernatural side.

Which DC film should Gunn tackle next? Vote in our poll and comment below.

For more on the DC future, see what to expect in 2025 and view every DC movie and series in development.