What Should James Gunn's Second DCU Movie Be? We Have Ideas

James Gunn recently updated reporters on the DC Universe's status at a DC Studios presentation. He revealed he's already scripting his next DCU film after Superman, keeping incredibly 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 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:

Every Upcoming DC 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 excitement. This film reboots Batman, introducing the DCU's Caped Crusader. Unlike recent 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. Progress seems slow, and Andy Muschietti's directorial involvement remains questionable post-presentation. Introducing a second cinematic Batman alongside Robert Pattinson's presents a challenge.

The DCU needs a Batman. Getting this right is crucial. If Muschietti departs, Gunn stepping in ensures the project's success (a possibility that seems to be underway). Gunn's expertise in crafting emotional father-son stories (seen in Guardians of the Galaxy) makes him ideal for Bruce and Damian's dynamic.

The Flash

The Flash is vital to any shared DC Universe, a Justice League cornerstone and a multiverse linchpin. However, his live-action history is rocky. The CW series showcases ensemble storytelling, while Ezra Miller's DCEU Flash underperformed, resulting in a box office flop.

The Flash is damaged goods. A fresh approach, avoiding clichés like Flashpoint, is needed. The film should focus on Barry Allen (and/or Wally West), preventing Batman from overshadowing them.

Gunn's dynamic action and ability to connect audiences with characters (evident in Guardians) make him a strong choice.

The Authority

Gunn openly discussed The Authority's challenges, noting difficulty finding a unique angle that avoids overlap with The Boys and similar projects.

"Honestly, Authority's been the hardest, due to the shifting story and needing to stand out in a world already influenced by it," Gunn stated. "And we have characters we love, already filmed, whose stories we want to continue. So, it's on the back burner."

The Authority is key to the DCU's expansion. It was among the initial announcements, and María Gabriela de Faría's Engineer appears in Superman. The clash between the optimism of heroes like Superman and The Authority's cynicism is crucial.

Gunn's knack for misfit heroes and engaging team dynamics makes him well-suited. It's a challenge, but we trust Gunn to succeed.

Amanda Waller/ARGUS Movie

Gunn acknowledged setbacks for the planned Waller series. This isn't surprising, given his commitments to Superman, Peacemaker: Season 2, and Creature Commandos. As his schedule frees up, prioritizing Waller, potentially as a feature film, makes sense.

Waller and ARGUS are the DCU's connective tissue. ARGUS appears in Superman, and Rick Flag, Sr. (Frank Grillo) appears in both Superman and Peacemaker: Season 2. Focusing on this corner of the universe and its puppet master is logical. If the series isn't working, a movie might be the solution.

Batman & Superman: World's Finest

Batman v Superman (2016), while respectable, fell short of expectations. The dark tone alienated some fans. A team-up movie portraying them as friends and allies is needed. Gunn excels at this type of crossover.

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

Titans

The Teen Titans have a massive fanbase. The comics, animated series, and Teen Titans Go! have garnered broad appeal. Introducing them to the DCU is vital. While Max's Titans series had flaws, it proved their live-action viability.

A live-action Titans movie is appealing. Their dysfunctional family dynamic differs from the Justice League. Gunn's success with the Guardians makes him ideal for this team.

Justice League Dark

The DCU's "Gods and Monsters" phase, featuring Swamp Thing and Creature Commandos, indicates 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. Their dysfunction is perfect for Gunn's style. Adding a character like Batman or Wonder Woman broadens appeal.

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

See Results

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