A recent report offers vital insights into James Gunn's future plans for the DC Universe (DCU) following the new Superman film's release. Warner Bros. aims for Superman to achieve over $500 million globally, reflecting Gunn's ambition for it to reach $700 million. The film had a $225 million budget and leverages mostly lesser-known actors. Discussions are underway for potential TV spinoffs centered on characters like Mister Terrific and Jimmy Olsen. Superman is expected to have a strong opening weekend of more than $125 million domestically. The report also touches on previous attempts to pivot the DC films, including a shelved script by Ta-Nehisi Coates about a Black Superman. Gunn and DC Studios are targeting a more extensive release schedule with one animated and two live-action films annually, planning to build toward a new Justice League film.
What are the future plans for the DC Universe following James Gunn's new Superman film?James Gunn plans to expand the DC Universe with various new projects, aiming for one animated and two live-action movies each year, alongside TV shows primarily for HBO Max. This includes potential spinoffs from Superman, aiming to eventually unite key characters like Batman and Wonder Woman in a new Justice League film.
The Superman film is part of Warner Bros.' broader strategy to reboot the DC Universe following the mixed responses to past DC films. After the underwhelming performance of 2017's Justice League, the studio has been re-evaluating its approach to superhero storytelling, looking to reinvigorate interest and rebuild the franchise's standing in cinema. Gunn's creative direction emphasizes a fresh start while leveraging beloved characters that fans have long cherished.
Comments
Gunn’s plan to drop two live-action DC films a year feels ambitious but also necessary if they want to catch up to Marvel’s pacing—just hope quality doesn’t take a backseat to quantity. Also, a Mr. Terrific spinoff Now that’s a deep cut even comic fans didn’t see coming.
It’s refreshing to see DC taking a more focused approach with Gunn’s vision—fewer rushed team-ups and more character-driven stories could finally give the universe the momentum it needs. That said, banking on lesser-known actors for Superman is a bold swing, but if anyone can make it work, it’s probably Gunn.