Movies

The DCU Is Ignoring its Main Heroes and DC Fans Should Be Happy

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DC Studios is almost ready for its initial significant launch, featuring Superman this summer, which marks the beginning of what we hope will become a lasting franchise. Although technically Creature Commandos was the first project under the new brand, multiple other ventures have also been unveiled as being in development at DC Studios. The current DC Universe schedule is packed with numerous projects spanning both film and television.

In the early stages of the DC Universe (DCU), Superman and Batman are set to have their own projects, considering they are the most iconic and prosperous characters. On the other hand, characters such as Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash, and other significant figures from DC Comics don’t have any confirmed projects at this time within the DCU. Although it might be disheartening if these heroes never manifest in the DCU, delaying their introduction initially is a daring strategy that could eventually prove advantageous for DC Studios.

The MCU Didn’t Start With Its Major Players

Confirmed DCU Films
Superman
Supergirl: Women of Tomorrow
Clayface
The Authority
The Brave and the Bold
Swamp Thing
Teen Titans
Sgt. Rock

When Marvel Studios initiated its innovative shared universe idea for movies, they didn’t possess the rights to significant characters such as Spider-Man, X-Men, Fantastic Four, and others within their comic book realm. Consequently, Marvel Studios had to focus on lesser-known figures like Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor. Fortunately, these characters formed The Avengers, ensuring that the daring crossover event remained achievable. Similarly, DC Studios faces no such restrictions as it aims to establish a franchise of equal success. Emulating the MCU’s strategy of developing stories around lesser-known characters proves a wise choice.

With Sony and 20th Century Fox already established in the superhero genre, Marvel Studios found it necessary to establish their own identity using less popular characters. Although Superman has significant weight in the market, once that’s settled, DC Studios can captivate audiences with fresh, unburdened characters. Given the abundance of superhero content today, the key for DC Studios is to offer something unique and engaging to stand out.

James Gunn Has a History of Success With Lesser-Known Characters

  • James Gunn’s claim to fame is taking obscure comic book properties and making them household names.
  • It’s smart for the DCU to lean on Gunn’s strengths and give audiences a new shared universe franchise they can invest it.

One intriguing aspect of Gunn’s upcoming Superman movie is how he plans to approach such a famously recognized character given that his past projects have centered on lesser-known comic book characters. For both DC and Marvel, Gunn excels at translating less popular characters onto the big screen. The advantage? Gunn has more freedom to imbue his own unique style onto these characters rather than being overly concerned with staying true to the original source material, which will be a challenge for a project like Superman.

Starting with an unknown group like DCU was the key to the studio’s initial triumph. Few viewers were acquainted with this particular team, but after a successful first season, they have now established themselves as a regular in the DC Universe. This positive response is likely something DC Studios aim to replicate, and focusing on characters such as Clayface offers them that opportunity. In the early stages, DC Studios must strive for success, and delving into uncharted territories will only benefit them since it’s what made James Gunn famous. However, eventually, they will need to introduce more familiar characters. For now, featuring unfamiliar heroes in prominent roles helps manage expectations. The Guardians of the Galaxy is a prime example of success in the MCU, and if DC Studios can mirror this early on, that would be the ideal outcome.

Exploring New DC Characters Distances Itself From the DCEU

  • The early DCU slate’s focus on characters that weren’t part of the DCEU will allow the new franchise to build its own path toward success.
  • Holding off on major heroes like Aquaman, Wonder Woman, and The Flash will build anticipation for their eventual debut in the universe.

The DC Extended Universe, despite not reaching the heights of success it could’ve, did something significant: it introduced characters like Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash, Shazam, and others to the big screen for the first time. While some films, such as Wonder Woman and Aquaman, were hits, productions like The Flash somewhat tarnished the DC brand. Given that the DCEU did bring these characters to life, DC Studios now faces the challenge of dealing with the consequences, as it also left a mark on the brand. A new Superman solo film seems reasonable given the demand for another one since Man of Steel was released in 2013.

Woman of Tomorrow, Clayface, and Teen Titans offer opportunities to establish new franchises with unique identities before revisiting familiar characters from the DCEU.

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom and The Flash were among the last films in the DCEU. To allow for some freshness, it’s wise to take a break from these characters for a while. For Wonder Woman, an upcoming movie will concentrate more on building the world of Themyscira rather than focusing on Diana Prince herself. This means that while some DCEU characters will be revisited, most will offer something new for audiences to enjoy.

As a passionate gamer, I’m excited about the upcoming DC Studios projects. They seem poised to strike a perfect blend of familiar faces and new characters, which is quite intriguing. The future success of DC hinges on these initial ventures, as they strive to demonstrate that they won’t simply follow in the footsteps of the DCEU. James Gunn and Peter Safran have a significant task ahead, one that will demand innovative ideas to ensure their triumph.

Despite the rollercoaster ride that is DC’s history, franchises like Wonder Woman and Aquaman have proven they can be powerful cornerstones of the universe. If these characters can thrive as standalone franchises, especially when the DCEU didn’t enjoy the same clout as the MCU, then who knows what other characters might achieve similar feats? It’s an exciting time to be a DC fan!

For the DC Universe (DCU) to maintain its success, it’s not just about creating one successful franchise, but rather producing multiple ones. Each film in Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) Phase One was distinct from each other, and DC Studios appears to be adopting a similar approach. For instance, the franchise could emulate the success of Thor by incorporating significant science fiction elements due to its space setting. The setbacks of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) are still fresh in our minds, with Wonder Woman and Aquaman becoming vital franchises that kept it alive during its run. As time goes on, there’s a greater chance for audiences to embrace the reinvented versions of these characters.

The Justice League franchise is essentially dormant for DC Studios, but it could awaken if the DCU thrives enough. Marvel fans had to endure years before the Fantastic Four and X-Men became part of the MCU, and this prolonged wait allowed the franchise to continue for another decade. Similarly, the DCU should consider a longer wait for major characters to ensure longevity for the franchise.

There are many facets of DC that the previous franchise neglected, and fans can look forward to the DCU breathing life into elements like the Green Lanterns right away.

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2025-06-01 19:24

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