James Gunn on why ‘movie industry is dying,’ what ‘killed’ Marvel and ‘The Batman’ sequel’s status
James Gunn has his own theory about why the movie industry is “dying.”
The individual overseeing filmmaking, scriptwriting, and joint leadership at DC Studios argues that one cause of poor films is Hollywood’s practice of starting productions before the scripts are fully written, according to his comments to Rolling Stone in a recent interview.
According to Gunn, it’s not about people losing interest in movies or home screens becoming too appealing that’s causing the movie industry to decline. Instead, he suggests that the main issue is that many films are being produced without a fully developed script.
At DC Studios, it’s one of the key guidelines that movies should only move into production once they have a completed script. In reality, Gunn actually canceled a project because the screenplay wasn’t finalized yet, according to him. However, he praised the scripts for upcoming films like “Supergirl,” “Lanterns,” and “Clayface” as exceptionally impressive.
Movies
Among the new heads at DC Studios, James Gunn is set to release a film – an intriguing twist given that he’s previously associated with their main rival. Here’s a comprehensive overview of Gunn’s tumultuous journey that sheds light on this unexpected move.
Prior to assuming leadership at DC Studios in 2022, Gunn had previously collaborated on scripting and directing three “Guardians of the Galaxy” films for Marvel Studios, a company now considered a rival. He expressed that the increased production demands set by Disney were detrimental, referring to it as having been “terminated.
In regards to DC Studios, Gunn stated that they aren’t required to release a specific number of films or television series annually. Instead, their focus will be on putting out only those productions that they believe are of top-notch quality.
During the interview, Gunn clarified speculations about Matt Reeves’ follow-up to “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson. Contrary to some reports, the film, known as “The Brave and the Bold,” is not canceled but rather postponed by a year. It is now projected for release in October 2027.
I frequently hear this rumor – that ‘Batman Part II’ has been scrapped. However, it hasn’t been canceled yet, Gunn clarified. We simply don’t have a script written up. Matt is working at his own pace, so let him take the time he needs to finish what he’s doing. It’s unfortunate that people can be so harsh. Just give him the space to do his work.

Movies
At a sneak peek gathering, the director of ‘Superman’, James Gunn (who is also an executive at DC Studios), discussed maintaining authenticity to the character’s roots while modernizing its news-related setting for current times.
Among DC Studios’ most pressing tasks, according to Gunn, are completing the screenplays for “The Batman” sequel and “Wonder Woman”.
Furthermore, Gunn also contemplated on the 2018 controversy which led to his temporary dismissal from “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” due to resurfaced tweets containing inappropriate jokes about pedophilia and rape. He stated that if it weren’t for this event, his script for the upcoming “Superman” movie (releasing on July 11) would have had a significantly different tone.
Instead of stating it directly, Gunn expressed that his creative work was primarily aimed at being liked by others, but in reality, he wanted more than just their approval; he longed for their love. He admitted that most of what he did originated from a desire to please people.
When asked if he’s worried about ever running out of ideas, Gunn didn’t seem too concerned.
If I decide to, I’m planning to start a goat farm,” he explained. “I genuinely feel good about myself. There are many directors who deteriorate as they age, and I don’t want that for myself. Or maybe I do; I’m not sure. It’s like, if my talent or abilities ever run out – so far it hasn’t. But who can say?
Read More
2025-06-18 00:01