For the past decade, The DC Universe has had its ups and downs. Now, a major reboot led by James Gunn and Peter Safran aim to create a connected and up to date DC Universe.
The early stages of the reboot focused on setting the foundation rather than rushing into multiple characters and new stories. Co-CEO James Gunn has previously stated that elements of “The Suicide Squad” (2021), “Peacemaker” (2021), and even “Blue Beetle” (2023) will be included in the new DC universe.
“The biggest mistake from [the previous] universe… was going from Man of Steel directly to Batman v Superman because it rushed the introduction of many characters… If the DCU is able to take their time and develop this world and their characters, they should be successful,” expressed senior Ryan Baez.
In addition to Superman, DC has been laying the foundation for its new universe through both films and tv shows. Gunn and Safran have stated that the new universe will unfold slowly, focusing on quality over quantity.
“James Gunn has never let me down when he is attached to a project, as long as he [is] in charge of what’s going on in the DCU I will continue to watch in theaters.” shared Baez.
Lanterns is a TV series that will release in mid 2026 that will focus on two Green Lanterns. An experienced Hal Jordan, portrayed by Kyle Chandler, and newcomer John Stewart, portrayed by Aaron Pierre. The series follows the two as they investigate a murder in Nebraska. Guy Gardner, played by Nathan Fillion, who also made an appearance in Superman and Peacemaker, will also make an appearance. Safran has also stated the mystery that the two investigate leads into the main storyline for the DCU.
Supergirl is slated to come out June 26, 2026. The film is said to introduce Kara-Zor-El, played by Milly Alcock, as she celebrates her 23rd birthday by traveling across the galaxy with her dog, Krypto. Along the way she meets a young girl named Ruthye Marye Knoll. The two are according to Gunn on a “murderous quest for revenge”. David Corenswet will reprise his role as Superman, and former Aquaman actor, Jason Momoa, will appear as the villain Lobo.
Clayface is an upcoming film that will release on September 11, 2026. This will be a horror movie, and will not have the same tone as the previous movies. The film follows Matt Hagen, portrayed by Tom Rhys Harries, and his story of an up and coming actor whose face becomes disfigured by a gangster. As a last resort, he turns to a scientist, Dr Caitlin Bates, to transform his body into clay.
The Batman Part ll will release on October 1, 2027. It is currently in production, with filming to start in Spring of 2026. Robert Pattinson will return as Bruce Wayne, and stay separate from the main universe’s timeline. It will be labeled under the DC Elseworlds, Director Matt Reeves even teased that the villain is someone “never really been done in a movie before,” Many have also theorized that the movie could be based off of the famous comic, “The Long Halloween.”
Man of Tomorrow is a film slated to be released July 9, 2027. Although it isn’t a direct sequel to Superman, it still is set to have Superman and Lex Luthor team up together to fight a bigger enemy. Lars Eldinger was cast as the film’s antagonist, Brainiac, in December. “James Gunn makes Superman a really caring guy that it makes you think without superpowers he would still help the world, it is really inspiring to watch,” remarked junior Lily Karpman.
Dynamic Duo will release on June 30, 2028. It will be an origin story for two Robins, Dick Grayson and Jason Todd. The film will be a mix of animation, puppetry, CGI and live action performance. The film will most likely show their upbringing and their eventual demise, as the two become Nightwing and Red Hood, respectively.
While these projects make up some of the most anticipated projects to come, they are far from the only ones in development. DC Studios and James Gunn have shared, “…our production goal is two live action films and one animated film per year, and we’re also targeting two live action and two animated series for Max per year.” (Blevins and Weintraub).
“I think keeping each character true to themselves and having such positive messages will make DC continue to be successful… while also appealing to everyone with a happy story… In the past DC has attempted to make edgier and darker movies… and fans of the characters got upset over the mischaracterization,” explained Karpman.
