The DC Universe is undergoing a significant transformation. Past financial struggles, inconsistent storytelling, and a lack of cohesive planning have led to a major leadership change. James Gunn, known for his ability to elevate lesser-known characters, is at the helm, and his projects are already showing promise, with Creature Commandos already a success and a sequel in the works. So, what's next for Gunn and the DCU?
Table of Contents
- Superman: Legacy
- Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow
- Clayface
- The Batman Part II
- The Brave and the Bold
- Swamp Thing
- The Authority
- Sgt. Rock
Superman: Legacy
Release Date: July 11, 2025
Kicking off the new DC Universe is Superman: Legacy, written and directed by James Gunn. This film focuses on a younger Superman navigating a world already populated with superheroes. David Corenswet stars as Kal-El, alongside Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. The cast also includes Nathan Fillion as Green Lantern, Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Isabel Merced as Hawkgirl, and Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho – essentially a smaller Justice League. Milly Alcock is also rumored to appear as Supergirl.
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow
Release Date: June 26, 2026
Based on Tom King's comic, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow promises a darker, more mature take on the character. The film will depict Supergirl's harsh upbringing, surviving fourteen years on a fragment of Krypton before reaching Earth. Milly Alcock stars as Supergirl, with Matthias Schoenaerts as Krem, a significant antagonist from the source material. King himself praised Alcock's casting. Alcock may also make a brief appearance in Superman: Legacy.
Clayface
Release Date: September 11, 2026
Following the success of HBO's The Penguin, a Clayface film is in development, directed by Mike Flanagan (Doctor Sleep). The script is complete, and production is expected to begin early next year. Clayface has a long and complex history in comics, with various interpretations across different media.
The Batman Part II
Release Date: October 1, 2027
Matt Reeves is currently working on the script for The Batman Part II. Production, originally slated for early 2025, is now expected to begin mid-to-late 2025, allowing ample time for post-production. The film's release date has been pushed back to October 1, 2027.
The Brave and the Bold
This DCU Batman film, separate from Reeves' universe, will focus on Batman and his son, Damian Wayne (Robin). Gunn describes Damian as a trained assassin whose existence is unknown to Batman for nearly a decade. The film is inspired by Grant Morrison's comic book run and will feature other members of the Bat-family. Andy Muschietti is directing, and the release date is being carefully planned to avoid conflicting with Reeves' Batman sequel.
Swamp Thing
James Mangold (Logan) is directing the Swamp Thing adaptation. Mangold aims for a more intimate, Gothic horror-focused story, less connected to the broader DCU. He plans to focus on the character's duality and the intersection of humanity and monstrosity.
The Authority
While a release date for The Authority hasn't been set, audiences will see a glimpse of the team in Superman: Legacy (María Gabriela de Faría as The Engineer). The Authority, originating from Wildstorm Comics, is a team of powerful individuals with a morally grey approach to heroism.
Sgt. Rock
Following his appearance in Creature Commandos, Sgt. Rock is getting his own film. Luca Guadagnino (Call Me By Your Name) is in talks to direct, with Daniel Craig potentially starring. Justin Kuritzkes, who previously worked with Guadagnino, is writing the script. This adaptation aims for a fresh perspective on the World War II soldier.
