James Gunn Discusses DCU Flash Movie and Reinforces His Top Rule for Approving New Projects

The freshly reimagined DC Universe is gearing up for its new Superman, but attention is also turning to the future of the Flash franchise. Recently, James Gunn shared insights on when fans might see another Flash movie following the release of 2023’s The Flash. Notably, this latest installment was one of the concluding films from the previous DC Extended Universe (DCEU) and had already been filmed before Gunn and producer Peter Safran assumed leadership of DC Studios in late 2022. Despite anticipation surrounding Michael Keaton’s return as Batman, the film received mixed reviews and fell short at the box office.

In a recent conversation on Threads, Gunn addressed fan inquiries regarding the timeline for the newly announced Clayface film and clarified why they chose not to focus on a more mainstream character. He reiterated that the foremost principle for all DC Studios projects is having a finished script. In fact, Mike Flanagan’s script for Clayface is ready and set for production. He also indicated that plans for a new Flash movie are currently taking “a beat,”suggesting a pause in development. Below is his official response:

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Understanding Gunn’s Insights Regarding a New Flash Film

Timing for a Flash Reboot Is Still Premature

James Gunn’s strategic vision for the DC Universe has not entirely dismissed the storyline from the previous DCEU. It appears that stars from the original Justice League will not reprise their roles, with David Corenswet already signed on to assume the Superman mantle from Henry Cavill. Fans anticipate that Batman will soon make an appearance, especially with the upcoming Brave and the Bold movie.

Regarding the Flash, it’s reasonable for Gunn to delay the introduction of a new version, especially so soon after Ezra Miller’s recent performance. By the time Superman hits theaters in 2025, it will have been over a decade since we last saw the Flash in his own film. Although Matt Reeves’ The Batman has its universe, it’s likely the new DCU Batman will be intricately connected with the extended Bat family, necessitating further time for the Flash to be reintroduced.

Forecasting the Return of the DCU Flash

Flash’s Influence Will Remain Present

Desert battle scene from The Flash movie

Fans are beginning to notice distinct contrasts in Gunn’s vision for the new DCU compared to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His intention is less focused on sprawling, interconnected storylines and more on standalone narratives that deliver quality on their own. Presently, there remains no definitive timeline for the release of a new Flash installment or for films featuring other Justice League members.

Interestingly, classic Flash adversary Gorilla Grodd has already made a notable entrance in the series Creature Commandos, indicating that the Flash will likely still have a presence in ongoing DCU projects. While Gunn has suggested that the development of a new Flash movie is on hold, it does not imply the character will be completely absent from the DCU landscape. Moreover, with many surprises anticipated, Gunn is positioning himself to keep DC enthusiasts eagerly awaiting what’s next.

Source: James Gunn/Threads

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