As 2024 unfolds, the anticipation surrounding the DC Universe (DCU) is palpable, fueled by several significant announcements. Nearly two years post-launch of the DCU, noteworthy developments have already invigorated the fanbase. The animated series Creature Commandos made its debut in December 2024, marking the formal introduction of this new universe, while James Gunn’s upcoming film Superman is set to premiere on July 11, 2025, establishing itself as the inaugural cinematic release of the DCU.
Prior to the establishment of the DCU, Warner Bros. faced considerable challenges maintaining audience enthusiasm during the DCEU era. However, with the formation of DC Studios under the leadership of Peter Safran and James Gunn, there’s renewed hope that the DCU may finally achieve the ambitious goals that were once set for the DCEU. The upcoming release slate signals a refreshing new direction for the franchise, even amidst minor setbacks in its journey. The developments of 2024 have left fans buzzing with excitement for what lies ahead.
15 Superman’s Trailer Arrives And Smashes Past 250 Million Views
A Genuine First Look At The New Man Of Steel
After much anticipation, James Gunn unveiled the first trailer for Superman in December during an exclusive press conference in Los Angeles. This highly-anticipated reveal came shortly before DC Studios officially launched the trailer, which garnered widespread acclaim.
This initial trailer provided an insightful glimpse at key characters such as Krypto, Guy Gardner (portrayed by Nathan Fillion), Mister Terrific (Edi Gathegi), Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), and Metamorpho (Anthony Carrigan). The trailer hinted at several critical plot points, including a massive kaiju assault on Metropolis and the existence of a superhero detention facility. Notably, much of the footage is believed to depict the film’s early narrative.
Just days following its launch, the Superman trailer surpassed an impressive 250 million views, a record-breaking achievement highlighted by James Gunn: “Krypto really did take us home: With over 250 million views and a million social posts, Superman is officially the most viewed and talked-about trailer in the history of both DC and Warner Bros.”
14 Joker 2 Bombs At The Box Office
A Disappointing Outcome Following the Original’s Billion-Dollar Success
When it premiered in 2019, Joker captured global audiences, grossing over $1 billion against a modest $55 million budget and landing Joaquin Phoenix an Oscar for his stunning portrayal. It became the highest-grossing R-rated film until it was surpassed by Deadpool and Wolverine. The success led to discussions for a sequel, yet Joker: Folie à Deux underperformed dramatically upon release.
|
Joker Franchise at the Box-Office |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Movie |
Budget |
Worldwide Total |
|
Joker |
$55,000,000 |
$1,063,574,394 |
|
Joker: Madness for Two |
$190,000,000 |
$206,382,773 |
In stark contrast to the original film, Joker: Folie à Deux earned a mere $206 million worldwide against its hefty $190 million budget, making it one of the most significant financial disappointments in comic book history. Additionally, it received a dismal D CinemaScore, marking the lowest rating for any comic book movie to date.
13 Mike Flanagan’s Clayface Movie Is Coming In 2026
The Horror Veteran Brings Body Horror to the DCU
Shortly after Clayface made his animated debut in Creature Commandos (voiced by the renowned Alan Tudyk), an announcement confirmed that this iconic DC villain is set to feature in a standalone film within the DCU.
Mike Flanagan, known for his horror credentials, expressed interest in crafting a standalone film focused on Clayface, envisioning it as a horror/thriller/tragedy. No director has been confirmed yet, but Gunn, in a discussion with io9, shared insights on the project’s development:
I didn’t plan on making a Clayface movie. Mike came in. He pitched this wonderful idea. I was like, ‘Damn, I can’t believe you got me to want to make a Clayface movie.’ But he’s got to write the script and who knows how that’s going to work. He goes and he writes the script. First draft is great. Second draft is even better. And then I’m like, ‘Let’s do it.’ So we found a place for it because if there’s quality stuff, we can find a way to work it in.
Moreover, it was confirmed that Clayface will be incorporated into the primary DCU, distinct from Matt Reeves’ independent universe. Gunn explained the rationale behind choosing Clayface for a prominent slot in the upcoming slate:
Because of the number one rule here at DC: No movie will be greenlit before the script is ready. And [Flanagan’s] script was ready. (As for the Flash, we’re holding a beat on development).
12 DC Shows Will Premiere On HBO (& Will Probably All Release Weekly)
DCU Is Set For Prestige Television
One of 2024’s most thrilling outcomes is the shift of several DCU projects to HBO series format, originally conceived as Max Originals. This strategic move is advantageous for DC, as HBO is synonymous with high-quality dramatic storytelling. While shows will still premiere on Max, the HBO platform allows for larger budgets that can faithfully represent these grand superhero narratives.
Following a successful debut with The Penguin, which emerged as one of the best comic book series, the future looks bright for DC on television. The acclaim garnered by the series has sparked discussions about potential spin-offs and sequels, with Lanterns, another DC project now being established on HBO, promising expansive narratives consistent with the complexity of the DC mythos.
Later in the year, James Gunn dropped a major hint on social media suggesting all DC series will adopt a weekly release format, eschewing the binge-watching style prevalent in the MCU’s Disney+ shows. Gunn emphasized the benefits of this approach, asserting:
Because it affords a quality show an opportunity to be discussed and grow from week to week. CC has gotten more popular from episode to episode because of the positive discussion around it and has cultivated an enthusiastic audience…I will likely always be in the one-a-week camp for our shows. For people who want to binge all at once, they can wait until the end of the season.
11 Hal Jordan and John Stewart Are Cast
Green Lanterns Are Receiving Significant Attention in the DCU
With the announcement of the Lanterns series on HBO, attention has heightened around the casting of notable actors for key roles. Among the significant news, leading Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart have been officially cast. Kyle Chandler (known for Friday Night Lights) will portray Hal Jordan, while Aaron Pierre (from Rebel Ridge) will take on John Stewart’s mantle.
Nathan Fillion is also set to reprise his role as Guy Gardner in the upcoming Superman film, leading to his anticipated return in the Lanterns series.
Kyle Chandler’s selection as Hal Jordan was somewhat unexpected but indicates a mature portrayal of the seasoned Green Lantern mentoring a younger John Stewart. Aaron Pierre has already generated buzz with his physicality and acting skills showcased in Rebel Ridge, positioning him well to embody John Stewart. With Hal Jordan as an elder mentor, John Stewart is poised to become the primary Green Lantern of the DCU.
10 Daniel Craig May Be Joining The DCU In A Surprise Role
Not Every A-Lister Needs A Cape
In a surprising development this November, reports surfaced indicating that acclaimed actor Daniel Craig, renowned for his role as James Bond, is in discussions to star in an adaptation of Sgt. Rock within the DCU. Remarkably, this project seeks to reunite him with director Luca Guadagnino.
Initial reports by Deadline reveal that the project had previously been poised to feature Arnold Schwarzenegger as Sgt. Rock in a DC war film during the 1990s and has recently made an appearance in an episode of Creature Commandos, linking it back to the larger DC saga.
9 Krypto Joins The DCU
Superman’s Best Friend Joins The Universe
The DC Universe recently gained added excitement with the announcement by James Gunn about the inclusion of Krypto in the upcoming Superman film. Gunn, who has a penchant for featuring animal characters in his cinematic projects, notably in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, naturally integrated Krypto into the storyline of the DCU.
Krypto’s role is significant in both Superman and the forthcoming adaptation of Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, showing a refreshing commitment to this beloved character. With past adaptations neglecting Krypto’s presence, Gunn’s embrace of this character shines a light on the wholesome side of Superman’s persona.
8 Dynamic Duo Is In The Works
A Dynamic Team-Up Featuring Dick Grayson and Jason Todd
Among the noteworthy announcements was the reveal of Dynamic Duo, a brand-new animated feature centering on the collaboration of two different Robins, Dick Grayson and Jason Todd. James Gunn’s emphasis on animated storytelling continues to shape the DC Studios’ offerings, and this unique narrative could explore the challenges of the duo operating without Batman’s guidance.
One exciting aspect of Dynamic Duo is its innovative animation style, developed by Swaybox, co-founded by Arthur Mintz, who will direct the project along with producer Theresa Andersson. The artistic direction involves a blend of stop-motion, puppetry, and CGI, creating an engaging visual experience. However, it remains unclear whether this film will align directly with the mainline DCU or exist as a standalone Elseworlds story.
7 Creature Commandos Kicks Off The DCU & Is Quickly Renewed For Season 2
The Inaugural DCU Project Secures Immediate Renewal
Although James Gunn is promoting Superman as the flagship cinematic event for the DCU, the animated series Creature Commandos is recognized as the opening chapter of the franchise, delivering the signature style that fans expect in Gunn’s superhero narratives.
Watch the Creature Commandos Teaser
Gunn hinted that actors featured in animated roles might also transition into live-action appearances. For example, Frank Grillo’s Rick Flag Sr. from Creature Commandos will recur in both Superman and the upcoming Peacemaker season. Though expectations surrounding Creature Commandos were modest compared to forthcoming projects like Superman, it adeptly established the tone for the DCU’s more mature themes.
Excitingly, Creature Commandos was swiftly renewed for a second season, officially announced by Max and confirmed by Gunn, who noted that the initial season had reached “record-breaking”milestones, although specific records have yet to be clarified.
6 Tim Burton’s Batman Universe Expands With Batman: Resurrection
Clayface, Hugo Strange & The Joker Collaborate in a New Narrative
Notably, while not a screen adaptation, Batman: Resurrection launched in 2024, contributing a new chapter to Tim Burton’s Batman universe. Set between Batman (1989) and Batman Returns, the novel enriches the lore surrounding the iconic character, with a sequel, Batman: Revolution, slated for 2025.
5 The Penguin Increases Viewership Week After Week
The Penguin Surpasses Expectations
Starring Colin Farrell as Oz Cobblepot, The Penguin follows the character’s ascension within Gotham’s criminal world following Falcone’s demise. The series has garnered praise for its nuanced storytelling and rich exploration into its lead character’s psyche. Perhaps the most remarkable aspect is the increasing viewership as the series progresses.
Reports indicate that the finale of The Penguin amassed 2.1 million viewers across HBO and Max during its Sunday premiere, showcasing a 50% increase from its series debut, which attracted 1.4 million viewers. The steady rise in viewership illustrates the show’s strong word-of-mouth momentum, positioning it favorably for its sequel installment, The Batman: Part II and any subsequent spin-offs.
4 Batman: The Brave & The Bold Is Delayed
Andy Muschietti’s Batman Reboot Delayed
Although initially announced as a core project within the DCU’s Ghosts & Monsters chapter, Batman: The Brave & The Bold has yet to receive a release date. James Gunn has emphasized that projects will not be publicly confirmed until scripts are finalized. The timeframe for this remains uncertain, but recent developments indicate that Batman: The Brave & The Bold has indeed been postponed.
In a recent interview, director Andy Muschietti confirmed that the project has “been postponed a bit”while he explores the possibility of directing a new science fiction film before resuming work on a DC project:
I’m now writing a science fiction movie that I would like to do… Batman is a project that’s been postponed a bit. So there could be another film before it, possibly that one.
3 Supergirl: Woman Of Tomorrow Finds Its Kara
Kara Zor-El Will Grace The DCU
Supergirl’s highly-anticipated journey is set to unfold with Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, which adapts a critically acclaimed limited series with the same name. Nailing the casting for the role of Kara was pivotal, and DC Studios has selected the talented Milly Alcock for the part. Alcock’s rise to prominence came through her outstanding performance as Rhaenyra Targaryen in HBO’s House of the Dragon.
This narrative depicts a jaded Kara Zor-El striving to carve her identity amidst her surroundings, aligning well with Alcock’s portrayal of complex characters. Scheduled for a premiere on July 26, 2026, there may be opportunities for Kara to appear in Superman prior to her own film debut.
2 Matt Reeves Confirms More Batman Spin-Offs Are Coming
Expansion of “The Batman Epic Crime Saga”Is Anticipated
As Matt Reeves continues to expand the narrative universe of The Batman, he has confirmed intentions to create additional spin-offs following the success of The Penguin. Although specifics about the upcoming projects remain largely under wraps, the remarkable reception of The Penguin demonstrates the appetite for more stories set in this universe.
Reeves previously hinted at various potential spin-offs in development, including a Gotham PD series and an Arkham Asylum project; however, those have since been shelved. With The Penguin exceeding expectations and paving the way for The Batman – Part II, fans are eagerly anticipating how this universe will evolve and whether any former projects will be revived. With both Matt Reeves and James Gunn steering the DCU, the franchise appears to be in promising hands.
1 The Batman – Part II Gets An Official Release Date & Is Then Delayed A Whole Year
Long Production Trends Affect The Batman – Part II
After a period of limited updates regarding The Batman – Part II, suspense grew following the recent writer’s strike that impacted Matt Reeves’ script development. Initially slated for release in 2025, the sequel has now been officially postponed to October 2, 2026. While still two years away, filming is anticipated to commence in early 2025, ramping up excitement and leading to more revelations.
Recently, Warner Bros. announced that the release date has been adjusted once more, now set for October 1, 2027. Interestingly, the project has also been temporarily untitled, possibly indicating a new title is on the horizon. In response to the delay, James Gunn provided insights on social media, addressing the fluctuations and speculation amongst fans:
“Matt is committed to making the best film he possibly can, and no one can accurately guess exactly how long a script will take to write. Once there is a finished script, there is around two years for pre-production, shooting, and post-production on big films.”
The Batman – Part II carries enormous expectations could build upon the strong foundation laid by its predecessor and the vibrant world established in The Penguin. With rich storytelling and character exploration having already captured audiences, the anticipation for the next installment promises to heighten the intrigue surrounding Gotham’s criminal landscape.
Source: The Numbers
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