Why I Believe the New Justice League is the Ideal DC Team for James Gunn to Create on Film

Attention! This article contains spoilers for The Question: All Along the Watchtower #1. As James Gunn gears up to introduce the Justice League in the DC Universe (DCU), I’m hopeful we’ll witness an iteration similar to the newly assembled heroes from recent comic storylines. The revitalization of this iconic team marks an exciting chapter, expanding its roster to something significantly larger than before, potentially setting the stage for a compelling feature film featuring sub-teams.

In the DC All In Special, we see a much-needed reformation within the DC Universe, where heroes have banded together with newfound strength and unity. They have tirelessly worked to construct an unparalleled Watchtower—one that not only symbolizes their collective might but serves as a home for a diverse array of heroes. Within this complex, each hero has a unique role, and the newly appointed head of security, the Question, plays a pivotal part in maintaining order. Luckily for her, she is supported by an extraordinary team that would make for a fantastic focus in Gunn’s cinematic vision.

A Unique Team Under The Question’s Leadership

The Ideal Blend of Exceptional Talent

Question Meets Blue Beetle Ted and Jaime DC

In The Question: All Along the Watchtower #1, penned by Alex Segura and illustrated by Cian Tormey, we witness Renee Montoya’s initiation into her role as security chief at the Justice League’s avant-garde Watchtower. Despite her apprehensions, Wonder Woman warmly introduces her to the headquarters, ensuring her that assistance will come from a dedicated team tasked with upholding the Watchtower’s order.

The first allies Montoya encounters are the dynamic duo of Blue Beetles. Ted Kord, the veteran, offers his expertise in weapons and technology, while Jaime serves as the Question’s vigilant monitor amidst the action. Animal Man complements this lineup, overseeing the Watchtower’s Menagerie, a sanctuary for animals and aliens alike. Completing this eclectic group is Batwoman, who holds a significant spot in Montoya’s past as the Question’s ex-girlfriend and now her field agent.

Time is of the essence, however, as a security breach arises. The younger Blue Beetle alerts the Question to a threat posed by Conduit, who is wreaking havoc on the Watchtower’s promenade. Fortunately, the Question swiftly neutralizes the danger with a laser rifle, only to discover that the menace was merely an android in disguise.

James Gunn’s Vision for Diverse Teams in the DCU

The New Film Universe Welcomes Fresh Collaborations

Following the events of Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths, the Justice League was officially disbanded. This decision inadvertently opened the door for Amanda Waller to orchestrate significant attacks on superheroes, particularly through her utilization of Amazos to siphon powers from Earth’s metahumans. Luckily, the heroes persevered, cognizant now more than ever of their need for collective strength. Post-Absolute Power, the heroes dedicated weeks to expanding a more formidable Justice League, one that welcomed any superheroes or metahumans seeking camaraderie.

As fans eagerly await James Gunn’s upcoming Superman film, it’s become increasingly clear that it will feature a Justice League-styled ensemble. Insights from set photographs indicate that characters such as Mister Terrific, Metamorpho, Hawkgirl, and Green Lantern Guy Gardner are expected to operate under Maxwell Lord. Whether or not Gunn aims for a team reminiscent of the Justice League International or simply has a penchant for these characters, his inclination toward innovative team formations inspires optimism for the future of the DCU.

Wishing for a Justice League Like This in James Gunn’s DCU

Crafting an Unlikely Ensemble of Heroes

What captivates me about the reimagined Justice League in the comics is its expansive nature, enabling the formation of smaller teams featuring characters I never thought would pair together. A team boasting both Blue Beetles and Animal Man surely has great potential. Additionally, the dynamic between the Question and Batwoman promises compelling drama, rooted in their shared history. This carefully curated smaller team strikes a perfect balance of intriguing abilities, unique expertise, and vibrant personalities—elements that would shine brilliantly on the big screen.

James Gunn has demonstrated his proficiency in creating harmonious blends of seemingly mismatched characters in his work on the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, the recently released Suicide Squad, and the ongoing Creature Commandos. His talent for transforming underrated characters into prominent figures (who better than Animal Man?) excites me for what’s to come in the DCU. Though Gunn has a busy schedule ahead, witnessing the formation of the Question’s innovative team assures me they would thrive as a formidable Justice League in his universe. The Question: All Along the Watchtower #1 is now available from DC Comics.

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