James Gunn hints DCU’s Batman could do something “we’ve never seen”

James Gunn recently shared the Batman comic that meant the most to him growing up, and fans are speculating it might hint at the direction he’s taking with Batman in the new DC Universe.

Aside from a quick, shadowy appearance in Creature Commandos, we haven’t officially been introduced to Batman in the new DC Universe. While he might briefly show up in the Clayface project, he’s currently scheduled to make his full debut in The Brave and the Bold, which will be a separate storyline from the Batman films directed by Matt Reeves and starring Robert Pattinson.

What will this new Batman be like? Will he be fun and silly, similar to Adam West’s portrayal? Or will he be a dark and intense detective, like Robert Pattinson? Perhaps he’ll be a wealthy, gadget-using hero, as seen with Christian Bale?

James Gunn has been extremely cautious when discussing the Dark Knight’s role in future projects, but he might have just offered a clue about what’s to come.

James Gunn’s favorite Batman comic could be a DCU tease

James Gunn shared on the 2 Bears, 1 Cave podcast that his all-time favorite Batman comic is issue #227 from 1970. It was written by Dennis O’Neil and features cover art by Neal Adams.

This comic book is a clear departure for Batman, diving fully into the supernatural. The story centers on Batman’s search for Daphne Pennyworth, which leads him to a haunted house. While Batman films have occasionally included fantastical ideas – particularly in movies like *Batman Forever* – this story takes those elements much further.

You know, what’s really awesome about Batman is how many different versions there are. Seriously, there are so many cool ways to play as or see Batman, and I think that’s a big reason why he’s such a legendary character. It’s just cool to have so many options!

Growing up, I first encountered Batman through the comics of Neal Adams from the early 1970s. They were much darker and more realistic than the campy TV show, and I immediately preferred that version. It was a Batman I hadn’t seen before – a grittier, cooler take on the character that really appealed to me.

When Segura displayed the cover of issue #277, Gunn shared that it was his favorite Batman story. He remembered reading it in a collection of comics and thinking it was amazing, especially because it featured a supernatural side of Batman – something he hadn’t seen before. It placed Batman in a uniquely mysterious and otherworldly setting.

Could the new DC Universe Batman explore supernatural themes? It’s possible, perhaps through characters like Ra’s al Ghul or other classic villains.

Gunn also mentioned they’ve developed a compelling story for Batman’s future.

Or… they could merge Robert Pattinson’s Batman with the DCU.

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2025-09-23 15:19