Checking in on the DCU’s 10-Year Plan

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In 2022, James Gunn and Peter Safran were appointed as co-heads of DC Studios. Shortly after, they revealed a strategy for connecting the DC Universe across films, TV shows, and video games over an “eight-to-ten-year” period. At their first press conference, they introduced Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, with Superman (then known as Superman: Legacy) serving as its main pillar. Other projects in development included an Amanda Waller animated series, live-action Green Lantern adventures, and the introduction of Damian Wayne on the big screen. So, what progress has James Gunn and Peter Safran made with their 10- (or 😎 year plan?

Pre-Chapter One housekeeping

Before Gunn and Safran could start implementing their vision, they first needed to complete the ongoing projects moving down the Warner Bros. Discovery production line. However, it’s worth noting that plans for a third Wonder Woman movie were cancelled in December 2022.

It’s been uncertain which parts of the old DCEU would fit into the Gunniverse. Viola Davis portrays Amanda Waller throughout the Suicide Squad films, but after Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’s underwhelming performance, Jason Momoa has moved from Ocean Man to Space Bounty Hunter, playing Lobo in the upcoming Supergirl movie. The future of The Flash is also unclear; during its introduction, Gunn mentioned that the film would “reboot the entire DC Universe,” but this reboot resulted in George Clooney appearing as Batman, making it questionable how closely it adheres to the continuity.

What has already come out?

In this scenario, the initial rollout of a 10-year plan saw the debut of the animated series titled “Creature Commandos.” This served as James Gunn’s experiment to have actors portray characters consistently across both animation and live-action. Frank Grillo, for instance, plays Rick Flagg Sr. in this series as well as in “Superman.” The show marked Viola Davis’s voiceover debut as animated Amanda Waller, further solidifying her role in the expanded DC Universe. Additionally, it paves the way for G.I. Robot to engage in live-action combat against Nazis, should such a situation occur.

Without a doubt, the key launch for this 10-year strategy was none other than “Superman”. With it shattering box office milestones, Gunn and his team can finally let out a sigh of relief. This movie lays the foundation for the Green Lantern Corps, Supergirl, and even introduces Hawkgirl from “Peacemaker” into the cinematic universe.

What’s next?

Supergirl

In the conclusion of “Superman”, Milly Alcock is introduced as Supergirl, a reckless Kryptonian who had quite an off-world party and left her pet dog Krypto with Clark for him to look after while she was inebriated. The upcoming film will closely follow the storyline from “Woman of Tomorrow”, featuring interstellar escapades with her trainee Ruthye (Eve Ridley), as well as the brooding Lobo, portrayed by Jason Momoa. The release date for “Supergirl” is set for June 26th, 2026.

Lanterns

In the production for HBO’s “Lanterns,” Guy Gardner (portrayed by Nathan Fillion) is shaping up the Green Lantern Corps. This series will primarily focus on Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart, akin to the style of “True Detective.” As reported by Deadline, Kyle Chandler will portray Jordan, while Aaron Pierre will take on the role of Stewart. Created by Damon Lindelof and Tom King, the show will chronicle rookie Lantern Stewart and seasoned Jordan as they investigate a murder in the heartland of America. Notably, these characters have the ability to soar through the skies.

Clayface

David Zaslav hinted that the Clayface movie is on its way, as he rejoiced over Superman’s box office triumph reported by THR. In his statement, he mentioned, “Over the coming year, DC Studios will bring films like Supergirl and Clayface to theaters, along with the series Lanterns on HBO Max. These projects are part of a daring ten-year strategy.” He continued, “Our vision for DC is clear, the energy is palpable, and I can’t wait for what lies ahead.” Previously, it was known that Clayface was seeking a director, with Mike Flanagan penning the script. Who’s up for some thrilling monologues?

The Brave and the Bold

Gunn has been discussing aspects of “The Brave and the Bold,” which serves as an introduction to the entire Batman family in the DC Universe. This upcoming film will focus on a father-son dynamic between Bruce Wayne and his son, Damian Wayne. At this point, the only confirmed casting detail is that Robert Pattinson won’t be playing the role of Batman’s father in this movie.

The TBD at WBD

As a dedicated cinephile, it feels like some highly anticipated shows and films have taken a back seat lately, if they’re even in production at all. The last update we got about the planned Waller animated series was back in November 2024, when Gunn mentioned it was still under development. Similarly, details on The Authority (an alternative to the Justice League with a “by any means necessary” approach), Paradise Lost (a Game of Thrones-like series set on Wonder Woman’s homeland), the Booster Gold series for HBO Max, and Gunn and Safran’s plans for Swamp Thing have been scarce. But fear not, we’ve still got five to seven years ahead to eagerly await these exciting projects!

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2025-07-14 05:59