The DC Universe is gearing up for a massive comeback with a dynamic lineup of films and TV shows under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran. This new era promises a fresh and exciting take on the beloved franchise, introducing a reimagined timeline that will feature both established heroes like Superman and Batman, alongside lesser-known characters like Booster Gold and The Authority. Get ready for a wave of superhero action, with a diverse cast, compelling storylines, and a focus on both iconic and under-the-radar heroes, as the DC Universe expands its cinematic universe.
Creature Commandos (2024)
Mark your calendars because the new DC Universe officially begins with this seven-episode animated series, written by James Gunn himself. Creature Commandos will take us into the world of Amanda Waller as she assembles a new black-ops team, known as Task Force X, after being prohibited from using human operatives. This series will introduce a more “monstrous” successor to the original Task Force X, led by Rick Flag Sr., with a stellar cast including Maria Bakalova, Anya Chalotra, Zoë Chao, Frank Grillo, David Harbour, Alan Tudyk, and Indira Varma.
Superman (2025)
The first film in the DC Universe, Superman, is slated to premiere on July 11, 2025. This film will center on the franchise’s new Man of Steel, played by David Corenswet. Taking place in a world where superheroes are already established, Superman will face off against the infamous Lex Luthor, while encountering a fresh version of the Justice League and the powerful Engineer from The Authority. This film promises to be a monumental event for the DCU, delivering a solo Superman film on a grand scale, unlike anything seen before.
Peacemaker season 2 (2025)
Get ready for more chaotic fun as Peacemaker returns for a second season! This eight-episode season, written by Gunn, will see the titular antihero team up with his buddies once again. The recent DC timeline reboot may have an impact on the story, but with Peacemaker still grappling with the aftermath of killing his father in the first season, we can expect intense and emotional moments. The show’s connection to Creature Commandos through Rick Flag Sr. promises to deepen the narrative, and likely revisit the murder of Rick Flag Jr. in The Suicide Squad, which continues to haunt Peacemaker.
Batman: Brave and the Bold
For the first time in live-action, DC will explore the dynamic duo of Batman and his biological son, Damian Wayne/Robin. The film will be directed by Andy Muschietti, known for the blockbuster horror film It and The Flash. Muschietti’s proven skill in showcasing iconic heroes, like Ben Affleck and Michael Keaton as Batman, promises an exciting and sprawling film for the Dark Knight and his Bat Family.
Lanterns
Inspired by the gritty crime drama True Detective, this series follows Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and John Stewart as they investigate a murder in the heart of America. With a talented writing team including Chris Mundy, Tom King, and Damon Lindelof, Lanterns has already gathered a strong foundation. Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre have been cast as Jordan and Stewart, respectively, adding another layer of anticipation for this cosmic detective story.
Swamp Thing
Gunn describes Swamp Thing as a “very dark horror story” focusing on the origin of the monstrous titular character. The film’s production will be overseen by writer/director James Mangold, known for his work in the superhero genre with the highly acclaimed Logan. Mangold’s penchant for dark and tragic narratives will likely translate into a chilling and impactful exploration of Alec Holland’s transformation into the swamp monster.
Waller
Amanda Waller, one of DC’s most prominent non-superpowered characters, is getting her own solo show written by Watchmen’s Christal Henry. With Viola Davis reprising her role as the enigmatic Waller, this series promises to be thrilling and intense. While set within the DC Universe and featuring characters from Peacemaker, Waller will not be a comedy like its predecessor. Jeremy Carver, known for his work on Doom Patrol, has signed on as a writer, adding another layer of talent to the team.
Paradise Lost
James Gunn describes this show as a story about Wonder Woman’s birthplace, Paradise Island, known as Themyscira. He compares it to Game of Thrones with the inhabitants of Paradise Island taking center stage. While it’s unclear if Wonder Woman will appear in the story, Paradise Lost may offer a compelling alternative for those wanting to see more of the Amazonian hero.
The Authority
Based on the characters created by WildStorm comics, The Authority will bring together the team of superpowered individuals and explore their interactions with the main heroes of the DC Universe. A writer has been hired for the film, but their identity remains a secret. With the Engineer, a prominent member of The Authority, introduced in Superman, the events of this film will likely set the stage for the team’s story.
Booster Gold
This Max series will follow the time-traveling hero Booster Gold, as he uses his advanced technology to become a superhero in the present day. Gunn describes the series as “basically a superhero story of imposter syndrome,” offering a unique perspective on the genre.
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow
Directed by Craig Gillespie and written by Ana Nogueira, this film will adapt Tom King’s recent comic book of the same name. This epic sci-fi story will follow Kara Zor-El as she navigates life on a fragment of Krypton before arriving on Earth. Milly Alcock, known for her role in House of the Dragon, will portray Supergirl, and she will face off against the antagonist, Krem of the Yellow Hills, played by Matthias Schoenaerts.
Untitled Teen Titans film
With the conclusion of Max’s Titans series, DC will introduce a new iteration of the team in their upcoming live-action film. While the specific heroes haven’t been revealed, Damian Wayne’s introduction in Batman: Brave and the Bold suggests a connection to the Teen Titans, with the young Robin potentially joining the team. Ana Nogueira, writer of Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, will also pen the script for this film.
Untitled Blue Beetle series
Following the release of the 2023 Blue Beetle film, the armored hero will return in this animated series. Xolo Maridueña will reprise his role as the protagonist Jaime Reyes. The film’s executive producer, Miguel Puga, will serve as showrunner, with director and screenwriter Angel Manuel Soto and Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer returning as EPs for the series.