DC Universe Announces ‘Gods and Monsters’ To Bring New Films and Series For Superman, Batman, Supergirl And More!
Holy smokes, the DC Universe just got a major reboot! James Gunn and Peter Safran, the co-chiefs of newly created DC Studios within Warner Bros. Discovery, just announced the first 10 film and TV titles in their “Gods and Monsters” series. This is the most comprehensive vision for DC’s future in entertainment since WB’s 2014 attempt to compete with Marvel Studios. The projects include big-name heroes like Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Green Lantern, as well as lesser-known characters like Booster Gold and Swamp Thing. These titles will exist within a multiverse, but all under the singular vision of Gunn and Safran.
Unfortunately, no directors or actors have been attached to the projects yet, with the exception of Viola Davis in the HBO Max series “Waller.” But, the execs are close to signing a couple of directors, and left the door open for Gal Gadot, Jason Momoa, Ezra Miller, and Zachary Levi to continue playing their heroes. The DCU will release two films and two TV series per year, and won’t sacrifice quality for deadlines. The slate will run through 2027, with only “Superman: Legacy” and “The Batman Part II” having set release dates. Can’t wait!
Here are the films recently announced:
SUPERMAN: LEGACY
The first film in the rebooted DC Universe, “Superman: Legacy,” is coming to theaters on July 11th, 2025! This isn’t your average origin story, though. According to co-chief of DC Studios, Peter Safran, the movie will delve into the Man of Steel’s struggle to balance his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing. He’s the epitome of truth, justice, and the American way – a symbol of kindness in a world that sees it as outdated.
James Gunn, the mastermind behind the script, might even be convinced to direct the film. Although he remained tight-lipped when Peter hinted at it, we can hope! The CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, David Zaslav, has been on a mission to find the right leaders for DC Studios, and it’s no secret that rebooting Superman was a top priority.
“Superman” is for everyone, according to James. It’s a film that will appeal to all audiences and touch hearts across the world. Get ready for an epic journey with the most recognizable superhero in the world leading the way for the DCU!
THE AUTHORITY
“Superman: Legacy” is gearing up to be the start of something big for DC, as it sets the stage for “The Authority.” This upcoming ensemble film is about a team of superhumans who have a different approach to saving the world, and fans are already buzzing with excitement.
James Gunn, who is writing “The Authority,” is thrilled to bring this project to life. The characters come from Wildstorm comics, which was created by Warren Ellis and Bryan Hitch and ultimately became a part of DC Comics. Gunn and Safran are planning to integrate the Wildstorm characters into the DC universe, just like they did with the New 52 initiative.
What makes “The Authority” unique is that it’s not just a typical heroes vs. villains story. The characters are complex and their motivations are questionable. It’s a story that challenges the traditional good vs. evil trope, and that’s what Gunn and Safran find so intriguing.
According to Gunn, the film is in the writing stage but he couldn’t reveal the screenwriter just yet. With the combination of a fresh perspective on the superhero genre and the allure of the Wildstorm characters, “The Authority” is shaping up to be a must-see movie for fans.
THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD
DCU’s upcoming film, “The Brave and the Bold,” is set to introduce a new version of Batman, distinct from Robert Pattinson’s portrayal in “The Batman” films. The film will also mark the return of Robin to live-action movies, this time in the form of Damian Wayne.
Described by Gunn as “our favorite Robin,” Damian is depicted as a “little son of a bitch,” an “assassin” and a “murderer.” The character represents a unique father-son dynamic with Bruce Wayne, who was unaware of Damian’s existence for the first several years of his life.
Inspired by Grant Morrison’s run of Batman comics, “The Brave and the Bold” is poised to bring Morrison’s exceptional influence on the DCU to the big screen. Gunn also praised comics writer Tom King, who was a part of the DCU writers room and leads into the next feature project.
SUPERGIRL: WOMAN OF TOMORROW
In the highly anticipated film adaptation of Tom King’s comic series “Woman of Tomorrow,” audiences will be introduced to a unique version of Superman’s cousin, Kara Zor-El, better known as Supergirl. Director James Gunn described the character as “much more hardcore” compared to Superman. This is due to her upbringing on a shattered piece of Krypton, where she witnessed the deaths of those around her for the first 14 years of her life. In contrast, Superman was sent to Earth and raised by loving parents from infancy. Despite the intense background of the character, audiences can expect a touch of lightheartedness in the film with the inclusion of Krypto, the beloved superdog.
SWAMP THING
In an effort to bring a fresh take to the DC Universe, Gunn and Safran are taking on the dark origins of “Swamp Thing” through the lens of horror. Gunn compared the challenge to the initial concerns of adding Rocket Raccoon to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but said they are “one-upping” that approach with “Swamp Thing.” According to Gunn, the film will delve into the horror aspect while still showcasing interaction between Swamp Thing and other characters.
There are also numerous television projects announced, including Suicide Squad’s Amanda Waller, Booster Gold, and more:
- “Creature Commandos” is an animated series in production for HBO Max, written by James Gunn. It features Frankenstein’s monster teaming up with a werewolf, vampire and gorgon to fight Nazis in WW2, and may also have live-action adaptations.
- “Waller” will have Gunn’s team from “Peacemaker” and will be executive produced by Jeremy Carver (creator of “Doom Patrol”).
- “Lanterns” is an HBO-quality event series, focused on two Green Lanterns (Hal Jordan and John Stewart) investigating a mystery.
- “Paradise Lost” is a “Game of Thrones” like story set on the island of Themyscira before the birth of Diana/Wonder Woman, exploring political intrigue and scheming between the different power players.
- “Booster Gold” is a comedic series about a loser from the future who uses future technology to pretend to be a superhero. It’s about imposter syndrome as a superhero.
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