The DC Universe (DCU) is about to embark on a new and exciting journey. With a slew of projects lined up to establish and expand this new cinematic and television universe, fans are eagerly anticipating the fresh stories and characters that will define the DCU. As James Gunn and Peter Safran prepare to helm this creative direction, here’s a comprehensive look at what’s on the horizon.
Upcoming Projects
1. Batman: Caped Crusader | Elseworld
- Release Date: August 1, 2024
- Synopsis: A new animated series from Bruce Timm, the creative genius behind the iconic Batman animated series from the ’90s. The show has received an impressive 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a strong start and high expectations from fans.
2. The Penguin | Elseworld
- Release Date: September 8, 2024
- Synopsis: A spin-off from the acclaimed 2022 film “The Batman,” focusing on Colin Farrell’s portrayal of the Penguin. The series will explore Penguin’s rise to power within Gotham’s criminal underworld.
3. Joker: Folie à Deux | Elseworld
- Release Date: October 4, 2024
- Director: Todd Phillips
- Synopsis: The sequel to the Oscar-winning “Joker,” starring Joaquin Phoenix as the titular character and Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn. This psychological thriller will further explore the complex mind of Arthur Fleck.
4. Superman & Lois Season 4 | Elseworld
- Release Date: October 17, 2024
- Synopsis: The final season of this beloved show and the last series from The CW, wrapping up the story of Superman and his family.
5. Creature Commandos | DCU
- Release Date: December 2024
- Synopsis: The first project from James Gunn’s DCU, featuring a team of monster horror characters tasked with becoming superheroes by Amanda Waller. The trailer has garnered over a million views on YouTube, showing significant fan interest.
6. Watchmen: Chapter 1 | Elseworld
- Release Date: TBA
- Synopsis: An animated adaptation of the critically acclaimed graphic novel “Watchmen,” exploring its dark and complex narrative.
7. Superman: Legacy | DCU
- Release Date: July 11, 2025
- Director: James Gunn
- Synopsis: This film will reintroduce Superman to the new DCU, focusing on his dual heritage as a Kryptonian and a human. Inspired by “All-Star Superman,” it aims to present a modern take on the iconic superhero while staying true to his core values of hope and optimism.
Confirmed Cast: - David Corenswet as Clark Kent / Superman
- Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane
- Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
- Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl
- Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner / Green Lantern
- Edi Gathegi as Michael Holt / Mister Terrific
- Anthony Carrigan as Rex Mason / Metamorpho
- Maria Gabriela de Faria as Angela Spica / The Engineer
- Sara Sampaio as Eve Teschmacher
- Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen
- Wendell Pierce as Perry White
- Pruitt Taylor Vince as Jonathan Kent
- Neva Howell as Martha Kent
- Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard
- Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr.
8. Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow | DCU
- Release Date: June 26, 2026
- Synopsis: Starring Milly Alcock as Supergirl, this film will adapt the comic of the same name, exploring a more rugged and intense portrayal of the character.
9. The Batman Part II | Elseworld
- Release Date: October 2, 2026
- Director: Matt Reeves
- Synopsis: The sequel to the critically acclaimed “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson. It will continue to delve into the gritty and grounded world established in the first film.
10. The Authority | DCU
- Release Date: TBA
- Synopsis: A team of anti-heroes from Wildstorm comics, The Authority will explore morally complex superheroes who take drastic measures to achieve their goals. They will also have a role in “Superman: Legacy.”
11. Swamp Thing | DCU
- Release Date: TBA
- Synopsis: This film will delve into the dark and mysterious world of the swamp, exploring the character’s origin and his place in the DCU.
12. Batman: The Brave and the Bold | DCU
- Release Date: TBA
- Director: Andy Muschietti
- Synopsis: This film will introduce a new Batman within the DCU, focusing on Bruce Wayne and his son, Damian Wayne, as Robin. It will be a Batfamily movie, separate from the “The Batman” movies.
13. Waller (Max) | DCU
- Release Date: TBC
- Synopsis: A series centered around Amanda Waller, further exploring her role within the DCU.
14. Peacemaker Season 2 (Max) | DCU
- Release Date: TBC
- Synopsis: The second season of “Peacemaker” will continue the adventures of the titular character. James Gunn will be the showrunner.
15. Lanterns (Max) | DCU
- Release Date: TBC
- Synopsis: This series will follow the adventures of multiple Green Lanterns, including Hal Jordan and John Stewart. Chris Mundy (True Detective) will be the showrunner.
16. Blue Beetle (Max) | DCU
- Release Date: TBC
- Synopsis: An animated spin-off focusing on the adventures of Blue Beetle.
17. Paradise Lost (Max) | DCU
- Release Date: TBC
- Synopsis: A series exploring the history and mythology of Themyscira, the home of Wonder Woman.
18. Booster Gold (Max) | DCU
- Release Date: TBC
- Synopsis: This series will follow the time-traveling hero Booster Gold, with Kumail Nanjiani rumored to be cast in the lead role.
Conclusion
The future of the DCU and DC Elseworlds is filled with potential and excitement. With a mix of beloved characters returning and new heroes making their debut, fans can look forward to a diverse array of stories that honor the legacy of DC Comics while pushing boundaries. Whether you’re a fan of the core universe or the more experimental Elseworlds tales, there’s plenty to anticipate in the coming years.
