10 New Things We Just Learned About The DCU

At New York Comic Con, James Gunn offered several thrilling updates for the DCU, giving fresh insights into what to expect from the newly rebooted universe. The visionary filmmaker, known for his distinct blend of humor and heart, took the stage to reveal several details about DCU Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters, bringing some closure to lingering questions from the DCEU timeline and offering exciting new glimpses of what lies ahead. These revelations ranged from key casting updates to thematic shifts and production timelines for upcoming DCU projects.

James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DCU reboot, announced in 2022, was designed to overhaul the existing franchise after the box office and critical struggles of the DCEU. Their goal is to create a cohesive but fresh universe of interconnected films and series. For those eager to learn more about the direction of the DCU, these latest updates compiled by DCUbrief provide a glimpse into the approach, tone, and character dynamics that audiences can expect going forward.

10 Certain Events From The DCEU Will Become DCU Canon

The DCU Will Reference Certain Past Events From The DCEU

While the DCU is officially rebooting the franchise, some events from the DCEU will still be considered canon in the new universe. This careful selection of carry-over moments will be explicitly acknowledged in DCU projects, tying together loose ends while allowing the rebooted DCU to evolve its own identity. Gunn was specific about certain narrative threads continuing into the DCU, such as the death of Rick Flag Sr., which took place in The Suicide Squad (2021).

This particular moment was recently confirmed as part of the continuity in the DCU’s Creature Commandos, a highly anticipated animated series within the DCU. By choosing which events remain canon, Gunn ensures a sense of continuity while allowing the franchise the freedom to explore new directions. These connections between the DCEU and the DCU help satisfy long-time viewers while still making the universe accessible to new audiences.

9 The DCU Will Not Have An Overall Aesthetic, Each Movie Will Look Unique

Each Project In The DCU Will Foster Its Own Tone

James Gunn revealed that the DCU will not adopt a uniform aesthetic across its films and shows. This is a departure from the approach seen in other shared cinematic universes, including the DCEU and the MCU. Instead, each DCU project will feature its own distinct visual style and atmosphere, tailored to the unique tone of each story despite being firmly set within the same universe.

By allowing different filmmakers the creative freedom to express their individual visions, the DCU can avoid the feeling of sameness that has plagued other franchises, and even hindered creativity in them. The intention is to offer audiences a rich and varied viewing experience, with each DCU project standing out on its own visually while still contributing to the overarching narrative of the universe. If effectively executed, this could result in a much more diverse and compelling cinematic universe.

8 Peacemaker Season 2 Is In Production

Peacemaker Season 2 Is Considered DCU Canon

One of the most popular series from the DCEU, Peacemaker, will be making its return in the DCU, and filming for the second season is underway as of October 2024. This series, which starred John Cena as the eponymous antihero, became a standout success under James Gunn’s direction. Gunn has described the second season as “very magical,” signaling that the show will be taking some unexpected and imaginative turns.

The first season explored Peacemaker’s moral dilemmas and personal growth while also diving into bizarre threats. It seems Peacemaker season 2 will expand on this foundation while incorporating new elements that push the boundaries of what to expect from the character. Bringing Peacemaker into the DCU marks a seamless transition from the old DCEU, ensuring that one of its strongest performances remains at the forefront of the new continuity.

7 Supergirl Starts Filming In January 2025

Supergirl: Woman Of Tomorrow Is Set For A 2026 Reference

The DCU’s Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is set to begin filming in January 2025, with production taking place in London, UK. Directed by Craig Gillespie and written by Ana Nogueira, this film will reportedly be an unconventional entrant. James Gunn described it as “a completely different take on a superhero movie,” signaling an exciting departure from the traditional tone and style.

Milly Alcock has been cast as the DCU’s Supergirl and is expected to debut ahead of her solo movie in Superman. Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is based on the comic book run of the same name. It depicts a jaded Supergirl who was raised on a desolate Krypton, contrasting this against her cousin Superman, who was raised on Earth by loving parents. Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is the first Supergirl movie since the 1984 flop, finally giving the character a decent solo outing.

6 Superman Is In Post-Production

Superman Is Expected To Be Released In 2025

The DCU’s highly anticipated Superman film is in the post-production stage as of October 2024. Gunn stated that the editing process is going smoothly, and he’s optimistic about the film, remarking, “The edit is going really well. I feel good about the movie.” The movie is a crucial element of the new DCU, as it sets the tone for the franchise moving forward.

Gunn has previously emphasized that this Superman will embody a more hopeful, optimistic take on the character, in contrast to the darker tone seen in the DCEU. This new Superman film will also dive into the complexities of balancing his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing, offering a fresh perspective on the character’s inner conflicts. With casting already confirmed and production moving forward smoothly, expectations are high for the Man of Steel’s return.

5 Krypto Will Play An Important Role In Superman

Krypto The Superdog Is Superman’s Pet Dog

One of the most surprising revelations about the DCU’s Superman film is the inclusion of Krypto, Superman’s loyal dog, who will play a significant role in the story. While Krypto has appeared in live-action TV shows like Smallville and Titans, this will be his first live-action movie appearance. Gunn noted that Krypto “came into the screenplay and kinda changed everything,”adding a completely new dynamic to the film that audiences haven’t seen in previous Superman movies.

Krypto’s inclusion adds a heartwarming and potentially comedic layer to the story, giving Superman a unique companion that can reflect his struggles and emotions in a way that no human character can. While Krypto has been a fan-favorite in comics and animated series, his presence in the DCU film could introduce a fresh narrative element. Krypto will allow for both lighthearted and poignant moments that further develop Superman’s character.

4 Alan Tudyk Has A Role In Superman

Alan Tudyk Also Has A Role In Creature Commandos

In addition to his role as Doctor Phosphorus in Creature Commandos, Alan Tudyk has been confirmed to have a separate, undisclosed role in the Superman movie. Tudyk is known for his dynamic and versatile acting work in numerous animated and live-action projects. In the DCU’s Elseworlds, Tudyk also voices the Joker in the animated series Harley Quinn and is sure to bring his signature charm and comedic flair to his mystery role.

Although details of Tudyk’s character remain under wraps, his casting suggests that the Superman film will feature at least one character with a lighter, more humorous tone. This fits with the film’s aim to present a more optimistic and hopeful Superman. Tudyk’s versatility as an actor, particularly in quirky and unconventional roles, makes him a perfect fit for Gunn’s vision, and will likely shape the narrative in very interesting ways.

3 The Lanterns Series Is Very Grounded And Real

Lanterns Will Feature Two Green Lanterns

James Gunn has revealed that the Green Lantern series titled Lanterns, will be a much more grounded and realistic take on the intergalactic heroes than many might expect. Despite the Green Lantern Corps’ distinctive and vibrant conjuring abilities, Gunn noted that the show will have a gritty, real-world feel to it. “It’s a very grounded and real series,” Gunn said. Peter Safran previously compared it to the style and tone of True Detective, referring to it as a “huge HBO-quality event.”

This unexpected description of Lanterns raises intrigue about how the show will handle the larger-than-life mythology of the Green Lanterns while focusing on human stories and themes. The creative decision to ground the series could allow for more personal, character-driven storytelling. With Gunn’s commitment to a fresh take on the Green Lanterns, this series promises to be a standout in the DCU lineup.

2 Lanterns Is About To Start Filming

Lanterns Will Air After Peacemaker Season 2

James Gunn has confirmed that production on Lanterns starts soon after October 2024. Screen tests with the lead actors have been completed, and Gunn described the show as “very promising,”adding to the anticipation surrounding this new series. With Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and Tom King all involved in the project, there’s no shortage of talent behind the scenes, ensuring a unique and high-quality adaptation.

Gunn’s excitement about the project has only increased expectations for Lanterns, which promises to blend grounded, real-world storytelling with the grandeur and spectacle of the Green Lantern mythos. The series will follow Hal Jordan and John Stewart, two of the most iconic Green Lanterns, as they navigate an Earth-bound. With staggeringly few live-action Green Lantern adaptations, Lanterns is highly anticipated.

1 Rick Flag Sr. Will Appear In 3 DCU Projects

Rick Flag Sr. Is Played By Frank Grillo

Rick Flag Sr. is set to become a major character in the DCU, appearing in at least three projects: Creature Commandos, Superman, and Peacemaker season 2. Frank Grillo will portray the character in both animated and live-action formats, and his storyline is shaping up to be a crucial thread in the evolving DCU. In Creature Commandos, Flag Sr. is already confirmed to be part of the central team, and his upcoming live-action appearances will deepen his role in the wider universe.

One of the most interesting aspects of Flag Sr.’s story is his connection to the death of his son, Rick Flag Jr., who Peacemaker killed in The Suicide Squad. This event has already been confirmed as canon and will likely play a significant role in Peacemaker season 2. This will create a tense and emotional arc for both Peacemaker and Flag Sr. as they navigate their personal histories and the aftermath of this devastating loss as part of the DCU.

Source: DCUbrief

Upcoming DC Movie Releases

Superman (2025)

Release Date July 11, 2025
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow

Release Date June 26, 2026
The Batman Part II

Release Date October 2, 2026