A new Wonder Woman movie is officially underway in the universe being shaped by James Gunn, who recently confirmed Diana’s return to the big screen as part of his evolving DC slate. With Gunn’s reputation for drawing from comic book history, speculation is high about which Wonder Woman comic stories James Gunn could adapt, raising hopes and concerns amid fans following the departure from prior films.
While no script or concrete details have been shared, Gunn’s comments during his press tour for Superman map out a future in which characters from Themyscira, along with villains like Circe, could shape major storylines in upcoming DC movies. Past projects like Creature Commandos and discussions of television projects in the style of Game of Thrones hint at Gunn and Peter Safran’s ambitious vision for the DC Universe, with Wonder Woman set to play a central role.
A Troubled Past and the Search for True Wonder Woman Stories
Diana of Themyscira has long been foundational to the DC Universe, but her comic book history is marred by inconsistency—ranging from the problematic to the mundane. Even the earliest Golden Age stories, which championed creator William Moulton Marston’s philosophy about powerful women, suffered from overt racism and recurring jokes at side characters’ expense, notably Etta Candy. As the character evolved, some stories depicted Diana as naïve, such as the infamous run by Jodi Picoult, or as a cold-hearted warrior—neither doing justice to the character’s core traits.
Despite these missteps, Wonder Woman also claims some of the greatest stories in comic history, narratives that put compassion before conflict and showcase her as a distinct presence among superheroes. If Gunn is seeking inspiration, these stories offer pathways to honor her legacy and complexity on screen.
1. The Twelve Labors: Diana’s Resilience and Independence
Among the Silver Age’s uneven storytelling, “The Twelve Labors”—by creators like Len Wein, Cary Bates, Elliot S. Maggin, and Curt Swan—stands as a rare high point. In this storyline, the Justice League of America re-examines Wonder Woman’s membership through a series of rigorous challenges despite her long history as a hero since World War II. The premise, shaped by the male-majority League putting Diana to the test, brings discomfort but also reflects an era where superheroes often tested one another with elaborate stunts.
The heart of “The Twelve Labors” lies in Diana’s response: rather than being diminished by the challenges, she rises above. The arc distinguishes her abilities—physical prowess, sharp intelligence, and resourceful use of her unique accessories—from her peers, demonstrating what makes her exceptional beyond superpowers. This nuanced approach elevates Wonder Woman above the prevailing tropes of that period.
2. George Pérez’s Definitive Reboot: Myth, Diplomacy, and Power
While comics like Crisis on Infinite Earths shook up the DC continuum, George Pérez’s reboot of Wonder Woman, alongside Greg Potter, changed the character’s trajectory so profoundly that many reimaginings since have drawn directly from his work—with the exception of the controversial New 52 revival by Brian Azzarello and Cliff Chiang.
Pérez returned Diana to her mythological roots, presenting her as an outsider from a hidden paradise thrust into a world that needs her guidance. Wonder Woman’s stories in this era unfold under the shadow of the Greek gods, moving away from comparisons with Superman or Batman to emphasize her unique status as an ambassador, caught between worlds.
This approach magnifies Diana’s diplomatic role, giving her depth as someone alien to “Man’s World” yet never naïve—a balance echoed in Patty Jenkins’ films. For Gunn, drawing from Pérez would offer layers of complexity and grandeur, highlighting Wonder Woman’s role as both warrior and peacemaker.
3. Greg Rucka’s Run: Politics, Idealism, and Human Tension
Greg Rucka, with artist Drew Johnson, did not reboot the character but steered Pérez’s interpretation to its logical conclusion. In his landmark arc “Down to Earth,” Wonder Woman takes her diplomatic duties seriously, representing Themyscira at the United Nations and confronting political realities more head-on than ever before.
Rucka embraces the inherent strangeness of having an Amazonian princess navigate the halls of global bureaucracy. Mythical creatures, like a minotaur, appear in mundane settings; Diana misses meetings to combat dangerous foes like Doctor Psycho. At the same time, new adversaries emerge—Veronica Cale, a PR strategist capable of manipulating Diana’s words against her, becomes a kind of Lex Luthor for Wonder Woman.
The friction between Diana’s ideals and the world’s cynicism provides a strong foundation for modern storytelling. As seen in recent Superman trailers where characters clash over the ethics of heroism, Rucka’s Wonder Woman frames these debates through the lens of dignity and moral courage. Diana insists on the diplomatic rights of her people, even when confronting nations that mistrust or oppose her, setting a template for nuanced, character-driven conflict.
4. Earth One Trilogy: Revisiting Marston’s Philosophy
The “Earth One” trilogy from Grant Morrison and artist Yanick Paquette is both celebrated and divisive. Morrison, whose track record with Superman and Batman is celebrated, struggles to wholly unite Wonder Woman’s intricate legacy, sometimes sidestepping her altogether, as in 2005’s Final Crisis.
The “Earth One” books are audacious, revisiting controversial elements from Marston’s original vision, notably the concepts of submission and power in relationships. Morrison does not shy away from referencing the early comics’ fixation on bondage, but they repurpose these themes as a reflection of philosophical ideals, rather than merely for shock value. Uncomfortable moments—such as Diana’s interactions with Steve Trevor—are intentional explorations of the cultural chasms the character faces, underscoring Wonder Woman’s perspective as both alien and teacher.
By grappling with topics often ignored in modern comics, Morrison’s rendering of Diana provokes debate but also reasserts her foundational role as a character constructed around societal challenge, rather than simple heroism.
5. Tom King’s Current Series: Challenging Allegiances and Identity
Tom King, known for stories that blend heavy philosophy with abrupt narrative pivots, offers a recent and polarizing interpretation of Diana. Working with artist Daniel Sampere, King’s current arc thrusts Wonder Woman into direct conflict with the United States after she refuses to hand over an Amazonian sister accused of attacking civilians. The Sovereign, a controlling figure dubbed the true King of America, maneuvers against her, and Diana becomes alienated from former allies.
This run pushes Wonder Woman’s outsider status further than ever and mirrors ideological battles from real-world debates. The “Sons of Themyscira”—echoing reactionary movements—surface in Creature Commandos, linking King’s work to themes Gunn has started to explore across his DC projects.
King’s approach remains divisive, often focusing more on new antagonists than the heroine herself, and some readers find that Diana’s choices seem out-of-character. However, the series confronts the uncomfortable reality that Diana is not tied by duty to any one nation, reinforcing her global perspective and independence—a core quality that could invigorate Gunn’s cinematic vision.
Honorable Mention: Absolute Wonder Woman’s Alternate Reality
Outside mainstream continuity, “Absolute Wonder Woman” by Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman is a noteworthy entry in DC’s Absolute line. This reimagining renders Diana even more compassionate and virtuous, set against a much darker world, and Sherman’s artwork is fiercely distinctive.
However, this story is far removed from the flavor and framework of the central DC Universe Gunn is building. While “Absolute Wonder Woman” stands apart as a creative milestone, its alternate setting limits its usefulness as a template for film, but not its merit as exemplary comic storytelling.
The Stakes for Wonder Woman’s Cinematic Future
Gunn’s openness about wanting a script in place before filming means fans will need to wait for specifics, but the intense discourse around Wonder Woman’s portrayal suggests his decisions will carry heavy significance. Drawing from the comics highlighted above would showcase Diana’s independence, her foundations in myth, her diplomatic role, and the persistent clash between ideals and reality—elements that give her an identity distinct from other superheroes.
With Peter Safran, Circe, Themyscira, and potential new antagonists in play, the reboot holds potential to both honor Wonder Woman’s legacy and push her narrative into previously unexplored territory. The next film will not only determine Diana’s place within the DC Universe, but also offer a new lens on what kind of hero she can become for modern audiences—and what ideals she is willing to defend, even when the world stands divided.
