James Gunn on The Batman Part II: “Haven’t Read Script Yet—Will Try on Plane, Unless I Fall Asleep”

James Gunn recently addressed questions about The Batman Part II, revealing that he has not yet read the completed script, which remains a point of interest for fans keen on updates about director Matt Reeves’ continuation of the franchise. Discussions continue around the film’s status and its relationship with the evolving DCU, reinforcing ongoing speculation involving the next portrayal of Batman.

Matt Reeves Delivers Script Amid Uncertainty

On Thursday, Matt Reeves shared that he and his co-writer Mattson Tomlin have completed the script for The Batman – Part II, answering concerns from those wondering if the project had fallen through. This reveal came as talk circulated about possible cancellations and shifts, particularly as DC Studios co-leads James Gunn and Peter Safran evaluate whether to proceed with Robert Pattinson’s BatVerse or set the stage for a new Batman through The Brave and The Bold film initiative.

James Gunn’s Perspective on the New Script

Despite Reeves submitting the script, Gunn has yet to review its contents. When speaking with ComicBook.com on Saturday, his admission was unambiguous:

“I have not. I have not,”

—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios

He expressed both excitement and hesitation about making time to read the script, explaining:

“I’m so excited to read it, and I’m hoping I can read it on the plane to London tomorrow, but I also might fall asleep.”

—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios

The exhaustion referenced by Gunn stems from a demanding press tour for Superman, leading to speculation and fan theories about underlying tension between Gunn and Reeves. Earlier offhand remarks, such as alluding to Reeves being “slow” with his process, have only fueled this narrative among certain followers online.

James Gunn
Image of: James Gunn

Debate Over Batman’s Future in the DCU

The situation surrounding Robert Pattinson’s Batman remains widely debated. In a recent discussion with Rolling Stone, Gunn expanded on whether Pattinson could reprise his role in the DCU:

“It would be a consideration. We’d have to think about it,”

—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios

“We’d have to think about it. It is not like we’ve never discussed it. I would never say zero [chance], because you just never know. But it’s not likely. It’s not likely at all.”

—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios

His comments confirm that although the conversation exists, folding Pattinson’s Batman into the main DCU storyline remains improbable.

Speculation and Persistent Rumors

Gunn has attempted to quell some of the rumor-mongering about the fate of The Batman – Part II:

“I’ll also say Batman Part II is not canceled,”

—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios

“That’s the other thing I hear all the time — that Batman Part II is canceled. It’s not canceled. We don’t have a script. Matt’s slow. Let him take his time. Let him do what he’s doing. God, people are mean. Let him do his thing, man.”

—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios

Despite these assurances, rumor mills continue to churn regarding possible villains like Hush or Mr. Freeze, though little concrete evidence supports these claims. There are also strong hints, based on comments from Reeves, that the film’s setting could incorporate a wintry Gotham.

The Returning Cast and Future Plans

Alongside Robert Pattinson reprising his role as the Caped Crusader, most of the cast from the original film is expected to return for The Batman – Part II. Notable exceptions include Paul Dano’s Riddler character. Some new faces from The Penguin series might also appear, creating potential crossovers within the BatVerse.

This evolving situation highlights the ongoing identity shifts within the DCU as creative leaders like James Gunn and Peter Safran navigate new casting decisions, fan expectations, and the future direction of Gotham’s iconic hero. With the announcement of a finished script and strict statements about the project’s status, attention now turns to how these high-profile figures plan to shape Batman’s cinematic future.