James Gunn’s upcoming project for the DC Universe (DCU) centers on Wonder Woman, with strong indications that his adaptation will draw heavily from the Absolute Wonder Woman storyline. This reboot, currently in early script development, promises a fresh direction for the iconic superhero by reimagining her origins and role within the DCU.
A New Perspective on Wonder Woman’s Origins and Motivations
One of the defining features of the Absolute Universe is its willingness to reshape the traditional backgrounds of familiar characters, and this holds true for Absolute Wonder Woman. Diana remains the daughter of Hippolyta and Zeus, but unlike earlier portrayals, she was not raised by the Amazonians. Instead, she was abandoned in a harsh, hellish environment, which significantly alters how her personality and purpose develop. While Diana continues to fight for justice and protection, her motivations and beliefs have evolved, offering a different, deeper interpretation of her heroism.
Reinterpreting Mythology and Raising the Stakes on a Cosmic Level
The reboot honors the Greek mythology that has long been associated with Wonder Woman, yet it alters certain elements to provide a more emotionally nuanced story. The gods, including Zeus, Hera, and Diana’s half-brother Ares, are portrayed as politically manipulative figures whose conflicts mirror modern-day corruption. This shift grounds the mythological grandeur into a more relatable and intense drama, blending the epic nature of Wonder Woman’s world with the realities of political power struggles.
Embracing Strong Feminist and Political Themes
Absolute Wonder Woman reinforces Wonder Woman’s status as a feminist symbol by delving into complex themes such as gender politics, war, and diplomacy amid divine manipulation. The story emphasizes Diana’s solitary struggle against these overwhelming forces, highlighting her resilience and commitment to truth and justice. James Gunn’s interest in meaningful themes suggests that this version will resonate deeply with audiences, as it amplifies the superhero’s role as a strong, politically aware woman.
Complex Villains with New Roles and Motivations
This series also redefines key villains by adding layers to their characters and reimagining their relationships with Diana. Ares, her half-brother, appears as a cunning warlord deeply interested in the consequences of war, while Circe takes on the surprising role of Diana’s adoptive mother, expanding her character’s narrative potential. These changes create richer conflicts and character dynamics that promise to bring new energy and intrigue to the story.
Positioning Wonder Woman as a Central Figure in the DC Universe
Despite being one of DC’s “Big Three,” Wonder Woman has sometimes been overshadowed in major storylines. The Absolute Wonder Woman reboot aims to change that by establishing her as a key emotional and moral anchor. Unlike the traditional Amazonian princess image, this version of Diana is portrayed as a traumatized child who endured significant hardship, growing into a strong and determined hero. This backstory provides her with a relatable humanity and gravitas similar to Batman’s, making her trials compelling and drawing audiences to invest in her journey.
With James Gunn now confirmed as co-CEO of DC Studios and leading these projects, the future of the DCU looks poised for a fresh and ambitious direction. As the Wonder Woman script unfolds, fans can expect a film that not only reinvents the character but also strengthens her impact within the larger universe. Until casting and further details are announced, the anticipation builds for how this Absolute Wonder Woman adaptation could fundamentally redefine the DC landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is James Gunn’s religion?
A. Gunn grew up in a Catholic home and has said that prayer still holds importance for him. However, he also describes himself as “somewhat anti-religious.”
Q. Is James Gunn no longer with Marvel?
A. Gunn collaborated with Marvel Studios on the Guardians of the Galaxy series. In 2022, he became co-CEO of DC Studios. Prior to this role, he directed The Suicide Squad (2021) for DC. Gunn initially left Marvel, was later rehired, and worked on Guardians of the Galaxy 3.
Q. What religion is James Gunn?
A. The new CGI-animated Krypto the Superdog, featured in Gunn’s 2025 version of Superman, was inspired by Ozu. Gunn grew up in a Catholic household and has shared that prayer remains significant for him. However, he has also expressed that he is, in some respects, against religion.
