James Gunn will write and direct the next entry in the Super-Family series, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav announced during the company’s recent earnings call. This continuation of the franchise comes shortly after Gunn’s successful reboot of Superman, starring David Corenswet.
Throughout the Superman press tour, Gunn hinted at developing a new movie featuring Corenswet’s portrayal but kept details vague on whether the project would be a direct Superman sequel or part of a broader storyline. Zaslav’s statement clarified that the project is part of the Super-Family, confirming Gunn’s dual role as writer and director, a position he also held on the latest Superman film.
Warner Bros. Relaunch Drives Strong Box Office Performance for Superman
Warner Bros. recently revitalized the DC Universe with James Gunn’s Superman, which opened to $125 million domestically in early July. The film has since amassed $315 million in North America and $550 million globally, signaling a strong comeback for the franchise under Gunn’s vision.
Upcoming Projects Include Peacemaker Season 2, Supergirl, and Lanterns
The Super-Family lineup continues with the highly anticipated second season of Peacemaker, followed by a new Supergirl movie and the Lanterns TV series slated to debut in 2026. Additionally, the horror-themed Clayface project is scheduled to begin filming this year. Gunn described the varied approach:
‘Clayface’ is a totally different thing. Although it’s in the same universe, it’s a complete horror film, and that’s one of the things we want to do,
Gunn explained.
There’s not a company style. It’s not like every movie is gonna be like ‘Superman.’ The artists and the directors and the writers that create each one will bring their own sense to it. … We don’t want people being bored.
—James Gunn, Director and Writer
Gunn and Safran’s Vision to Rebuild DC Studios with a Ten-Year Plan
James Gunn and Peter Safran took over leadership of DC Studios in 2022, aiming to realign the studio’s output to better compete with Disney’s Marvel Cinematic Universe. Their strategy includes a 10-year roadmap featuring interconnected sequels and spinoffs. Alongside Superman, played by Corenswet, the slate includes major releases such as Supergirl and Clayface in 2026, as well as a fresh take on Wonder Woman.
David Zaslav praised the pair for their role in reinvigorating the franchise, remarking they have:
breathing new life and excitement into one of the most iconic storytelling franchises in the world.
—David Zaslav, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO
Challenges Ahead Despite Momentum from Superman’s Success
While Superman’s global recognition has helped lift the franchise, future projects like Supergirl and Clayface face the challenge of featuring lesser-known protagonists. This contrast highlights the risks involved, especially as even the MCU has recently seen uneven box office results with new characters.
Nevertheless, Zaslav remains optimistic, emphasizing the overall vision and progress made so far. After Superman’s theatrical debut, he stated:
The DC vision is clear, the momentum is real,
Zaslav said.
I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.
—David Zaslav, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO
Expanding the DC Universe with Diverse Styles and Stories
With Gunn at the helm of multiple projects, DC Studios plans to offer a variety of tones and storytelling techniques, mirroring the diversity found in comic books. This approach allows filmmakers and writers to shape each installment uniquely, ensuring fresh experiences for audiences and avoiding a uniform cinematic style.
The next Super-Family movie directed by James Gunn is poised to build on the momentum of Superman’s success while contributing to this evolving and multifaceted universe, signaling a bold future for DC’s cinematic vision under Warner Bros. Discovery.
