Warner Bros. is advancing its DC Comics cinematic universe with an upcoming Super-Family movie, written and directed by James Gunn, the visionary behind the recent Superman film. This announcement came during the company’s quarterly earnings call, highlighting the studio’s plans to continue expanding its superhero slate as Supergirl prepares to hit theaters in 2026. The involvement of James Gunn Super-Family movie has stirred anticipation around what direction this new installment will take.
Potential Directions for the Super-Family Story
The specifics of the next installment remain unclear, but several possibilities exist. It could be a direct sequel to Superman, following the success and enthusiastic reception of the first film. James Gunn has previously mentioned that he is actively working on sequel scripts. Another likely scenario is a team-up film featuring Superman and Supergirl, the latter having appeared briefly at the conclusion of Superman to hint at her own solo adventure. The Super-Family concept also opens the door for other characters tied to Superman’s legacy, including multiple versions of Superboys, Supergirls, and even Krypto the Superdog, who gained fans in the initial movie.
Upcoming DCU Projects and Expanding Universe
The DC Universe’s future includes several notable releases alongside the anticipated Super-Family movie. Supergirl, starring Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El and directed by Craig Gillespie, is set to premiere on July 26, 2026. This film will also feature Jason Momoa reprising his role as the bounty hunter Lobo. Following that, Clayface, a horror-themed film centering on the well-known Batman antagonist, is scheduled for September 11, 2026. Tom Rhys Harries stars as an actor transformed into a monstrous figure, with James Watkins directing a script from horror specialist Mike Flanagan.
While Ana Nogueira, who penned Supergirl, is working on scripts for Teen Titans and Wonder Woman projects, some films, like the edgy antihero story The Authority, have encountered setbacks. Andy Muschietti is attached to The Brave and the Bold, a film that will introduce Batman and Robin into the new DC cinematic timeline but will remain separate from Matt Reeves’ The Batman series.
Television and Animation Platforms in the New DC Universe
Beyond films, the DCU is expanding on television and animation fronts. Lanterns, the first series under the new DCU banner, is currently in production, starring Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre as the Green Lantern Corps members Hal Jordan and John Stewart. Additionally, the animated series Creature Commandos, featuring a team of monstrous operatives, has been renewed for another season, reflecting growing interest in diverse storytelling formats within the DC world.
Looking Ahead for the Super-Family and Warner Bros.’ DC Universe
As Warner Bros. continues to build its superhero cinematic landscape, James Gunn’s upcoming Super-Family movie is poised to be a significant chapter that could unify many beloved characters. With Gunn’s established creative vision and the strong reception of the first Superman film, this project may set the tone for future collaborations among DC’s iconic heroes. Fans and industry watchers alike are eagerly awaiting further announcements about casting details and plot direction as Warner Bros. strengthens its foothold in the superhero genre.
“the next installment in the Super-Family.” —David Zaslav, Warner Bros. CEO
