James Gunn, known for his work with Marvel Studios on Guardians of the Galaxy, has taken a distinctly different route in shaping the fledgling DC Universe (DCU) since being appointed as its creative lead in 2022. Rather than adopting the tightly interwoven narrative method popularized by Marvel, Gunn has outlined a storytelling approach inspired by expansive universes such as Star Wars and Game of Thrones. This strategy emphasizes building a broad world and focusing on individual tales within it—a method reflected in the recent success of DCU’s Superman film this past summer, as well as the upcoming release of Peacemaker season 2 on HBO Max, set to premiere on August 21.
In a discussion with Rainn Wilson, published by Interview Magazine, Gunn explained how his vision for the DCU diverges from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). By drawing comparisons to the sprawling narratives of George R.R. Martin and the Star Wars franchise, which has generated approximately $46.7 billion since its inception in 1977, Gunn shed light on how he intends to build the DC cinematic universe.
Rainn Wilson: What’s it like being a part of this world-building? I imagine that must’ve been one of the most exciting things.
James Gunn: I think it’s the reason I agreed to the job. You talk about George R.R. Martin, and he is really one of the guys who I love and look up to. I’m an enormous fan of his and people say, “Oh, the DCU is doing what MCU is.”
But I think it really is a lot more to me what the Game of Thrones world is like or what Star Wars is like, because we’re building a universe and then picking out little pieces of it and telling individual stories from that universe.
How Gunn’s Approach Contrasts with Marvel’s Cinematic Universe Strategy
Rather than requiring audiences to have extensive familiarity with previous entries—which has been a frequent critique of the Marvel Cinematic Universe—Gunn’s DCU emphasizes launching stories set within an already established world. This approach provides viewers with immediate context, making the narrative accessible from the outset. The recently released Superman film exemplifies this technique by presenting a universe where key relationships and histories, such as the dynamic between Lex Luthor and Superman or the romance between Superman and Lois Lane, are already in place, allowing the story to focus on new developments.
This method parallels the storytelling framework in Star Wars and Game of Thrones, where complex histories and settings exist prior to the events depicted on screen. For example, Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope begins with the Rebel Alliance on the run, without requiring the audience to know the extensive backstory immediately. Similarly, Game of Thrones introduces family rivalries and political intrigue already well established, such as the fall of House Targaryen, which informs the unfolding drama.
Recent Star Wars productions continue to nurture stories that stand independently yet honor prior lore. Shows like Star Wars: Skeleton Crew have incorporated nods to longtime fans but told fresh narratives requiring no prior knowledge, and Ahsoka has successfully developed characters familiar to animated Star Wars Rebels viewers while remaining approachable to newcomers.
Analyzing the Potential Impact of James Gunn’s DCU Storytelling
The standalone yet interconnected storytelling demonstrated in Superman offers a refreshing alternative to the increasingly complex Marvel universe, which often demands audiences track plotlines across many films and series. Films like Captain America: Brave New World have relied heavily on familiarity with previous entries like Eternals and The Incredible Hulk to set the stage, which can create barriers for casual viewers.
Moving forward, Gunn faces the challenge of maintaining this delicate balance: crafting DCU stories that enrich the larger universe without making prior viewings mandatory. Sustainably telling engaging, individual stories within this broad framework could make the DCU more inviting and less overwhelming, potentially attracting a wider audience.
Ultimately, if Gunn’s optimistic and determined approach continues, the DC Universe may evolve into a dynamic and accessible franchise defined by compelling characters and standalone narratives, much like Star Wars and Game of Thrones have done. And fans might find an added charm in welcoming elements, including the lovable presence of Krypto the Superdog, bringing a unique warmth to this expanding universe.
