Under the guidance of James Gunn and Peter Safran, DC Studios is embarking on a new cinematic universe with a distinctly different method from its rivals. Rather than requiring fans to follow an extensive multi-platform storyline, the DC Universe focuses on standalone narratives that each deliver a full experience, while simultaneously weaving into a larger, interconnected world shaped by evolving political and story elements. This approach aims to make engaging with the bigger picture enjoyable instead of feeling like a complex task. Gunn has previously likened this style of universe-building to Star Wars, but he recently shared that another key influence helped shape his vision.
Game of Thrones as a Blueprint for the DC Universe
James Gunn has highlighted Game of Thrones as a major inspiration for how he is structuring the DC Universe. In an interview with Interview Magazine, Gunn emphasized his admiration for George R.R. Martin’s storytelling, which played a significant role in his decision to lead the DCU. He explained,
“I think it’s the reason I agreed to the job,”
and added,
“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.”
—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios
This model of storytelling is exemplified by the Game of Thrones franchise’s practice of creating distinct, self-contained tales within a consistent historical world. For example, the prequel series House of the Dragon explores a storyline set centuries before the original series, allowing new viewers to engage with the world of Westeros independently. HBO plans to extend this strategy through additional spinoffs including A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms and the upcoming saga 10,000 Ships. Each of these narratives maintains its independence yet contributes to the depth and continuity of the overall world, giving fans flexibility to explore the franchise according to their interests.
Early Success Signals Promise for the DCU’s Standalone Narrative Style
The new DC Universe has already made a strong impression with its initial batch of projects, validating the standalone storytelling framework. The animated series Creature Commandos launched the universe with a critical acclaim marked by a 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes. This momentum carried forward with the theatrical release of Superman, which earned an impressive 83% Certified Fresh rating, and the second season of Peacemaker, achieving near-universal praise with a 97% approval. These accomplishments demonstrate that high-quality productions can thrive while being part of a connected universe spanning animation, film, and live-action.
The narrative linkages are also immediately apparent with recurring characters such as Rick Flag Sr., portrayed by Frank Grillo, and Guy Gardner, played by Nathan Fillion, who appear across different projects. This tight storytelling fabric enriches the overall DC Universe experience without making it necessary for fans to watch everything to understand the bigger picture.
Expanding the DC Universe with Diverse Stories and Genres
Building on its strong foundation, the DCU plans to explore a wide range of tones and genres, broadening its appeal. Upcoming releases include a more intense version of Supergirl and The Brave and the Bold, which will highlight Batman’s complex relationship with his son, Damian Wayne. Beyond traditional superhero tales, the studio is also venturing into new territory with an R-rated horror film focused on the villain Clayface and a cosmic detective series featuring the Lanterns. This variety will provide numerous entry points for different audiences, ensuring the DC Universe remains vibrant and unpredictable.
Peacemaker Season 2 is set to premiere on HBO Max on August 21, 2025, continuing to draw fans into the interconnected stories of the DCU.
The Significance of Gunn’s Game of Thrones-Inspired Vision for the DC Universe
James Gunn’s adoption of the Game of Thrones narrative method marks a daring departure from the typical superhero cinematic universe formula. By emphasizing complete, standalone stories embedded within a flexible and evolving world, the DC Universe offers fans more freedom and depth. This method not only reduces the pressure on audiences to consume every installment but also allows for diverse storytelling approaches that can attract a broad spectrum of viewers.
As the DC Universe grows with its upcoming slate, driven by Gunn and Safran’s leadership, its success could influence how future cinematic universes are developed, balancing coherence with creative independence. This approach shows promise beyond just commercial success, fostering a passionate, engaged fanbase excited to explore the multiple layers of the DC world in their own way.
