James Gunn has completed the screenplay phase for his next film within the expansive Superman Saga, planned to extend over at least four movies. Although specific plot details remain undisclosed, Gunn has made it clear that the new project is not a simple Superman sequel. This update aligns with earlier indications from the DC Studios co-CEO that the film is targeting a 2027 release date as part of the evolving DC Universe.
Speaking to Deadline, Gunn confirmed,
“That treatment is done. I’m now into the screenwriting phase. I’m really happy with it,”
and added,
“We’re already prepping and figuring out where we’re shooting. That will not be too long.”
When pressed for more about the storyline, Gunn elaborated,
“It’s within the group of characters we’ve already met, and Superman is an important element of it.”
Current Box Office Success and Shifting Focus to Peacemaker Season 2
Superman’s theatrical run is nearing its end, having grossed more than $600 million worldwide. Meanwhile, Gunn has shifted his focus to the upcoming second season of Peacemaker, which premieres on HBO Max this evening. The series follows John Cena’s character, Christopher Smith, as he discovers an alternate reality where a version of himself lives the life he always desired.
Originally, Gunn’s initial plans for Peacemaker season two took a different direction that involved more direct continuity from the previous season’s conclusion.
He explained,
“The first time I wrote a rough outline of season 2, it had to do with other white supremacist superheroes who were after Peacemaker for killing his father because he was their comrade,”
but decided against it, stating,
“For me, it played a little bit too much like season one and I wanted to turn the story on its heels.”
New Narrative Focus for Peacemaker Season 2
Gunn wanted the show to explore deeper emotional consequences for Peacemaker after the events of season one.
“I wanted Peacemaker to be this character who had to really deal with the ramifications of his actions in season one, and deal with his emotional reality of the demons that he discovered in season one and how does he face that. That seemed to work much better for that,”
he said.
The current storyline hinges on Peacemaker confronting a reality that resembles his own but appears superior in every way. Gunn described,
“Peacemaker sees this reality that’s like his, but better in seemingly every way, so how does he deal with that from an emotional standpoint and face the ghosts from his past that he loved and killed? It seemed potent especially when mixed with the love story.”
Decision to Keep Peacemaker within the DCU Continues
Contrary to fan expectations that Peacemaker’s multiverse storyline might connect the character’s world with the larger DCEU, Gunn opted to keep the story self-contained within the DC Universe. This choice separates the anti-hero’s narrative from crossover implications, focusing instead on character-driven arcs within the DCU framework.
Availability and Anticipation for New Releases
Superman remains available both in theaters and on digital platforms. Fans of the franchise can now turn their attention to Peacemaker season two, which premieres today on HBO Max.
Gunn conveyed his enthusiasm on social media, stating,
“I hope you continue to enjoy @Superman in theaters and at home, but next up is #Peacemaker Season 2 streaming tomorrow on @HBOMax!”
—James Gunn, Director
