James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, has openly discussed difficulties with incorporating certain projects into the DC Universe, specifically The Authority and Static Shock. Although DC Studios launched an ambitious slate of movies and series in early 2023, progress on Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters remains slower than anticipated. Gunn explained that these characters are not traditionally part of the DCU, which creates obstacles for seamless integration within the larger narrative.
Addressing these challenges in an interview with The New Blerd Order, Gunn noted,
“It’s all about integrating [Static Shock] with the DC Universe because he’s not a character that’s traditionally part of the DC Universe,”
and added,
“It’s kind of like ‘The Authority.’ So, like, ‘The Authority’s been a little bit of a challenge simply because integrating [them] with the DCU has been a difficult thing to do, and the same thing is true of the Static Shock.”
Although these hurdles exist, he remains hopeful:
“Hopefully, we’ll figure out a way to do that.”
Limited Success with The Engineer and Potential Animated Directions
The character of The Engineer had a minor and less impactful role in the recent Superman movie, which seems to have fallen short as a setup for The Authority’s story. There has been ongoing speculation about adapting Grant Morrison’s Superman and the Authority, but fan enthusiasm appears limited at present. Some insiders have hinted that The Authority might transition to an animated format, taking inspiration from the Creature Commandos style, which could offer a fresh approach for these characters.
Updates on Waller Series and Other Upcoming DCU Projects
In addition to movie plans, Gunn shared updates on TV spin-offs linked to his work on The Suicide Squad. The Waller series, starring Viola Davis reprising her role, remains in development but has not advanced as quickly as other projects. Gunn told PEOPLE,
“We’re working on it, so we’ll see what happens,”
and expressed excitement to see Viola Davis in character again, saying,
“I can’t wait to see Viola put on their Waller pants again.”
At San Diego Comic-Con, Gunn offered a wider look at the DCU roadmap, highlighting several projects in various stages of production. These include the upcoming Supergirl and Lanterns series, both set to arrive within the next year. Currently in production, the Clayface series features a horror-inspired script by Mike Flanagan, which Gunn praised as “so good. Straight horror.” Other titles he mentioned were The Brave and the Bold, Wonder Woman, The Batman 2 with Matt Reeves, and Sgt. Rock.
Regarding The Authority, Gunn acknowledged its ongoing difficulties with a laugh, confirming it “isn’t going so well.” On a lighter note, he mentioned the development of Krypto shorts—small, fun cartoons designed for children.
Progress and Uncertainties Surrounding Other DCU Initiatives
The Booster Gold series is shaping up positively with David Jenkins, creator of Our Flag Means Death, appointed as showrunner. In contrast, projects such as Swamp Thing, Sgt. Rock, and rumored ventures including Teen Titans and an untitled Deathstroke/Bane movie remain uncertain in terms of development and release schedules.
James Gunn’s DCU project updates underscore the complex nature of building a cohesive cinematic universe, especially when integrating lesser-known or unconventional characters. The path forward will likely involve creative adjustments and potential format shifts to meet audience expectations and narrative coherence within the broader DC Studios vision.
