James Gunn faces a major challenge incorporating Batman into the DC Universe (DCU), as the character continues to pose complex problems despite Gunn’s progress with Superman. With the spotlight on the “James Gunn Batman solution,” the difficulty centers on reconciling multiple versions of Batman, especially with Robert Pattinson’s portrayal in Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” sequel, filming in 2026. Fans and creators alike are uneasy about managing two distinct Batmen within closely timed releases and separate universes, complicating the cohesive storytelling Gunn aims to achieve.
The Challenge of Multiple Batmen in the DC Universe
Robert Pattinson stars in an upcoming sequel that will exist outside the current DCU timeline, bringing a fresh Gotham with its own narrative. This “Robert Pattinson Problem” leaves open the possibility of audiences seeing two very different Batmen simultaneously while they exist in unrelated worlds. Although integrating Pattinson’s Batman into the shared DCU could streamline the story, Gunn appears reluctant to take that route, as it risks audience confusion and dilutes the distinctiveness of each portrayal.
Instead, James Gunn is developing “The Brave and the Bold,” a new DC film meant to introduce a different version of Batman with another actor portraying the character, starting fresh within the DCU. Recent set photos featuring Clayface hint at how this new Gotham and Batman will be established, setting the stage for Gunn’s broader vision without overlapping Reeves’ timelines directly.
A Third Option Rooted in a Breakthrough Comic Series
Beyond simply choosing between the Pattinson film and “The Brave and the Bold,” Gunn’s real “Batman fix” may draw inspiration from a celebrated comic book series gaining wide acclaim for its inventive approach: “Absolute Batman.” Written by Scott Snyder with art by Nick Dragotta, this series operates within DC’s Absolute Universe—an alternate reality warped by Darkseid’s energy, where evil dominates, and superheroes are no longer dominant forces.
“Absolute Batman” presents a powerful reimagining of Batman’s story, one that could align well with Gunn’s intention to revitalize the DCU while still honoring the character’s legacy. This Bruce Wayne is notably different—scrappy and reliant on his close allies, including grounded versions of familiar faces like Oswald Cobblepot and Harvey Dent. Unlike the traditional wealthy playboy image, this Batman lacks financial resources, a role instead occupied by the Joker, now a pale-white benefactor who operates in the shadows and is noted for his eerie absence of laughter.
Redefining Batman’s World and Allies
The inventive retelling in “Absolute Batman” refreshes the mythos by turning longtime villains into allies for Bruce Wayne, with many knowing his secret identity. This notable shift restructures relationships within Gotham’s underworld and adds emotional depth. Despite these new alliances, Gotham remains perilous, populated by menacing new threats that replace the classic rogue’s gallery with terrifying, eldritch-style horrors. These villains inject fresh life into Batman’s battles, reminiscent of the nuanced character development seen in “Batman: The Animated Series” during the 1990s.
The series begins with Black Mask, a brutal gangster intent on destabilizing Gotham’s crime scene. After his defeat, progressively monstrous enemies emerge. These include a chilling Mister Freeze whose appearance rivals “The Thing,” a gargantuan 9-foot Bane who relies solely on brute strength rather than the usual Venom, and an imminent transformation of Joker into a demonic figure—the latter promising an especially intense evolution of the character known as the Clown Prince of Crime.
Why “Absolute Batman” Fits into James Gunn’s DC Vision
Integrating aspects of “Absolute Batman” into “The Brave and the Bold” could align perfectly with James Gunn’s penchant for subverting established lore with subtle twists, as seen in his previous work on Superman and “Peacemaker.” This approach offers a way to present Batman that feels fresh yet rooted in thoughtful storytelling, crafting a Gotham that is dark, complex, and unpredictable.
Even if Gunn opts not to directly adapt “Absolute Batman” for upcoming films, its impact on the DC cinematic landscape is likely inevitable. The series introduces a raw, vulnerable Batman who relies on wit and alliances instead of resources, embodying a new kind of heroism that challenges decades of traditional Batman portrayals. This bold reimagining suggests a creative roadmap for the Batman character as he becomes central to Gunn’s DCU phase.
The pressure to innovate Batman’s role within the larger DCU remains high, as Gunn balances fan expectations, continuity, and narrative coherence. Still, the fresh energy from “Absolute Batman” offers a promising blueprint, encouraging risk-taking and redefining Gotham’s dark streets and characters as part of a revitalized, evolving cinematic universe.
As James Gunn continues shaping the DC Universe’s future, audiences await how this new Batman vision will materialize on the big screen. Meanwhile, fans can explore current and forthcoming DC projects to see how these evolving stories might converge. The fresh Gotham that is emerging promises to add layers of complexity and intensity to the legacy of one of comics’ most enduring figures.
(SPOILER) New look at Absolute Joker from Scott Snyder
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