James Gunn addressed concerns about having two different live-action Batman versions simultaneously, including Robert Pattinson‘s portrayal in Matt Reeves’ universe and the upcoming reboot in the DC Universe titled The Brave and the Bold. With the new Batman film in development at DC Studios, Gunn emphasized that audiences will not struggle to follow multiple Batman stories running in parallel.
The new reboot plans to bring a fresh perspective on Bruce Wayne, while Pattinson’s Batman remains part of a separate Elseworlds continuity. Despite fans hoping for a merger of these storylines, Gunn reassures that this separation will not confuse casual viewers who engage with the characters in different contexts.
James Gunn Explains Audience Understanding of Multiple Batman Versions
In a conversation on the Phase Hero podcast, James Gunn was asked if he ever worries that audiences might have trouble navigating the presence of Robert Pattinson’s Batman alongside the new DC Universe version. Gunn candidly responded that while he occasionally ponders it, there is no significant evidence that it has caused confusion or upset.
James Gunn: Yeah, but sometimes. But is it causing anybody grief in any way? I think it was the same thing. I think that people are really starting to learn about stuff like that. Will it ever cause? One of the weirdest things for me is that big fans are often like, “Well, listen, I understand this, but normies will never understand this. Casuals will never understand this.” But the truth is, guys, that you’re the ones that don’t understand. The casuals always understand. You can say, “Oh, yeah, he’s changed Peacemaker, there was some Justice League [characters that] was in that. Now it’s Justice Gang.” And regular people who just like TV shows are like, “Oh, okay. That’s weird.” And then they’re done. But the people who really focus on this stuff, they’re in our bubble. And the people in our bubble think that everyone outside of that bubble is too stupid to understand nuance. And it is just totally not the case.
Gunn points out that the real confusion comes from dedicated fans who assume casual viewers cannot grasp the nuances of multiple universes or overlapping storylines. Rather, regular audiences quickly adapt and accept small changes without much fuss.
Overview of the Upcoming Batman Projects
The Brave and the Bold is set to introduce a new Batman in the mainline DC Universe. This iteration will explore the relationship between Bruce Wayne and his son Damian Wayne, who assumes the role of Robin, marking another reboot for the iconic character. Directed by Andy Muschietti with a screenplay written by Grant Morrison, this film will expand the evolving narrative of the Dark Knight under the DC Studios banner.
Meanwhile, The Batman Part II continues the story started by Matt Reeves’ 2022 film, featuring Robert Pattinson as Bruce Wayne. The sequel will further develop its unique universe, which also connects to the HBO Max Penguin series. Returning villains such as the Riddler and a new Joker incarnation will play significant roles. Production for this sequel is expected to begin in April 2026, following the finalization of the script by Reeves and Mattson Tomlin.
Cast Details for The Brave and the Bold and The Batman Part II
The cast of The Brave and the Bold highlights a fresh ensemble, including:
- Robert Pattinson reprising Bruce Wayne in The Batman Part II, rather than this reboot
- Colin Farrell as Oz Cobb
- Andy Serkis portraying Alfred Pennyworth, the loyal butler and confidant
- Jeffrey Wright as James Gordon, Gotham’s steadfast police commissioner
Both films focus on different nuances of Batman’s story. The Brave and the Bold centers on legacy and family dynamics, particularly through the inclusion of Damian Wayne as Robin. Conversely, Reeves’ sequel continues as a crime thriller that deepens the mythology established in the original film.
How Multiple Batman Continuities Have Coexisted in DC Media
DC has a long history of managing multiple portrayals of its heroes simultaneously without alienating audiences. For example, the DCEU timeline and the Arrowverse television shows allowed distinct versions of characters like The Flash to exist side by side. These parallel narratives did not diminish viewers’ enjoyment but offered diverse interpretations to cater to different tastes.
James Gunn’s comments highlight that the common concern about fans being overwhelmed by different Batman stories is largely overestimated. Casual viewers typically engage with each interpretation on its own terms, without needing to reconcile all versions into one unified narrative. This approach allows DC Studios to expand their storytelling freedom while respecting the integrity of unique creative visions.
What This Means for Fans and the Future of Batman in the DC Universe
Fans invested deeply in superhero mythologies may find the coexistence of multiple Batman universes a complex topic, but James Gunn’s insights clarify that this complexity is largely imagined rather than experienced by the broader audience. As both The Brave and the Bold and The Batman Part II move forward, viewers can expect distinct and enriching portrayals of Batman that complement rather than conflict with each other.
With production underway for the reboot and filming scheduled for the Pattinson sequel, DC Studios is poised to offer a diverse slate of Batman narratives catering to various segments of its audience. These parallel projects promise to shape the Dark Knight’s legacy for years to come, balancing innovation with respect for established storytelling.
