James Gunn, the head of the DC Universe, has revealed that although he enjoys bringing lesser-known DC characters like Mister Terrific and Metamorpho to life in projects such as Superman and Peacemaker season 2, these characters will not headline standalone movies soon. Gunn explained that attracting wide audiences with unfamiliar characters is challenging when it comes to theatrical releases, influencing his decision to put such film projects on hold.
The Status of The Authority Movie Amid DCU Changes
Previously announced as a film incorporating WildStorm characters into the DC Universe, The Authority movie has been postponed but remains under consideration. During a conversation with Deadline, Gunn mentioned the project is still in development though it has faced delays and complications. Speaking about its future, Gunn indicated uncertainty by mentioning a “creator” involved in discussions recently, but he stopped short of confirming whether The Authority will become a TV series instead.
Gunn clarified,
“I’m probably not going to do certain movies with characters who [audiences] don’t know; it’s harder to get people in the theater for that kind of thing.”
This demonstrates his pragmatic approach to balancing character familiarity and audience interest.
Back in February, Gunn commented on The Authority’s progress, stating it
“got messed with through all of the other things that were happening,”
including his work on Superman, and admitted the screenplay was difficult to finalize. He said,
“The script had a harder time coming along.”
Understanding The Authority’s Unique Role in DC
The Authority is often characterized as a darker, more morally complex counterpart to the Justice League. Created in 1999 as a black-ops team, its members like The Engineer — portrayed by María Gabriela de Faría in Superman — are willing to take extreme measures to protect the world. Their ethically gray decisions set them apart from more traditional DC superheroes, adding a layer of grit and edge to the universe.
Crossovers and Cameos Enhance DC’s Expanding Universe
The Peacemaker series continues to link the small screen with big-budget DC films, exemplified by a recent cameo from Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, filmed concurrently with Superman. Gunn remarked on the contrasting styles, explaining,
“It was cool, it was weird because tonally, it instantly felt different from Superman, which is so big and brash, and then this show is so strangely grounded and gritty.”
This tonal diversity reflects the DC Universe’s broad range of storytelling.
Looking Ahead: Supergirl and Future DC Uprises
Following these developments, fans can anticipate the next major DC movie, Supergirl, which is scheduled to hit theaters on June 26, 2026. James Gunn’s vision for the DCU emphasizes creating a self-contained universe rather than one continuous story. His cautious approach to character-driven films highlights the need to ensure audience engagement and commercial viability moving forward.
