The DC Universe has expanded significantly as of 2025, and James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, is outlining the roadmap for its future. Building on the success of the highest-grossing Superman film this year, Gunn is set to direct the follow-up titled Man of Tomorrow slated for release in 2027. His vision for the James Gunn DCU future aims to balance individual story strength with a connected overarching narrative.
Man of Tomorrow and the Bigger DC Universe Storyline
Gunn revealed in a recent interview that Man of Tomorrow is a project he has contemplated for a long time. He indicated,
“Man of Tomorrow was an idea I’ve had for a long time. I think I know the next few I’m directing, so I already know, frankly.”
James Gunn, Director and Co-CEO
He explained that although each film in the DCU should be enjoyable independently, there is a larger story at play. Gunn stated,
“Because it’s a part of the plan of the DCU, there is one big story.”
and emphasized,
“On the one hand, I want everything to be okay to watch by itself.”
James Gunn, Director and Co-CEO
Elaborating on how the TV series Peacemaker ties into the films, he mentioned,
“But also, there’s a bigger story being told that involves, say, Salvation and that story involves Rick Flag, it involves Lex and Superman. There’s those movies that I’m going to be directing.”
James Gunn, Director and Co-CEO
Uncertain but Planned: Gunn’s Ambitions for Upcoming Films
Gunn confirmed he has plans for multiple films following Man of Tomorrow, yet acknowledged the strain and unpredictability that come with directing. He shared,
“That’s the plan right now, at least. I may get so f—–g tired that I can’t do it, because I’m pretty tired, but we’ll see. But there’s a plan that I’m going to do a couple more, at least.”
James Gunn, Director and Co-CEO
The sequel will star David Corenswet and Nicholas Hoult reprising their roles as Superman and Lex Luthor, respectively, with principal filming expected to start in 2026. Other significant DCU characters will return, maintaining continuity across the franchise.
Speculation and Secrecy Surrounding Upcoming Villains
Although speculation points to Brainiac as the villain for the 2027 installment, Gunn remains tight-lipped about specifics. During an Entertainment Weekly interview on September 26, 2025, he declined to reveal details, saying,
“But I think we’ll hold off from what exactly is happening.”
James Gunn, Director and Co-CEO
With most projects in Chapter 1: Gods and Monsters already assigned directors, Gunn’s next films after Man of Tomorrow may include new, unannounced projects. The DC Universe’s programming will resume in 2026 with the launch of HBO’s Lanterns series and a new Supergirl film, underscoring the franchise’s ongoing expansion.
Historical Context and Reboot of the DC Universe
The DC Universe is one of the largest comic book franchises, often competing with Marvel in the global superhero arena. Founded as National Allied Publications by Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson in 1935, DC has grown to encompass thousands of comics, films, TV shows, and games. The modern era of its superhero films began in 2013 with Zack Snyder’s introduction of Henry Cavill as Superman.
Following a string of mixed reviews across several films, DC rebooted its cinematic universe under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran, ushering in a new chapter that aims to unify characters and storylines with fresh direction and broad ambitions.
Implications for the James Gunn DCU Future
James Gunn’s plans suggest a tightly woven DC Universe narrative that balances standalone stories with a greater overarching saga. Despite his openness about fatigue and the possibility of change, Gunn’s commitment signals a strong creative vision guiding upcoming films. Fans and industry watchers can expect continued developments that will shape the direction of this major comic book franchise over the next several years.
