The DC Universe (DCU) has released three major projects to date: the animated HBO Max series Creature Commandos, the second season of the live-action show Peacemaker, and the blockbuster film Superman. James Gunn, serving as co-president of DC Studios, has been the driving creative force behind these, writing all the scripts and directing Superman plus a significant portion of Peacemaker. Gunn has confirmed his involvement in the next big DCU movie, Man of Tomorrow, scheduled for release in 2027, signaling that his influence on the franchise is continuing to grow.
Insights from James Gunn on His Future with the DC Universe
During a press conference covered by ComicBook for Peacemaker Season 2, James Gunn shared details about his upcoming directing projects within the DCU. Despite Man of Tomorrow still being two years away, Gunn revealed that he already knows which projects he will direct next. He also spoke about the significant expansion of the DCU, mentioning upcoming projects he is not directing, and expressed his feelings about this new phase of the franchise.
James Gunn’s Plans and Challenges for Directing Future DCU Films
Asked what would guide his directing decisions within the DCU, Gunn highlighted that Man of Tomorrow has been an idea he’s nurtured for a long time. He stated,
“Honestly, I think I know the next few I’m directing. I already know.”
This suggests Gunn’s directing slate is already mapped out, based on a larger storyline tied to the finale of Peacemaker Season 2.
He elaborated on this overarching narrative, saying,
“It’s a part of the plan of the DCU. There is one big story,”
adding,
“On the one hand, everything is gonna be okay to watch by itself, but also there’s a bigger story being told that involves, say, Salvation. And so that story involves Rick Flag, it involves Lex & Superman. So there’s those movies that I’m gonna be directing. That’s the plan right now, at least. I may get so f–king tired that I can’t do it, because I’m pretty tired. But we’ll see. But there’s a plan that I’m gonna do. You know, it’s a couple more, at least.”
Upcoming DCU Projects Without Gunn’s Directing Role
Gunn also discussed a major shift as the DCU expands with several projects not helmed by him. Aside from his own films, the franchise will soon feature titles such as Supergirl, directed by Craig Gillespie, and Clayface, directed by James Watkins. Additionally, the upcoming TV series Lanterns will work with a different group of directors. For Gunn, stepping back from directing certain projects presents a challenge.
He commented,
“Because I am by nature a writer and director, but that’s my experience as being a writer and director. I’ve produced things, but it doesn’t come as naturally to me. It doesn’t feel like it does. And so that is trying to be the best producer I can. That’s something that, for me, it’s just a personal challenge. I’m focused on being the best producer and supporting those creators the best I can to help tell good stories, really. I’m beholden to the story in those things as much as I am to the story in my own stuff. So my central concern is the same, whether it’s a movie I’m directing or something else.”
Gunn’s Oversight and Creative Control Across the DC Universe
Even when James Gunn is not directing a DCU project, his involvement remains significant due to his executive role. Gunn has emphasized that no project within DC Studios will move forward unless its script meets his standards, a power granted by his position as co-president. This strict oversight aims to ensure consistent quality and avoid unexpected creative missteps in future releases.
His judgment, while sometimes resulting in projects being delayed or canceled, is intended to safeguard the franchise’s storytelling integrity and elevate the overall quality of movies and shows developed within the DC Universe.
What This Means for DC Fans and Future Storytelling
James Gunn’s layered storytelling approach promises a unified narrative that connects characters like Rick Flag, Lex Luthor, and Superman across multiple films and series. The planned expansion includes hands-off directing for some new projects but maintains his creative supervision to secure cohesive world-building. Fans can expect standalone content that also adds depth to a broader ongoing saga known internally as Salvation.
Gunn’s admission of potential fatigue underscores the challenging workload tied to his multiple roles, but his commitment to at least a few more directing projects affirms his dedication to shaping the DCU’s future. As this franchise grows, new directors will bring fresh perspectives while aligning with the overarching vision Gunn helps orchestrate, potentially enriching the DC Universe’s storytelling landscape in the years ahead.
