James Gunn, renowned for his work in the superhero genre and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, wrote the live-action Scooby-Doo movie released in 2002. As the Halloween season unfolds, this film is currently experiencing a resurgence, ranking #4 on HBO Max’s trending list in the United States, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the franchise and the James Gunn Scooby-Doo trending phenomenon.
The 2002 Film’s Success and Streaming Popularity
The Scooby-Doo movie, directed by Raja Gosnell and written by James Gunn alongside Craig Titley, earned $275.7 million worldwide on an $84 million budget. This impressive box office performance has translated into sustained interest, especially during fall festivities. It trails only behind titles such as Weapons and The Substance on HBO Max, while Gunn’s Superman film holds the #5 spot, further highlighting his influence across multiple projects on the platform.
Original Cast and Sequel Contributions
The film’s cast featured Matthew Lillard as Shaggy Rogers, Sarah Michelle Gellar portraying Daphne Blake, Freddie Prinze Jr. as Fred Jones, and Linda Cardellini as Velma Dinkley, with Neil Fanning providing the voice of Scooby-Doo. The success of this installment led to the 2004 sequel, Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed, which saw Raja Gosnell returning as director and James Gunn again contributing as writer.
James Gunn’s Role in DC Studios and Upcoming Projects
Currently serving as co-CEO of DC Studios, James Gunn has played a pivotal role in launching the DC Universe reboot across television and film. He is scheduled to direct the upcoming Man of Tomorrow movie set for release in 2027, which will follow his 2025 Superman film. This sequel was notably the highest-grossing comic book movie of that year, solidifying Gunn’s stature in the superhero film landscape.
Warner Bros.’ Plans for Scooby-Doo on the Small Screen
Although no new Scooby-Doo films by James Gunn are in development, Warner Bros. is rebooting the franchise with a live-action television series for Netflix. This adaptation is helmed by Greg Berlanti, the creator behind The CW’s Arrowverse, with Josh Appelbaum and Scott Rosenberg attached as showrunners. Netflix announced the series pickup on March 26, 2025, positioning it as a modern reinterpretation of the beloved Hanna-Barbera characters.
Plot Overview of Netflix’s Scooby-Doo Series
The upcoming show centers on a haunting mystery during the final summer at camp, where friends Shaggy and Daphne become involved in searching for a lost Great Dane puppy potentially linked to a supernatural murder. Alongside the pragmatic Velma and a mysterious new arrival named Freddy, they confront a chilling scenario threatening to reveal hidden secrets.
“During their final summer at camp, old friends Shaggy and Daphne get embroiled in a haunting mystery surrounding a lonely lost Great Dane puppy that may have been a witness to a supernatural murder. Together with the pragmatic and scientific townie, Velma, and the strange, but ever so handsome new kid, Freddy, they set out to solve the case that is pulling each of them into a creepy nightmare that threatens to expose all of their secrets.” — Netflix Series Synopsis
Current Availability and Future Prospects
As the 2002 Scooby-Doo movie gains traction on HBO Max, the Netflix live-action reboot remains in early stages, with no confirmed release date or casting announcements. This renewed interest in the franchise highlights its lasting popularity and the evolving ways it continues to engage audiences through different formats.
