The James Gunn DCU Justice League is beginning to take shape, as Superman launches a new chapter packed with metahumans already living openly on Earth. In David Corenswet’s debut as Clark Kent, fans get an early glimpse of the future league’s foundation, even though the official team hasn’t assembled yet.
A New DCU Landscape Sets Up Future Justice League
James Gunn’s creative direction for the DCU skips lengthy origin stories—Clark Kent’s journey in Superman sets the scene, but also introduces a world teeming with established metahumans. Gunn has confirmed that these superpowered individuals have existed on Earth for centuries, signaling a universe rich with heroes from the start. The movie introduces the Justice Gang, a team funded by Maxwell Lord (portrayed by Sean Gunn), and features Guy Gardner’s Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion), Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced), and Mr. Terrific (Edi Gathegi). While not officially called the Justice League yet, they work alongside Superman in the battle to save the city from a destructive plot devised by Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult).
After altering continuity details from Peacemaker Season 1, Gunn explained that Superman and Supergirl (Milly Alcock) regularly partner with the Justice Gang, forming an alliance akin to a league, though they don’t answer to Lord. With upcoming stories from Lanterns, Supergirl, and Man of Tomorrow, many expect Batman and Wonder Woman to join as well, with DC Studios reportedly prioritizing their appearances for the next era of heroes.
Ranking the DCU Justice League Heroes by Power
As anticipation grows for the official Justice League assembly, here is a ranking of the most prominent heroes in the new DCU, ordered by their demonstrated and potential power.
5. Hawkgirl
Hawkgirl, played by Isabela Merced, stands out as one of the fiercest new members. She made a decisive impression in Superman with a bold finishing move against Vasil Ghurkos, proving she’s unlike any hero the city has seen. Hawkgirl wields significant physical strength, extraordinary speed, and enhanced durability, further empowered by her ability to fly at remarkable speeds. Her weapon of choice—a powerful mace—lets her excel in close combat, taking down squads of heavily armed opponents and even wounding towering threats like the Kaiju. Although her mysterious past hints at reincarnation, she has already cemented her status as a key player without needing a second chance.
4. Mr. Terrific
Mr. Terrific, portrayed by Edi Gathegi, does not rely on superhuman might. His real advantage is an unparalleled intellect and a suite of high-tech gadgets, echoing Marvel’s Iron Man. His T-Spheres serve as versatile weapons and analytical devices, capable of scanning, hacking, and neutralizing threats efficiently. Mr. Terrific’s strategic mind came through as he quickly bested Lex Luthor’s Raptors and independently decoded intricate dangers like Lex’s Pocket Universe.
“I don’t need your help. I’m goddamn Mr. Terrific.”
— Edi Gathegi, Mr. Terrific
He might not be bulletproof or as strong as some of his allies, but with his technology and intellect, he consistently levels the playing field against much stronger foes.
3. Green Lantern
Guy Gardner’s Green Lantern, brought to life by Nathan Fillion, is one of the early standouts among the fledgling league. Empowered by his Green Lantern Corps Power Ring, he gains abilities limited only by imagination and willpower—from controlling flight and energy blasts to conjuring immense constructs as needed. Green Lantern’s prowess was clear when he subdued a Kaiju-level adversary using only construct “oven mitts,” and saved Mr. Terrific by subduing the monster mid-fight. He represents a long DC tradition of Lanterns ranking among the universe’s heavy hitters. The upcoming Lanterns series will further expand the mythos, with Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler) and John Stewart (Aaron Pierre) set to join the roster soon.
2. Supergirl
Although Supergirl (portrayed by Milly Alcock) only appeared briefly, her role hints at the extraordinary power she brings to the Gunn DCU Justice League. Kara’s Kryptonian heritage means she possesses tremendous strength, speed, flight, and near invulnerability thanks to Earth’s yellow sun. Even in a short appearance, she endured impacts from her superpowered dog Krypto with ease. Her full power is expected to be explored in her solo adventure, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. If she stays true to her roots from the comics, her abilities will rival Superman’s, making her an essential powerhouse in the evolving team dynamic.
1. Superman
Superman stands at the pinnacle of the DCU’s heroic ranks in both power and heart. The character’s Kryptonian makeup gives him unmatched strength, blistering speed, the ability to soar through the skies, and resilience to survive the harshest environments—including cosmic hazards like black holes. While Gunn’s version exercises more restraint, choosing humanity and compassion over overwhelming force, Superman remains the model of power in the new universe. His skills allow him to neutralize nearly any threat, as long as Kryptonite is not involved, and his sense of empathy continues to define what makes him the Justice League’s leader in both spirit and might.
What the Future Holds for the Gunn DCU Justice League
James Gunn’s reimagined Justice League is poised to become a central force in the DCU’s interconnected universe, with Superman acting as the cornerstone and a diverse array of heroes ready to step up. With the anticipated inclusion of Batman and Wonder Woman, as well as expanding roles for seasoned and new heroes like Green Lantern and Supergirl, audiences can expect a powerful, dynamic team that reflects the depth and history of DC’s storied franchise. As new titles debut and additional heroes come into the spotlight, the James Gunn DCU Justice League is set to redefine superhero storytelling on the big screen.
