Emerald Fennell’s unused DC movie script has gained renewed attention following the recent releases that have elevated her profile as a writer and director. After her highly praised films Promising Young Woman and Saltburn, anticipation surrounding her next project was significant, especially regarding her 2026 adaptation of Wuthering Heights. This heightened interest has also sparked curiosity about what Fennell’s take on a Zatanna film might have looked like.
Wuthering Heights, being a well-known story with enduring appeal, drew considerable attention leading up to its release. However, the reactions to Fennell’s adaptation have been mixed, which in turn has intensified speculation about her approach to the Zatanna movie script that remains unused.
Fennell’s Approach to Zatanna Gains Attention Amid Varied Reactions to Wuthering Heights
Emerald Fennell’s script for the Zatanna movie has intrigued fans since its existence was revealed, partly because Zatanna has yet to receive a dedicated live-action film. This intrigue has only grown due to the contrasting reception of Wuthering Heights, which reimagined a classic novel while making notable alterations to its storyline.
Her Wuthering Heights film kept the core plot and themes of the original novel but excluded significant portions, such as the storylines involving the next generation of characters and the continuation of longstanding cycles of violence. These omissions were met with criticism from some viewers, underscoring how Fennell’s adaptations can provoke strong reactions.
Given this context, fans and critics alike are eager to understand how she might have handled Zatanna’s extensive and complex comic book history. Adjustments to established lore seem likely, especially considering Fennell’s own remark that the Zatanna script was
maybe a little too far away from the genre.
– Emerald Fennell
Possibility Remains for Zatanna’s Live-Action Debut Despite Script Status
Although Emerald Fennell’s Zatanna screenplay is not expected to be adapted into a film, the prospect of Zatanna eventually starring in her own live-action feature remains open. The current direction of the DC Universe (DCU) suggests that such a project could still be possible in the near future.
The DCU has already produced projects centered on less mainstream characters, like Peacemaker and the Creature Commandos, indicating a willingness to explore side characters beyond traditional superheroes. This trend opens the door for a Zatanna movie to join the expanding roster of DC films.
Expanding the Magical Side of the DC Universe May Favor Zatanna’s Inclusion
The introduction of magical figures such as Circe into the DC Universe franchise has already begun to explore the supernatural aspects of this cinematic world. It would be logical for Zatanna—an iconic magician superhero—to appear and deepen this aspect of the DC lore.
However, with Emerald Fennell’s Zatanna script currently shelved and the DCU focusing on other priorities, the character’s future in live-action remains undecided. Fans continue to hope that Zatanna will eventually receive her own film, enriching the magical branch of the franchise.
