What is the future of the DCEU?: Concerned fans

After a bunch of setbacks and cancellations as of late, from Wonder Woman to Henry Cavill not returning as Superman, the future of the DCEU under James Gunn and Peter Safran is currently uncertain.

For their part, the followers are very anxious and even worried about what these two movie geniuses have in mind for the DCEU and what it’s currently shaping out to be like. Let’s take a quick look.

Gunn and Safran’s new blueprint

As you know, a couple of months ago, James Gunn (director of the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise under the MCU) and Peter Safran were elected by WarnerBros Discovery CEO David Zaslav to represent DC Studios as executive directors and devising the blueprint for the future of the DC Extended Universe. However, despite having a lot of experience and skills, the experts’ plans for the new DCEU seem misplaced. 

To start with, it should be noted that many projects such as the much-anticipated return of Superman in Man of Steel 2 and the planned Wonder Woman spin-off were quickly dropped out and even the actors starring these characters ended up leaving the franchise, as the route to be taken by Gunn and Safran is quite different.

On the other hand, the producing duo assured that there will not be a return for the character of Black Adam, as he does not currently have a role within the DCEU.

Changes and Challenges

Following DC’s original plans, it’s a fact that we will have the much anticipated movie The Flash coming to theaters in 2023. Nevertheless, taking into account the string of recent controversies in which it has been involved, we hope Erza Miller’s return as the main character doesn’t overshadow the premiere that is expected to be a major milestone for the DCEU.

Likewise, it’s important to mention that the planned Superman and Wonder Woman cameos in the film have reportedly been scrapped following both characters being retconned under the new plan.

But if you thought this would be the end of Superman, you’re wrong, as DCEU has also announced a number of other projects in development, including a Superman reboot in which an earlier part of Superman’s life will be told. Additionally, we will have a Green Lantern Corps film, but there is not much information about it yet.

Although we can infer that the DCEU is looking to expand its offerings and appeal to a wider audience. But is it worth the risk? Because with great power comes great responsibility, and there are some challenges Gunn and Safran will have to face.

First of all, the main challenge for the DCEU is the lack of a strong central character, now that Henry Cavill has left the franchise. Without him, the franchise will need to find a new lead character to take his place and even though it is not yet certain, there is speculation that this could be Aquaman, played by Jason Momoa, or perhaps even Shazam, played by Zachary Levi.

Secondly, after all the changes, rushed decisions, almost eliminated characters, and new projects in mind with different heroes, it is evident that there is a clear direction for the franchise.

The DCEU has struggled to find its footing since its inception, with a number of poorly received films and a lack of a cohesive narrative. Gunn and Safran will need to work together to create a clear vision for the future of the DCEU and ensure that all of the films fit into this vision. 

Is there still hope?

In fact there is. The first key factor will be the communication with fans and as we have previously seen, Gunn has the reputation to be open and transparent with his followers on social media. A tool that can be very valuable in managing expectations and keeping fans in the loop about the direction of the film.

Lastly, inspite the challenges that may be presented to them, both have the talent and experience to balance fan expectations while drafting a new roadmap for the DCEU. By staying true to the core themes and characters, communicating openly with fans, and considering the larger universe, he can create a film that both satisfies and excites fans of the franchise.